Reykjavik with Kids: 17 Best Things To Do in Reykjavik, Iceland

There are so many reasons to add Reykjavik, Iceland to your family's travel bucket list. Iceland is the land of fire and ice. From gazing at volcanos and hiking up glaciers to soaking in geothermal pools, the country has something for everyone.

Visiting Iceland during winter is essential if you want to see the famed Northern Lights. However, experiencing Iceland in the summer—when the days are long, the Midnight Sun shines brightly, and temperatures are warmer—is also fantastic with kids.

Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, is a great place to make your home base. However, we strongly recommend heading to the South of Iceland for a few nights to immerse yourself in Iceland’s gorgeous natural beauty.

Here are 17 top things to do in and near Reykjavik, Iceland with kids, including family-friendly Reykjavik hotels and foods to try. Our Europe Travel Guide details more great European cities to visit with kids, like London and Paris.

Insider Tip: Consider getting the Reykjavik City Card, which provides admission to several popular spots for a discounted price.

Hallgrímskirkja Church is an active church built to evoke Iceland's landscape.

Best Things to Do in Reykjavik, Iceland with Kids

1. Hallgrímskirkja Church

At the end of busy Rainbow Street is Hallgrímskirkja Church. The soaring building was designed to evoke Iceland’s landscape, with elements that resemble the country’s majestic waterfalls and volcanoes. This is an active church, and entry may be limited if the community is using the church.

2. Perlan Museum

For many kids, the top attraction at the Perlan Museum is its indoor ice cave. The museum also houses nature displays, a Northern Lights planetarium show, bouncy castles, and an ice cream parlor under a glass dome.

3. The Settlement Exhibition

The Settlement Exhibition is an underground museum that explores Reykjavik’s history, from Iceland’s first settlers to the bustling city it is today. Visitors can view the remains of an early Viking settlement, see one of the oldest homes in Reykjavik, and more. There is even a room where children can play with early Viking toys.

4. Sky Lagoon

Iceland is known for its gorgeous geothermal lagoons. The closest lagoon to Reykjavik is the Sky Lagoon. It’s a gorgeous and relaxing way to spend an afternoon with unparalleled sunset views. However, the Sky Lagoon doesn’t allow children under 12, and it's most appropriate for even older kids. So, families with younger children must to leave the city to experience a traditional Icelandic geothermal pool.

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The rainbow street in Reykjavik is a sign of joy and support for diversity. 

Fun Free Things to Do in Reykjavik, Iceland with Kids

5. Rainbow Street

In the heart of Reykjavik, Iceland, look for Rainbow Street. This road is one of the most Insta-worthy places in the city. Rainbow Street, a symbol of Reykjavik’s commitment to diversity, is a lively thoroughfare lined with shops and cafes. It’s a great place to grab a delicious Icelandic pastry while traversing downtown Reykjavik.

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Walk along Reykjavik’s waterfront to find the Sun Voyager sculpture.

6. The Sun Voyager

Walk along Reykjavik’s waterfront to find the Sun Voyager sculpture. Many visitors believe this often-photographed minimalistic sculpture is a Viking ship. While art is always open to interpretation, the sculptor said the ship represents undiscovered territory, hope, progress, and freedom. Allow your child to let their imagination run wild and tell you what they think.

Discover the waters of the Blue Lagoon. Photo by the author

Top Iceland Attractions for Families

7. Blue Lagoon

The famous Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular sites. Families with kids of all ages are welcome to enjoy the Blue Lagoon’s serene waters heated by geothermal energy. This family-friendly lagoon is near Iceland’s main airport, about a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik. Stay for a bite to eat at the Blue Lagoon’s on-site restaurant, Lava.

8. Golden Circle

Iceland’s Golden Circle is full of natural wonders, including a Geysir, gorgeous waterfalls like Gullfloss, and Thingvellir National Park. Some families explore the entire Golden Circle while others hit just a few stops. Some rent a car and drive the Golden Circle themselves while others book a tour. There is no wrong way to see Iceland!

9. FlyOver Iceland

This motion ride uses state-of-the-art technology to give riders the feeling of flight. You'll hang suspended, feet dangling, in front of a giant spherical screen while a film whisks you away on an exhilarating journey across Iceland. Special effects including wind, mist, and scent enhance the experience. Children must be 40 inches or taller to ride.

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Take a short walk to another continent on the Bridge Between Continents.

10. Bridge Between Continents

Kids can return home from a trip to Iceland having stood in two continents at once. About an hour from Reykjavik, Iceland is the Bridge Between Continents, which spans North America and Europe. Visitors can walk across the bridge or under it. It’s completely free to visit and makes a great pit stop on your way to or from the airport.

11. Outdoor Adventures

Adventurous families can visit a glacier, explore an ice cave, walk on a black-sand beach, or hike up a volcano. Iceland is a country where you can choose your own path, but it’s essential to go with a reputable, safety-conscious operator like Southcoast Adventure.

12. Northern Lights

Most visitors to Iceland want to see the Northern Lights, but not everyone will be lucky enough. To maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, visit Iceland when there are several hours of darkness (between September and April). You will also need to head away from the bright lights of Reykjavik.

While there is some luck involved, maximize your chances of catching nature’s spectacular show by booking a couple of nights at the ideally situated Hotel Ranga (see below). There, you can get the kids to bed and request a wake-up call if the lights appear. The hotel provides snowsuits, chairs, and hot chocolate. If you prefer waiting up, Hotel Ranga has activities, including an on-hand astronomer, on select nights.

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Go wild in South Iceland at Hotel Ranga, a log cabin-inspired riverside retreat. Photo by the author

Best Reykjavik Hotels for Families

13. Hotel Ranga

Hotel Ranga is about 90 minutes from Reykjavik, Iceland, but it feels like it’s in a different world. The family-run hotel is set by one of Iceland’s longest rivers. The attentive staff can arrange activities and answer all of your questions. There's even a well-stocked game room to keep kids occupied during downtime. Choose a large standard room or opt for one of the incredible themed suites. A favorite is the Icelandic Suite.

14. Iceland Parliament Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

The Iceland Parliament Hotel is in the heart of Reykjavik. It’s within walking distance of nearly every attraction in the city and has large, friendly rooms and a big, indoor geothermal soaking pool. The spacious lobby is a great place to rest after a long day and enjoy live music on select nights.

Kid-Friendly Restaurants and Food to Try in Iceland

15. Fridheimar

Fridheimar is a one-of-a-kind tomato-themed restaurant housed in a greenhouse. Try the freshest tomatoes anywhere while enjoying unlimited tomato soup, tomato-based drinks, tomato-themed salads, pastas, and more. Fridheimar is not far from Reykjavik, Iceland, along the Golden Circle.

16. Icelandic Hot Dogs

No trip to Iceland is complete without a traditional Icelandic hot dog topped with Icelandic ketchup, mustard, fried onion, fresh onion, and remoulade. Hot dog kiosks can be found throughout Reykjavik, Iceland. One of the best is Víkinga Pylsur, located near Hallgrímskirkja Church.

17. Valdís Ice Cream

Satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade ice cream made with fresh Icelandic milk. A variety of flavors are available, as are dairy-free sorbets.

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