Iceland for Families: Six Days in Reykjavik and the South Coast

After you arrive in Iceland, explore Reykjavik. It has many iconic spots to see, such as Hallgrimskirkja church, Rainbow Street, the Sun Voyager sculpture, etc. and more.

Walk behind the falls at Seljalandsfoss waterfall — Be prepared to get wet on this hike behind one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls

Hike at the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon – this is a reasonable walk on a designated path to the top of the canyon and then to a waterfall.

Haukadalur Geothermal Field — also known as Geysir — take a short walk to see an active geyser blow. This area also has many smaller geothermal features and bubbling mud pots. The visitor center has two options for lunch.

Hella Caves — Explore these mysterious manmade caves underneath farmland in Hella. No one knows their exact origin, but they are still in use today. You can even get married or renew your vows in one of them!

Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon — Visit a beach with black sand and chunks of glaciers washed up on it, giving the impression of giant diamonds scattered all over. Then cross the street to a lagoon full of icebergs. Enjoy watching the local seal population play among the ice.

Skogafoss Waterfall — Get up close to one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland. This requires almost no walking, but there is the option to walk up a staircase to view the falls from above.

The Lava Show, Reykjavik — Watch an informational and entertaining movie about the geologic history of Iceland, and then be amazed as actual lava from the Hekla Volcano pours into the room. Be prepared to feel the heat from this 1,200 degree lava! The Lava Show is also in Vik.

Skaftareldahraun Lava Field — This is a great place to stretch your legs as you drive East along the South Coast after leaving Vik. This is an immense field of lava from one of the biggest volcanic eruptions in recorded history. The lava is covered in moss and is almost other-worldly. There is a short hike designated by ropes through some of the lava rocks.

Blue Lagoon — Although many travelers make the Blue Lagoon their first stop, I recommend coming here at the end of your trip to relax after a long week of hiking and exploration. The water is milky white and around 38 degrees Celsius — perfect for rejuvenating your tired muscles and a great end to your Iceland adventure.

Café Loki– traditional Icelandic food in the heart of Reykjavik with a stunning view of Hallgrimskirkja

2Guys – award-winning burgers on Reykjavik’s main shopping street

Braud & Co — stop here for the best cinnamon rolls in Reykjavik!

Black Crust Pizzeria, Vik – unique pizza options on sour dough, black charcoal-infused crust or gluten-free.

The Soup Company, Vik — The Soup Company can be found in several locations throughout Iceland. Order from a small variety of soups or order a tasting of three types of soup. Our family favorite was the Red Hot Lava. The soup can come in a black bread bowl or traditional bowl, and everyone is welcome to get a free refill of their favorite soup!