ICELAND AIR STOP OVER PROGRAM
Our 48-Hour Stopover
Why Choose a Stopover in Iceland?
If you’re flying between North America and Europe, Icelandair’s stopover program lets you add a few days in Iceland at no extra flight cost. Instead of rushing through on a layover, you get a chance to explore waterfalls, hot springs, and stunning landscapes that feel like another planet all without a huge detour. We flew from Pittsburgh to London with a 48 hour “layover” in Iceland.
We stayed for two full days, and honestly? I wish we had more time. A week would be ideal, but even a quick stopover is better than skipping Iceland entirely.
Kid-Friendly Highlights
🍴 Farmers Bistro – Delicious, locally grown food with a playset outside. A perfect first stop after landing.
☕ Freya Café – Cozy, fresh, and family-friendly.
On the flight, my daughter slept most of the way (thank you, red-eye 🙌), but she also loved listening to local Icelandic children’s music. We always bring our own iPad with downloaded shows, since English options onboard were limited.
She got a complimentary activity pack with snacks and toys, which helped pass the time.
The Costs (and How to Save)
Here’s what our 48-hour stopover cost:
🏨 Hotels: ~$200 per night (depends on comfort level). We stayed at Hotel Selfoss and Stracta Hotel and we loved them both.
🚗 Car rental: $175 for 48 hours (worth every penny to skip crowded tours). I booked through booking.com but in the past I used Blue Car Rental. They were both great. I just book whatever is cheapest.
🍴 Meals: $20–$30 per person at restaurants.
💡 Grocery stores are your friend. Snacks are familiar but generally healthier than in the U.S.perfect for kids.
⚠️ Note: Icelandair’s luggage policies are strict. While I didn’t get flagged, I did see other travelers stopped for oversized backpacks.
Driving in Iceland with Kids
Renting a car is 100% worth it. You’ll avoid crowded tours and can set your own pace. Just watch for speed cameras they’re everywhere.
Immigration & Solo Parents
If you’re traveling alone with your child, immigration will ask for a travel consent form. I was asked both when entering and leaving Iceland.
Must-Sees for a Short Stopover
If you only have 2–3 days, here are my top picks:
Laugarvatn Fontana – Try the geothermal bread, then soak in the hot springs.
🐴 Bru horses – Stop by Farmers Bistro and let kids feed the horses.
Open-Air Museum – Tons of space for kids to run.
💦 Seljalandsfoss & Gljúfrabúi Waterfalls – Hike behind both waterfalls for the ultimate Iceland moment.
What I’d Pack Again Next Time
WayB Pico Car Seat - U.S. car seats aren’t officially approved for driving abroad due to different regulations we feel comfortable using ours instead of a rental or no carseat, but do your research and choose what feels best for your family.
Rain pants (for kids for the waterfalls) I snuck mine inside our stroller bag.
Hiking boots (so worth it can be very slippery)
FlyAway Inflatable bed is approved on Iceland Air but I also love the packable AirCot (use code Passport10 for 10% off)
Stroller: For this trip I used the Guava Roam which was so nice with the terrain - it is a compact folding full size jogger. We even brought it on one of the waterfall hikes.
Final Thoughts
Would I recommend Icelandair to families? Absolutely. It’s simple, affordable, and kid-friendly. Icelandair makes it easy for families to explore one of the world’s safest and most magical countries.
