Planning any trip is already a bit difficult. You need to think carefully about your itinerary and many other little details. The complication factor increases when traveling with your little ones. You’re probably wondering what to do with your kids in Iceland during their school break to make this an unforgettable trip for them. You want them to have a great time, and rest assured, we’ve got you covered. There is definitely no shortage of activities for children in Iceland, you just need to know where to look!
Iceland is sometimes thought of as being a cold, dark country full of active volcanoes and legends of trolls and Vikings. However, it is actually a great place for young adventurers. It is like one big playground. Here we have some suggestions for you and if you take your kids to these places, they are sure to have a memorable time.
Golden Circle
Your tiny explorers will love watching the Stokkur fountain geyser erupt. Imagine seeing the looks on their tiny little faces as the stream of water shoots high into the sky! The geyser erupts every 6-10 minutes so you won’t have to wait too long once you hear that ever-so-familiar call of “Mommy, I need to go to the bathroom!”. You can have a little walk around the Geysir geothermal park and around 10 km (6 mi) away from here, you can also visit the gorgeous Gullfoss waterfall.
Museums
We all know that kids are not very fond of museums and are always say they’re boring. Here in Iceland though, we have few that they just might love.
The Museum of Magic and Witchcraft is located in Hólmavík. There you can there tap into your child’s love of Harry Potter and delve into the world of magic. Magical practice in Iceland has been common since the very beginning of its history when the country was settled. Among the exhibits are original runic entries. You can also learn about the history of Icelandic wizardry.
The museum in Akureyri in the north of Iceland is also extremely family-friendly. We especially recommend taking your kids to the Garden and the House of Saint Nicholas.
Swimming Pools
Swimming pools are very common in Iceland. You can find them basically everywhere. In each one there is an area for children with shallow pools and water slides. And as any good parent knows, make sure to always keep an eye on your kids and do not leave them unattended.
The Blue Lagoon is also a family-friendly place and you definitely need to take your kids there. They will have a great time swimming, enjoying smoothies and playing.
Icelandic Farms
A nice way to spend some time with your young ones in Iceland is to take them to a typical Icelandic farm like Stora-Asgeirsa in the north-western part of the country. There, they can see and take care of different types of farm animals like goats, sheep, pigs, and ponies.
Horse riding
Horse riding is another great attraction which is really fun to do here in Iceland. Many local companies offer riding lessons for children on Icelandic horses. This is a unique opportunity to get to know these wonderful animals, which you won’t find elsewhere. The routes through the majestic scenery are quite picturesque. It will be a lot of fun for your mini equestrians!
Apart from that, Iceland offers many parks and playgrounds for children. If the weather is favorable, you can have a picnic and enjoy the nice Icelandic sun. Who doesn’t love a good picnic? Jokulsarlon is another great place to take your kids to. If you are lucky you might even spot some seals.
Ideas for Activities for Children in Iceland
If Iceland were cold, dull and calm then your next family vacation would be absolute drudgery, but that’s not the case! Iceland is really fun, so if you take your children there, they’re sure to love it!