72 Hours in Reykjavik with Kids

Iceland‘s capital, Reykjavik, is a compact, inviting and extremely safe Nordic destination that makes for a fantastic long weekend. A mere 5-hour nonstop flight from New York and Boston, it is a perfect spot for a relatively short holiday that will leave you and your family feeling refreshed and in awe of Iceland’s abundant natural beauty. This 72-hour itinerary lends itself to appreciating all the Reykjavik area has to offer at a leisurely pace — and if you have more time, use it as a jumping-off point to explore further regions of the country.

Reykjavik with Kids: Top Things to See and Do

Day 1

Flights to Reykjavik arrive at Keflavík Airport on the southwestern tip of Iceland. An enjoyable way to quickly immerse yourself in Icelandic culture is to start with a visit to the nearby Blue Lagoon. These famous hot springs achieve their color from silica particles in the water and their soothing warmth from geothermal activity. School-age children and up will enjoy the novelty of soaking in the lagoon as well as its healing properties — don’t forget to visit the in-water face mask bar to draw out impurities (and make some funny-looking faces!) and to try a smoothie or drink from the swim-up bar. If you’d rather head directly into Reykjavik upon arrival, there is also Sky Lagoon, located in the city itself.

Afterward, get settled into your accommodations and start exploring. Rekyjavik is easily navigated on foot and highlights include the extravagant Harpa music hall along the harbor, Austurvollur square with its shops and cafes and view of the Icelandic parliament, and the main shopping street of Laugevagur (which changes names twice but is the same continuous stretch). Skólavörðustígur, which features the Rainbow Street symbolizing Iceland’s open-minded and inclusive spirit, is another key artery lined with shops and cafes; it leads up the hill to Hallgrímskirkja Church, one of the most recognizable sights in Iceland. While you are out and about in town, you might want to try a lamb-meat hot dog at the famous Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur stand.

Around every corner in Reykjavik, you’ll find quirky murals and hidden treasures such as lovingly cared-for gardens. Laugevagur is also a great place to search for the perfect Icelandic souvenirs — items highlighting wool, puffins and volcanic rock are favorites, and don’t miss the tantalizing bakery treats from local shops like Baka Baka or Sandholt. Next, walk down to the waterfront to enjoy the captivating setting and see the famous Sun Voyager sculpture that was created in 1986 as part of a competition to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the founding of Reykjavik.

In the evening, dive into the local food scene with dishes that rely heavily on fish and locally foraged ingredients. Save room for sweet treats such as the popular wedded bliss tart, a buttery crust layered with fruit paste (rhubarb and blueberry are popular) and topped with lattice pastry. Empty nesters or couples traveling together will enjoy dipping a toe into Iceland’s nightlife with live music ranging from Icelandic dance tunes to jazz, as well as a burgeoning craft cocktail scene.

Day 2

It would be a shame to visit Iceland and not get a taste of some of its broader beauty and geologic wonder. Iceland is a veritable bingo card of natural delights — waterfalls, geysers, volcanic craters, natural parks and volcanoes (including some recent activity!). One full day is enough for a driving tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle, an accessible and navigable scenic loop that allows you to see a tremendous amount in relatively short order.

Families could easily spend up to three days exploring the terrain, but a single day will allow you to hit the highlights. Gullfoss, or Golden Waterfall, is a must, as is the Kerið volcanic crater. Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site and another big-ticket stop. This spot is home to Iceland’s largest lake and was the site of the annual Icelandic Parliament meetings from 930 AD until 1789, as well as being the place where Iceland declared its independence from Denmark in 1944.

The high amount of geothermal energy in the area fuels many naturally heated pools and greenhouses, including the Friðheimar tomato farm, a quaint lunch stop for tomato soup and fresh bread enjoyed amid the plants. Other favorites along this route are Geysir, which reliably erupts boiling sulphurous water about every five minutes. Don’t worry if you hear clapping as you arrive — just find a good spot and get ready to snap photos of the next cycle!

There’s no shortage of waterfalls in the Golden Circle, but don’t miss the stunning blue water of Brúarfoss or Faxi, which is quite wide and looks like the horse’s mane that inspired its name. Both are a very short hike from their parking areas, making them attractive for even the youngest of visitors. Other waterfalls along the Golden Circle that receive raves are Gjáin, with its multiple falls and fairytale vibe, and Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascading water. Note that there are many, many other waterfalls to explore, but some do require a 4×4 vehicle to access or more intensive hiking. On a one-day outing, you will be spoiled for choice but will need to be selective.

Day 3

Today is devoted to getting a bit more in-depth within Reykjavik and learning about its history. Options include:

Perlan. Iceland’s stunning natural history museum, Perlan (a.k.a. The Pearl), is a state-of-the-art, immersive structure that allows you to feel like you are experiencing underwater journeys, an ice cave walk, the power of a volcano or the Northern Lights from the planetarium. Its setting also offers excellent views over Reykjavik.

Wildlife cruise. Iceland is a spectacular destination for viewing natural beauty from the water and outings leave regularly from the Reykjavik harbor to both go whale watching and see puffins in their natural habitat.

Viðey Island. A short and scenic ferry ride from the harbor will bring you to this locale known for its abundant bird life (and the Yoko Ono Imagine Peace Tower). Nature lovers will particularly enjoy the solitude of this special place.

If you’d rather use Reykjavik as a home base to explore farther afield on your last day, a glacier or ice cave tour could be on the table. Older kids and teenagers may also be enticed by FlyOver Iceland, a multi-sensory immersive ride in downtown Reykjavik that simulates flying (with feet dangling) across Iceland.

However you choose to mix and match your sightseeing, you are sure to leave with lasting Nordic memories and photos so stunning they don’t seem real — perfect travel eye candy for your home screen.

Families Should Know

• Iceland is a fantastic place to see the Northern Lights, depending on the time of year and the forecast. If this otherworldly phenomenon  factors heavily into your Iceland plans, September through April are optimal (particularly around the equinoxes in September and March), but keep in mind that Northern Lights sightings are never a guarantee.
• Icelandic weather is fairly cold year-round, so layers are the best approach. Windproof jackets, hats and gloves are a good idea.
• If time allows, Icelandair has an enticing transatlantic program that will allow you to stop in Iceland for up to seven days en route to other points in Europe, free of charge.

Relevant Links:

Browse all accommodations and activities in Iceland on Ciao Bambino

An epic 7-day tour of Iceland with kids

Our 10 essential tips for Iceland family travel

20 things to love about Iceland with kids

5 incredible places to see the Northern Lights

Photos by Amy Andrews except where noted.

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.