Why go?
As the urban jewel of a small country abounding in natural wonders, Reykjavik has long made its impact on the music and clubbing scene and fields some very cool shopping.
The world’s most northerly capital is a cool place for teens and parents alike.
Activities
Reykjavik Bike Tours, run by a couple with children, are aimed at making the city fun for active families. Although the city is compact and easy to explore on foot, a bike will bring you to attractions on the edge of town like Perlan, and the Saga Museum, which retells Iceland’s ancient legends with waxworks. At the heart of city centre, visit landmarks such as the modernist Hallgrimskirkja, an architectural icicle of a church reaching for the sky.
You can also explore the surrounds of Lake Tjornin, an oasis of water and bird life in the heart of town and perfect if you’re travelling with little ones.
You don’t need to get far out of Reykjavik for a taste of Iceland’s natural wonders too – the Blue Lagoon is set amongst volcanic rock where locals and visitors bask for hours in the health-giving geothermal waters (there is also large lockers for bags). And day trips here offer a whizz around the geysers and waterfalls for which this beautiful little country is famous. It’s just 45 minutes drive from Reykjavik city centre, near Keflavík International Airport.
Shopping: There is plenty of designer shopping to be had in Reykjavik which most teenage girls and Mums alike will love, most notably on the main shopping street Laugavegur and Skolavordurstigur, which leads up to Hallgrimskirkja. At the weekends, the Kolaportio flea market is a local fixture and a fun place to find local culture
Where to eat
Don’t be put off by the fact fermented shark is a traditional delicacy (although your teens may find it pretty cool to try); there’s plenty of good fresh food too.
The Seafood Cellar offers quirky contemporary cuisine located at Aoalstraeti 2. Less pricey is The Fish Company across the road, a good place to try the creamy seafood soup, which is a local speciality. Also try Hressingarskalinn, a cool bistro which segues into a DJ club at weekends (should you be keen on letting your teens loose) and for a fun family outing, the Faktory Bar is one of the best places for live music.
The lowdown
How to get there: easyJet flies from London to Reykjavik; from £69 return.
Travel time: The flight takes 3 hours and 5 minutes.
Where to stay: Three nights at the four-star Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Natura costs £402 per person for a family of four sharing the Flora Family Room, including breakfast and return flights from London.
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