When you are looking to book your flight tickets to Iceland with your family, you’ll probably recognise that you will be spending most of your time in the South and West, where many of the popular tourist attractions are located. From waterfalls to geysers to horseback riding, there are plenty of fun things to do in Iceland with kids that will definitely capture their attention. But if you want to get off the beaten path and spend some quiet time together as a family away from tourists and crowds, here are six family-friendly activities to do in Iceland that aren’t commonly found on other travel guides.
6 Family-Friendly Activities to Do in Iceland
1) Go Whale Watching
There’s something special about seeing these creatures in their natural habitat. Whale watching is a great activity for families because it’s both educational and exciting. And what better place to do it than in Iceland, where you’re almost guaranteed to see some whales. Here are a few tips for making the most of your whale watching experience:
- Dress warmly – it can get cold out on the water, even in summer.
- Bring binoculars – they’ll help you spot the whales from a distance.
- Be patient – sometimes it takes a while to find the whales, but it’s worth it when you finally see them.
- Listen for the whales – you might be able to hear them before you see them.
2) Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
A hot air balloon ride is the perfect way to see the Icelandic landscape from above. The country is filled with beautiful mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls, and a bird’s eye view is the best way to take it all in. Plus, it’s a great bonding experience for the whole family. There is nothing quite as exciting as being on a hot air balloon, it usually is a travel experience on everyone’s bucket list.
3) Book a Day Trip to the Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is one of the most popular tourist routes in Iceland. It takes you through Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Then, you’ll visit the Gullfoss waterfall and the geothermal area of Haukadalur, where you can see steaming hot springs and bubbling mud pots. Finally, you’ll stop at the historic site of Skalholt cathedral. Booking a day trip is a great way to see all of these amazing sights without having to worry about driving or planning logistics.
4) Rent a Car and Explore
One of the best ways to see Iceland is by renting a car and driving around the country. This way, you can go at your own pace, make stops when something interests you, and explore all that Iceland has to offer. Plus, it’s a great way to bond with your family as you explore a new place together.
5) Hike Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir National Park is a historic and beautiful place to hike with your family. The park has something for everyone, from easy walking trails to more challenging hikes. Plus, the views are stunning. If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity that will create lasting memories, hiking Thingvellir National Park is a great option.
6) Visit The Harpa Music Hall
The Harpa Music Hall is a beautiful building located right on the water in Reykjavik. While it’s mainly used for concerts and events, they also offer guided tours. The tour takes you through the history of the building and gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how it operates. If you’re looking for something fun and educational to do with your family while in Iceland, this is it.
