There’s something magical about exploring Iceland’s dramatic landscapes as a family. From towering waterfalls and lava fields to geothermal hot springs and puffin-filled cliffs, this Nordic wonderland offers countless opportunities for bonding and discovery. If you’re planning an Iceland family road trip, this guide is packed with practical tips and exciting ideas to help you create unforgettable memories with your kids.
Whether you’re cruising the Ring Road or doing a shorter loop around the South Coast, driving through Iceland is the ultimate way to experience its raw, untouched beauty—without missing out on kid-friendly fun.
Why Choose a Road Trip in Iceland with Kids?
A road trip in Iceland gives your family the freedom to explore at your own pace. Here’s why it works so well with children:
- Flexibility: Stop when your kids need a break, or explore spontaneous attractions along the way.
- Scenic Drives: Every mile brings jaw-dropping scenery that keeps everyone engaged.
- Safe Environment: Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, making it ideal for families.
- Educational: It’s a real-life geography and science lesson, with volcanoes, glaciers, and geysers!
Planning Your Iceland Family Road Trip
A successful trip starts with the right planning. Here’s what you need to know before hitting the road:
Choose the Right Time to Visit
While Iceland is beautiful year-round, summer (June–August) is best for families. The roads are easier to drive, and the weather is milder with long daylight hours—perfect for sightseeing.
Rent the Right Car
For a family, a comfortable SUV or camper van is ideal. If you’re planning to explore the highlands, a 4×4 is essential. Camper vans can also double as your accommodation, which can be both fun and cost-effective for kids.
Map Out Your Route
Popular family-friendly routes include:
- South Coast: Ideal for a 5–7 day trip with stunning stops like Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
- Golden Circle: Perfect for shorter trips—features Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
- Ring Road: The full 1,300 km loop around the island; best for trips lasting 10–14 days.
Essential Road Trip Tips for Traveling with Kids
Making your Iceland road trip enjoyable and smooth requires some preparation, especially when traveling with young children.
1. Pack Smart—but Light
- Weather changes quickly in Iceland. Layered clothing is key: thermal base layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy boots. Don’t forget:
- Snacks (grocery stores can be sparse on some routes)
- Reusable water bottles (tap water is clean and safe)
- Power banks/tablets for entertainment
- Car seat(s), if needed (or request when renting)
2. Bring Road Trip Entertainment
Audiobooks, Icelandic folklore stories, travel journals, and car games help keep kids engaged between stops. In Iceland, there’s no Wi-Fi in the wild, so download everything beforehand.
3. Take Frequent Breaks
Plan to stop every 1–2 hours to let the kids stretch, play, and explore. Many attractions are short walks from parking lots, making them accessible even for toddlers.
4. Include Interactive Activities
Children love activities like:
- Petting Icelandic horses along the road
- Visiting geothermal pools (like the Secret Lagoon or Myvatn Nature Baths)
- Watching seals at the beach in Hvammstangi
- Whale watching from Húsavík (if your kids are comfortable on boats)
5. Stay in Family-Friendly Accommodations
Guesthouses, farm stays, and Airbnbs are excellent options. Many offer shared kitchens, laundry, and sometimes even farm animals to play with! Book in advance, especially during summer.
Top Family-Friendly Attractions in Iceland
Here are a few highlights your kids (and you!) will absolutely love:
Reykjavik
Start or end your trip in Iceland’s colorful capital. Check out:
- Whales of Iceland Museum
- Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park
- Perlan’s interactive glacier exhibits
Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss Waterfalls
Both are accessible with kids. Seljalandsfoss allows you to walk behind the falls—prepare to get wet!
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Ride an amphibious boat and get close to floating icebergs. Keep an eye out for seals, too!
Lava Centre
Located in Hvolsvöllur, this museum explains Iceland’s volcanic activity through hands-on exhibits—perfect for curious minds.
Vík’s Black Sand Beach
Kids love running on this unique beach (just keep them away from the water—it’s unpredictable).
Food Tips for Families in Iceland
Eating out can be pricey, but here’s how to manage:
- Shop at Bonus or Krónan grocery stores.
- Pack picnic lunches—many gas stations have seating.
- Let kids try pylsur, Iceland’s beloved hot dogs.
- Book accommodations with kitchens and cook simple meals.
Safety & Driving Tips
- Obey speed limits and road signs. Iceland’s terrain can be tricky—always check road.is for conditions.
- Fuel up frequently, especially in remote areas.
- Avoid off-road driving, which is illegal and dangerous.
- Watch out for sheep—they sometimes cross roads unexpectedly!
Traveling around Iceland with your children is not just about checking off landmarks—it’s about building shared memories. From laughing at geysers to cozying up in hot springs, every stop on your Iceland family road trip can become part of your family’s story.
By planning wisely, staying flexible, and packing a sense of adventure, you’ll discover that the Land of Fire and Ice is also the land of joy, wonder, and plenty of miles of smiles.
Leave a Reply