Iceland with Kids: Localgrapher’s Guide to the Best Activities

Most restaurants offer high chairs and kids’ menus, public pools have baby-friendly thermal baths, and even the rugged landscapes are surprisingly accessible for families with children. Roads are well-maintained, and rental cars often come with child seats. Just remember: Iceland is an adventure destination. Weather can be unpredictable, and nature is powerful—so a mix of flexibility and preparation is key. Whether you’re introducing your children to the wonders of geothermal energy or letting them pet Icelandic ponies under wide open skies, this country invites a deeper appreciation of the natural world—and each other.

Family photoshoot by Leszek, Localgrapher in Iceland

Summer (June to August) is the most popular time to visit, and for good reason. Long daylight hours mean more time to explore, and temperatures are mild. Hiking trails, wildlife tours, and remote destinations are more accessible. Bonus: Puffins! These cute birds are everywhere in summer.


Winter (November to February) offers its own kind of magic. Picture snow-draped lava fields, the mystical glow of the Northern Lights, and fewer crowds. If your kids are older and you’re craving something truly unique, a winter Iceland family holiday can be a dream. Just pack accordingly!

Spring (April to May) is when Iceland slowly awakens from its icy slumber. Melting snow gives way to waterfalls at full force, and wildflowers begin to bloom. It’s a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists and a relaxed pace that’s perfect for young families easing into adventure.

Autumn (September to October) brings crisp air, vibrant fall colours, and the first chances to catch the Northern Lights. It’s a sweet spot for families who want fewer crowds and don’t mind bundling up. Harvest festivals and berry picking also add charm to your Iceland family trip.

Also known as the Iceland Zoo, this family-friendly park in Reykjavík offers a peek at native Icelandic animals like reindeer, seals, and arctic foxes. There’s also a small amusement park, playgrounds, and even tractor rides—perfect for toddlers and young children who need a break from sightseeing.

Yes, kids are welcome! The warm, mineral-rich waters are a delight for all ages. While the Blue Lagoon is more famous, the Secret Lagoon is often less crowded and still provides a magical geothermal soak. Float, splash, and enjoy the steam rising around you—it’s one of those quintessential Iceland moments.

Where else can your kids walk between two tectonic plates? This UNESCO World Heritage Site is rich with history and natural beauty. Flat trails make it accessible for strollers and small hikers, and older kids will be fascinated to learn about Iceland’s Viking parliament.

Several ports, like Húsavík and Reykjavík, offer family-friendly whale-watching tours. You might spot humpbacks, orcas, or even dolphins. Tours usually include warm overalls and guidance from marine biologists, making it an educational thrill.

When you’re based in Reykjavík, spend a cozy afternoon at the Iceland Family Skating Center. Whether your kids are beginners or future figure skaters, this indoor rink is a fun way to bond and let out some energy. Plus, it’s a great backup for rainy days!

Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Gullfoss… Iceland’s waterfalls are straight out of fairy tales. Many are easy to access and have nearby parking, picnic spots, and walking paths. Your kids will love running through the mist or walking behind the cascading waters at Seljalandsfoss.

Small, sturdy, and famously friendly, Icelandic horses are great for beginners and kids. Book a short riding tour through lava fields or along the coast, and introduce your children to these fluffy-maned legends.

Turn your Iceland family trip into an artistic keepsake with a professional photoshoot. Whether you’re posing near a glacier, on a black sand beach, or in Reykjavík’s colourful streets, our Localgraphers know the best angles, light, and hidden spots to make your family shine.

If you’re short on time but still want to experience the highlights of Iceland, this 7-day itinerary offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. You’ll stay mostly in the south of the country, where many of Iceland’s most iconic sights are easily accessible by car and kid-friendly in terms of walking distances and facilities. With geothermal pools, thundering waterfalls, and even a stop at the Iceland Zoo, it’s a trip full of excitement that’s easy to manage, even with younger children in tow.

• Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavík. Get settled, enjoy a local meal, and stroll downtown.
• Day 2: Explore the Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park, then head to the Sun Voyager sculpture for family portraits at sunset.
• Day 3: Drive the Golden Circle (Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss). Short walks and stunning sights!
• Day 4: Visit the Secret Lagoon and stop in charming Flúðir.
• Day 5: Begin the South Coast adventure: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara beach.
• Day 6: Continue to Vik and enjoy a family photoshoot on the black sand beaches.
• Day 7: Drive back to Reykjavík, stopping at lava fields and local cafés along the way.

Perfect for families seeking variety, this route blends culture, nature, and kid-friendly fun.

For families who want to slow things down just a little and add a touch of off-the-beaten-path magic, this 10-day Iceland family vacation itinerary builds on the 7-day route while introducing the Snæfellsnes Peninsula—a region often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse scenery. This version gives your family time to explore lesser-known coastal villages, lava fields, and wildlife spots, all while preserving space for spontaneous moments and a professional photoshoot in a truly cinematic setting.

• Day 1–7: Follow the 7-day itinerary above.
• Day 8: Head northwest to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Stop at Kirkjufell (a favorite for photoshoots).
• Day 9: Visit coastal villages, seal colonies, and lava tubes.
• Day 10: Enjoy a relaxed day in Reykjavík—maybe try the Iceland Family Skating Center or visit a geothermal pool before flying home.

This itinerary offers a balanced pace, giving kids time to rest while still packing in unforgettable sights.

For the ultimate Iceland family trip, this two-week itinerary takes you all the way around the island via the famous Ring Road. Ideal for adventurous families with older kids or those who don’t mind a bit more driving, this route allows you to experience Iceland’s vast contrasts—from glacier lagoons to volcanic deserts, peaceful fjords to geothermal hotspots. It’s a memory-making journey where every day brings something completely new, and there are endless photo opportunities to capture along the way.

• Day 1–7: Follow the 7-day itinerary above.
• Day 8: Head east to the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach.
• Day 9: Drive toward Egilsstaðir through the Eastfjords—expect waterfalls, puffins, and fjords.
• Day 10–11: Explore Lake Mývatn, Hverir hot springs, and Dettifoss waterfall.
• Day 12: Spend the night in Akureyri and enjoy a cozy family dinner.
• Day 13: Continue back south via Hvítserkur and Borgarnes.
• Day 14: Wrap up your Iceland family vacation with a celebratory photoshoot in Reykjavík or near the Blue Lagoon.

Renting a car gives your family the freedom to explore at your own pace, which is a huge plus in Iceland. Be sure to book a vehicle with child seats and 4WD if you plan to visit rural areas or travel outside summer months. Iceland’s roads are well-maintained, but conditions can change quickly, especially in winter.

Family-sized rooms tend to be limited, especially in smaller villages or remote locations. Booking in advance ensures you’ll have enough space, kitchen access, and maybe even laundry facilities—things that can make a big difference when traveling with kids.

Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, so pack plenty of layers, rain gear, and warm accessories—even in summer. Snacks are also key! You may find yourself far from shops or restaurants, and having something on hand can prevent hangry meltdowns on the road.

Icelandic swimming pools are clean, affordable, and often include kid-friendly features like slides, shallow areas, and floating toys. They’re not just for bathing—they’re social hubs for families. Take advantage of them to warm up, relax, and connect with locals.

To capture your Iceland family trip in its full glory, book your professional photoshoot early in the planning process. This gives your Localgrapher time to suggest the perfect location and shoot during the best natural light—whether that’s golden hour in Reykjavík or a misty morning at Skógafoss.

Iceland is a small Nordic island, known for its unique culture, Viking heritage, and incredible scenery. The island is constantly changing, thanks to its volcanic nature. It is covered with geysers, glaciers, geothermal lagoons, and mud spots, lending a truly unique experience to the thousands of nature lovers who visit each year.

Its population is quite small and regularly hosts six times its resident size each year in visitors. Beyond its natural sights, the island has an interesting and long history, which includes not only Viking settlers but also huldufólk, or “hidden people” – Icelandic elves.

Family photoshoot by Leszek, Localgrapher in Iceland

It was in this breathtaking and richly layered landscape that Myra wanted to have her family photo shoot done. To capture her family vacation, Myra hired a professional family photographer in Iceland, Leszek, to take photos of the group. Leszek used several locations, including boardwalk hiking paths, majestic waterfalls, woodland areas, and views of the mountains. The obviously wet and chilly weather actually made for the perfect contrast to the family’s colorful (and appropriate, considering the time of year) clothing.

Family photoshoot by Leszek, Localgrapher in Iceland

It is so nice to have a professional photographer take family photos somewhere other than a studio filled with props. In Iceland, Myra was able to enjoy her family vacation, to which this group of seasoned travelers had looked forward for quite some time, all the while knowing that she would have some wonderful, professional photos at the end with which to remember their holiday.

Dressed comfortably and warmly, the happy family is seen enjoying their time together, taking in the views around them, and just being together, far from their daily routine. Leszek managed to take images of the four of them together, as well as the 2 boys, and Myra and her husband. She even took photos of everyone individually, making sure that each person had their own moment in her photographic spotlight.

In a true testament to her skills, the photographs are well lit and composed beautifully, despite the visibly poor weather. And yet none of the images are overly posed – instead, they are fun, and even silly at times. You can almost hear the family chatting happily as they have their photos taken. The nice thing about hiring a professional photographer to take family photos is that you know you will get well-focused and well-thought-out images, instead of blurry selfies or with someone missing from the group. A professional photographer can make a huge difference.

Family photoshoot by Leszek, Localgrapher in Iceland