The Best Geothermal Lagoons in Iceland: A Complete Guide
Table of Contents
- 1What to Expect at Geothermal Lagoons in Iceland
- 2The 12 Best Geothermal Lagoons in Iceland
- 31. Blue Lagoon
- 42. Sky Lagoon
- 53. Hvammsvík Hot Springs
- 64. Secret Lagoon
- 75. Laugarvatn Fontana Spa
- 86. Reykjaböð Hot Springs
- 97. Laugarás Lagoon
- 108. Krauma Geothermal Baths & Spa
- 119. Forest Lagoon
- 1210. Earth Lagoon Mývatn (Mývatn Nature Baths)
- 1311. GeoSea – Geothermal Sea Baths
- 1412. Vök Baths
- 15Practical Tips for Visiting Geothermal Lagoons in Iceland
- 16Explore Iceland's Best Geothermal Lagoons with Icelandia
- 17FAQs
Geothermal lagoons are one of Iceland's signature travel experiences. They combine naturally heated geothermal water with inviting places to relax, making them a favourite stop on any Icelandic trip. From luxury wellness spas to peaceful geothermal retreats, they offer a comfortable way to experience the country’s geothermal landscapes.
Can't decide which one to add to your itinerary? This guide introduces 12 of the best geothermal lagoons in Iceland, along with practical tips to help you plan your visit.
What to Expect at Geothermal Lagoons in Iceland
Geothermal lagoons are purpose-built bathing destinations that use naturally heated water. Alongside the water itself, visitors can expect thoughtfully designed spaces that combine relaxation, wellness, and unique Icelandic landscapes.
Here's what you can typically expect:
- Warm geothermal pools: Most lagoons have one or more pools with temperatures typically ranging from 36–40°C (97–104°F).
- Changing rooms and showers: Showering before entering the water is part of Icelandic bathing etiquette, and changing facilities are provided.
- Wellness facilities: Many lagoons also feature saunas, steam rooms, cold plunges, relaxation areas, or luxurious spa treatments.
- Food and drinks: Several lagoons have cafés, restaurants, or swim-up bars where you can enjoy refreshments during your visit.
- Family-friendly facilities: Many welcome children and offer shallow areas, spacious changing rooms, or family-friendly amenities. Some wellness-focused lagoons have minimum age requirements.
- Accessible facilities: Most modern geothermal lagoons include accessible changing rooms, step-free access, or pool lifts for visitors with reduced mobility.
- Year-round bathing: Geothermal lagoons are open throughout the year, offering a different atmosphere in every season. Summer brings long daylight hours, while winter offers the chance to soak under the Northern Lights.
The 12 Best Geothermal Lagoons in Iceland
Whether you're seeking relaxation, scenic views, or a memorable wellness experience, these geothermal lagoons offer something for every traveller.
1. Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is Iceland's best-known geothermal spa and often the first lagoon visitors experience. It's famous for its mineral-rich milky blue water, silica mud masks, luxury spa resort, and modern wellness facilities.
Many travellers visit after landing at Keflavík International Airport or before their flight home. Others book convenient transfers to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavík for a relaxing break during their trip. If you'd like to explore the surrounding volcanic landscapes, join our Volcanic Wonders of Grindavík and Blue Lagoon tour. We'll take you to recent eruption sites in Fagradalsfjall and the small fishing town of Grindavík. Then, end the day with a relaxing soak in the Blue Lagoon.
Things to know about the Blue Lagoon:
- Location: Grindavík area, Reykjanes Peninsula
- Opening hours: Daily; typically between 07:00 and 23:00
- Admission fee: From ISK (Icelandic Króna) 11,990
- Age policy: Minimum age is 2 years
2. Sky Lagoon
Just minutes from Reykjavík city centre, Sky Lagoon combines geothermal bathing with sweeping views across the North Atlantic.
Relax in the infinity pool overlooking the ocean. Afterwards, enjoy the signature seven-step Skjól Ritual, inspired by Icelandic traditions. It’s an excellent choice if you want a relaxing spa day without travelling far from the capital. You can visit Sky Lagoon in any season. However, if you’d like to experience both Sky Lagoon and the Northern Lights in one trip, plan a trip in winter. You can also pair a day of sightseeing with a relaxing soak on Icelandia's Golden Circle and Sky Lagoon tour.
Things to know about the Sky Lagoon:
- Location: Kópavogur, Greater Reykjavík Area
- Opening hours: Daily; typically between 08:00 and 23:00
- Admission fee: From ISK 14,990
- Age policy: Minimum age is 12 years
3. Hvammsvík Hot Springs
Hvammsvík Hot Springs sits on the shores of Hvalfjörður, around 45 minutes from Reykjavík. Eight geothermal pools overlook the Atlantic Ocean, with changing tides creating subtle variations in water temperature throughout the day.
For a refreshing contrast, you can also take a cold plunge in the ocean. If you're lucky, you may even spot seals swimming in the fjord. You can drive here from the capital via the Ring Road (Route 1) and Route 47. Alternatively, book a transfer to Hvammsvík Hot Springs from Reykjavík for a hassle-free journey.
Things to know about Hvammsvík Hot Springs:
- Location: Hvalfjörður, West Iceland
- Opening hours: Daily from 10:00–22:00
- Admission fee: From ISK 5,900
- Age policy: Minimum age is 10 years
4. Secret Lagoon
Secret Lagoon, also known as Gamla Laugin, is Iceland's oldest swimming pool. It has welcomed bathers since 1891 and remains one of the country's favourite geothermal bathing spots.
Steam rises from natural hot springs around the lagoon, and a small geyser erupts nearby every few minutes. Although the setting has retained its traditional charm, you'll also find modern facilities, including changing rooms, showers, and a bistro. The geothermal water stays between 38°C and 40°C (100–104°F) throughout the year. It also flows continuously through the lagoon, with the water fully renewed approximately every 24 hours.
Things to know about the Secret Lagoon:
- Location: Flúðir, South Iceland
- Opening hours: Daily; typically between 10:00 and 20:00
- Admission fee: Fixed rate of ISK 4,500 (for adults)
- Age policy: None
5. Laugarvatn Fontana Spa
Laugarvatn Fontana Spa sits on the shore of Lake Laugarvatn along the Golden Circle. Visitors can move between geothermal pools, steam rooms built over natural hot springs, and the refreshing lake.
A visit here isn't complete without the geothermal rye bread-baking tour, held twice daily. Watch as a rye bread is dug from the warm black sand after baking for 24 hours using geothermal heat. Afterwards, enjoy a warm slice with Icelandic butter.
Things to know about Laugarvatn Fontana Spa:
- Location: Laugarvatn, South Iceland
- Opening hours: Daily; typically between 10:00 and 21:00
- Admission fee: Fixed rate of ISK 7,490 (for adults)
- Age policy: None
6. Reykjaböð Hot Springs
Reykjaböð Hot Springs offers a modern geothermal bathing experience surrounded by one of Iceland's most active geothermal regions, Reykjadalur Valley. It features warm pools surrounded by mountains and steaming rivers.
Its convenient location also makes it a worthwhile stop when travelling between Reykjavík, South Iceland, and the Golden Circle. For a hassle-free visit, book your Reykjaböð Hot Springs Classic Admission in advance. You can also experience the lagoon on our South Coast Wonders with Reykjaböð Hot Springs tour.
Things to know about Reykjaböð Hot Springs:
- Location: Hveragerði, South Iceland
- Opening hours: August 2026
- Admission fee: From ISK 7,900
- Age policy: Minimum age is 10 years
7. Laugarás Lagoon
Laugarás Lagoon is one of the newest geothermal lagoons in Iceland, set beside the Hvítá River. If you're looking for secret soaks in Iceland, Laugarás Lagoon is a peaceful choice away from the crowds.
One of its highlights is the 6.6-m (22-ft) cascading waterfall, the first of its kind at an Icelandic lagoon. Its location also makes it easy to include on a Golden Circle itinerary. So, if you’d like to add it to your trip, check out our Golden Circle and Laugarás Lagoon guide.
Things to know about Laugarás Lagoon:
- Location: Laugarás, South Iceland
- Opening hours: Daily; typically between 10:00 and 23:00
- Admission fee: From ISK 6,900
- Age policy: Minimum age is 8 years
8. Krauma Geothermal Baths & Spa
Krauma Geothermal Baths is supplied by hot water from Deildartunguhver, Europe's highest-flowing hot spring. The naturally hot water is cooled using just heat exchangers to create comfortable bathing temperatures. So, the pools are filled with geothermal water.
The spa features five hot pools and one cold pool, all continuously supplied with fresh geothermal water. Thanks to the constant water flow, the pools don't require disinfectants.
If you're exploring the region, many West Iceland tours include a relaxing stop at Krauma.
Things to know about Krauma Geothermal Baths & Spa:
- Location: Reykholt, West Iceland
- Opening hours: Daily from 11:00–21:00
- Admission fee: Fixed rate of ISK 7,900 (for adults)
- Age policy: None
9. Forest Lagoon
Forest Lagoon overlooks Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, near Akureyri, and is surrounded by birch and pine trees. The combination of forest scenery, mountain views, and warm geothermal water creates a relaxing experience in North Iceland.
After your soak, stop by Skógur Bistro, where you can enjoy a meal or drink beside the fireplace. Getting there is easy with the Forest Lagoon shuttle from Reykjavík; scheduled transfers run year-round, except on selected holidays.
Things to know about Forest Lagoon:
- Location: Eyjafjarðarsveit, North Iceland
- Opening hours: Daily from 09:00–00:00
- Admission fee: From ISK 7,490
- Age policy: None (but kids under 12 aren’t allowed in the lagoon after 20:00)
10. Earth Lagoon Mývatn (Mývatn Nature Baths)
Earth Lagoon Mývatn, formerly known as Mývatn Nature Baths, overlooks the volcanic landscapes surrounding Lake Mývatn. Its mineral-rich geothermal water and peaceful setting offer a quieter alternative to Iceland's larger spa destinations.
Between soaks, relax in the swim-in steam cave or enjoy a drink at the in-water bar. You can also dine at the Earth Lagoon Bistro while taking in views of the lake. It’s one of the best geothermal lagoons in Iceland that you can explore along the Diamond Circle route.
Things to know about Earth Lagoon Mývatn:
- Location: Lake Mývatn, North Iceland
- Opening hours: Daily from 12:00–22:00
- Admission fee: From ISK 7,900
- Age policy: None
11. GeoSea – Geothermal Sea Baths
GeoSea sits on the cliffs above Húsavík, overlooking Skjálfandi Bay, one of Iceland's best whale watching destinations. Depending on the season, you may even spot whales in the bay or the Northern Lights overhead while you soak.
Instead of freshwater, the pools are filled with naturally heated seawater rich in minerals. Fresh seawater flows continuously through the pools from two drill holes, helping keep the water naturally clean throughout the day.
Things to know about GeoSea – Geothermal Sea Baths:
- Location: Húsavík, North Iceland
- Opening hours: Daily, typically between 10:00 and 00:00
- Admission fee: Fixed rate of ISK 7,490 (for adults)
- Age policy: None
12. Vök Baths
Vök Baths is the only floating geothermal spa in Iceland. Its pools extend onto Lake Urriðavatn, offering a peaceful setting surrounded by East Iceland's natural landscapes.
Alongside the naturally heated, chemical-free geothermal pools, you'll find a sauna, cold plunge, spray tunnel, tea bar, and Vök Bistro. Don't miss the complimentary herbal tisane, brewed using the area's pure geothermal water.
Things to know about Vök Baths:
- Location: Egilsstaðir, East Iceland
- Opening hours: Daily, typically between 10:00 and 23:00
- Admission fee: From ISK 7,690
- Age policy: None
Practical Tips for Visiting Geothermal Lagoons in Iceland
Whether it's your first geothermal lagoon or your fifth, these tips will help you enjoy a smooth and relaxing visit:
- Book ahead: Popular lagoons, especially the Blue Lagoon, and geothermal lagoon spa tours often sell out during peak travel seasons.
- Arrive early or late in the day: Popular lagoons are often quieter during the first and last admission slots, offering a more peaceful experience.
- Shower before entering the water: Showering without swimwear is standard Icelandic bathing etiquette.
- Bring swimwear if possible: Most lagoons rent towels and swimwear, but bringing your own can save money.
- Protect your hair: Mineral-rich water, particularly at the Blue Lagoon, can leave hair feeling dry. Applying leave-in conditioner before entering the water can help.
- Check what's included with your ticket: Admission may include extras such as towels, drinks, masks, or spa treatments, depending on the lagoon and package you choose.
- Stay hydrated: Soaking in warm geothermal water for extended periods can be dehydrating. Drink water before, during, and after your visit.
Explore Iceland's Best Geothermal Lagoons with Icelandia
Spending a few days in Reykjavík or driving the Ring Road? The geothermal lagoons in Iceland are well worth adding to your itinerary. Each one offers a unique setting, atmosphere, and bathing experience.
Our Icelandic wellness vacation packages help you experience Iceland's geothermal culture alongside its famous natural attractions. No matter where your journey takes you, a relaxing soak is never far away. Prefer something a little more rustic? Explore our complete guide to hot springs in Iceland.
FAQs
The answer depends on the experience you're looking for. Blue Lagoon is ideal for first-time visitors, while Sky Lagoon is perfect for those seeking luxurious wellness retreats near Reykjavík. Meanwhile, Forest Lagoon, GeoSea, and Vök Baths are excellent choices if you're exploring other regions of Iceland.
Secret Lagoon is generally one of the most affordable geothermal lagoons in Iceland. Adult admission is typically lower compared to many of the country's larger spa destinations. Discounted rates are also available for children, seniors, and persons with disability.
Sky Lagoon is only a few minutes from Reykjavík city centre. Blue Lagoon and Hvammsvík Hot Springs can both be reached in under an hour by car.
Yes, most geothermal lagoons in Iceland are open throughout the year, including winter. However, opening hours may vary by season, so it's always a good idea to check schedules before you visit.
Yes, especially if you're visiting popular lagoons such as the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon. Tickets often sell out during summer, public holidays, weekends, and peak evening time slots. Booking in advance also gives you a wider choice of admission times and packages.