Top Family-Friendly Activities in Iceland
Category
Categories
Travel Guide
Type
Glacier Lagoons, Bird Sights
Destination
Vatnajokull national Park
High season
Jun - Aug & Nov - Jan
Area
18 sq km
Outflow
Atlantic Ocean
Popular articles

Introduction
Iceland, a beautiful island nestled in the North Atlantic Ocean, often referred to as ‘The Land of Fire and Ice’, is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes, filled with volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs and lava fields. This stark contrast of the rough, fiery interior pitted against the icy, cool exterior, makes Iceland a favorite destination for families seeking adventure and wonder. Underneath the towering mountains, between valleys and fjords, hides a wealth of unique, family-friendly experiences. Whether it’s exploring ancient Viking heritage, spotting wildlife, or bathing in geothermic waters, Iceland offers something for everyone.
Whale Watching in Husavik
Known as Europe’s Whale Watching Capital, Husavik offers the best chance to see the majestic sea creatures in Iceland. The chilling sea spray hitting your face, the excited shrieks of kids as they spot a humpback diving out of the water, and the echo of whale songs are experiences to be cherished.
Several tour companies operate in Husavik, offering tours that are both exciting and educational, teaching about marine life and the importance of ocean conservation.
Visiting the Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon
This mesmerizing lagoon is a natural spectacle where gigantic fragments of ice float silently, resembling mythical sea beings. Located in the southeast of Iceland, the magnificent dance of shimmering, blue icebergs amidst the tranquil lagoon makes this a magical destination for family visitors. The lagoon also serves as the breeding ground for a large seal population, adding to the spot’s attractiveness.
Exploring the Lava Centre
Located in Hvolsvöllur, the Lava Centre brings the raw force of nature to life. It’s an interactive, high-tech educational exhibition depicting the volcanic activity, earthquakes, and the creation of Iceland. Kids can travel through the earth’s crust and feel the rumbling of a volcano or experience a simulated earthquake. This enthralling encounter with the primal forces that shaped our planet is a must-do on your Icelandic journey.
Strolling the Streets of Reykjavik
Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital, is a blend of cosmopolitan style and historical charm. Streets filled with colorful houses, street art, and iconic sights such as the Hallgrímskirkja church are a delight to explore. Make sure to visit Perlan, a museum offering essential insights into Iceland’s most significant geothermal phenomena.
Bathing in the Blue Lagoon
Iceland is renowned for its geothermal spas, with the Blue Lagoon being the most famous. Characterized by milky-blue healing waters surrounded by lava fields, the lagoon provides a relaxed, otherworldly experience. Bathing in the warm waters while enjoying a silica mud mask is truly a family-friendly indulgence.
Puffin Spotting in Látrabjarg Cliffs
In summer, the Látrabjarg Cliffs in the Westfjords are home to millions of birds, including everyone’s favorite—puffins. This is a perfect opportunity to let children witness nature’s wonders up close, watching the often comical behaviors of these adorable, waddling birds.
Visiting the Viking World Museum
Viking World Museum in Njardvík provides an intriguing insight into Viking culture and history. The museum displays a real Viking ship which sailed across the Atlantic in 2000. This immersive journey into the Viking era will make history come alive for the whole family.
Conclusion
Iceland is an open air museum that offers an endless array of unique, family-friendly activities. This is a place where families can unplug from their regular lives and dive into adventures that are both thrilling and educational. This is a place where you experience nature’s spectacular show, where children’s tales of trolls and elves don’t seem so mythical. So grab your adventure gear, fasten your seatbelt and set off for a voyage into the wild and the wonderful. Whichever corner of Iceland you choose to explore, magical family memories await.