Family Travel To Iceland: A Geography Lesson Come To Life

Iceland is one of those places that feels almost unreal — a country that looks as though it belongs on another planet. I visited a few years ago with a friend, and from the moment we arrived, we were struck by just how different it was to anywhere we’d been before. Vast lava fields, dramatic landscapes… and the lingering question we kept asking ourselves: are there really no trees?

First Impressions of Iceland

We stayed just outside the capital, Reykjavik, in a small nearby town. It was quiet, simple, and felt very authentic. There was just one restaurant we could find, serving whale, horse or beef. Safe to say, beef won that evening.

It didn’t take long to realise that Iceland is an expensive place to travel. Almost everything is imported, and the prices reflect that. A trip to the supermarket quickly confirmed it — £3 for a single apple was enough to make us rethink snacking habits for the week.

Getting Around: Why a Car Makes Sense

Hiring a car is, in my view, one of the best ways to experience Iceland.

The roads are quiet, well maintained, and incredibly easy to drive on. Having your own car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, which works especially well for families. You can stop when you want, adjust plans around weather, and avoid long organised tour days that can feel tiring with children.

Hot Springs, Volcanoes & Otherworldly Landscapes

Me in the Hot River

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s most famous hot spring. Floating in warm, milky-blue water surrounded by lava fields felt completely surreal. We were lucky — the lagoon does close from time to time due to volcanic activity nearby, which sums up Iceland perfectly: extraordinary and unpredictable.

We also visited a more local hot springs pool, which felt much more low-key and was just as enjoyable. These community pools are a huge part of Icelandic life and are far more relaxed, making them a great option for families.

Another unforgettable experience was hiking up a hill to reach a naturally warm river at the top. After a walk through rugged scenery, slipping into warm water in the open air was something I’ll never forget.

The Golden Circle: Geography in Real Life

We drove the famous Golden Circle route, and it genuinely felt like stepping into a geography textbook.

Geysers erupting from the ground, blowholes, tectonic plates, waterfalls — all the things you learn about in school suddenly appear in front of you. For children studying geography, Iceland brings the subject to life in a way few destinations can. It sparks curiosity, understanding, and a genuine appreciation for how the world works.

Reykjavik: Small, Friendly & Easy to Explore

Reykjavik itself is a lovely city to wander around. It’s compact, colourful, and full of character, with plenty of cafés, restaurants, and relaxed places to stop for food or a drink. It never feels overwhelming, which makes it ideal for a short family stay.

The Northern Lights: When to Go

And then there are the Northern Lights. They’re never guaranteed, but if you travel at the right time of year, you have a strong chance of seeing them.

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is from September to April, when nights are dark enough. Winter offers the longest hours of darkness, but even autumn and early spring can be excellent if skies are clear. Seeing them dance across the sky is one of those moments that stays with you forever.

Why Iceland Works So Well for Families

Iceland is an incredible destination for families who want more than just a holiday. It’s safe, clean, and easy to navigate, yet endlessly fascinating. For children, it turns learning into experience — volcanoes, glaciers, hot springs, and natural forces they’ve only ever read about suddenly become real.

It’s also a trip that doesn’t need a huge amount of time. A 4–5 day stay is enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed, making it a brilliant option for a school holiday or a short adventure.

If Iceland is on your family’s radar, get in touch. I’d be delighted to help plan a trip that suits your timeframe, budget, and the ages of your children — and turn this remarkable country into an unforgettable family experience.