Laugardalslaug - a microphone on a stand in front of a brick wall
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Laugardalslaug

4.6
·2k reviews·Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavik's beloved geothermal pool complex, offering hot tubs, slides, and a true taste of Icelandic relaxation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
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Laugardalslaug - a microphone on a stand in front of a brick wall

Laugardalslaug

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Reykjavik's beloved geothermal pool complex, offering hot tubs, slides, and a true taste of Icelandic relaxation.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Great quality for an affordable price, a must-do for experiencing local life!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Shower Before You Swim! :soap:

Thoroughly shower before entering any pool. It's a strict rule and part of Icelandic pool culture.

Wristband Magic :key:

Your wristband unlocks your locker and can be used for purchases. Keep it safe!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Variety of Hot Tubs

Variety of Hot Tubs

Various locations within the complex

Experience a spectrum of temperatures, from warm to intensely hot, including unique laying hot tubs. Perfect for a progressive relaxation cycle.

Reddit
Family Fun Zone

Family Fun Zone

Dedicated children's area

Kids will love the obstacle course and waterslide, offering hours of active fun in a safe, supervised environment.

Reddit
The 50m Lap Pool

The 50m Lap Pool

Main swimming area

Enjoy a refreshing swim in the 50-meter lanes, often with fewer swimmers, making it ideal for a peaceful workout.

Reddit
Steam Room & Cold Plunge

Steam Room & Cold Plunge

Adjacent to hot tubs

Complete your thermal experience with a detoxifying steam session followed by a bracing cold plunge for ultimate rejuvenation.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Pool Culture

Icelanders love their pools! Before diving in, familiarize yourself with local etiquette: showering thoroughly before entering is mandatory, and nudity is common in changing rooms. This respect for cleanliness is key to the experience. Reddit

Plan Your Visit Time

While Laugardalslaug is open year-round, evenings can get busy with locals unwinding. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed soak, especially if you prefer fewer crowds. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Locals unwind, lively vibe
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Can be busy, authentic feel
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Laugardalslaug Swimming Pool - Reykjavík

Shower Before You Swim! :soap:

Thoroughly shower before entering any pool. It's a strict rule and part of Icelandic pool culture. Reddit

Wristband Magic :key:

Your wristband unlocks your locker and can be used for purchases. Keep it safe! Reddit

reddit.com

Trying to choose public pool Sundhalin or Laugardalsaug

reddit.com

Public Swimming pool tips

Phone-Free Zone :no_entry_sign:

Phones are generally not allowed in pool areas to ensure privacy and relaxation. Reddit

Bring Your Own Towel :towel:

While rentals might be available, bringing your own towel is often more convenient and cost-effective. Reddit

reddit.com

Laugardalslaug, Reykjavík, Iceland

Tips

from all over the internet

Shower Before You Swim! :soap:

Thoroughly shower before entering any pool. It's a strict rule and part of Icelandic pool culture. Reddit

Wristband Magic :key:

Your wristband unlocks your locker and can be used for purchases. Keep it safe! Reddit

Phone-Free Zone :no_entry_sign:

Phones are generally not allowed in pool areas to ensure privacy and relaxation. Reddit

Bring Your Own Towel :towel:

While rentals might be available, bringing your own towel is often more convenient and cost-effective. Reddit

Explore All Temps :thermometer:

Don't stick to one tub! Cycle through different temperatures for a unique wellness experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Laugardalslaug for its affordability, extensive facilities, and authentic Icelandic pool experience. While some note the facilities show signs of age, the variety of hot tubs, slides, and the overall cleanliness are consistently highlighted as positives. It's considered a great place for both relaxation and family fun. Reddit

"The place is clean but has seen its better days. The facilities are great though. Really fun with the obstruction course and slides for kids on water. Many hot tubs to choose from plus a steam room. Good to spend a couple of hours after visiting the town centre. Good value for money as entrance was fairly cheap."

Iris Granstedt

"It is like a normal swimming hall with funny smelling water. 50m tracks and few swimmers made this really enjoyable visit"

Niko Humalisto

"📅 Date Visited: JUNE 2025

📍Type: Public Geothermal Pool with naturally heated geothermal water

✅ There is daily pass for foreigners and fee is 1,380 KR

✅ Clean & Clear Water

✅ Unique Features: Hot tubs of varying temps, cold plunge, steam room, water slides)

✅ Showers / Changing Rooms: Clean, well-maintained

✅ Lockers Provided: You receive a yellow wristband at the entrance for free — it opens and locks your assigned locker

✅ Relaxing or Fun? Both — great for families, swimmers, and chillers

✅ Not Too Crowded: Can be busy in the evenings, but still manageable

Would I return? ✅ Yes

🌟 Special thanks to Bjorn @ reception for his kindness"

yyy_gogo

What People Like

Affordable entry fee
Variety of hot tubs
Family-friendly facilities

What People Dislike

Facilities show age

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Laugardalslaug is easily accessible from downtown Reykjavik. You can take a short bus ride (routes 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 14, 15 all go nearby) or enjoy a pleasant walk of about 20-30 minutes. Taxis are also readily available. Reddit

Yes, there is ample parking available at Laugardalslaug, making it convenient if you're arriving by car. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a scenic walk of about 20-30 minutes from the heart of Reykjavik, offering a chance to see more of the city. Reddit

For budget-conscious travelers, taking the local bus system or walking are the most economical options. Reddit

Yes, Laugardalslaug is located near the Reykjavik Family Park and Zoo and the Laugardalur botanical garden, making it easy to combine with other activities. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for Laugardalslaug is quite affordable, with a specific daily pass for foreigners. Expect to pay around 1,380 ISK. Reddit

Generally, you can purchase tickets upon arrival at Laugardalslaug. Booking in advance is usually not necessary unless there are special events. Reddit

Laugardalslaug is heated year-round and has extensive opening hours, typically from early morning until late evening. It's best to check their official website for the most current times. Reddit

Yes, there is a specific daily pass fee for tourists, which is clearly stated at the entrance. Reddit

The entrance fee grants you access to all the pools, hot tubs, steam rooms, and the children's play areas. Lockers are also included. Reddit

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

Laugardalslaug boasts numerous hot tubs of varying temperatures, a 50m lap pool, a steam room, a cold plunge pool, waterslides, and a children's obstacle course. Showers and changing rooms are clean and well-maintained. Reddit

Absolutely! The complex features a dedicated children's obstacle course and waterslide, making it a fantastic destination for families. Reddit

The water is geothermally heated and described as clean and clear. Some visitors note a slight 'funny smelling' odor, which is typical of geothermal water. Reddit

No, phones and cameras are generally prohibited in the pool and changing areas to respect privacy and maintain a relaxing atmosphere. Reddit

Icelandic pool etiquette emphasizes cleanliness. Shower thoroughly before entering, and be mindful of others when sharing hot tubs. Some tubs are for lounging, others for soaking. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the pool areas. There might be designated areas outside the main complex for consumption. Reddit

While there isn't a full-service restaurant directly within the pool complex, there are often small kiosks or cafes nearby, and the main Reykjavik area offers numerous dining options. Reddit

The Laugardalslaug complex is situated in a larger park area with various amenities. You can find cafes and restaurants within walking distance in the surrounding Reykjavik neighborhoods. Reddit

Some facilities may offer vending machines or small snack bars, but it's not guaranteed. It's advisable to check on-site or bring your own snacks if allowed in designated areas. Reddit

Reykjavik offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional Icelandic dishes like lamb soup and fresh seafood to international cuisine. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally discouraged or prohibited in the pool and changing areas to respect the privacy of other visitors. Reddit

You might be able to take photos in the general park areas surrounding the pool complex, but be mindful of people's privacy. Reddit

The architecture of the complex and the steam rising from the pools can be visually interesting, but always prioritize respecting the rules and other guests. Reddit

It's best to assume that photography is not allowed in the immediate vicinity of the pools and changing rooms. Always look for signage or ask staff if unsure. Reddit

Focus on capturing the feeling and atmosphere through descriptions rather than explicit photos of people. You can photograph the general surroundings from a distance if permitted. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Laugardalslaug is a top pick for families visiting Reykjavik. The children's obstacle course and waterslides are huge hits, ensuring kids have a blast. The variety of pools means there's something for everyone, from shallow areas for toddlers to warmer tubs for parents to relax in. Reddit

Tip: Pack swim diapers if needed, and be prepared for a lively atmosphere. The wristband system for lockers is also a convenient feature for managing belongings. It's an affordable way to spend a few hours of fun and experience local life. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Laugardalslaug offers incredible value. The entry fee is very reasonable, especially compared to other attractions. It's a chance to experience a core part of Icelandic culture without breaking the bank. Reddit

Tip: Bring your own towel to save on rental fees. Walking or taking public transport from the city center are the cheapest ways to get here. It's a perfect activity for a day when you want to save money but still have a memorable experience. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Relaxation Seekers

If your goal is to unwind, Laugardalslaug's numerous hot tubs are your sanctuary. Explore the different temperatures, from soothingly warm to intensely hot, and find your perfect spot. The steam room offers a detoxifying experience, while the cold plunge provides an invigorating contrast. Reddit

Tip: Visit during off-peak hours on weekdays for a more tranquil experience. The progressive hot-to-cold therapy is highly recommended for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Icelandic Pool Culture

Visiting Laugardalslaug is more than just a swim; it's an immersion into the heart of Icelandic social life. Pools are community hubs where people of all ages gather to relax, socialize, and stay warm year-round. The emphasis on cleanliness is paramount, with a strict showering protocol before entering any pool. This practice is deeply ingrained and respected by all users. Reddit

Expect to see a mix of people – families enjoying the slides, swimmers getting in their laps, and friends catching up in the hot tubs. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and friendly. While nudity is common in the changing rooms and sometimes in the pools themselves, it's done without self-consciousness and is simply part of the norm. Reddit

Embracing this culture means shedding inhibitions and respecting the communal space. It's a unique opportunity to experience a genuine slice of Icelandic life, far from the typical tourist trail. Remember to follow the posted rules, especially regarding phone usage and showering, to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Reddit

Navigating the Hot Tubs

Laugardalslaug offers an impressive array of hot tubs, each with a distinct temperature. This allows for a 'hot tub crawl,' where you can progressively move from warmer to hotter pools, and then cool off in a cold plunge. This practice is believed to have numerous health benefits, including improved circulation and muscle relaxation. Reddit

Pay attention to the temperature labels on the tubs. Some are designed for active soaking, while others are more for lounging. It's common to see people moving between tubs, chatting with fellow bathers, or simply enjoying the warmth. The variety ensures there's a perfect spot for everyone, whether you're seeking intense heat or a gentle soak. Reddit

Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations. A common routine involves spending time in a hot tub, followed by a brief dip in the cold pool, and then repeating. This contrast therapy is invigorating and a signature experience of Icelandic geothermal pools. Reddit

Family Fun and Safety

For families, Laugardalslaug is a fantastic destination. The dedicated children's area features a fun obstacle course and a thrilling waterslide, providing hours of entertainment for younger visitors. Parents can relax knowing these areas are designed with safety in mind. Reddit

Beyond the dedicated play zones, the various pools offer different depths and temperatures, catering to a range of ages and comfort levels. The overall environment is welcoming to families, and the affordable entry fee makes it an accessible outing. Remember to supervise children closely, especially around water, and familiarize yourself with any specific rules for the play areas. Reddit

It's a great way for kids to burn off energy and experience a unique aspect of Icelandic culture. The opportunity to play in geothermally heated water, even on a chilly day, is a memorable experience for children. Reddit

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