Blue Lagoon Iceland: Is It Worth the Hype? An Honest Guide

The Blue Lagoon is the most photographed, most marketed, and most debated attraction in Iceland. Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors float in its milky-blue water and post the same dreamy photos. But at 8,500 ISK minimum for entry (and up to 80,000 ISK for the premium retreat), plenty of travellers wonder whether it is worth it.

What You Actually Get

The standard Comfort package (from 8,500 ISK) includes entry to the main lagoon, a silica mud mask, a towel, and one drink of your choice. The water temperature hovers around 38 to 40°C, heated by the geothermal power plant next door. The lagoon itself is enormous, so even on busy days you can find quieter corners.

The Premium package (from 12,000 ISK) adds a second mask, a bathrobe, slippers, and a table reservation at the in-water bar. The Retreat Spa (from 60,000 ISK) is a separate, adults-only section with private changing rooms, a lava restaurant, and a subterranean spa.

The Honest Assessment

It is worth it if:

  • You are visiting Iceland for the first time and want the iconic experience
  • You have a few hours to kill near the airport (it is only 20 minutes from Keflavik)
  • You book the Comfort package and go in the late afternoon when crowds thin
  • You appreciate the unique setting: a lagoon carved into a lava field

It is not worth it if:

  • You are on a tight budget and would rather spend 8,500 ISK on a glacier hike or whale watching
  • You dislike crowds and queues
  • You are expecting a natural, untouched hot spring (it is not, the water is a byproduct of the nearby power plant)
  • You have already experienced Iceland's free or low-cost geothermal pools

How to Make the Most of It

  • Book early: The Blue Lagoon sells out, especially in summer. Book at least two weeks ahead
  • Go late: The 6pm or 8pm entry slots are less crowded and the evening light is beautiful
  • Skip the extras: The Comfort package is all you need. The mud mask and drink are included
  • Protect your hair: The silica and minerals will dry out your hair. Use the free conditioner generously before entering
  • Bring your own towel: You can save a few hundred krona if you bring one, though the included towel is fine

Better Alternatives

If the Blue Lagoon does not appeal, Iceland has dozens of geothermal bathing options:

  • Sky Lagoon (Reykjavik): Newer, sleeker, infinity-edge pool overlooking the ocean. From 6,990 ISK
  • Hvammsvik Hot Springs: Natural shoreline pools with a wilderness setting. From 6,500 ISK
  • Secret Lagoon (Fludir): A historic, no-frills pool in the Golden Circle area. From 3,200 ISK
  • Myvatn Nature Baths: The "Blue Lagoon of the North" with far fewer visitors in North Iceland. From 5,500 ISK
  • Seljavallalaug: A free, semi-abandoned pool tucked into a valley on the south coast
  • Reykjadalur Hot River: A free geothermally heated river you hike to near Hveragerdi

Logistics

The Blue Lagoon is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, roughly halfway between Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik. Many visitors schedule it on their arrival or departure day. Shuttle buses run from both the airport and the capital, and the lagoon offers luggage storage. If you are renting a car, the drive takes about 20 minutes from the airport or 45 minutes from Reykjavik. Combine it with our Reykjavik walking itinerary for a perfect first day.

The facility includes changing rooms, showers, a restaurant, and a gift shop. Everything is well-maintained and modern. It is, if nothing else, a professionally run operation. For help with budgeting your trip, check our cost breakdown guide.