Quick answer
For an unforgettable geothermal experience with breathtaking views right on the harbor, the Sky Lagoon stands out as a top choice in Reykjavik.
- Best overall
- Sky Lagoon
- Best budget
- Laugardalslaug
- Best experience
- Sky Lagoon
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selection of Reykjavik's best soaking spots was curated based on popularity, unique geothermal features, local recommendations, and overall visitor experience. We analyzed numerous traveler reviews and official venue information to ensure a diverse and comprehensive list, catering to various preferences and budgets.
Sky Lagoon
The Sky Lagoon is an exquisite geothermal lagoon offering a unique seven-step ritual and an iconic infinity pool with panoramic views of the North Atlantic Ocean. Its modern design blends seamlessly with the rugged Icelandic landscape, providing a luxurious and serene escape just minutes from downtown Reykjavik. It's a truly photogenic spot perfect for relaxation.
🍽️ What to order
The 'Pure' or 'Sky' Ritual package for the full seven-step experience, which includes a cold plunge, sauna, mist, and invigorating body scrub.
💡 Insider tip
Book your tickets online well in advance, especially for sunset slots, as they are very popular. Consider visiting outside peak hours (mid-morning or late evening) for a more tranquil experience.
"Sky Lagoon totally lives up to the hype. That infinity pool view at sunset? Unbeatable. Best decision we made in Iceland!"— r/Iceland user
Blue Lagoon
While not directly in Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is an iconic geothermal spa known worldwide for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters. It offers a luxurious wellness experience with silica mud masks, steam rooms, and waterfalls, set amidst a dramatic lava field. It's a must-visit for many travelers and often combined with airport transfers.
🍽️ What to order
The Comfort Package includes entry, a silica mud mask, a towel, and one drink. Upgrade for more amenities if you desire a longer, more indulgent visit.
💡 Insider tip
Visit on your arrival or departure day due to its proximity to Keflavik Airport. Pre-booking is absolutely essential, as spontaneous visits are rarely possible.
"Yeah, Blue Lagoon is expensive, but it's such a unique experience. Definitely worth it for the milky water and silica masks. Just plan ahead!"— r/travel user
Laugardalslaug
Laugardalslaug is Reykjavik's largest and most popular public swimming pool, offering a fantastic array of facilities for all ages. It features a large outdoor pool, numerous hot tubs of varying temperatures, a steam bath, a sauna, and exciting waterslides, making it a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike.
🍽️ What to order
Simply purchase an entry ticket; all hot tubs and facilities are included. Grab a hot dog from the snack stand afterwards for the full local experience.
💡 Insider tip
Remember to shower naked before entering the pools – it's an important Icelandic custom. Don't be shy; everyone does it!
"Laugardalslaug is my go-to. Forget the fancy lagoons, this is where you get the real Icelandic pool experience with all the hot tubs and slides. So cheap too!"— r/Reykjavik user
Sundhöllin
Sundhöllin, Reykjavik's oldest public bath, boasts a charming Art Deco interior and was recently renovated to include a fantastic rooftop hot tub with city views. It offers both indoor and outdoor swimming, along with traditional hot tubs and steam baths, providing a more intimate and historically rich soaking experience right in the city center.
🍽️ What to order
Entry ticket. Make sure to find the rooftop hot tub for great views over the city, especially in winter or at dusk.
💡 Insider tip
This pool is generally quieter than Laugardalslaug, especially during weekdays. It's perfect if you're staying downtown and want a quick, authentic dip.
"Loved Sundhöllin. The rooftop hot tub was a hidden gem, and it felt way more authentic than the big touristy places. Plus, it's right downtown!"— r/travel user
Vesturbæjarlaug
Vesturbæjarlaug is a beloved neighborhood pool known for its cozy atmosphere and lively local scene. It features a main outdoor pool, several hot tubs of varying temperatures, a cold plunge, and steam bath, making it a perfect spot to observe local life and relax among the residents of Reykjavik's west side.
🍽️ What to order
Just your entry. Spend time rotating between the different hot tubs; each has its own regular crowd and conversations.
💡 Insider tip
This pool can get quite busy with locals, especially in the evenings after work. It's a great spot for people-watching and experiencing Icelandic daily life.
"Vesturbæjarlaug is the best for a proper local vibe. You'll hear more Icelandic here than English, and the hot tubs are always buzzing. My absolute favorite."— r/Iceland user
Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)
Located in the Golden Circle area, the Secret Lagoon is Iceland's oldest natural swimming pool, offering a more authentic and rustic geothermal experience. Surrounded by bubbling hot springs and a small geyser that erupts every few minutes, it provides a magical, less-crowded alternative to the more commercial lagoons.
🍽️ What to order
Entry ticket. Bring your own towel and swimwear to save on rental fees.
💡 Insider tip
Combine this with a Golden Circle tour. It's a fantastic, unpretentious stop after a day of sightseeing. The water temperature is consistently warm and inviting.
"Secret Lagoon was such a refreshing change from the Blue Lagoon crowds. So much more natural and peaceful, and the little geyser was a cool bonus!"— r/travel user
Arbæjarlaug
Arbæjarlaug is a modern and spacious public pool known for its excellent family-friendly facilities. It features a large indoor pool, outdoor pools, a wave pool, several hot tubs, and fantastic waterslides that make it a hit with children. It's a great option for those staying on the eastern side of the city.
🍽️ What to order
Entry ticket. Prepare for fun on the slides!
💡 Insider tip
Perfect for families with younger children, thanks to its extensive play areas and slides. Weekends can be busy, so consider a weekday visit.
"Took the kids to Arbæjarlaug and they loved it! The slides are great, and there's plenty of space. Way better value than the big tourist lagoons if you have a family."— r/Reykjavik user
Grafarvogslaug
Grafarvogslaug is another excellent public pool in a residential area, popular with local families. It boasts a large outdoor swimming pool, multiple hot tubs, a steam room, and especially popular waterslides, offering a comprehensive and enjoyable swimming and soaking experience away from the city center bustle.
🍽️ What to order
Standard entry. Don't miss testing out all the different slides if you're feeling adventurous.
💡 Insider tip
Easily accessible by public bus from downtown. It's often less crowded than Laugardalslaug and provides a good glimpse into local life.
"Grafarvogslaug is underrated! Had a blast on the slides and the hot tubs were super relaxing. Felt very local and welcoming."— r/travel user
Kópavogslaug
Located just south of Reykjavik in Kópavogur, this modern public pool offers stunning views over the city and mountains, especially from its elevated hot tubs. Kópavogslaug provides excellent facilities including indoor and outdoor pools, waterslides, and a range of hot tubs, making it a pleasant and less-crowded option.
🍽️ What to order
Entry ticket. Seek out the highest hot tub for the best panoramic views.
💡 Insider tip
The views from the upper deck hot tubs are particularly beautiful on a clear day or at night with the city lights. It’s a great option if you’re staying outside the very center of Reykjavik.
"Found Kópavogslaug on a whim and was pleasantly surprised. The views were unexpected and lovely, and it wasn't nearly as busy as some other pools."— r/Iceland user
Seltjarnarneslaug
Situated on the westernmost tip of the Reykjavik peninsula, Seltjarnarneslaug offers a serene coastal swimming experience. It features outdoor and indoor pools, several hot tubs, and is known for being generally quieter, making it ideal for a peaceful soak with views towards the ocean and the iconic Grotta lighthouse.
🍽️ What to order
Just your entrance fee. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
💡 Insider tip
Combine your visit with a walk out to the Grotta lighthouse and the Kvika footbath (Rank 12). It’s a beautiful area for an evening stroll, especially around sunset.
"Seltjarnarneslaug is super chill. If you want to avoid the crowds and just relax with some nice ocean air, this is the spot. Very peaceful."— r/Reykjavik user
Fontana Geothermal Bath
Laugarvatn Fontana is a charming geothermal spa located directly on the shores of Lake Laugarvatn, providing a unique connection with nature. It features various hot pools, traditional steam baths built directly over natural hot springs, and a Finnish-style sauna. You can even cool off with a dip in the lake itself.
🍽️ What to order
Entry to the baths, and don't miss trying their traditional rye bread, baked underground using the geothermal heat, often served with butter.
💡 Insider tip
Ideal for a stop along the Golden Circle route. For a truly refreshing experience, take a quick plunge into Lake Laugarvatn after a hot soak or steam.
"Fontana was surprisingly great! The steam rooms were so cool, literally right over the springs, and that rye bread was seriously good. A nice break from driving the Golden Circle."— r/travel user
Kvika Footbath
Kvika is a small, circular geothermal footbath and art installation located near Grotta lighthouse. It offers a free and unique way to warm your feet while enjoying stunning views of the ocean, Snæfellsnes peninsula, and sometimes even the Northern Lights. It's not a full body soak, but a beautiful, accessible spot for relaxation.
🍽️ What to order
Nothing, it's completely free! Just bring yourself and enjoy the view.
💡 Insider tip
Best visited at sunset for incredible photo opportunities. The water is only deep enough for your feet, but it's wonderfully warm and soothing after a long walk.
"Don't sleep on the Kvika footbath! It's free, has amazing views, and it's perfect for warming up your feet on a cold day. Such a nice little unexpected treat."— r/Iceland user
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a public pool and a geothermal lagoon in Reykjavik?
Public pools are generally community-focused facilities, offering multiple pools, hot tubs, steam rooms, and slides at a very affordable price. Geothermal lagoons, like Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon, are typically more luxury-oriented, offering a curated spa experience with unique features, often higher prices, and more emphasis on relaxation and scenic beauty.
Do I need to book tickets in advance for Reykjavik's pools and lagoons?
For popular geothermal lagoons like Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon, booking well in advance is highly recommended, sometimes even essential, especially during peak season or for specific time slots. For public swimming pools, you can usually just show up and pay at the entrance, though some might offer online booking for convenience.
What should I bring to an Icelandic geothermal pool?
You'll need a swimsuit and a towel. Most facilities offer rentals for both, but bringing your own can save money. Flip-flops are also a good idea for walking between facilities. Don't forget a waterproof bag or case for your phone if you plan to take photos.
Is it true that I need to shower naked before entering the pools?
Yes, it is an essential and strictly observed hygiene custom in Iceland to shower thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering any public pool or lagoon. This ensures the water stays clean with minimal chemical use. There are separate changing and showering facilities for men and women, and privacy is respected.
Are children allowed in all geothermal pools?
Most public swimming pools are very family-friendly and welcome children of all ages, often with dedicated shallow areas and waterslides. Luxury lagoons like Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon have age restrictions, typically requiring visitors to be 12 years or older, though some may have exceptions or specific family hours, so always check their individual policies.
What are the best budget-friendly options for soaking in Reykjavik?
Reykjavik's public swimming pools like Laugardalslaug, Sundhöllin, and Vesturbæjarlaug offer excellent value for money, with entry fees typically under 1,200 ISK (about $9 USD). These provide access to numerous hot tubs, pools, and steam rooms, giving you a comprehensive local experience without breaking the bank.
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