Top Things To Do In Iceland With Kids: A Complete Family Travel Guide

Traveling to Iceland with kids might sound overly adventurous, but it’s actually one of the most rewarding family destinations in Europe. The country is incredibly safe, easy to explore by car, and full of experiences that naturally capture children’s curiosity, from erupting geysers and giant waterfalls to puffins, whales, and geothermal swimming pools.

At Hertz Iceland, we’ve spent more than 50 years helping travelers explore the country by road. Every year, we assist thousands of families in choosing the right rental car, planning kid-friendly routes, and building itineraries that balance sightseeing with realistic driving distances.

That experience has taught us something important. Iceland is at its best for families when you slow down and explore it as a self-drive adventure. With your own vehicle, you can stop at waterfalls when the kids spot them from the road, take breaks at geothermal pools, and adjust your plans when Iceland’s famously unpredictable weather changes. In this guide, we’ll share the best things to do in Iceland with kids, along with practical advice from our local team on planning a family road trip, choosing the right rental car, and building an itinerary that works for both parents and children.

Table of Contents

• Is Iceland a Good Place to Visit With Kids?
• Planning an Iceland Trip With Kids
• The Best Rental Cars for Traveling Iceland With Kids
• The Best Time to Visit Iceland
• Top Things to Do in Iceland with Kids
• Kid-Friendly Iceland Itinerary
• Kid-Friendly Accommodation
• Tips for Traveling Iceland With Kids
• Frequently Asked Questions

Is Iceland a Good Place to Visit With Kids?

Parents often wonder whether Iceland is actually practical for family travel. The short answer is yes. In fact, Iceland is often easier to travel with kids than many European destinations because nature is so accessible. You rarely need long hikes or complicated transportation to see the country’s highlights. Many waterfalls, geothermal areas, and scenic viewpoints are located just a short walk from parking areas.

Safety is another reason families feel comfortable traveling here. Iceland consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, and children grow up with a strong culture of outdoor exploration. It’s common to see Icelandic families hiking with young kids, visiting geothermal pools together, or traveling around the country during school holidays.

The infrastructure also makes family travel easier than many people expect. Roads are well-maintained, restaurants are welcoming to children, and nearly every town has a geothermally heated swimming pool where kids can burn off energy after a long day of sightseeing.

Planning an Iceland Trip With Kids

When families contact Hertz Iceland for advice about planning their trip, one of the most common questions we hear is how much time they should spend in the country.

For most families, 7 to 10 days is the ideal length of time. This allows you to explore Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast without feeling rushed.

Trying to see the entire Ring Road in less than a week can feel overwhelming with children. Driving distances may look short on a map, but Iceland’s landscapes naturally encourage you to stop frequently. Kids also need more breaks than adults, so building extra time into your itinerary is important.

A good family itinerary usually includes:

• shorter driving days
• a mix of outdoor stops and interactive activities
• time to relax in geothermal pools
• flexibility to adjust plans if the weather changes

The Best Rental Cars for Traveling Iceland With Kids

Choosing the right rental car is one of the most important decisions when planning a family trip to Iceland. Many travelers underestimate how much space they will need once they add suitcases, winter jackets, backpacks, snacks, and sometimes strollers or child seats. After helping families plan road trips for decades, we almost always recommend choosing a slightly larger vehicle than you think you need. A comfortable car can make a huge difference during longer driving days, especially when children are involved.

Large SUVs for Families

Large SUVs are among the most popular options for families traveling around Iceland. Vehicles like the Kia Sorento, Toyota Land Cruiser, or Land Rover Discovery Sport provide plenty of space for luggage and passengers while also offering the stability needed for Iceland’s changing weather conditions.

These vehicles are especially useful if your itinerary includes gravel roads, winter driving, or exploring areas outside the most heavily visited routes.

7-Seat Vehicles for Larger Families

For families traveling with three or more children, or for groups traveling together, a 7-seat vehicle offers extra comfort and flexibility. Vehicles like the VW Caddy Maxi or Land Rover Defender 130 allow families to bring additional luggage while still leaving enough space for passengers to relax during longer drives.

Child Safety Seats in Iceland

Icelandic traffic laws require children under 135 cm (approximately 4 feet 5 inches) to sit in an appropriate car seat or booster seat. Hertz Iceland provides child seats and booster seats that meet local safety regulations, which can simplify travel for families arriving from overseas.

Best Time to Visit Iceland with Kids

Iceland experiences a milder climate during the summer months (June to August), making it the ideal time for families to explore. Not only does this period offer better weather for outdoor activities, but it also allows families to experience the unique phenomenon of the midnight sun. Summer also opens up opportunities for Iceland camping, providing a more immersive experience for families. Summer temperatures have average highs around 15°C (59°F) and extended daylight hours, providing ample time for exploring and enjoying outdoor activities. This is especially important when traveling with kids, as you need to plan for more frequent stops along your route. 

Top Things to Do in Iceland with Kids

One of the reasons Iceland works so well for families is that many of the country’s most famous attractions feel like natural playgrounds. Kids don’t need complex tours or long hikes to enjoy them. Waterfalls are often just a short walk from the parking lot, geothermal areas bubble and erupt dramatically, and wildlife experiences feel close and immersive. When families ask us at Hertz Iceland what they should prioritize on a road trip, these are the experiences that consistently stand out.

Go Horseback Riding

Icelandic horses are smaller than most horse breeds and known for their calm temperament, which makes them well-suited for family-friendly riding tours. Many farms offer short riding experiences that allow children to meet the horses and explore nearby landscapes. For kids who love animals, this often becomes one of the most memorable parts of the trip. Browse some of our favorite horseback riding tours here.

Go Puffin Watching

Seeing Iceland puffins in the wild is often one of the most memorable wildlife experiences for children visiting Iceland. These small seabirds nest along coastal cliffs during the summer months, usually between May and August. Their colorful beaks and slightly awkward movements make them fascinating to watch.Some of the best places to see puffins include Dyrhólaey on the South Coast, the Westman Islands, and Borgarfjörður Eystri in East Iceland.

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is one of the easiest and most rewarding routes to explore with kids. Located close to Reykjavik, it includes three of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions.

At Þingvellir National Park, kids can walk between two tectonic plates where North America and Europe slowly drift apart. The landscape is wide open and dramatic, which makes it a fun place for children to explore. Next is the Geysir geothermal area, where the Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes. Watching boiling water shoot high into the air never gets old for kids, especially because they know another eruption is coming soon. The route finishes at Gullfoss waterfall, one of the most powerful waterfalls in Iceland. The viewing platforms are close to the falls, so even younger kids can experience the scale of it safely.

Visit the South Coast

The South Coast of Iceland has black sand beaches, glaciers, and stunning Iceland waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, that your kids will love. Driving along this picturesque stretch offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, with ample opportunities to explore and play. The waterfalls are very close to each other, so you can easily stop at both before the kids get tired, and if you visit in the summer, you can actually walk behind Seljalandsfoss.

For a truly magical experience, head to the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in the southeast. Witnessing massive icebergs floating in the lagoon is a mesmerizing sight for children. Boat tours are available, allowing families to get up close to the ice formations and even catch a glimpse of seals basking on the ice. Additionally, your kids will love the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck, set on the black sand beaches that are iconic in Iceland. 

Visit Iceland’s Geothermal Pools

Hot springs are a huge part of everyday life in Iceland, and visiting one is an experience many families remember long after their trip. The country has more than 150 public geothermal pools, and nearly every town has a heated pool complex with hot tubs, shallow children’s areas, and often even water slides.

While the Blue Lagoon is the most famous geothermal spa in Iceland, there are many other family-friendly options across the country. Places like the Secret Lagoon near the Golden Circle, the Mývatn Nature Baths in North Iceland, and scenic baths such as GeoSea or the Vök Baths offer a chance to soak in naturally warm, mineral-rich water while surrounded by dramatic Icelandic landscapes. For kids, these pools often become a highlight of the trip after a day of exploring waterfalls and volcanoes.

Local swimming pools like Laugardalslaug in Reykjavik are also worth visiting, as they’re affordable, relaxed, and popular with Icelandic families.

Go Whale Watching

The coastal waters surrounding Iceland are rich in marine life, making it an ideal destination for whale watching. Seeing whales out in the open ocean is an exciting experience for all ages, but especially for kids, and Iceland is one of the best places in the world to witness these marine giants in their natural habitat.

Whale-watching tours embark from multiple destinations in Iceland, with the top including Husavik and Akureyri in North Iceland. However, you can also take tours from Faxaflói Bay in Reykjavik. The best season for whale watching is May to September, with the best chances of seeing whales being during the peak summer months.

Various tour operators provide family-friendly excursions, and while it’s very likely that you will see at least one whale on a tour, it’s never 100% guaranteed, and your kids will need to be patient and attentive in order to spot one. 

Explore Reykjavik’s Interactive Museums

Reykjavik has several museums that work especially well for families. The Perlan Museum is a favorite because its interactive exhibits explain glaciers, volcanoes, and Icelandic nature in a way that kids can understand. The indoor ice cave is particularly impressive. The Saga Museum and other Viking exhibits around the city also help bring Iceland’s history to life.

Visit Snaefellsness Peninsula 

Take a detour to the Snaefellsness Peninsula, where you’ll encounter the Bardur Giant Man rock sculpture. This legendary figure from Icelandic folklore is a colossal rock formation that sparks the imagination of kids, along with many other rock formations in this area, like the Lóndrangar Sea Stacks. The Kirkjufell mountain can also be found on the peninsula, along with the beautiful Arnarstapi Cliffs, where kids can observe marine life and explore tide pools.

Discovering the Mysteries of Lava Tunnels

Iceland’s volcanic history has created enormous lava tunnels underground. Guided tours allow families to safely explore these formations while learning how volcanic eruptions shaped the landscape. Walking through these tunnels feels a bit like entering another world, which is exactly the kind of experience that captures kids’ imaginations.

Take a Road Trip Around the Island

One of the best things to do in Iceland with kids isn’t a single attraction, it’s the experience of taking a road trip through the country. The famous Ring Road (Route 1) circles the entire island and connects many of Iceland’s most spectacular landscapes, making it one of the easiest ways for families to explore the country. Driving through Iceland means constantly discovering something unexpected. One moment you’re passing waterfalls and glaciers, the next you’re crossing lava fields or spotting Icelandic horses grazing beside the road. For families, these spontaneous stops often become the most memorable moments of the trip, which is why many visitors choose a self-drive itinerary that allows them to travel at their own pace.

5-Day Iceland Itinerary With Kids

Families often ask us what a realistic short trip might look like. Here is a simple example itinerary that works well for many families.

Day 1: Arrival and Reykjavik

After landing at Keflavik Airport, pick up your rental car and drive to Reykjavik. Spend the afternoon exploring the city, visiting the harbor, and stopping at one of the many geothermal swimming pools. The Perlan Museum is a great first stop for kids because the interactive exhibits explain Iceland’s glaciers, volcanoes, and natural landscapes.

Day 2: Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is one of the easiest day trips from Reykjavik and works very well with children. Start at Þingvellir National Park, where kids can walk between two tectonic plates. Continue to the Geysir geothermal area to watch Strokkur erupt every few minutes, then finish the day at the powerful Gullfoss waterfall.

Day 3: South Coast Waterfalls

Drive along Iceland’s famous South Coast and stop at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Both are easy to access and dramatic enough to impress even younger children. The black sand beach at Reynisfjara is another memorable stop before heading back for the evening.

Day 4: Glacier Lagoon

If you’re comfortable with a longer drive, continue further east to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where massive icebergs float through an icy lagoon. Many kids love spotting seals swimming between the ice blocks.

Day 5: Blue Lagoon and Departure

Before your flight home, stop at the Blue Lagoon near Keflavik Airport. The warm geothermal water is relaxing after several days of exploring. Children aged two and older are welcome, and kids under 13 enter free when accompanied by a parent.

Kid-Friendly Accommodation in Iceland

Accommodation in Iceland ranges from hotels and guesthouses to cabins, farm stays, and apartment rentals, and choosing the right type can make a big difference when traveling with kids.

• Family-friendly hotels in Reykjavik are a convenient option at the start or end of a trip. Properties such as Fosshotel Reykjavik, Center Hotels, and Hotel Cabin offer family rooms and easy access to restaurants, museums, and swimming pools around the city.
• Farm stays are especially popular with families exploring the countryside. Places like Guesthouse Hof in South Iceland or Efstidalur Farm Hotel near the Golden Circle allow children to see animals such as sheep and Icelandic horses while enjoying quiet rural surroundings.
• For families traveling along the Ring Road, guesthouses and countryside lodges are very common. Properties such as Hótel Kría in Vík or Hali Country Hotel near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon provide comfortable stops while exploring the South Coast.
• Another practical option is apartment-style accommodation, which gives families extra space and access to a kitchen. Apartments like Reykjavik Residence Hotel Apartments are especially convenient for longer stays or families traveling with younger children.

Because Iceland’s tourism season is short and demand is high, it’s best to book family accommodations well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.

Tips for Traveling Iceland with Kids

Traveling in Iceland with kids is very manageable, but a little preparation goes a long way. The country’s weather, landscapes, and driving distances are different from many destinations, so planning ahead helps make the trip smoother for the whole family.

Here are a few practical things to keep in mind when preparing for your trip:

1. Pack layers and waterproof clothing: Iceland’s weather can change quickly, even during summer. Waterproof jackets, warm layers, hats, and gloves are useful year-round, especially when visiting waterfalls or coastal areas where wind and spray are common.
2. Bring sturdy waterproof shoes: Many attractions involve short walks across gravel paths or uneven terrain. Comfortable waterproof shoes make exploring much easier for both kids and adults.
3. Don’t forget swimsuits: Geothermal pools are a major part of Icelandic culture, and families often end up visiting several during their trip.
4. Pack snacks for road trips: Driving distances between towns can be longer than expected. Snacks are helpful during longer drives, although supermarkets and roadside cafés are widely available throughout the country.
5. Choose the right rental car for your family: When traveling with kids, space and safety matter. Many families choose a 4×4 SUV, which provides extra room for luggage, strollers, and child seats while also offering better traction for Iceland’s changing road conditions.
6. Understand Iceland’s child safety regulations: In Iceland, children under 135 cm (about 4 ft 5 in) must use an appropriate child seat or booster seat. Be sure your rental vehicle can accommodate these requirements.
7. Plan for changing driving conditions: Road conditions vary depending on the season. In winter, roads may be icy and daylight hours are shorter, so vehicles with proper winter tires and good visibility are important.
8. Allow extra time between stops: Kids often want to stop and explore unexpected places along the road, whether it’s a waterfall, a lava field, or Icelandic horses grazing nearby.
9. Keep your itinerary flexible: Trying to see too much can make a family trip stressful. Iceland’s landscapes reward slower travel, and some of the most memorable moments happen during unplanned stops.

If you’re unsure which vehicle is best for your family trip, the local team at Hertz Iceland can help recommend rental cars suited for Iceland’s conditions and suggest family-friendly driving routes around the country.

FAQs

• • Is Iceland worth visiting with kids?
    Yes. Iceland’s landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities make it an exciting destination for children of all ages.

 

• • Can you take a 2 year old to Iceland?
    Yes. Many families travel to Iceland with toddlers and babies. Roads are well maintained and many attractions require only short walks.

 

• • Is Reykjavik child friendly?
    Yes. Reykjavik offers parks, swimming pools, museums, and family-friendly restaurants.

 

• • Can kids go in the Blue Lagoon?
    Children aged two and older can visit the Blue Lagoon, and children under 13 enter free when accompanied by an adult.

 

• • What is the curfew for children in Iceland?
    Children under 16 must be indoors after 10 PM in winter and midnight in summer unless accompanied by an adult.

 

• • Is Iceland a kid friendly vacation?
    Yes. Iceland is very family-friendly thanks to its safety, easy access to nature, and attractions like waterfalls, geothermal pools, wildlife tours, and interactive museums. Many sights are close to parking areas, which makes exploring with kids easier.

 

• • How long should I spend in Iceland with kids?
    Most families spend 7 to 10 days in Iceland to comfortably explore Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast. Shorter trips of 4 to 5 days can still work if you focus on nearby highlights.

 

• • Is Iceland a good place to visit with a baby?
    Yes. Iceland is safe, clean, and easy to navigate by car. Many attractions involve short walks, and accommodations often provide cribs or family rooms for travelers with babies.

 

Traveling to Iceland with Kids

Traveling Iceland with kids can be an unforgettable experience. From waterfalls and puffins to geothermal pools and lava fields, the country offers endless opportunities for families to explore nature together. The best way to experience it all is with a flexible self-drive trip. Having your own vehicle allows you to travel at your family’s pace, stop when something catches your kids’ attention, and adjust plans when needed.

At Hertz Iceland, we’ve helped families plan road trips across the country for decades. If you’re visiting Iceland with kids, choosing the right rental car can make your journey more comfortable and stress-free. Explore our family-friendly rental cars in Iceland and book your vehicle in advance to start planning your adventure.

Book a Car in Iceland Today!