The Best Hot Springs in Iceland: A Complete Guide

Iceland’s geothermal lagoons and hot springs are a major draw for overseas visitors. No wonder: it’s hard to resist the opportunity to soak in luxuriously warm water, either in a stylish spa setting or surrounded by nature out in the countryside. In recent years, the number of lagoons, spas and geothermal baths has increased, fuelled by demand for a quintessentially Icelandic experience.

You don’t have to travel far for hot tubs and swimming pools in Iceland; even the smallest village seems to have one. This is where Icelanders love to socialise; taking a dip with family or friends is a part of the country’s cultural heritage. Because of this, Iceland’s many geothermal lagoons and hot springs are littered across many parts of the country. If you imagine a diagonal line which connects Reykjanes to the north east of Iceland via the Golden Circle, you’ll find the majority of spots broadly in this location; our guide to secret soaks in Iceland will help you identify the best. Many travellers set their sights on the most well-known: Blue Lagoon, Laugarás Lagoon, Earth Lagoon (formerly Mývatn Nature Baths) and Forest Lagoon. However, you’ll also find plenty elsewhere, from isolated pools in the remote Westfjords to popular upscale spas such as Sky Lagoon on the outskirts of Reykjavik and Hvammsvik Hot Springs on the shores of Hvalfjörður.

With so many wonderful lagoons and pools to choose from, it’s really hard to choose a favourite. However, a number of them stand out from a crowded field and experiencing them is a must. It’s also worth noting that as Iceland’s hot springs and geothermal lagoons each have their own distinct character, you won’t regret visiting more than one. Here’s how they compare:

• Blue Lagoon

Pioneering Blue Lagoon has been welcoming visitors for decades yet carefully considered makeovers have enabled it to retain its place as a market leader. That’s helped, of course, by its convenient position en route to Keflavik Airport and the photogenic juxtaposition of milky blue water against a charcoal grey lava backdrop. You can also pair Blue Lagoon with our Volcanic Wonders tour which explores nearby Grindavik.

• Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon’s convenient location on the outskirts of Reykjavik means that it’s an easy add-on to any sightseeing trip or activity you’ve already planned. The infinity edge pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean delights visitors and its modish design and pampering seven-step ritual are also enduring reasons for its popularity.

• Hvammsvik Hot Springs

Hvammsvik Hot Springs is another of Iceland’s most popular hot springs and it’s not hard to see why. Tucked up against the shore of serene Hvalfjörður, it’s a calming place to chill out and unwind, particularly in the hot pots right on the black sand beach. Combine peaceful Hvammsvik with sightseeing in the Golden Circle or Reykjavik as it’s an easy drive from either.

• Laugarás Lagoon

A tour of the Golden Circle and Laugarás Lagoon admission is an enjoyable way to spend a day. This rural idyll is a newcomer to Iceland’s lagoon scene but fast winning fans. This architect-designed complex is a treat for the eyes, thanks to its use of high-end finishes and attention to detail. Looking out over the Icelandic countryside from the Laugarás pools is definitely going to appeal.

• Reykjaböð

We’re excited about the opening of Reykjaböð hot springs which brings an upgraded option to geothermally-active Hveragerði. You’ll still be able to hike up to the valley’s hot spring river, but for a soak in more comfortable surroundings this one is going to be hard to beat. The elegant, contemporary design of the Bathhouse Spa will certainly elevate your experience.

• The People’s Pool at Landmannalaugar

Landmannalaugar is one of the most colourful parts of the Icelandic highlands. Its rhyolite mountains attract hikers who spend happy hours exploring on foot. But once, this was a resting place for weary cross-country travellers who would soak in the People’s Pool before continuing their epic journeys. Today, you can soak your blistered feet in the same hot springs as you ponder how life has changed.

Icelandia offers a wide range of tours that incorporate a stop at a hot spring or geothermal lagoon. In this respect, our recommendations would vary according to the vibe you’re after, and whether you’re looking for a straightforward admission and transfer combo or the chance to combine a geothermal lagoon with sightseeing, for instance along the Golden Circle. If you’re keen to make geothermal wellness retreats in Iceland the primary focus of your stay, you might also consider booking one of Icelandia’s multi-day wellness packages.

If you want a soak as soon as you arrive...

It has to be the Blue Lagoon. To capitalise on its location, Icelandia offers convenient transfer packages which begin at Keflavik Airport. Store your bags in the lagoon’s capacious lockers while you unwind after your journey. Afterwards, we’ll drop you off in the heart of Reykjavik. If you prefer, you can get settled in first and later, take advantage of our round trip transfer from the Icelandic capital to this unmissable Icelandic icon.

If you don’t want to stray far from Reykjavik...

We offer packages for stylish Sky Lagoon, where you can choose the Saman pass which includes the Skjól ritual or upgrade to Sér for private changing facilities. If you’re looking for a rustic vibe yet within easy reach of the capital, then chic Hvammsvik Hot Springs ticks all the boxes; its hot pots are scattered along the shoreline of the fjord and boast incredible views.

If you want to combine a geothermal lagoon with sightseeing...

Soaking in a luxurious geothermal spa after a day’s sightseeing is the ultimate Icelandic indulgence. As the Golden Circle Direct tour takes just six and a half hours, it pairs well with any lagoon; however instead of travelling to Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon why not stay put and soak in Secret Lagoon instead? Alternatively, if you’ve been exploring the Silver Circle in West Iceland, why not add on admission to Krauma?

If you’re keen to check out Iceland’s newest lagoons...

Two brand new geothermal lagoons promise to reshape the geothermal lagoon scene. Laugarás Lagoon opened in late 2025; its bucolic views and convenient location within the Golden Circle mean it’s already building a loyal following. Choose Birki if you’re on a budget; Lerki costs a fraction more but includes a towel and drink. Meanwhile Reykjaböð hot springs in Hveragerði is set to welcome its first guests in 2026; choose from Classic or Signature admission.

If you want to embrace the spirit of adventure...

Come in summer and use the Highland Bus to get up to Landmannalaugar. Our daily schedule allows for about four or five hours up here at this spectacular part of Iceland’s mountainous interior, more than enough for a gentle hike and a dip in the historic People’s Pool where you’ll be continuing a centuries-old tradition.

Iceland’s geothermal lagoons and hot springs use minimal chemicals to keep the water clean so it’s absolutely essential that you shower – naked and thoroughly – to avoid contaminating it with dirt and sweat. Hygiene is non-negotiable and while Icelanders won’t give you a second glance, if you’re self conscious then seek out a lagoon with individual cubicles so you can wash yourself in private. Swimsuits are another must; in winter especially, you’ll often see people wearing bobble hats or beanies to keep their heads warm in a chill wind.

If you’re out in the countryside, leave a wild geothermal bath exactly as you find it. Be sure to take all your belongings with you once you’re done, including any rubbish. For safety’s sake, before getting in, be sure to test that the hot water is of a safe temperature for bathing. The easiest way of doing this at places like the People’s Pool at Landmannalaugar or Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River is to look and see where other people are. A mixture of natural hot springs and glacial meltwater feeds many such places so the temperatures can vary considerably between spots and over time.

For more information about Iceland’s hot springs, natural hot pots and geothermal baths, why not check out our Guide to Lagoons in Iceland? No matter which hot spring or geothermal pool you end up settling on, you’ll be embracing one of the fundamental elements of Icelandic culture. Relaxing in the warm water gives you a chance to take stock of everything you’ve seen and done – and planning next steps. Be warned, though, it can get addictive.