Unforgettable Experiences for Families in South Iceland

A family trip to Iceland is an ideal way to strengthen family bonds and make memories that will last a lifetime. There are fun cultural experiences, beautiful nature to explore, family-friendly outdoor activities, and exciting excursions. Take family-friendly tours with Gray Line that the entire family will love.

Iceland‘s Amazing Nature

Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is the most famous tourist route in Iceland and one that most Icelanders will recommend if you have time for just one tour in Iceland. Tours visit Þingvellir National Park, where you can enjoy the geological wonder, which is also the birthplace of democracy in Iceland. Next, Geysir powerfully demonstrates the island’s natural geothermal energy, and historically, Geysir is the country’s most famous example of the phenomenon. Geologists theorised that in the 13th century, earthquakes stirred the underground workings of the natural hot springs here, causing them to gush, releasing pressure, steam, and water metres into the air. Lastly, the thundering, roaring waterfall of Gullfoss is the next stop on the tour, where you can see water tumbling into the Hvíta River.

South Coast

The scenic south coast is a beautiful slice of Iceland, and Gray Line comfortably transports guests to the best sites of the south. Tours visit Skógafoss, a dramatic waterfall, and one of the biggest in the country; the sheer width of the falls makes it unique, as well as the option to scale a set of stairs to the top. Meanwhile, Seljalandsfoss is a highlight, a beautiful waterfall where tourists delight in the spray from the 40-metre falls. What makes this waterfall unique in a land of spectacular waterfalls is the path that lets you walk behind it. This is a very unique experience, even for Iceland. Reynisfjara is another stop on south coast tours; it’s probably Iceland’s most famous and most photographed black-sand beach. The contrast of the white waves crashing on the stark black sand and pebbles is beautiful, with towering basalt columns along the shore next to a small cave. For those opting to take the more extended south coast tour with Gray Line, you will be treated to a stop at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Jökulsárlón is where you will see huge chunks of ice floating in the water and, if you’re lucky, a curious seal or two. Take a 40-minute boat tour of the lagoon, which you should book in advance, to get close to icebergs and even get to taste the ice.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Snæfellsnes is considered the jewel of the western coast of Iceland, partly because the region has a taste of everything: mountains, glacier walks on Snæfellsjökull, and dramatic black sand beaches and lava fields. Many Icelanders call the area “Iceland in miniature” because there’s a little of everything here. Gray Line takes passengers to see stunning sites like the black-pebbled beach of Djúpalónssandur, the unique Kirkjufell mountain, and the charming fishing village of Arnarstapi. The Snæfellsjökull glacier, the centrepiece of the peninsula, became world-famous after author Jules Verne described it as the starting point for the titular journey in Journey to the Centre of the Earth. There is plenty to explore inside the park, like beaches, cliffs and views of the glacier.

Thrilling Activities in Iceland

Glacier Hiking

Solheimajökull Glacier is one of Iceland’s most popular locations for guided glacier hiking tours. It is just a two-hour drive from Reykjavík and a top-rated day tour for adventure-seekers. Indeed, it’s incredible to be on the ice and observe the hues, textures, and interesting ice formations; it’s a great way to connect with nature in Iceland. Gray Line offers a day tour combining sightseeing along the South Coast with a glacier hike on Sólheimajökull.

Whale-watching

Whale-watching is, in some ways, the best part of natural Reykjavík in that you get to see a part of nature just minutes from shore. Gray Line offers tours year-round, and travellers relish the sightings of minke and humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises, and puffins (in the summer).

FlyOver Iceland

FlyOver Iceland gives you a thrilling bird’s eye view of the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland. Located in the Grandi harbour district, the experience utilises state-of-the-art technology, with full motion seating, for a true sense of flight. You sit suspended, feet dangling, before a 20-metre wraparound screen while the film takes you on an exciting journey across Iceland.

Family-Friendly Icelandic Culture

Whales of Iceland

If you’re not up for a whale-watching tour, you can still get a glimpse of these majestic beasts. Whales of Iceland is a large museum dedicated to Iceland’s gentle giants near the harbour. The museum is home to 23 life-size models of different whale species found off the coasts of Iceland, and the museum is appropriate for children of all ages.

Hallgrímskirkja

Hallgrímskirkja is one of the most visited and photographed sites in Reykjavík. Standing 73 meters, the church was designed by state architect Guðjón Samúelsson. For many visitors, the highlight of a trip to Hallgrímskirkja is a visit to the top of the tower, which has spectacular city views.

Swimming Pools

Swimming is a big part of Icelandic culture, and taking your kids to a local pool is a great way to spend a couple of hours. The most popular pool in Reykjavík, and one of the best for families, is Laugardalslaug. You will find two outdoor pools, one indoor pool, seven hot tubs, and water slides that the kids will love!

Perlan

Perlan, “the Pearl,” is the distinctive, dome-shaped structure in Reykjavík’s skyline. Its outdoor viewing platform offers one of the best city skyline views. You can walk the perimeter and get a perfect panorama—the interior hosts “Wonders of Iceland “exhibitions on glaciers, ice caves and volcanoes. There is also a planetarium and northern lights exhibition in the building, which is delightful! It’s open to children of all ages.

Ice Cream

Enjoying ice cream while outside is not limited to summer in Iceland. It could snow, and you’ll see locals with an ice cream cone. If you want to indulge your kiddos, consider a trip to Valdís or Omnom Chocolate, located in the Grandi district. If your kids are adventurous, they can sample Valdís’ black liquorice ice cream, a favourite among Icelanders.

Tours for the Whole Family

Gray Line provides round-trip transportation to some of Iceland’s most beautiful and popular tourist sites in comfortable vehicles. Professional drivers and knowledgeable tour guides lead the excursions throughout the south and west of Iceland. There’s something that every family will love!

FAQ

Is Iceland a good place to visit with family?

Iceland is a very safe, family-friendly destination. Many tours accommodate children of all ages, and the landscape delights those of any age. You can tailor tours and activities to your family’s liking. There’s something for everyone!

Where to go on the south coast of Iceland?

There’s a lot to do and do on the South Coast of Iceland. You can visit the iconic waterfalls Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, enjoy the black sand beach of Reynisfjara and see volcanoes and glaciers.