where to stay in iceland with family
Jan 16, 2024 By Sean William

Are you looking for the perfect family vacation destination with a unique combination of natural beauty, historical sights, and exciting activities? Look no further than Iceland! With its dramatic scenery, diverse culture, and many things to do and see, Iceland is an ideal holiday spot for families.

Whether you're after sightseeing trips with your children or adventurous hikes across glaciers, this amazing country has something for everyone. To get you started on planning your ultimate Icelandic adventure with the kids.

We've compiled our comprehensive best Iceland itinerary for families – covering all the must-sees and plenty of ideas for fun and relaxation during your stay. Get ready to create unforgettable memories.

Active Iceland Ring Road Adventure for Families

If your family enjoys getting active and exploring the great outdoors, Iceland offers many activities. The country is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, making it an ideal destination for adventurers of all ages.

For families with children aged 8 and above, why not embark on a unique road trip along the famous ‘Ring Road’ to experience the best of Iceland?

The Ring Road is a 1332-mile round trip that begins and ends in Reykjavik and takes you along the stunning south coast, up into the remote Westfjords, and back around to the east.

Along your route, there are plenty of activities for families to enjoy, with hiking trails winding through glacier-covered mountains and open parks with remarkable views. You can also explore the many geothermal pools around Iceland, visit the national parks of Thingvellir and Skaftafell or take a boat trip to spot whales and puffins in their natural habitat.

Throughout your journey, you will also have the chance to experience traditional Icelandic culture and cuisine, such as horseback riding, visiting a Viking museum, and sampling traditional dishes such as hotdogs and lamb stew. There is something for everyone on this unique adventure.

If you’re looking for the best Iceland itinerary for your family, then the active Ring Road tour is an excellent choice. With activities to explore nature and culture alike, it’s sure to create lasting memories and an unforgettable experience.

The Best of Iceland's Wild West & Arctic North

Iceland's Wild West and Arctic North regions are the perfect destination if your family loves adventure. This itinerary takes you through some of the best sights in these areas, from incredible glacier hikes to exploring natural wonders like Vatnajökull National Park and Þingvellir National Park.

Along the way, you'll find plenty of opportunities to experience the country's culture, including a stop at Mývatn Natural Baths and a visit to the Akureyri Botanical Garden. There are also plenty of chances for your family to relax and enjoy outdoor activities like whale watching and heli-skiing.

Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, this itinerary has something for everyone.

Relaxed West Iceland Family Self-Drive

If you’re looking for a relaxed family trip to Iceland, look no further than this West Iceland itinerary. This suggested eight-day adventure is the perfect way to explore the charming towns and villages of the west side of the country with your family.

First, you’ll want to go from Reykjavík to Stykkisholmur, a charming seaside village in West Iceland. You’ll have easy access to the Snaefellsnes peninsula and its attractions from there. Spend your days here exploring its many glaciers and black sand beaches. Make sure to take some time for whale watching or horseback riding.

The next stop is Borgarnes, a small town home to the Settlement Center, where visitors can learn about Icelandic history and culture. After exploring the Settlement Center, head to Husafell, where you can explore incredible caves or dip in the natural hot springs.

Meander your way to Akranes next, where you can access some of Iceland’s best coastal views and fishing villages. Spend the day taking in the sights of Reykjanes Peninsula. Then, head back to Reykjavík for a few days to explore its attractions like museums, galleries, and concerts.

This Iceland itinerary is perfect for families looking for a relaxed vacation that will still be filled with plenty of fun activities.

South Iceland Family Road Trip: Snæfellsnes, Golden Circle & Westman Islands

If you’re looking for the perfect Iceland family road trip, look no further than South Iceland. With picturesque scenery, natural wonders, and vibrant city life, this diverse region has it all.

This itinerary will take you through Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Golden Circle, and Westman Islands - providing stunning sights, exciting activities, and family fun.

Begin your adventure at Snæfellsnes - an 80 km (50 mi) long peninsula in Western Iceland known as “Iceland in Miniature” thanks to its diverse landscapes, which feature lava fields, forests, black sand beaches, and stunning views of the Snaefellsjokull glacier.

It is also home to various wildlife, including seals, seabirds, and whales. Popular attractions include Kirkjufell Mountain, Vatnshellir Cave, and Ytri Tunga Beach.

From Snæfellsnes Peninsula, make your way east towards Reykjavík and the renowned Golden Circle - a popular route that takes visitors past some of Iceland’s most beautiful and historically significant sites.

Highlights include the Geysir geothermal area, where you can view the erupting Strokkur geyser, Thingvellir National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its active volcanic landscape and rich Viking history - and Gullfoss waterfall, Europe’s largest waterfall.

FAQs

How many days do you need in Iceland for kids?

The time you have available for your family's Iceland trip will ultimately determine how much ground you can cover. Generally, most travelers consider a minimum of 4-5 days a good time to begin exploring the country's best attractions. With longer trips, you'll be able to experience more activities and explore in more depth.

Is Iceland a good family vacation?

Yes, Iceland is a great family vacation destination. There's something for everyone - from awe-inspiring landscapes and geothermally heated pools to adventure activities like glacier hiking and horseback riding. With its rich culture, friendly locals, delicious food, and variety of outdoor activities, it has plenty to offer families of all ages.

How many days do you need in Iceland?

It depends on what you want to see and do. A minimum of 4-5 days is a good starting point for an itinerary that includes some of the country's most popular attractions like the Golden Circle, Reykjavík, and the Blue Lagoon.

Conclusion

An Iceland Ring Road adventure with your family is an unforgettable experience that you will never forget. The best thing about it is that you can tailor the trip to your preferences and budget. From the wild west of Skógar to the northern Arctic regions, each area has unique attractions, landscapes, and culture that your family can explore at leisure. And don't forget to visit the beautiful Westman Islands on your journey.