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Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure as we explore the top attractions and activities in Reykjavik that your whole family will simply love!
Hey there, fellow adventurers!
I’m your semi-budget travel guide, bringing you the best family-friendly experiences Reykjavik has to offer.
Having traversed the globe, squeezing out every ounce of fun while keeping a watchful eye on the budget, I’ve mastered the art of frugal yet fabulous travel.
And now, I’m thrilled to share my expertise and experiences with you.
So, buckle up as we journey through the enchanting streets of Reykjavik, discovering hidden gems and popular hotspots that are sure to create unforgettable family memories!
SBT Highlights
- Reykjavik offers diverse family-friendly activities, from exploring landmarks to experiencing the food culture.
- Accommodations and dining options in the city cater to families with children.
- Don’t miss the opportunity to take day trips and immerse your family in Iceland’s magical natural wonders.
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- Reykjavik with Kids
- Planning Your Trip
- Top Things to Do with Kids in Reykjavik, Iceland
- Reykjavik Landmarks Worth Visiting
- Experiencing the Food Culture
- Shopping and Souvenirs in Reykjavik
- Taking Day Trips Outside Reykjavik with Kids
- Museums to Visit
- Frequently Asked Questions
- SBT Summary: Reykjavik with Kids
Reykjavik with Kids
Reykjavik, the charming capital of Iceland, is a fantastic destination for families seeking adventure and cultural experiences.
With its vibrant city life, breathtaking natural wonders, and diverse array of activities, Reykjavik offers something for everyone, including young children.
From exploring unique landmarks and engaging museums to enjoying outdoor adventures and savoring local cuisine, your family will have an unforgettable time discovering all that this enchanting city has to offer.
As you plan your trip to Reykjavik with your kids, keep in mind that the city is incredibly family-friendly.
Throughout your stay, delight in Reykjavik’s cozy atmosphere, immerse yourselves in the vibrant art and music scene, and don’t forget to venture beyond the city limits to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Iceland’s natural landscapes.
Planning Your Trip
FREE Admission or Discounts for Kids
While Iceland can be pricey, you can actually save some money when traveling with your family.
Many attractions, tours, and restaurants in Reykjavik offer free or discounted options for children.
This makes it easier to plan a budget-friendly trip without sacrificing fun experiences for the whole family.
Be sure to research ahead of time which places offer special rates for kids (including FREE!), and don’t be afraid to ask about discounts upon arrival.
Examples include:
- Blue Lagoon = FREE for kids ages 2 through 13
- Laugardalslaug public pool complex in Reykjavik = FREE for kids 15 & under
- The Settlement Exhibition = FREE for kids 17 & under
Weather & Clothing
When planning a trip to Reykjavik with kids, it’s essential to consider the Icelandic weather and the best places to stay.
Reykjavik serves as an excellent base for exploring the country, so make sure to have a well-planned itinerary to get the most out of your journey.
Begin by researching the best time to visit according to the country’s weather.
Iceland experiences cold winters with limited daylight hours, while summers offer milder temperatures and longer days.
We visited in early October, which allowed for plenty of daylight hours but also a higher probability of seeing the Northern Lights (which we did see!).
Keep in mind that weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so always be prepared with appropriate clothing and be flexible with your plans.
BE THE HERO!
DON'T.
FORGET.
ANYTHING.
- Make sure you have all the things you need for an amazing trip!
- From clothing and toiletries, to tech, travel docs, and even lists for kids!
One item in particular that may not be on your radar is waterproof pants. Rain jackets are a given, but having waterproof pants will save you from uncomfortable wet clothes and cranky kids.
When it comes to rain pants, for all members of the family, order a size or two larger than normal. That way, you can slip them on or off as needed over whatever pants you’re wearing.
Other essentials include:
- Warm layers such as fleece jackets and wool sweaters
- Weather-proof coats (Men, women, kids)
- Waterproof hiking boots for exploring the natural landscapes
- Swimsuits for enjoying geothermal pools and hot springs
- Gloves, hats, and scarves for colder weather
Where to Stay in Reykjavik with Kids
Next, decide on where to stay in Reykjavik.
Hotels in Reykjavik, that can house a family of 4 in one room, are few and far between and are EX.PEN.SIVE.
We chose to stay in a suburb of Reykjavik, called Kopavogur, in this Airbnb. Highly recommend!
Staying in a rental vs. hotel also makes it easier to prepare more affordable meals, which we’ll talk about in a bit.
Car Rental &/or Guided Tours
To explore outside of Reykjavik, you have the option of renting a car or joining guided tours.
If you choose to rent a car, which I also highly recommend, be aware of Iceland’s driving conditions and laws, especially in more remote areas.
Rental car options can be found at Keflavik Airport upon arrival. We found Blue Car Rental to be the most affordable car rental company, with the most benefits included in the price.
➡️ BLUE CAR RENTAL DISCOUNT ⬅️
Alternatively, if you prefer guided tours, there are plenty of kid-friendly Iceland tours to choose from.
It’s crucial to have a well-planned itinerary that includes both Reykjavik and its surrounding areas to make the most of your family trip to Iceland.
Top Things to Do with Kids in Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, offers many exciting activities for families with kids. Here are some top recommendations for enjoying this vibrant city with your little ones.
- Walk along the scenic waterfront: Reykjavik’s picturesque waterfront is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll with your family. Enjoy the views of the harbor, admire fascinating sculptures, and keep an eye out for the charming, colorful houses along the way.
- Explore museums: Reykjavik boasts a range of museums that cater to kids’ interests, such as the Settlement Exhibition, which offers an interactive glimpse into the city’s ancient history.
- Visit a playground: The city is home to numerous playgrounds where children can burn off some energy. Many playgrounds feature slides, swings, and climbing structures, making them ideal spots for outdoor play.
- Discover street art: Engage your children’s imaginations by wandering through Reykjavik’s streets and admiring its street art. You can even take a self-guided tour to discover the city’s most iconic murals and creations.
- Enjoy a family park: Reykjavik’s Laugardalur park offers something for everyone, from a geothermally-heated swimming pool to a zoo and botanical gardens. Head to the park for an afternoon of fun and relaxation.
- Experience sports: Depending on the season, you can introduce your kids to various sports in Reykjavik, such as ice skating or even swimming in one of the city’s numerous geothermally-heated pools (many with water slides!).
- Glimpse the Northern Lights: Make sure to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights during your stay. Also known as Aurora Borealis, these natural light displays are created by solar particles interacting with the Earth’s atmosphere. Marvel with your family as the night sky bursts into a dance of vibrant colors. Keep in mind that the best time to spot the Northern Lights in Iceland is during the winter months, from September to March. (We saw the Northern Lights from the backyard of our Airbnb in early October!!!!!)
In summary, Reykjavik has plenty of activities for families with kids, from exploring museums and parks to admiring street art and enjoying sports.
Plan your trip and make lasting memories with your family as you experience all that this captivating city has to offer.
Reykjavik Landmarks Worth Visiting
Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, offers many landmarks also worth exploring with your kids.
Hallgrimskirkja Church
This iconic landmark in the city, in downtown Reykjavik, is a great place to start your adventure. This majestic church has a stunning and unique design, inspired by the basalt rock formations found throughout Iceland. Your kids will be fascinated by the building’s immense size and architectural elegance.
Perlan
This should also be on your list. This futuristic building houses several exhibitions, including a planetarium with Northern Lights show, an Iceland-focused exhibition, and a natural history museum. There’s also an ice cave & glaciers exhibition!
In addition to the exhibits, Perlan offers a 360-degree observation deck overlooking the city, mountains, and nearby coastline – a view your kids will remember.
Entry is FREE for kids 5 & under. A “family ticket” is available, which includes 2 adult & 2 child admissions, which will save you around $20 USD from the individual prices.
Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre
This modern and colorful glass building is not only breathtaking from the outside but also houses various events and performances throughout the year.
The stunning design and shimmering lights will entertain your kids and leave them in awe.
When planning our trip to Iceland (in just a short 2.5 months!), I wanted to incorporate geothermal, cultural, local, Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, and more…all on a semi-budget!
Guess what? It all worked out!
We lucked out in the cultural category (check out some other cultural experiences we’ve had in Germany & Malaysia).
When I was searching for Reykjavik concerts for kids, it just so happened that the Iceland Symphony Orchestra would be performing a Maxímús Músíkús concert for children exactly when we would be in Iceland!
This was one of our semi-budget travel splurges on this trip, and it was totally worth it.
Harpa is a concert hall and conference center located in the center of Reykjavik, by the old harbor.
The building is magnificent, in and of itself. The architecture is striking, with its exterior “walls” made up of geometric metal and glass.
The weather on our concert day was rainy and cloudy. However, Harpa’s windows are fabulous, even without the sun shining through.
Most of the windows are made of clear glass, but some of the panes provide swatches of color.
Underground parking at Harpa is affordable and convenient, especially when it’s raining big time, as it was the day of the concert!
We arrived early, so we would have time to eat our lunch and look around the interior of the building a bit.
We happened upon this huge “cloakroom.” In SoCal, this type of space isn’t necessary, so it was fun to explore at Harpa!
Maxímús Músíkús. What’s that, you say?
Well, Maxímús Músíkús is the reason we were at Harpa. He is a musical mouse that is very beloved by children in Iceland.
As we made our way up to the second floor at Harpa, we found an entire atrium full of round tables and chairs.
Occupying the chairs were Icelandic children and parents. They were engrossed in a pre-concert Maxímús Músíkús craft…cutting, taping, stapling.
How fun!
We found two empty chairs for our kids and began crafting too.
What were we making? Maxímús Músíkús crowns!
After finishing the craft, we had a few minutes to look out at the harbor, while we were nice and cozy inside.
We eventually made our way into Eldborg Hall for the concert.
Eldborg Concert Hall is the largest hall in Harpa. It is beautiful, with its red design.
Our tickets were for box seats in one of the side wings, and it was perfect for us! No blocked views and the ability to see all of Eldborg Hall at a glance.
Maxímús Músíkús was actually created by two members of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra. It is an effort to introduce children to symphony music. By the looks of the capacity crowd, they are succeeding in their mission.
This was a first-rate symphony concert, enjoyed by kids and adults alike (including our entire family).
Lest you wonder how a symphony concert can be kid-friendly, this was a one-hour concert by amazing musicians, interspersed with live narration, video clips, and an appearance by Maxímús Músíkús himself!
Along with the pre-concert craft and photo ops with Maxímús Músíkús, this was literally the perfect cultural experience for kids!
Was it in English? Nope!
Even though the narration was in Icelandic, there was enough context in the video clips to be able to follow along! Our kids never lost interest the entire time.
While many things in Iceland are either free or have a reduced cost for children, this particular concert required regular priced tickets for everyone, no matter their age.
As such, we count this as one of our semi-budget travel splurges on our Icelandic adventure.
And we would do it again!
Sun Voyager
This sculpture is by the waterfront in Reykjavik. This iconic monument symbolizes hope, progress, and freedom.
Let your kids get up close and personal with this artwork while they take in the stunning views of the Old Harbor and surrounding mountains.
Old Harbor
This historic area is great for family walks and picnics. During the summer months, you can also embark on whale watching tours from the harbor, which is a great way to get up close and personal with humpback whales, orcas, and more.
Laugardalur
Considered Reykjavik’s most significant recreational area, it is home to a zoo, botanical garden, and geothermal swimming pool complex.
Your family will enjoy spending time amongst the lush greenery, and your kids will love the playgrounds and the chance to get up close with Icelandic animals.
The zoo offers a chance to meet native Icelandic animals, including horses, seals, and a petting zoo section for smaller farm animals.
Lake Tjörnin
For a peaceful retreat, this beautiful lake in the heart of the city is excellent for birdwatching and paddle boating.
We also found it a perfect sunset viewing spot. (It’s right down the street from Icelandic Street Food, which we’ll talk about below.)
Thufa
Check out this grass-covered hill with a spiral walking path leading to the top.
Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach
Yet another of Iceland’s geothermal wonders, here you can enjoy warm ocean waters, hot tubs, and a unique beach experience.
Experiencing the Food Culture
When traveling with kids, it’s important to have family-friendly food options.
Reykjavik is a fantastic city to explore and experience its food culture with children.
You’ll find a diverse range of options for all meals, from lunch to dinner, with some unique Icelandic treats in between.
Affordable Eats
For a quick and tasty lunch, you and your kids can try Iceland’s famous hot dogs at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur. This popular hot dog stand is renowned for serving delicious, affordable meals that will satisfy the whole family.
We did eat out several times, but to keep costs down, we shared meals and then topped up with snacks (brought from home and/or purchased at Bonus grocery store in Iceland).
Affordable-ish restaurants we recommend =
Kokulist Bakery: in Njardvik, perfect stop to or from the Keflavik airport!
Icelandic Street Food:
Icelandic Street Food is a unique establishment. It is a small hole in the wall without much seating. There is additional seating (somehow) a couple doors down, but we managed to find a spot in the original area.
The menu is limited, but we were here for the Icelandic meat soup and the desserts that we had heard about.
It turns out that free refills are given on the entrees! Unheard of! We had our fill of Icelandic meat soup and an interesting dish that is basically fish and mashed potatoes mixed together.
The entrees arrived with bread and the fabulous Icelandic butter as well.
The unique desserts we were craving (Icelandic pancakes and Happy Marriage Cake) were sold out, as they were later in the week when we checked again. It turns out that Grandma was on vacation. Therefore, the Icelandic desserts were “sold out.”
The atmosphere at Icelandic Street Food is very fast paced, and although we weren’t able to try the specialty desserts, there are tiered trays of bite-sized desserts in various places around the eating area. Help yourself to those…yes, seriously!
Issi Fish & Chips: also convenient to & from the KEF airport, as well as Viking World
Noodle Station
Braud & Co: This is a perfect spot for both savory and sweet pastries. And, the building’s exterior is a work of art! There is no seating inside. This location is walk-in, walk-out.
Ice Cream
If you’re looking for something sweet to treat yourself and the kids, Iceland has a special place in its heart for ice cream.
Many locals love to visit a nearby cafe for a scoop or two, no matter the weather.
Efstidalur (on the Golden Circle), although it’s outside of Reykjavik, is a special place to visit, as the ice cream is made right on the farm! Say hello to the cows on your way in!
Truth be told…
We went to the famous Valdis in Reykjavik and actually left without buying anything, because the prices were so crazy!
Skyr
Introduce yourself and your children to skyr, a traditional Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product. Think Greek yogurt but even thicker and creamier. It’s a staple in Icelandic cuisine and comes in a variety of flavors.
You can find skyr at any grocery store. The Bónus supermarket we shopped at had a huge walk-in refrigerator dedicated almost solely to all the skyr on hand!
Grocery Stores
Speaking of grocery stores, they’ll be your best bet for affordable eats in Iceland.
Reykjavik has numerous grocery stores, such as Bonus, where you can find fresh produce, local ingredients, and familiar staples.
Preparing a meal in your accommodation not only saves money but also gives you the opportunity to learn about Icelandic cuisine by cooking with local ingredients.
We also found our new favorite international candy there: Djupur. It’s kinda like M&Ms, with black licorice in the center. You gotta try it before you knock it! Djupur is also what we brought back home to give out as souvenirs.
If you need *lots* of food, you could check out the one Costco in Iceland!
Shopping and Souvenirs in Reykjavik
While exploring the city, keep an eye out for souvenir shops offering authentic Icelandic gifts.
There are many choices available, from traditional wool sweaters to quirky trinkets featuring the famous Icelandic puffin.
When you shop for souvenirs, try to find something local and unique that represents your time in Reykjavik.
For a sustainable, useful, and cheap souvenir, consider picking up some Bonus grocery store reusable bags. Not only are they practical, but they also come with a cute and colorful design that represents the grocery chain’s playful mascot, the Bonus pig. They are an affordable and eco-friendly option that showcases a bit of Icelandic culture. Did I mention they’re cheap?
Taking Day Trips Outside Reykjavik with Kids
Reykjavik is a wonderful city, but exploring the stunning natural wonders of Iceland a little further afoot should also be on your family’s itinerary.
Golden Circle Self-Drive Tour
One of the most popular day trips from the capital is the captivating Golden Circle.
Check out our Golden Circle Self-Drive Itinerary.
Embarking on a Golden Circle self-drive tour allows you and your family to experience Iceland’s incredible landscape at your own pace. This iconic route highlights some of the country’s most majestic attractions, making it an essential addition to your bucket list.
As you start your journey, make your way to Thingvellir National Park. Here, you’ll find the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, as well as the world’s oldest existing parliament, founded in 930 AD.
Next, prepare to be amazed by the thundering Gullfoss Waterfall. This spectacular two-tiered waterfall will surely leave your family in awe of Iceland’s natural beauty.
A visit to the geothermal area of Geysir is also a must. Witness the powerful Strokkur geyser shooting water into the air every few minutes.
While in the area, consider stopping at Fridheimar, a unique tomato farm where you can enjoy fresh dishes prepared with locally grown ingredients.
During your self-drive tour, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the historically significant Skalholt cathedral and learn about its role in Iceland’s history.
Another must-see stop is the Kerid Crater, a striking volcanic crater lake with vibrant turquoise waters. This geological marvel will provide stunning photo opportunities for your travel album.
While traveling along the Golden Circle, look for the friendly Icelandic horses known for their unique gait.
Remember to plan your day accordingly and allow ample time to explore these destinations, as each one offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
You will presumably save money (though you’ll need a vehicle & will expend fuel) by going it on your own, but if you’d rather have someone else guide you around the Golden Circle, here are some highly-rated tours:
- Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater
- Golden Circle, Kerid, & Secret Lagoon Tour
- Golden Circle Full Day Tour
- Golden Circle Full-Day Guided Trip
- Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Small Group Tour
- Golden Circle and Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Tour
- Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle Tour
- Golden Circle Classic Day Trip
Major Waterfalls
Don’t miss the awe-inspiring waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss.
At Seljalandsfoss, an enchanting waterfall that drops around 60 meters (approximately 200 feet), you can even walk behind the cascading water—an unforgettable experience to share with your kids. (Remember those waterproof pants we mentioned above? This is the perfect place to use them!)
Skogafoss is another mesmerizing cascade, boasting an impressive 25 meters width and 60 meters drop. These waterfalls provide a spectacular backdrop for family photos and memories that will last a lifetime.
You can approach the base of Skogafoss on foot, but the spray will get crazier the closer you get. Be sure to look for rainbows too!
To the right of Skogafoss, there is a long stairway to the top of the falls. If you’re feeling adventurous and physically fit (it’s more than 500 steps), make the climb for an unforgettable bird’s eye view.
Blue Lagoon
For a rejuvenating experience, dip into the mineral-rich waters of the world-famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa located within lava fields.
Here, you and your family can unwind and gain the potential health benefits of the warm blue water, naturally heated by geothermal energy and rich in silica.
You may have heard that the silica content of the water can make your hair wonky.
Well, it’s true. BUT, if you use the Blue Lagoon’s complimentary conditioner on your hair liberally and subsequently use products like these for the next few days to a week, we found that our hair was back to “normal” without much fuss.
Museums to Visit
Reykjavik has a variety of museums that cater to the interests of both children and adults alike. From learning about Iceland’s history to exploring the marine life, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
Whales of Iceland Museum
Boasting an impressive collection of life-size models, the Whales of Iceland Museum is the largest whale museum in Europe, providing an immersive and educational experience for all ages.
Walk among the models of these impressive creatures while learning about their biology and conservation efforts.
The Settlement Exhibition
The Settlement Exhibition in Reykjavik is a must-visit for history buffs. This museum showcases the city’s Viking ancestry and explores Iceland’s settlement history through interactive displays and artifacts.
Excavated in 2001, the Viking longhouse gives you a glimpse into the daily lives of Vikings and their customs, beliefs, and way of life.
There’s also a fun kids play area at this museum.
Reykjavík Maritime Museum
This museum showcases Iceland’s maritime history and culture. This interactive museum will keep your kids engaged while they learn about Iceland’s seafaring past.
Árbær Open Air Museum
The Árbær Open Air Museum is a living museum that takes you back in time to the 19th and 20th centuries. You’ll find over 20 buildings that have been moved from their original locations to recreate a traditional Icelandic village.
Explore the old farmhouses, see how locals lived, and learn about traditional crafts and farming methods during this interactive experience.
FlyOver Iceland
If your kids are interested in taking a virtual tour of Iceland’s spectacular landscapes without leaving the city, FlyOver Iceland is the place to be.
This thrilling experience takes you on a simulated flight across Iceland’s breathtaking terrains, complete with real wind, mist effects, and scents.
If you’ve been on Disney’s “Soarin'” rides, this is very similar but with an Icelandic twist.
National Museum of Iceland
No trip to Reykjavik would be complete without visiting the National Museum of Iceland. This museum boasts a wide array of artifacts and exhibits, including the first Bible printed entirely in the Icelandic language.
Visiting this museum is a perfect way to introduce your family to the rich and diverse history of Iceland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions for children in Reykjavik?
Reykjavik offers numerous attractions to keep children entertained during your visit. Some top options include walking along the scenic waterfront (Sun Voyager, Thufa), swimming in a local geothermal pool, and checking out the interactive exhibits at the Perlan Museum.
Can children visit the Blue Lagoon?
Children are welcome at the Blue Lagoon, an iconic geothermal spa in Iceland. Although children under the age of 2 are not permitted in the water, those aged 2 and older can enjoy the warm, mineral-rich pools, accompanied by an adult. Be sure to follow the safety guidelines, and keep a close watch on your little ones while in the water.
What is the Reykjavik Park and Zoo like?
The Reykjavik Park and Zoo, also known as the Reykjavik Family Park, offers engaging activities for families with children. The park is home to Icelandic farm animals, including horses, cows, and sheep, as well as beautiful walking paths and picnic areas. In addition to the animal exhibits, the park features playgrounds and amusement rides, providing fun for children of various ages.
SBT Summary: Reykjavik with Kids
A trip to Reykjavik with your kids promises to be an unforgettable adventure filled with fun, education, and connection with nature.
From exploring interactive museum exhibits to frolicking in geothermal pools and meeting Icelandic farm animals at the family park, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
So pack your bags, get ready to make some incredible family memories, and embark on your exciting journey to Reykjavik.
Safe travels!
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