This was one of the best city breaks we had ever done as a family. It was packed with fun and exciting experiences, with something to suit all ages. From natural wonders to unique attractions, Reykjavik offered a brilliant mix of adventure and relaxation.
Day 1: Arrival and Northern Lights Experience
On arrival, we settled into our accommodation and took a walk to get our bearings around the city.
Our first activity was FlyOver Iceland, an exhilarating and immersive flying theatre experience that gave us a fantastic introduction to the country’s landscapes.
That evening, we wrapped up warm for our Northern Lights tour. We drove away from the city lights and waited patiently for the skies to put on a show. At first, it seemed like it wasn’t going to happen. The Aurora was visible through cameras but not to the naked eye, so we began the journey back to Reykjavik.
Within 10 minutes, we received the call to turn around and head back out. This time, we were not disappointed. Seeing the Northern Lights properly was an unforgettable moment.
Top tip: Book your Northern Lights tour at the beginning of your trip, as many operators will offer another chance later in your stay if visibility is poor.
Day 2: Exploring Reykjavik and Whale Watching
After a late night, we enjoyed a slower start before heading out on our own walking tour of the city.
We explored Skolavordustigur, also known as Rainbow Street, filled with cafés, boutiques and independent design stores. This led us up to the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church, which dominates the Reykjavik skyline.
From there, we followed the Sculpture and Shore Walk along the waterfront, which took us neatly to our next activity, a whale watching and marine life cruise. This was a real highlight and something we would highly recommend.
For the adults, the Old Harbour area stood out, with great spots like the Old Harbour House and a selection of authentic local bars.
Day 3: Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Tour
Day three was dedicated to the Golden Circle, including Kerid Crater and the Secret Lagoon.
This was a fantastic day out. We experienced the thermal waters of the Secret Lagoon while it was -7 degrees outside and snowing, which felt truly magical.
Other stops included Gullfoss Waterfall, which we would love to return to see in full force, the Geysir geothermal area, and the volcanic crater Kerid.
The tour was well organised and suited all age groups, making it an easy and enjoyable way to explore Iceland’s natural highlights.
Day 4: Journey Home
Sadly, it was time to head home. After three days of fresh air and adventure, we slept most of the way back, already talking about returning in the spring.
Final Thoughts
Reykjavik proved to be an excellent choice for a family city break. It offered a balance of unique experiences, natural beauty and relaxed exploration, all within easy reach. It is a destination we would happily return to in a different season to see even more of what Iceland has to offer.