If you’re looking for some unique ideas for an unforgettable family vacation, a trip to Iceland could be just what you’re looking for. An Iceland family vacation is a great idea for both younger children and teenagers. If your next destination is this tiny Nordic island, you’ve made a great choice. Let’s look at some ideas for exploring Iceland with kids.
Iceland self-drive vacations are extremely popular, and as anyone with kids knows, road trips are especially fun. The cool thing about our country is that it was practically made for road trips! We have a Ring Road that circumnavigates the entire island, and many of the main highlights and things to do are just off the main highway. Vacationing in Iceland is easy and fun with a rental car and good company.
Year-Round Activities
#1 The Blue Lagoon
There are certain things you 100% have to do here and a Blue Lagoon, Iceland vacation stop is one of them. While hot springs in Landmannalaugar and the hot river in Reykjadalur valley are also top destinations, nothing beats the Blue Lagoon. Its soothing, turquoise-blue waters will have you in total relaxation mode. They’ve even got Blue Lagoon Iceland vacation packages if you feel like treating yourself.
Summer Activities with Kids
School’s out for the summer, and the number of things to do with kids in Iceland is innumerable. With family-friendly activities like horse riding, hiking, visiting waterfalls, exploring Vík’s beaches, and cruising Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, you won’t run out of things to do during your Iceland summer vacation.
The top Iceland vacation spots come alive during the summer. In addition to the previously mentioned activities, here’s another idea for you.
#2 See Animals in Their Natural Habitat
While visiting a zoo is a great way for kids to interact with animals, what could be more exciting than seeing a blue whale live, up close and personal? Whale watching tours and puffin excursions give your children the opportunity to see these beautiful creatures out in nature. Imagine the look on your little one’s face as their eyes open wide to see that majestic humpback whale breaching off the shores of Húsavik. And the bird cliffs at Látrabjarg are home to Atlantic puffins colonies, where they gather every summer by the thousands.
Winter Activities with Children
What if it’s winter break and you’re thinking of an Iceland Christmas vacation? You’re in luck because there are also plenty of things to do. If you’re planning on an Iceland winter vacation, there are certain must-dos.
#3 The Northern Lights
Some people come here specifically to take an Iceland northern lights vacation. If it’s Christmastime, not only are prices lower, but you can see Mother Nature’s spectacle in the sky. Iceland vacation packages for the Northern Lights are quite reasonable so that could be a fun family surprise for Christmas or New Year’s.
#4 Skiing
If your kids know how to ski or are learning, perhaps hitting the slopes of Akureyri or Dalvík could be on your itinerary. Skiing is quite popular in North Iceland, and you can get all-day or multi-day passes to the pistes.
#5 Ice Caves and Lava Caves
The ice sculptures in lava caves like Lofthellir are also another neat option for kids. Note that this kind of activity is not suitable for very young children. As long as they are eight years or older, you should be fine. See what the tour website has to say and inquire with the tour operator.
Iceland Vacation Planning
Planning a vacation takes time and energy so it might be in your best interest to look into Iceland family vacation packages that come with airfare, lodging, and excursions already included. Sometimes it better to just leave the planning to someone else!
Saving Money When Traveling with Kids in Iceland
It’s highly likely that you’ll have your vacation in Iceland in August, which is high season. If so, you’ll be looking to lower your Iceland vacation cost, so here are some quick ideas:
- Rent a motorhome or campervan. The cost of staying at campsites a fraction of what it is to stay at hotels when you rent a car. You also have more freedom and flexibility with your itinerary. Additionally, many campsites have facilities like swimming pools or playgrounds. Your kids can keep busy and play with other children their own age.
- Cook your own meals. This is easier to do if you have a motorhome or campervan. But if you can’t do rent an RV, then at least try to pick up some snacks and ingredients for making sandwiches at discount supermarkets like Bónus, Nettó, or Krónan.
An Iceland Family Vacation: 5 Things to Do
I hope this Iceland vacation guide for families has helped you and given you some ideas about what to do with your young while traveling. Going to Iceland for a family vacation is definitely an adventure and one you won’t soon forget. If you need any more Iceland vacation ideas when traveling with your young ones, please take a look at the other articles on our travel blog. Happy travels!
