Hot Springs in Iceland

Hot springs Iceland | A soothing escape into nature's geothermal wonders

Visit Iceland's hot springs and step into a warm, mineral-rich pool surrounded by volcanic landscapes, snow-dusted peaks, or endless greenery, depending on the season and location. Whether it’s the surreal milky-blue waters of the Blue Lagoon or the tranquil isolation of lesser-known gems like Krauma, soaking in Iceland’s geothermal pools is a sensory journey that merges nature, wellness, and tradition in every dip.

Things to know before booking your hot springs tickets

Location matters:
- Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are conveniently located near Reykjavik and Keflavik Airport, making them ideal for short stays or layovers. Many travelers head straight to the Blue Lagoon from the airport, and transfer tickets with airport pickup make this seamless.
- Secret Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are on the Golden Circle route, making them great stops during your day trip.
- If you're venturing into the less-traveled regions of East Iceland, Vok Baths is a perfect choice. In West Iceland, Krauma Geothermal Baths or Hvammsvík Hot Springs offer fantastic options to unwind.

Be sure to book your Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon tickets 3-4 weeks in advance as they are extremely popular, with limited availability, so tickets often sell out. Secret Lagoon and Krauma Baths usually have same-day availability, but booking ahead is still recommended to secure your preferred time slot.

Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon offer premium experiences with higher prices, while Vok Baths and Krauma Baths provide budget-friendly alternatives. Choose based on your preferences and budget.

Some tours feature hot spring visits as part of a broader itinerary. For instance, you can combine the Secret Lagoon with a Golden Circle tour to make the most of your day.

Many hot springs offer free or discounted tickets for children, but age limits differ by location. Blue Lagoon permits children aged 2 and older, while the Sky Lagoon is reserved for guests aged 12 and above. Be sure to review the age-specific guidelines for your chosen hot spring before booking.

Showering is recommended—and mandatory in some locations—before entering hot springs, a practice deeply rooted in Icelandic culture.

All hot spring facilities include luggage storage, lockers, and changing rooms for your convenience.

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Natural wonders: Discover Iceland's geothermal activity

Iceland is aptly named the land of fire and ice, where volcanic forces and glacial elements coexist. Hot springs are born from this geothermal activity, creating naturally heated pools.

Picture steam rising into crisp air as you soak in waters surrounded by moss-covered lava fields, with the occasional geyser bursting in the distance. Every hot spring visit is a front-row seat to Iceland's dramatic geology.

Why are there so many hot springs in Iceland?

Iceland's abundance of hot springs is a result of its unique geological position, sitting atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where two tectonic plates meet. This unique position has made Iceland a hotspot of volcanic and geothermal activity. Water from rain and melting glaciers seeps deep into the ground, where it's naturally heated by this magma. Over time, the heated water rises back to the surface, forming hot springs, geysers, and steam vents.

With over 600 hot springs fueled by its abundant geothermal activity, Iceland has long embraced these natural wonders as an integral part of its culture, serving as sources of energy, wellness, and relaxation for centuries.

Frequently asked questions about hot springs in Iceland

How much does it cost to visit hot springs in Iceland?

Hot spring ticket prices in Iceland start at and vary depending on the hot spring you choose and the amenities offered.

What is the best time to visit hot springs in Iceland?

You can visit hot springs year-round! Winter offers a magical experience with snowy landscapes and a chance to see the Northern Lights. In summer, you can soak under the midnight sun. The experience changes with the season, but the warmth of the geothermal waters remains constant.

Do I need to book tickets for Iceland hot springs in advance?

Booking a hot springs ticket in advance is highly recommended for popular hot springs like the Blue Lagoon, Vok Baths, and Sky Lagoon, as they tend to fill up quickly. Secret Lagoon and Krauma are less crowded, but securing your spot ahead of time—especially during peak travel months like June, July, and August—is still a wise choice.

How hot are Iceland's hot springs?

The water temperature varies by location but typically ranges between 30°C and 40°C (97°F to 104°F). Some springs, like the Blue Lagoon and Krauma, are carefully maintained for comfort, while others, like the Secret Lagoon, retain their natural temperature fluctuations.

Is swimming gear required in hot springs, Iceland?

Yes, swimsuits are required at all public hot springs, including Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Krauma. So, don't forget to pack yours! Many facilities also have swimsuits available to rent if needed.

Can I visit more than one hot spring in a day?

Yes, visiting multiple hot springs in a day is possible, especially if they are located near each other. For example, you can combine Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon if you're staying near Reykjavik. However, it's best to space them out to avoid overexposure to hot water. Drink plenty of water and take breaks between visits for a comfortable experience.

Is the water in hot springs clean?

Yes. The water in hot springs is naturally self-cleaning due to its high mineral content and constant flow. Additionally, all the hot springs facilities filter and renew the water regularly to maintain hygiene.

What should I pack for a visit to hot springs?

Pack a change of clothes, swimsuit, towel, flip-flops, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget a waterproof phone case for photos!

Do hot springs have lifeguards?

Some hot springs, like the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon, have lifeguards on duty for safety. However, natural and remote pools like Secret Lagoon may not, so always exercise caution and follow posted guidelines.

From happy customers

Diane

Nov, 2024

the blue lagoon was fabulous!! very well organized experience!!! However, I was a bit confused by the "optional transfer" wording as I booked and then the optional transfer was NOT included, and I had to scramble last minute to get there!!

Blue Lagoon Admission Tickets

Aaron

United States

Mar, 2025

Loved Sky Lagoon! And the 7 Step Ritual is worth it! This tour is great, though I wish I knew that transport would require a transfer. That seemed inefficient and added unnecessary time.

From Reykjavik: Sky Lagoon Tickets with Transfers

Simone

Switzerland

Aug, 2025

Very nice place to be and relax for a while, clean changing rooms and showers, beautiful landscape... just the place to be!

Secret Lagoon - Gamla Laugin Tickets

Kathleen

Jun, 2025

So quiet and peaceful, I'd revisit Secret Lagoon any time. Staff persons were welcoming, and everything super clean. The lagoon was picturesque. The bottom of the largest pool was smooth pebble and felt good on tired feet.