Are you looking for a unique family-friendly destination for your next vacation? Look no further than Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland.
With its stunning natural beauty, fascinating culture, and welcoming locals, Reykjavik offers a memorable experience for travelers of all ages, including children.
Traveling to Reykjavik from the UK is relatively easy, as Iceland is part of the Schengen Area, which means that UK citizens do not need a visa to enter the country for stays of up to 90 days.
There are several direct flights available from major UK airports to Reykjavik, making it convenient to travel to this exciting destination.
When it comes to accommodations, Reykjavik offers a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and vacation rentals.
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer amenities such as family rooms, cribs, and high chairs, making it easy to travel with young children.
Getting around Reykjavik is also straightforward, as the city is compact and easy to navigate. Public transportation, including buses and taxis, is readily available, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Reykjavik is an excellent destination for families looking for an adventure that combines natural wonders, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities.
Things to do with kids in Reykjavik
Reykjavik offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that are sure to keep kids of all ages entertained.
Let’s look at some of the things to do in Reykjavik with kids:
- Explore the city center on foot, taking in the colorful buildings, street art, and charming cafes and shops.
- Visiting museums is another great way to learn about Icelandic history and culture while keeping kids engaged. The National Museum of Iceland and the Reykjavik Maritime Museum are just a few examples of museums that offer interactive exhibits and activities for children.
- Swimming in geothermal pools is a must-do activity in Reykjavik, and there are several family-friendly options to choose from, including the Laugardalslaug swimming pool and the Blue Lagoon. It’s important to note that while the pools are heated, outdoor activities in Reykjavik often require warm clothing, so it’s important to dress appropriately.
- Whale watching is another popular activity for families visiting Reykjavik, as the waters around Iceland are home to a variety of marine life, including whales, dolphins, and seals.
- Horseback riding is also a fun way to explore the Icelandic countryside, and there are several ranches and stables that offer family-friendly tours and lessons.
- Taking a ferry to nearby islands, such as Viðey or the Westman Islands, is another great way to explore the natural beauty of Iceland while keeping kids entertained.
While outdoor activities are a major draw in Reykjavik, it’s important to be prepared for inclement weather.
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, there are plenty of indoor activities to choose from, including the Aurora Reykjavik Northern Lights Center, the Imagine Peace Tower exhibit, and the Perlan Museum and Observation Deck, which offers stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Reykjavik is a family-friendly city that offers a variety of accommodations for families with children.
Some hotels and vacation rentals in Reykjavik provide amenities specifically designed for families, such as play areas, pools, and baby equipment.
When choosing accommodations for families, it’s important to consider the location and proximity to attractions and transportation.
Families traveling with children may want to be close to popular destinations such as museums, parks, and family-friendly activities, as well as have easy access to public transportation to explore the city.
Some of the top family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals in Reykjavik include:
- Grand Hotel Reykjavik – This hotel offers family rooms that can accommodate up to six people, as well as an indoor pool and hot tubs. It’s located within walking distance of the Laugardalslaug geothermal pool, which has waterslides and a children’s pool.
- Hilton Reykjavik Nordica – The hotel offers a “Family Fun” package that includes accommodations in a spacious room with a sofa bed, breakfast, and admission to the nearby Laugardalslaug geothermal pool. The hotel also has a playroom for children and a restaurant with a children’s menu.
- Reykjavik4you Apartments – These apartments are located in the city center and come with fully equipped kitchens, making them an ideal choice for families. They also provide baby equipment such as cribs and high chairs upon request.
- Black Pearl Apartment Hotel – The apartments at Black Pearl are equipped with modern amenities, including a private hot tub and a fully equipped kitchen. The hotel is located within walking distance of the city center and popular attractions such as the Harpa Concert Hall and the Reykjavik Art Museum.
- Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Natura – This hotel offers family rooms with two double beds and a sofa bed, as well as a swimming pool and a playroom for children. It’s located within walking distance of the Perlan Museum and the Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park.
When looking for accommodations for families in Reykjavik, it’s important to consider proximity to attractions and transportation, as well as amenities such as play areas, pools, and baby equipment. The above hotels and vacation rentals are great options for families traveling to Reykjavik.
Tips for traveling with kids in Reykjavik
Traveling with kids in Reykjavik can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to be prepared and plan ahead. Here are some tips for traveling with kids in Reykjavik:
- Pack essentials: Make sure to pack all the essentials your child may need while traveling, such as snacks, water bottles, extra clothes, sunscreen, and any necessary medications. Additionally, consider packing some entertainment options, such as books, games, or a tablet for long car rides or downtime.
- Prepare for the weather: Reykjavik’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack clothing that can be layered, such as a waterproof jacket and warm sweater. Also, don’t forget to pack appropriate shoes for outdoor activities and rain gear.
- Plan downtime: Traveling with kids can be tiring, so make sure to schedule downtime into your itinerary. This can be a great opportunity to rest and recharge before exploring more of the city.
- Take advantage of family-friendly attractions: Reykjavik has many family-friendly attractions, such as museums, parks, and swimming pools. Make sure to research and plan visits to these attractions in advance.
- Adapt to Icelandic culture with children: It’s important to adapt to the Icelandic culture when traveling with children. For example, Icelandic culture is very family-oriented, so it’s common to see parents with children out late in the evening. Additionally, it’s important to teach children about the Icelandic environment, such as the importance of preserving nature and respecting wildlife.
- Consider taking a guided tour: Taking a guided tour can be a great way to explore Reykjavik and learn about its culture and history. Many tours are family-friendly and offer activities for children, such as storytelling and scavenger hunts.
Traveling with kids in Reykjavik can be a memorable experience with the right preparation and planning.
Remember to pack essentials, prepare for the weather, plan downtime, take advantage of family-friendly attractions, adapt to Icelandic culture, and consider taking a guided tour.
Final Thoughts
Reykjavik is a fantastic destination for families traveling with children. With a variety of family-friendly accommodations, attractions, and activities, Reykjavik offers something for every member of the family to enjoy.
Whether you’re exploring the city’s museums, swimming in geothermal pools, or marveling at the Northern Lights, Reykjavik has plenty of unique experiences that the whole family can enjoy.
When traveling with kids in Reykjavik, it’s important to pack essentials, plan downtime, and take advantage of family-friendly attractions.
Additionally, adapting to Icelandic culture and taking guided tours can enhance the overall experience.
Finally, Reykjavik offers a combination of natural wonders, culture, and family-friendly activities that make it an unforgettable destination for families.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Reykjavik is sure to leave a lasting impression on both you and your children.
