If there’s one thing you probably already know about the country, it’s that there are a lot of hot springs in Iceland.
One of the must-do activities when visiting for any length of time is soaking in a geothermal pool. But the Blue Lagoon isn’t the only one! In fact, it has moved to the bottom of my hot spring list because it’s so overcrowded these days. I’m not saying you shouldn’t visit… but it’s worth considering your other options. I mean, why not visit all of them?
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Why visit the hot springs in Iceland?
Other than being a relaxing luxury experience, there are lots of health benefits to visiting hot springs in Iceland.
For example, you can find silica in many of the pools, which has amazing moisturizing benefits.
If you’re brave enough to try a cold plunge, you might have improved mental clarity and reduced muscle soreness after a workout. Some studies even say it can reduce anxiety and depression. Bold claims!
The sulfur is smelly, can heal skin conditions like eczema and acne. And hey, it wouldn’t be Iceland without a little egg fart smell!
When I was about 15, I met an Icelandic woman who told me all about the hot springs in Iceland and how amazing they are for your skin. This was before the days of Instagram, which I think ultimately led to the Blue Lagoon’s worldwide fame.
And like I said, I was 15, so ya know, acne was ruining my life.
I thought if I visited once, the water would cure me forever. So I dreamed of going to this far-off exotic land with magical fountains of beautifying mud until I got to visit when I was 20, back in 2012.
When I got there, it absolutely did not disappoint, but I am devastated to say it did not fix my skin for life. And it ruined my hair for about a week. Do not put your head under water.
I didn’t know the minerals in the water make your hair super straw-like.
It was so bad I couldn’t even brush it.
The best hot springs in Iceland
On my first visit in 2012, I was only there for a few days and just hit the Blue Lagoon, Golden Triangle, and Reykjavik. More recently, I went back and did the entire Ring Road and visited way more hot springs and finding the real hidden gems.
And fortunately, you don’t need to do the entire Ring Road to find them all! In no particular order, here are my all-time favourite hot springs in Iceland:
Sky Lagoon
Price: 11,500+ ISK ($90 USD)
for the “Pure Pass” which is the mid-range best bang for your buck option.
Location: Basically in Reykjavik (though not walkable from the city centre)
The Sky Lagoon is new! It offers an in-depth spa experience amidst a stoney setting that will make you feel like you’re in Game of Thrones. And, it’s close to Reykjavik city which makes it a great option if you’re short on time. You can even book a shuttle from the city centre so you can enjoy a glass of sparkling wine while you’re soaking in the steamy rock pools.
Their 7-step ritual is included in the Pure Pass, and it’s absolutely necessary to experience. Seriously, don’t book the “lite” version. The ritual makes this arguably the best hot spring in Iceland.
I recommend booking with Get Your Guide so you can book the 7-step ritual and shuttle to/from the spa all in one. This way, you can enjoy a drink or two from the swim-up bar.
Forest Lagoon
Price: 6,590 ISK ($50 USD)
Location: Just across the bridge from Akureyri, Northern Iceland.
If you’re visiting at the right time, you may be able to catch this free shuttle.
Alright, I know I just said Sky Lagoon is the best one, but I think Forest Lagoon is my favourite of all the hot springs in Iceland. It’s hard to really rank them fairly because they’re all so different and it will just depend on the time of year and day you visit etc.
But when we went, it was basically empty and snowing just enough to make it magical. They have an epic Finnish dry sauna room overlooking the pools and a 12 degree cold plunge if that’s your thing.
There are no silica mud masks, scrubs, or other ritual steps, but it’s just a relaxing place to be with a true Scandinavian spa vibe.
Vök Baths
Price: 6,490 ISK ($50 USD)
Location: Eastern Iceland, a short drive from Eglisstadir.
The Vök Baths are super cool and in a really unique setting, “floating” in a lake. This has to be the best hot spring for anyone who loves a cold plunge, because you can jump into the lake straight from the hot pools! Chesney did it, I could never.
The price includes a loose leaf tea made with hot spring water (but fortunately, not the one you’re bathing in). We also found this one to be way quieter than the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon. Fewer people visit the Northern and Eastern part of Iceland. So, if you can get yourself there, the hot springs are much quieter and more affordable!
Blue Lagoon - the most famous of all the hot springs in Iceland!
Price: 13,990 ISK ($105 USD)
for the Premium Package, which includes two additional face masks, which will really give you the full spa experience.
Note: prices can vary significantly depending on the time of day you visit.
Location: Grindavik, near the Keflavik International Airport.
Yes, the Blue Lagoon might be a tourist hot spot, but it’s like that for a reason. It really is an incredible experience, and very convenient to hit on your way in or out of the country because it’s just 20 minutes from Keflavik International Airport.
You can book the shuttle through Get Your Guide.
It’s important to book ahead, I’d say at least a week in advance. Fortunately, the limited booking spaces mean it’s not completely flooded with people. I visited again in 2023 and while it was definitely busy, it wasn’t like, shoulder to shoulder in the pools.
I still loved it.
If you can afford to treat yourself to a nice meal, the Lava Restaurant really doesn’t disappoint. And you’ll get a free glass of sparkling wine if you book the Premium Package for the lagoon, which I recommend.
My brother lol
Me and Chesney, obv
Seljavallalaug
Price: Free! (For now)
Literally nothing in Iceland is free so take advantage of this while you can.
Location: South Coast of Iceland, near Skogafoss.
Ok, so not technically a “hot spring,” because it’s not that hot. But it’s a warm, very cozy, and very comfortable pool. A big dirtier bathtub, if you will. I’m really selling it aren’t I?
This is a great option if you’re driving the South Coast from Reykjavik to Vik. It’s far less luxurious than others on this list, but perfect if you’re looking for a more natural, low key hot spring. You can find it in the mountains, at the foot of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. It’s just a short and easy 20-minute walk from the parking lot.
There’s technically a change room on site but… I’d suggest putting your swimsuit on before you get there. It wasn’t cute and I don’t think there’s a lot of maintenance.
I recommend Seljavallalaug for anyone on a budget or looking for a more off-the-beaten-track experience. It’s so easy to include in your South Coast itinerary.
I havent been to these hot springs in Iceland (yet)
But they’re supposed to be great! Definitely worth checking out.
Myvatn Nature Baths
Price: 6,490 ISK ($50 USD)
Location: Near Reykjahlid, Northern Iceland
The Myvatn Nature Baths have a very similar vibe to the Blue Lagoon with opaque blue water. It’s surrounded by mountains and is an excellent spot to see the Northern Lights if you’re visiting during the winter.
Not to take away from the baths themselves, but Myvatn also has some other cool sites to hit, like a famous cave from Game of Thrones. (The one where Jon Snooooo loses his V card.)
The hot springs are pretty much smack dab in the middle between Godafoss and Dettifoss as well, which are both must see falls when in Northern Iceland.
Secret Lagoon
Price: 3,300 ISK ($25 USD)
Location: About 1hr 30mins drive from Reykjavík
Closer to Reykjavik and attractions like Gullfoss and Selfoss, the Secret Lagoon is not exactly a secret anymore. But it’s still stunning and one of the more affordable hot springs in Iceland!
Keep in mind prices at some hot springs can change based on the time of day/year, and the package you choose. You may also need to bring your own towels and flip flops or pay to rent them.
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