The Ultimate Reykjavik with Kids Guide (2026)

Affiliate Disclosure: This guide to Reykjavik with kids contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. 

INTRODUCTION

Are you planning a trip to Reykjavik, Iceland with kids? Like many travelers to this northern island nation, our first family visit to Iceland began as a multi-day stopover that was part of a larger European adventure. But we quickly realized there were so many amazing things to do in Iceland with kids that we couldn’t wait to come back—we’ve since returned four more times!

On each trip, we’ve spent at least a few days exploring Iceland’s capital. It’s perfectly sized for exploring on foot, offers some fantastic family-friendly attractions, and makes an ideal base for tours and day trips throughout Iceland.

In this post, I’ll share everything we love about Reykjavik for kids—from lava shows to ice tunnels! Use the menu below to jump to what you need, or start with the 2-minute video.

REYKJAVIK WITH KIDS VIDEO

In a hurry? You can see many of our favorite things to do in Iceland with kids in this 2 minute video. Otherwise, just read on for our top attraction picks in Reykjavik for kids!

2O THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK WITH KIDS

In this section, you’ll find a detailed list of my favorite kid-friendly attractions in Reykjavik—plus an interactive map at the end to help you plan your visit.

1. HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA CHURCH TOWER

One thing I quickly learned when traveling to Iceland with kids is that mine were happiest when we kept them moving. A visit to Hallgrímskirkja Lutheran Church is perfect in that respect—it’s a short but engaging walk up the colorful Rainbow Street (Skólavörðustígur) from most major hotels in Reykjavik and makes an excellent first-day activity to help you get your bearings in the city.

Out front, there’s a spacious plaza where kids can run around and burn off some energy before heading into the more subdued church interior. Take the elevator to the top of the tower for sweeping views over the colorful rooftops and scenic landscapes of Reykjavik.

For more information, including opening hours and tower access, visit the official Hallgrímskirkja website.

2. WHALE WATCHING

There are a number of whale watching tour companies conveniently running right out of Reykjavik Harbour. Seeing these giant mammals in their natural habitat can be one of biggest highlights of family holidays to Iceland. On these tours, lucky guests have the opportunity to see humpback, orca and minke whales, as well as porpoises and dolphins (season and luck-dependent, of course).

Most of the larger vessels can take children of any age and run year-round. The smaller, and more maneuverable RIB boats typically have a minimum age of 10 years old and run only during the warmer months (April through October).

Most companies will offer you a complimentary tour if you do not see any whales. For this reason, you may want to plan this activity near the beginning of your Iceland family vacation.

There are plenty of whale watching tours from Reykjavík, but a few that consistently get strong reviews include Elding Whale Watching (great for all ages) and Whale Safari (small-group RIB boats for ages 10+).

→ Elding Whale Watching Tour (all ages, 3hrs)
→ Whale Safari RIB whale watching tour (open boat, ages 10+)

→ Browse all whale watching tours from Reykjavík.

3. LAVA & VOLANCO SHOWS

If you’re traveling with kids—or just want to better understand Iceland’s volcanic landscape—Reykjavík has a couple of surprisingly engaging indoor experiences that bring it all to life.

THE LAVA SHOW REYJAVIK

The most recent volcanic eruption in Iceland took place along the Sundhnúkar fissure near Grindavík in 2025. While it is possible to visit some eruption sites with a guide, there’s a much easier—and safer—way to experience real lava up close.

At the Lava Show in Reykjavík, you can actually watch molten lava flow just a few feet in front of you. You’ll hear it crackle, feel the heat radiating off it, and see exactly how it behaves as it cools. It’s surprisingly intense for an indoor experience, and a great way to make Iceland’s geology feel real.

While all ages are welcome, I’d say it’s best suited for kids around 5+ who can sit through the presentation.

→ See show times and book the Lava Show

VOLCANO EXPRESS SHOW

Located inside Harpa Concert Hall, Volcano Express is one of Reykjavík’s newest attractions—and a very different kind of experience.

This immersive 15-minute show uses motion seats and cinematic effects to take you on a fast-paced journey through Iceland’s volcanic landscapes. Think flying over lava fields, feeling earthquake tremors, and dropping into erupting craters. The seats move in sync with the film, which makes it especially fun for kids.

It runs frequently throughout the day (roughly every 15 minutes), making it easy to fit into your itinerary—especially since most visitors stop by Harpa anyway.

→ See show times and book Volcano Express tickets.

4. THE GOLDEN CIRCLE DAY TRIP

When friends ask me how to plan a family trip to Iceland, I always tell them the Golden Circle is a must. Yes, it’s busy year-round—but it’s popular for a reason. We’ve done it three times as a family (summer, autumn, and winter), and I’d happily do it again.

This scenic driving loop from Reykjavík takes you to some of Iceland’s most iconic sights—all in a single day. You can watch geysers erupt in the geothermal area at Geysir, walk between two tectonic plates at Þingvellir National Park, and stand in awe of Gullfoss, one of the country’s most powerful and beautiful waterfalls. Along the way, you’ll likely spot Iceland’s famous horses—and, if you have time, unwind in the naturally heated waters of the Secret Lagoon or the newer Laugarás Lagoon (opened in 2025).

Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to do—either as a self-drive or with a guided tour from Reykjavík.

OPTION A: GOLDEN CIRCLE SELF DRIVE

The Golden Circle is very easy to self-drive—and for families, it’s often the best option. You’ll have complete flexibility to move at your own pace, take breaks when needed, and skip the time spent on hotel pick-ups and drop-offs.

→ Read my full guide to self-driving the Golden Circle

It is very easy to rent a car just for the day from Reykjavik. Alternatively, if you would like a car for your whole trip, I highly recommend the locally-owned company Lava Car Rentals which is located at Keflavik International Airport (no Reykjavik city office).

GOLDEN CIRCLE DAY TOURS

If you’d rather not drive, the Golden Circle is easy to do as a guided day trip from Reykjavík. Most tours run between 8–10 hours, depending on stops.

They do tend to take a bit longer than a self-drive, as the first and last hour are usually spent on hotel pick-ups and drop-offs—but for many, the convenience is well worth it.

That said, not all tours are created equal. If you’re traveling with kids, I’d strongly recommend choosing a small-group or private tour over a large bus. The experience is simply more relaxed, with more flexibility, less waiting around, and a much easier pace for families.

→ Golden Circle small-group tour with Secret Lagoon

→ Golden Circle private tour from Reykjavik

THE SUPER PREMIUM GOLDEN CIRCLE EXPERIENCE

While definitely at the premium end, I do want to mention one more option. The local company Hidden Iceland offers an exceptional private Golden Circle day trip. Founded by former guides with a passion for more personalized travel, this award-winning company specializes in bespoke, small-scale experiences.

Their tours are definitely a splurge—but if it’s within your budget, they’re well worth it. I’ve worked with Hidden Iceland almost since they launched, and I can confidently say they’re outstanding.

5. PERLAN MUSEUM

The Perlan Museum is essentially Iceland’s science and technology hub, featuring a range of hands-on, interactive, and educational exhibits that are perfect for kids. Since most of the experience is indoors, it also makes an excellent family-friendly option for a rainy day in Reykjavik.

Other highlights at the Perlan include an interactive glacier exhibit, an immersive Forces of Nature show, a virtual aquarium, and an 8K Planetarium Northern Lights experience. One of the most impressive features—and a definite hit with both kids and adults—is the 100-meter-long real ice cave.

The Perlan sits on a hill overlooking Reykjavik, offering beautiful views of the city from its observation deck, café, and restaurant. The top floor also features a well-stocked gift shop—perfect if you’re in the mood for souvenir shopping. I spotted a few things there that I really liked but didn’t buy, assuming I’d find them again in the city center. I eventually did, but it took quite a bit of hunting around!

→ Check availability and book Perlan Museum tickets

For more information, including opening hours, visit the Perlan Museum website.

6. NAUTHÓLSVÍK GEOTHERMAL BEACH

Possibly the coolest outdoor recreation area in Reykjavik is Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach. This unique spot features steam rooms, geothermal hot tubs, a man-made beach, and a heated kiddie pool that flows into a larger pool right at the ocean’s edge.

It’s a completely different experience from the Blue Lagoon—less luxurious, more like a well-designed community center—but it’s a fun and authentic local outing. Best of all, it’s one of the top Reykjavik kids’ activities that won’t blow your Iceland family trip budget.

Learn more on the Nauthóslivik Beach website.

7. EAT ICE CREAM

Reykjavik’s ice cream scene is surprisingly strong, even in winter! Three of the best spots to try are Valdís, known for its creative and ever-changing flavors; Ísbúð Vesturbæjar, a local favorite for classic soft-serve; and Skúbb, which offers small-batch, organic ice cream made with high-quality ingredients. (We’ve tried many places, but we always return to Valdís.)

Feeling adventurous? Try the locals’ favorite: licorice-flavored ice cream!

FUN FACT: In Iceland, ice cream outings aren’t just for summer—they’re a year-round tradition. To better understand the Icelandic custom of ísbíltúr, check out this video from Monacle.com.

8. JUMP ROCKS ALONG THE SEAWALL

My kids loved hopping across the rocks along the seawall from the Sun Voyager sculpture to the striking glass façade of the Harpa Concert Hall, home to the Icelandic Opera and Symphony Orchestra. It’s a fun, free activity that lets little ones burn off energy while soaking up the coastal views.

Since it can be a bit chilly in Iceland—even in summer—the cozy café inside Harpa is a great place to take a break and warm up with a hot chocolate while admiring the building’s stunning architecture from the inside.

9. HARPA CONCERT HALL

Harpa—also known as the Iceland Opera House—is not only an architectural masterpiece (well worth a visit, even if you just pop into the lobby), but it also hosts some excellent music programs for kids.

In recent years, Harpa has introduced a dedicated space for children and families, with a rotating schedule of concerts and workshops each week. These can be especially engaging if you’re visiting Iceland with a toddler or younger child.

You’ll also find Volcano Express here—an immersive, family-friendly experience with motion seats and cinematic effects that bring Iceland’s volcanic landscapes to life in a fun and engaging way.

→ See upcoming family events at Harpa

→ See show times and book Volcano Express tickets.

While many of these events are free, you’ll often still need to reserve tickets in advance.

10. LAUGARDALSLAUG POOL

Icelanders take their public bathing culture seriously, and visiting a local pool is one of the easiest ways to experience everyday life in Reykjavík.

Laugardalslaug Pool is one of the most family-friendly options. It has everything—waterslides, multiple hot tubs, a steam bath, and dedicated areas for kids, including a shallow pool and paddling pool. If you’re traveling with a baby, there are even small baby baths and high chairs in the changing rooms.

If you plan to visit more than one pool (or combine it with museums), the Reykjavík City Card can be good value, as it includes entry to many pools and free public transportation.

→ See all Reykjavík public pools here

ETIQUETTE NOTE: In Iceland, you’re expected to shower thoroughly without your swimsuit before entering the pool—no quick walk-throughs like you might see in North America (and yes, there are often attendants to make sure everyone follows the rules). It may feel a little awkward at first, but it’s so reassuring to know the pools are kept as clean as possible.

11. GO HORSEBACK RIDING

It’s hard to research a trip to Iceland without coming across photos of the beautiful and sturdy Icelandic horses—and thankfully, you don’t have to travel far from Reykjavík to meet them. Within a 30–60 minute drive of the city, there are plenty of horseback riding excursions, with scenic routes across lava fields, open countryside, and even black sand beaches.

Most tours include hotel pickup and offer both morning and afternoon departures. The minimum age is typically around 7, though a few operators accept children as young as 5. Not all tours run year-round, but those that do provide warm outer layers to keep everyone comfortable.

→ Browse horseback riding tours from Reykjavík

As another option, a friend of mine took her teen daughter riding with Mr. Iceland and said that the experience was absolutely fantastic. He tends to do immersive riding experiences (with options to stay for dinner and even overnight) for the more advanced rider.

12. REYKJAVIK SHOPPING

Over the years, we have brought home some really unique souvenirs from Iceland. My kids have enjoyed picking out fun little trinkets made from lava rock, while I have always migrated towards the beautiful wool mittens, and socks.

The main shopping street, Laugavegur, is lined with souvenir shops selling puffin and Viking-themed items—but tucked among them are some fantastic boutiques featuring unique, locally made (or at least locally designed) Icelandic goods. Some of my favorites include NLSN, Farmers Market, Epal, and 66°North. You’ll also find some lovely shops along Skólavörðustígur, the rainbow street that leads up to Hallgrímskirkja Church.

While you are out and about, be sure to stop in at the gorgeous Sandholt cafe and bakery. Their beautiful creations are so delicious that we found ourselves returning daily.

If you’re looking for inexpensive souvenirs for friends back home, check out Bónus, the local supermarket chain with several locations in Reykjavik, including one on Laugavegur Street. It’s a great spot to pick up Icelandic finishing salt (look for the blue box with the mermaid), unique local chocolate bars like Hraun and Ris, or Icelandic salted licorice—odd-tasting at first, but surprisingly addictive!

13. BIRD WATCHING AT TJÖRNIN POND

Tjörnin Pond is a popular gathering spot for families—perfect for watching ducks and geese, taking a leisurely stroll, and admiring the colorful houses that line the western shore. It’s also a great location for bird-watchers and wildlife enthusiasts, with over forty different bird species spotted in and around the pond over the years.

14. EAT HOT DOGS

Almost a national pastime, the people of Iceland love to eat hot dogs. While there are plenty of options, you can’t go wrong with either Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur or Vikinga Pylsur – both with stands in central Reykjavik. Just be prepared to line up as these places are popular!

15. HRADASTADIR FARM AND PETTING ZOO

Hradastadir Farm and Petting Zoo is the perfect Reykjavik outing for animal-loving kids and it is just a 20 minute drive outside of Reykjavik in the town of Mosfellsbaer.

At Hradastadir, guests can pet lambs, kittens, bunnies, calves, a friendly pig, horses, and chickens. The entrance fee is ISK 1300 per person, free for children 2 years and younger. Hradastadir Farm also offers horseback riding excursions and lessons.

Hradastadir Farm is open to visitors from May through August. Learn more at hradastadir.is. I also found their Facebook page to have very up-to-date information.

16. THE BLUE LAGOON

The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most iconic attractions, conveniently located near Keflavík International Airport, and long considered one of the country’s must-see sights.

Personally, I think there are now some nicer options in Iceland, with more of a natural feel and less treated water, but most are located further from Reykjavík. (You’ll hear a lot about Reykjavik’s Sky Lagoon, but it does not allow children.)

That said, if you’re only spending a few days in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is still a very convenient and “wow-worthy” geothermal experience.

The Blue Lagoon welcomes children aged 2–13 (free with a paying adult). Just keep in mind that kids’ robes are not provided, even with the more deluxe ticket packages. Babies and toddlers under 2 are not permitted due to the high water temperature.

Though pricey (like most dining in Iceland), the on-site LAVA Restaurant is excellent and includes a kids’ menu. There’s also a more casual café for lighter bites.

If you do go, be sure to book your tickets in advance and try to avoid the busiest window between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

→ Browse Blue Lagoon tickets and transfer packages

Learn more and check opening hours on the official Blue Lagoon website.

ALTERNATIVES TO THE BLUE LAGOON

If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed—or traveling with younger children—there are some great alternatives:

• Secret Lagoon (Golden Circle) → more natural feel and open to all ages
• Laugarás Lagoon (Golden Circle) → newly opened, ages 8+
• Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach → a unique local experience in Reykjavík
• Public pools (like Laugardalslaug) → very affordable and a great way to experience Icelandic culture

17. FAMILY FRIENDLY MUSEUMS

If the weather isn’t cooperating and you’re looking for family-friendly indoor activities, Reykjavik has several museums that are both fun and engaging for kids. Highlights include the Maritime Museum (conveniently located near a Valdís Ice Cream shop), the National Museum of Iceland (hello, Vikings!), and the immersive Whales of Iceland Museum.

If you’re visiting Iceland with a teen, you might shock—or impress—them with a visit to the world’s only Phallological Museum. (My kids couldn’t stop talking about some of the items they discovered in the gift shop!)

In better weather, the Árbær Open Air Museum is a nice place to explore history via an Icelandic village experience. For a full list of museums and galleries, please see the official Visit Reykjavik website.

Note: If you plan on visiting many museums and attractions during your stay, the Reykjavik City Card can save you money. For a fixed price, it offers free entry to most museums, public pools, and some additional attractions. It also includes free public transportation in the capital area.

18. FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENTS

I think it can be incredibly enriching to experience a local event when visiting any country. In Reykjavík, some of the top family-friendly events include:

• Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival (February)
• Children’s Culture Festival (April)
• First Day of Summer (April)
• Fishermen’s Day (June)
• The Viking Festival (June)
• The National Day of Iceland (June 17)
• Reykjavík Culture Night (August)

You can find further Reykjavik events and festivals on the City of Reykjavik events page.

19. FLYOVER ICELAND

Suspended with your feet dangling in front of a 20-metre spherical screen, FlyOver Iceland takes you on a breathtaking flight simulation over some of the country’s most iconic landscapes—from waterfalls and glaciers to remote highlands you might not otherwise see. Special effects like wind, mist, and even scents combine with the motion of the ride to create a fully immersive experience.

I especially love this for families spending most of their time in Reykjavík, as it offers a glimpse of Iceland’s dramatic scenery beyond the capital—and might just inspire your next trip.

Learn more on the official FlyOver Iceland website.

NOTE: Minimum height requirement is 100 cm (40″).

→ Check availability and book FlyOver Iceland tickets

20. REYKJAVIK FOOD TOURS

If you’re looking for an easy, engaging way to explore Reykjavík with kids, a food tour is a great option.

Not only do you get to try a variety of local dishes—from Icelandic hot dogs to fresh seafood and traditional specialties—but you’ll also learn a lot about the city along the way. Guides tend to share stories, history, and little details you might otherwise miss, which helps bring Reykjavík to life.

It’s also a surprisingly good way to keep kids engaged. Instead of walking from place to place wondering when the next snack is coming, there’s always something new to taste—which, in my experience, makes everyone much happier.

→ Check availability for Reykjavík’s most popular food tour

REYKJAVIK WITH KIDS ATTRACTIONS MAP

To hopefully make things a little easier for you, I have plotted each one of the aforementioned attractions on a Google map. Just click on this Reykjavik map link, or on the image below for the interactive version.

BEST FAMILY HOTELS REYKJAVIK

If you travel to Iceland with kids, you are going to experience some sticker shock. Family hotels in Reykjavik can be particularly expensive, especially during the summer months.

If possible, I recommend making a reservation as soon as your travel plans are fixed. Most hotel sites, such as Booking.com, offer a Refundable booking option that you can cancel if something better comes along. (I made some last minute changes on our most recent family Iceland trip and saved hundreds of dollars.)

FAMILY VACATION RENTALS IN REYKJAVIK

Before getting into my favourite family-friendly hotels in Reykjavík, I want to start with vacation rentals. As mentioned, hotel prices can be shocking, especially if you need a bit more space for a family. On top of that, eating out adds up quickly, so having the option to do some self-catering can make a big difference.

The good news is that Reykjavík is a small, very walkable city, so as long as you stay near the central core, you really can’t go too wrong. If you take a look at my map of family attractions above, you’ll see that most of them are clustered in one area. Ideally, I’d suggest choosing a property in or near downtown Reykjavík, west of Kringlumýrarbraut (Route 40) and close to the harbour side.

TIP: To make your search easier, I recommend filtering for 9+ under Guest Rating and Good for Children under House Rules.

👉 Browse vacation rentals in Reykjavík on Vrbo.

6 BEST FAMILY HOTELS IN REYKJAVIK

While I have a full post on the best family hotels in Reykjavik, below I have listed my 6 favourites.

1.  REYKJAVIK RESIDENCE HOTEL – 4★ – This hotel consistently ranks as one of the best hotels in Reykjavik for families. It offers studio, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom luxury suites that sleep up to 6 people. Read reviews or check rates on Booking.com.

2. THE SAND HOTEL – 4★ – Boutique hotel offering family rooms (2 queen) and junior suites (1 queen, 1 sofa bed) sleeping up to 4 people. Read reviews or check rates on Booking.com.

3. ALDA HOTEL REYKJAVIK – 4★ – Modern hotel with Family and Deluxe rooms that can sleep up to 4 (1 king, 1 sofa bed). Read reviews or check rates on Booking.com.

6. ÓDINSVÉ HOTEL APARTMENTS – 3★ – 1 and 2 bedroom apartments sleep up to 5 people. Read reviews or check rates on Booking.com.

7. KVOSIN DOWNTOWN HOTEL – 4★ – Their “Biggest Room” sleeps up to 5. Read reviews or check rates on Booking.com.

8. REYKJAVIK EDITION – 5★ – Double queen rooms sleep up to 4. Read reviews or check rates on Booking.com.

FAMILY VACATION ICELAND – FAQS

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO TRAVEL TO ICELAND?

The best time of the year to visit Iceland depends on what you are looking for. Most tourists visit in the summer months (May-Sept.) when the climate is more welcoming. The summer months are also a great time for whale watching and puffin tours.

September to mid-April, however, are the best months to see the Northern Lights, hike on the glaciers or visit the blue ice caves.

SHOULD I RENT A CAR IN ICELAND?

For a short Iceland stopover, a rental car isn’t necessarily required. Buses run frequently between KEF International Airport and Reykjavik (Flybus and Gray Line) with stops near most of the major hotels and guest houses. Tickets can be purchased online or at the airport upon arrival. The Blue Lagoon also has an hourly bus that runs between their spa and the airport or Reykjavik.

Reykjavik is a very walkable city (no car required) and most tour companies offer a hotel pickup for day trips and tours.

With that said, we prefer to rent a car in Iceland and always rent from the local company Lava Car Rentals. As a family of four, the cost for tours and transfers can add up quickly, making hiring a car in Iceland a more economical alternative. We also like the freedom of visiting sites on our own schedule and really enjoy self driving the Golden Circle (one of the most popular Iceland day tours).

As long as you are not dealing with severe winter driving conditions, the route is not a difficult one to drive. There are a few things you should know about driving in Iceland, however, and I encourage you to review our tips for renting a car in Iceland.

Taxis are very expensive in Iceland and the airport is about a 45 minute drive from Reykjavik. You can expect a cab from KEF to Reykjavik to cost around $170 USD or more. 

IS THERE UBER IN ICELAND?

Uber and Lyft do not currently operate in Iceland.

HOW MANY NIGHTS SHOULD YOU STAY IN ICELAND?

I think a minimum of 3-5 nights is great for a first trip. We have stayed twice for five nights (once in summer and then again in winter), once for 7 nights, and more recently for 2 weeks in order to drive the full Iceland Ring Road.

WHERE IS THE BEST AREA TO STAY IN ICELAND?

For a first trip to Iceland, I think it is best to stay in Reykjavik and do day trips from there. That said, if you do plan on exploring the South Coast of Iceland near Vatnajökull National Park, I would advise staying at least one night in that area (whether on a tour of the region or self driving). There are day trips that run to the region from Reykjavik, but it makes for a very long day (especially if you have kids with you).

FINAL THOUGHTS

I really hope that I have convinced you that you can have an amazing time as a family in Reykjavík. It is one of our all-time favourite cities!

Should you have further questions, please feel free to reach out to me via direct message on Instagram, Facebook or by email. You can also save this post by tapping on the little heart in the right hand bottom corner of your screen.

Want to see more unique adventures? I would love for you to follow along with The Better Beyond on Instagram!

RELATED ICELAND POSTS

• Best Family Hotels in Reykjavik, Iceland
• Top Tips for an Iceland Car Rental
• Self Driving the Golden Circle, Iceland
• Iceland Westman Islands Guide
• Best Things to do in Iceland in the Winter
• 7 Incredibly Cool Places to Explore in Iceland with Kids – Travel Babbo

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