The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous hot spring. It’s on the Reykjanes Peninsula, not far from Reykjavík and close to Keflavík Airport, so it’s no surprise so many travelers start or end their trip here. I’ve had a soak there myself. So, is the Blue Lagoon worth the money? Read on for our honest take and practical tips.
The Blue Lagoon: Iceland’s most famous hot spring
The water in the Blue Lagoon is warmed by volcanic activity deep underground and sits at around 38°C (100°F). Did you know the lagoon isn’t actually natural? It’s runoff water from the Svartsengi geothermal power plant next door, which you’ll see on your way in.
That milky blue color comes from the makeup of the water: a mix of salt and fresh water with silica, algae and minerals. The water itself isn’t blue at all. The silica reflects sunlight in a way that makes it look blue, while a glass of the same water would just look white and cloudy.
The mineral-rich water is known for being good for your skin, which makes the Blue Lagoon feel more like a spa than a swimming pool. Don’t come here to swim laps; it isn’t very deep anyway.
Is the Blue Lagoon worth the money?
The Blue Lagoon is pricey for a country where most natural wonders are free to visit. Compare it to a spa day at home, though, and it doesn’t seem so bad. It all depends on how you look at it.
There are several ticket types. The standard ticket gets you into the main lagoon, plus a towel, a drink and a silica mask, and you can use the showers with shampoo and conditioner. Pricier tickets add extras like a bathrobe or access to the luxurious Retreat Spa. Check current prices on the Blue Lagoon website; tickets are often cheaper at quieter times, like late in the evening.
No car? You can book Blue Lagoon tickets with a transfer from Reykjavík or the airport. The lagoon is also part of plenty of day tours, often with entry included.
→ See Blue Lagoon tickets with transfer
Whether the Blue Lagoon is worth it is different for everyone. Honestly, we find it pretty touristy and expensive for what you get. Iceland has loads of other hot springs, some of them free and right in the middle of nature.
Lesser-known and more natural options include the hot springs near Hveragerði, Landmannalaugar and Mývatn. From the little town of Hveragerði, close to the Golden Circle, you can hike to the free Reykjadalur Thermal River and sit in a warm stream. Landmannalaugar is the hardest to reach: it’s either a serious hike or a 4×4 tour. The Mývatn Nature Baths in the north are similar to the Blue Lagoon, but smaller and less crowded, and you can buy Mývatn tickets online too.
Practical tips for the Blue Lagoon
- Book your ticket in advance; in high season, time slots sell out fast.
- Come as early or as late as you can, when it’s quieter.
- Keep the water away from your eyes, glasses and hair. The salt stings your eyes, and your glasses and hair can really suffer.
- Use the free conditioner in the showers. You have to shower before going in, so put some in your hair then, and again afterwards.
- Decide beforehand whether you just want the main lagoon or the spa too, so you buy the right ticket. There are quite a few tickets and extras to choose from.
- The Blue Lagoon is in a volcanically active area near Grindavík. When there’s a new eruption, the lagoon sometimes closes temporarily, so check the news just before your visit.
- Drink plenty of water before and after, because the salty water is dehydrating.
- Go for a walk around the area before or after for gorgeous lava landscapes and blue pools (you’re not allowed to swim in those, though).
Alternative: the Sky Lagoon near Reykjavík
Looking for an alternative close to the capital? Then the Sky Lagoon is a great option. While the Blue Lagoon is big, famous and built for crowds, the Sky Lagoon is smaller and calmer.
The Sky Lagoon is about ten minutes from downtown Reykjavík, right on the Atlantic Ocean. That makes it one of the best things to do in Reykjavík, and ideal if you don’t have time for a trip to Reykjanes. I didn’t get around to it myself.
The star of the show is the infinity pool: from the warm water, it looks like the lagoon flows straight into the ocean. There’s also a sauna with sea views, a cold plunge pool and a swim-up bar. Many visitors follow the seven-step ritual, from hot to cold and back again.
Plan your trip to Iceland
Everything you need to book your trip, in one place. From hotels to rental cars.
Our pickTickets often sell out. Book your Blue Lagoon tickets with transfer with GetYourGuide, from Reykjavík or Keflavík.
Hotels in Reykjavík: the best neighbourhoods and hotels, a short drive from the Blue Lagoon
Iceland was made for a Ring Road trip. Rent a car at Keflavík airport with Discover Cars and compare the big rental companies in one go.
Fancy doing it by camper, like we did? Rent a campervan from CampEasy near Keflavík airport, 4x4s included for the rougher roads.
Prefer everything arranged? Browse Iceland tours on TourRadar.
No flight yet? Compare flights to Keflavík, Iceland's international airport near Reykjavík.
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