Our Unforgettable Iceland Family Vacation: Adventures, Food, and Fun!

Last Updated on November 30, 2025 by Tracy

Planning a trip to Iceland? Discover our 4-day family-friendly Iceland itinerary, including the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, Reykjavík highlights, local food, and travel tips you’ll want to know before you go.

This past summer, we decided to do something a little more adventurous for our family vacation – we went to Iceland! From the moment we landed in Reykjavík, it felt like stepping into another world. Steam rose from lava fields, the air was crisp and fresh, and everywhere we looked there were landscapes that didn’t even seem real.

We chose Iceland because both of the kids love active, outdoorsy vacations, and we wanted them to experience something different from the U.S. Iceland delivered in every possible way – geothermal lagoons, puffins, waterfalls, and adventures we’ll never forget.

We flew out of Tampa to Reykjavík on IcelandAir, and while we didn’t use it, you might enjoy this layover feature that they offer. You can enjoy a stopover in Iceland for up to a week without paying for any additional airfare. The flight wasn’t bad at all, and from Tampa, they average anywhere from 7 to 9 hours, plenty of time to catch a nap before you arrive and start exploring!

​We stayed for four nights, which was perfect for us since we were continuing on to Copenhagen. It might have been summertime during our visit, but it was still COLD, especially compared to Tampa! Average summer temperatures fluctuate between 54°F for the highs and the mid-40s for the lows.

​During the summer, Iceland experiences up to 21 hours of daylight. My daughter struggled with sleeping for the first two days. You may want to pack a sleep mask or even a sleeping aid like melatonin to help if you think it might be a problem.

Things to Do in Iceland with Kids (and Adults!)

We flew into Iceland at 7 am, so the first thing we did was to grab our luggage and rent a car.

Then we drove straight to the Blue Lagoon. I highly recommend renting a car and driving in on your own. I also really recommend grabbing some coffee to drink along the way because we were sleepy! You can visit the Blue Lagoon as part of a tour if that is what you prefer.

Insider Tip: Download offline maps before you go. Cell service can be spotty in the countryside.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is about 30 miles outside of Reykjavík, around a 45-minute drive—one of the many reasons I recommend renting a car. This famous geothermal spa is known for its milky blue waters, which are naturally heated and rich in minerals. After a long overnight flight, slipping into that warm water feels absolutely heavenly.

Insider tip: Make sure you book your Blue Lagoon tickets well in advance…they often sell out!

There are several package options, but we splurged on the premium package, and it was worth every penny. It included a mud mask, algae mask, robe, slippers, towel, a drink of choice.

I also recommend making a reservation at LAVA Restaurant. LAVA is built right into a volcanic cliff, giving you jaw-dropping views while you enjoy modern Icelandic cuisine.

The best part? It’s casual! So you can head straight from the lagoon to your table feeling cozy and relaxed.

Whale Watching

One of the excursions we were most excited about was whale watching. Unfortunately, the whales must have been feeling shy during our trip, because we didn’t see any. But we did get to spot puffins, which are every bit as adorable as you’d imagine! (Fun fact: puffins mate for life.)

The day before we went out, storms had rolled through, so the seas were still a little rough. If you decide to go, I recommend packing seasickness bands or Dramamine, just in case. On calm days, most tours report an 80–90% chance of whale sightings, so odds are in your favor! And even if the whales don’t show, the views from the boat are stunning.

Insider tip: If you don’t see whales, ask if you can come back another day. The tour we booked actually offered that, and I’m saving our vouchers just in case we ever make it back to Iceland. OH, and take the free insulated suits they give you to wear! TRUST ME!!

ATV Tour

Our ATV adventure was one of the highlights of the trip! The kids especially loved it. We rode across the Icelandic countryside, stopped by Lake Hafravatn, and climbed up Hafrafell Mountain.

The landscape is like something out of another world! You’ll pass lava fields, see moss-covered rocks, and get sweeping views of Reykjavík in the distance.

If you’re lucky, you might spot Icelandic horses, arctic foxes, or ptarmigan along the way. Even without wildlife, just the thrill of riding through that unique landscape made this excursion unforgettable.

I couldn’t recommend this adventure more!

Golden Circle

No trip to Iceland is complete without experiencing the Golden Circle, the country’s most famous sightseeing route. It’s about a 190-mile loop from Reykjavík and can easily take a full day. We decided to drive it ourselves, which gave us the freedom to stop and explore along the way. We found cute farm-to-table restaurants to enjoy, gorgeous waterfalls and hiking trails that allowed us to get out of the car and stretch our legs.

Insider Tip: Head out early! You’ll beat the tour bus crowds at Þingvellir and Gullfoss. And don’t be afraid to stop at more than just the most popular waterfalls, there are so many to see!

The Golden Circle’s big stops are:

• Þingvellir National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can actually stand between two tectonic plates.
• Geysir Geothermal Area – Home to bubbling hot springs and the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 4–10 minutes.
• Gullfoss Waterfall – A massive, thundering waterfall that’s even more breathtaking in person than photos can capture.
• Kerið Crater – A striking volcanic crater lake with vivid red walls and a bright blue-green lake at the bottom. It’s a quick stop that’s easy to walk around and offers a unique photo opportunity.

It was incredible to see such diverse landscapes: waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic rifts all in one day. It is a long day though…bring some snacks just in case!

And here’s a fun twist, my 19-year-old son brought his remote control Jeep along, and we let him drive it around some of the trails and even near waterfalls. It was such a cool sight, him navigating his little Jeep through the dramatic Icelandic terrain while we all watched! It really added a playful, unique memory to our adventure!

If you’re bringing teens (or even younger kids), consider packing a small toy or gadget like this—they’ll find ways to interact with the environment that make the experience even more memorable.

Rainbow Street

A stroll down Reykjavík’s famous Rainbow Street (Skólavörðustígur) is a must! The vibrant rainbow-painted pavement leads up to Hallgrimskirkja Church and makes for some of the most fun photos of the trip.

The street is lined with restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries…perfect for wandering and finding little treasures. My advice? Don’t just stick to the main strip. Duck down the side streets too! You’ll find even more cozy cafés, boutiques, and art studios tucked away.

Rainbow Street is a popular spot for tourist photos, so make sure to take some before you leave!

Hallgrimskirkja Church

Hallgrimskirkja church is the largest church in Iceland, and the home to the largest organ in the whole country. The church tower is 73 meters or 239 feet high and is the perfect spot to see breathtaking views of the mountains and the ocean. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Iceland. The church is located at the top of Rainbow Street also known as Skólavörðustígur, and it is a steep walk but worth the effort!

Where We Stayed in Iceland

During our trip to Iceland, we stayed at the amazing Reykjavik EDITION, by Marriott, the newest hotel in Reykjavik at Austurbakki 2, 101, Reykjavík, Iceland. This contemporary hotel is decorated with cozy, warm tones of ashwood and gray oak. The 253 rooms all have bespoke furnishing, faux fur rugs, accessories, and artwork from local craftsmen and artisans.

The hotel has two bars, an underground nightclub, a cafe with in-house roasted coffee and fresh sandwiches and pastries, and a restaurant with fresh seafood and simple and delicious Nordic cuisine. The 7th floor of the hotel has panoramic views of the mountains and the ocean and it’s the perfect place to enjoy late summer evenings or enjoy the Northern Lights in the glassed-in seating area when the weather cools down.

What We Ate in Iceland

Being an island nation, Iceland is all about fresh, local flavors, especially seafood and lamb. Most restaurants pride themselves on sourcing straight from nearby farms and waters, and it really shows.

We loved the vibe (and the bagels!) at Le Kock – it’s quirky, fun, and run by chefs who make the kind of food they actually crave, which means you’ll find creative, chef-approved bites on the menu.

Have you seen the TV show, Somebody Feed Phil? We actually love his travels and got some of our food spot recommendations from his Iceland segment!

Insider Tip: Breakfast is not a big deal in Iceland, so if you are looking for something in the morning, check out Le Kock for those bagel sandwiches.

A few Icelandic specialties worth trying:

• Pylsur – Known as Icelandic hot dogs, these aren’t your ballpark franks. They’re made primarily with lamb (plus a bit of pork and beef), giving them a richer flavor. Top yours with crunchy fried onions, raw onions, remoulade, or pylsussinnep, a sweet-spicy mustard that’s uniquely Icelandic. I will admit, this was our favorite meal in Iceland!
• Skyr – Technically a cheese, but with the creamy, tangy consistency of yogurt. It’s been around since Viking times and is still a breakfast staple today. Packed with protein and probiotics, it’s usually topped with fruit, honey, or granola.
• Icelandic Lamb – Unlike anywhere else in the world, these lambs roam freely across hillsides, munching on grass and wild berries, and drinking from glacial streams. It’s some of the most flavorful, tender lamb I’ve ever had!

Now, let’s talk drinks. Wine isn’t the go-to adult beverage in Iceland, they’re better known for their gin (and their water, which honestly is the freshest in the world!). Since you know me and my love for wine, we packed a few bottles from home in our trusty wine suitcase. It was the perfect way to enjoy a favorite glass of red after a day of adventures, and it’s a great way to bring back souvenirs for later too.

We truly enjoyed trying the different foods in Iceland!

Things to Know about Iceland

Before traveling, especially to another country, it’s a good idea to know a little about where you are headed.. Here is some information about Iceland that might be helpful before you plan your trip. Reykjavik has around 2.2 million visitors per year, and tourism and fishing are some of its biggest industries.

The population of Iceland is small, with just 10 people per square mile, and only 382,000 people in the whole country! However, the entire country is small, about the size of the  US states of Kentucky or Virginia, only about 40,000 square miles. For comparison, the state of Virginia has 202 residents per square mile.

What Language do they speak?

You might be wondering if it’s hard to find someone who speaks English in Iceland, and the answer is no! The official language of Iceland is Icelandic, but English is widely spoken by residents. You should have no problem ordering at a restaurant or asking for directions, even if you only speak English. It’s always nice to know a few words and phrases in the native language, though, and you can easily find some and their pronunciations (some are a bit challenging) online.

VAT Tax

Iceland and many other European countries have what is known as the VAT tax or Value Added Tax which is added to the sales price of goods and services. The amount of tax can vary from country to country in Europe, and Iceland’s VAT is between 11% for the reduced rate and 24% for the standard rate. Most items and services are charged at the 24% rate, but you can apply for a refund. Here is more information about VAT and how to apply for the refund.

Seasons in Iceland

Before planning your trip, you might be wondering when the best time to visit Iceland is. There is no bad time to visit, and Iceland is very much considered a year-round travel destination. When to visit depends a lot on what you might want to do while you are there.

During the summer months, like when we visited, there are lots of amazing outdoor activities to enjoy like horseback riding, whale watching, hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The temperatures are much milder in summer than in many parts of the US, during the summer at between 50 and 60 degrees, so pack accordingly.

Autumn in Reykjavik is beautiful with brightly colored leaves and temperatures ranging from 37 to 50 degrees. The fall season does tend to have a bit more rain, which can put a damper on outdoor activities but there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, such as shopping, museums, art galleries, and fantastic restaurants.

Winter in Reykjavik is the perfect time to see the Northern Lights and the landscape blanketed with beautiful snow. Average winter temperatures are around 32 degrees but with the wind it can feel much colder than that. Skiing and other winter sports are quite popular, and it’s also a great time to see frozen waterfalls which are really beautiful.

Spring in Reykjavik is the best time to visit for whale watching and dolphin sightings. The Golden Circle is beautiful anytime of year, but it is especially nice during the spring as things begin to thaw and the greenery begins to show itself. Average spring temperatures are 34 to 50 degrees, so make sure to pack accordingly.

Day-by-Day Itinerary (4 Days in Iceland)

Here’s a quick look at how we spent our time in Iceland.

Day 1: Arrival & Blue Lagoon

• Morning: Arrive in Reykjavík, pick up rental car
• Head straight to the Blue Lagoon to relax after the flight
• Lunch at LAVA Restaurant
• Check in at the Reykjavik EDITION Hotel
• Evening stroll through Reykjavík
• Try local foods like pylsur (Icelandic hot dogs)

Day 2: Whale Watching & Rainbow Street

• Morning: Whale watching tour (saw puffins!)
• Afternoon: Explore Rainbow Street and local shops
• Evening: Visit Hallgrimskirkja Church for sunset views

Day 3: Golden Circle

• All day exploration!
• Drive the Golden Circle—Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall

Day 4: ATV Adventure & Reykjavik Exploring

• Morning: Leisurely breakfast, stroll around Reykjavík
• Afternoon: ATV tour through the countryside, Lake Havravatan, and Hafrafell Mountain
• Evening: Listen to live music at a local pub

Day 5: Departure

• Get in any last minute “must-sees” before heading to the airport for your next adventure

For a closer look at our trip, I’ve shared some of our favorite Iceland moments on Instagram—swipe through our Highlight or check out these posts: [post 1], [post 2], [post 3].

You’ll meet plenty of wonderful people when you visit Iceland. Just don’t expect there to be as many people as in some other European countries or as many as when you travel around the US.

Iceland truly stole our hearts. Between the steaming lagoons, colorful streets, and endless adventures, it’s a destination we’ll never forget. We loved the balance of relaxation and excitement, and even though we packed a lot into our four days, there’s still so much left to explore. Next time, we’d love to see a glacier up close and go snowmobiling!

If you’re thinking about a trip to Iceland – go for it. It’s a place that feels both magical and approachable, with plenty of adventures for families, couples, or solo travelers. And when you go, let me know your favorite part, I’d love to swap Iceland stories!

From Iceland, we continued our journey on to Copenhagen (another incredible city I can’t wait to share with you soon). Iceland will always hold a special place in our travel memories!

Have you been to Iceland? What was one of your favorite things to do?

Be sure to check out all my recipes and follow along on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram for more travel tips and adventures.