Weekend in Reykjavik
This budget-friendly family itinerary balances Reykjavik's best free offerings with captivating paid experiences that children aged 3-12 will adore. From interactive museums and geothermal pools to delightful outdoor explorations, each activity is chosen to create lasting family memories while being mindful of your budget. Remember to check specific opening hours and event details closer to the date for any last-minute updates, especially for the free community events.
Friday Evening - Family Fun Night
Friday, October 3Tjörnin Duck Feeding
Start the weekend with a relaxed visit to Tjörnin, Reykjavik's central pond.
It's a delightful spot for families to feed the ducks and swans, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful city views. Kids love watching the birds and the tranquil atmosphere.
Perfect for younger children (3-8 years) to burn off some energy before dinner. Bring bird-friendly food like oats or corn (avoid bread). There are public restrooms nearby in the city center. Stroller accessible paths around the pond. Duration: 1 hour.
Easily walkable from most downtown Reykjavik accommodations. Limited street parking nearby, but public parking garages are available within a 5-10 minute walk. Public bus stops are also conveniently located.
Family Pizza Dinner
Enjoy a casual, family-friendly pizza dinner at a local establishment, offering a relaxed atmosphere and kid-pleasing menu options.
Many pizzerias in Reykjavik cater to families, providing a comfortable setting after a day of travel or light activities.
Kids will love choosing their own pizza toppings. Most places offer high chairs and have family-friendly facilities. Early timing ensures little ones can get to bed on time. Look for family deals or shared pizzas for good value. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Centrally located, easily walkable. Public bus stops nearby. Paid street parking or parking garages available in the vicinity.
Saturday - Family Adventure Day
Saturday, October 4Perlan Wonders of Iceland
Dive into the wonders of Icelandic nature at Perlan.
This interactive museum features a real 100-meter-long ice cave, a breathtaking Northern Lights planetarium show (Áróra), and exhibits on glaciers and volcanic forces. It's an engaging and educational experience for all ages.
Kids aged 3-12 will be captivated by the ice cave and interactive displays. The Northern Lights show is a highlight. Bathrooms and stroller access available. There's also an observation deck with panoramic views. The museum has a cafe for snacks and drinks. Duration: 2-3 hours. It's a great indoor option for any weather.
Perlan is located on Öskjuhlíð hill. It's a short drive from the city center with ample free parking available. Public buses also serve the area. The building is fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Botanical Garden Walk & Snack
After Perlan, head to the nearby Reykjavik Botanic Garden for a leisurely stroll and a guided walk focusing on 'Autumn Bulbs.
' This free event provides a chance to connect with nature and learn about plants, suitable for families. There’s also a café on-site for a light lunch or snack.
The 'Autumn Bulbs' guided walk starts at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 4th, and is in Icelandic, but the garden is beautiful to explore independently. Kids can enjoy the open spaces and discover different plants. The Flóran Café/Bístró (open seasonally, confirm for Oct) offers delicious treats. Restrooms available. Stroller accessible paths. Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
Conveniently located in Laugardalur, a short drive from Perlan. Free parking available. Public buses serve the Laugardalur area.
Laugardalslaug Pool Fun
Experience an essential part of Icelandic culture with a visit to Laugardalslaug, Reykjavik's largest and most popular public geothermal swimming pool.
It boasts an Olympic-sized outdoor pool, waterslides, multiple hot tubs at different temperatures, and an indoor pool.
This is a fantastic activity for kids (3-12) to burn off energy. They'll love the waterslides and playing in the warm pools. Family changing rooms and restrooms are available. Remember to shower without a swimsuit before entering the pools (Icelandic tradition!). Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
Located in Laugardalur, adjacent to the Botanic Garden and Family Park & Zoo. Ample free parking available. Accessible by public bus.
Harbor Walk & Treats
Enjoy a scenic evening stroll along Reykjavik's Old Harbor, taking in the sights of fishing boats and views towards Esja mountain.
Stop for an Icelandic ice cream or a classic hot dog from a local stand, a favorite family treat. The Sun Voyager sculpture is also along this route.
A relaxed way to wind down the day. Kids will enjoy the boats and the open space. The Sun Voyager sculpture is a great photo op. Public restrooms are available in the Harpa Concert Hall or nearby cafes. Stroller friendly. Duration: 1-1.5 hours. Look for family-friendly ice cream parlors like Valdís.
Easily walkable from the city center. Limited street parking but public parking garages are available. Public bus stops nearby.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, October 5National Museum Kids Event
On the first Sunday of every month, the National Museum of Iceland hosts a special children's event with museum educators. This is a wonderful opportunity for kids to engage with Icelandic history and culture in an interactive and fun way. While the specific October event details will be announced closer to the date, these events are typically engaging for the target age group.
Children (under 18) enter for free, making it very budget-friendly for families. The museum is stroller accessible and has restrooms. The events are designed to be educational and entertaining for children aged 3-12. Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
Located a short walk from the city center. Paid street parking available nearby. Public bus stops are a short walk away.
Whales of Iceland
Immerse yourselves in the world of marine giants at the Whales of Iceland exhibition.
This family-friendly museum features 23 life-sized whale models, interactive exhibits, and an audio guide in multiple languages. It's a fascinating and educational experience, particularly captivating for children.
Kids will be awestruck by the sheer size of the whale models. The interactive stations and virtual reality headsets (check availability for VR) add to the fun. Free for children under 7, which helps with the budget. Stroller accessible, with restrooms and a cafe. Daily guided tours are often available at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
Located near the Old Harbor, a bit of a walk or a short bus ride from the city center. Free parking available on site.
Árbær Open Air Tour
Step back in time at the Árbær Open Air Museum, a charming collection of historic buildings from Reykjavik's past.
A guided tour provides insight into Icelandic life in the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum also features a children's play area with old-fashioned toys and box cars.
This museum offers a unique, interactive 'Come and play!' exhibition focused on children's culture and toys, suitable for all ages. Kids will enjoy exploring the old houses and the play area. Guided tours in English are offered daily at 1:00 PM (confirm if Sunday 4 PM slot is possible, otherwise aim for the 1 PM tour and adjust schedule). Restrooms and a café are available. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Located in the Árbær neighborhood, a short drive from the city center. Free parking available. Accessible by public bus.
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