Blue Lagoon Iceland is one of the country’s most iconic experiences — and for good reason. This otherworldly geothermal spa, set among lava fields, is as relaxing as it is surreal. But with its popularity comes logistics, so you’ll want to plan ahead to avoid disappointment. Here’s everything I wish I’d known before visiting, along with updated travel advice and practical packing tips.
This post is based on my personal visit to the Blue Lagoon in winter 2016/2017. The information has been updated for 2025 to reflect current pricing, booking advice, and practical recommendations.
Booking the Blue Lagoon Iceland: Don’t Just Turn Up
The Blue Lagoon books up quickly, especially in peak seasons and around holidays. As of 2025, advanced booking is strongly recommended, and same-day tickets are rare. You can book directly through the Blue Lagoon website or as part of a package with a transfer and extras included. I wouldn’t leave it to chance, especially if it’s high on your list.
When to visit the Blue Lagoon
It’s open year-round, and while summer offers the midnight sun, winter visits are magical — especially if it’s snowing. Early morning and evening slots tend to be quieter, while mid-afternoon is busier but warmer in winter. If you want photos without crowds, book the earliest possible time slot.
Getting to the Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is about 45 minutes from Reykjavík and just 20 minutes from Keflavík Airport. Many travellers choose to visit either on arrival or departure day, as it’s a convenient stop between the airport and city. If you take this route, don’t worry about your luggage — the Blue Lagoon offers secure bag storage on-site.
In our case, flight timings didn’t line up, so we made it a half-day trip from Reykjavík instead. We booked through Reykjavík Excursions, which included return bus transfers. They drop off and pick up at your hotel or the nearest designated stop.
Food & Drink
There’s a café inside the main building with drinks, snacks, and light meals. If you’re planning to stay longer or want to make it a full experience, consider booking a table at Lava Restaurant — the on-site fine dining option built into a lava cliff. It’s pricier, but very atmospheric.
Blue Lagoon Prices (2025)
Prices vary depending on time of day and package, but expect to pay from €70–€110+ per person. Even the basic package includes:
- Entrance to the lagoon
- Use of a locker
- Silica mud mask
- Towel
- First drink of your choice (yes, there’s a swim-up bar)
The Premium and Luxury options add extras like robes, slippers, and extra masks — worth considering if you want to feel a bit fancy (or just warm).
Make full use of your wristband. When you arrive, you’ll be given an electronic wristband that acts as both your locker key and your in-water wallet. You can use it to buy drinks at the swim-up bar or pay for anything else during your visit, then pay when you leave.
What Should I Wear to the Blue Lagoon?
It might be snowing, but you’ll still be stepping outside in your swimsuit — so be prepared.
What to pack:
- Swimsuit or bikini – whatever you’re comfortable in
- Flip flops or slides – helpful for walking outside in the cold
- Microfibre towel (optional) – handy if you don’t upgrade your package
- Hair tie or headband – to keep your hair out of the water
- Conditioner – though it’s provided in the showers
Tip: The snow underfoot between the changing room and lagoon entrance can be icy or slushy — consider using flip-flops.
Hair & Skin: Protect Your Hair!
The Blue Lagoon’s seawater is full of silica, which is great for your skin, but not your hair. It’s not damaging, but it can make hair dry, stiff, and impossible to brush out. You’ll find free conditioner in the showers, and I recommend using a generous amount before and after your dip.
Whilst your watch or prescription glasses might be waterproof, the silica and other elements can damage or corrode your items so if in doubt, don’t take it and take care not to submerge items into the water. Salt, minerals, and other elements found in the seawater of the Blue Lagoon can irritate your eyes. Therefore, if you wear contact lenses, it’s recommended that you remove them before entering the lagoon.
Protect Your Towel (and Robe)
If your package includes a towel and robe, take care where you leave them. There are pegs outside the lagoon entrance — but they’re exposed to the elements. If it’s snowing (as it was for us), your towel will be soaked and frozen by the time you get out. Keep your towel in your locker until you’re done showering, and only take your robe out if you’re happy for it to get wet.
Cameras in the Blue Lagoon
Yes, you can bring your phone or GoPro into the lagoon, but use caution.
- Waterproof phone pouch (can be bought on-site)
- GoPro head or wrist strap – great for hands-free footage
- Avoid submerging watches, glasses, Fitbits, etc. — the minerals can corrode or stain them
Showers and Changing Rooms
As with most Icelandic pools and spas, you’re meant to shower naked before entering the lagoon. It’s part of the country’s hygiene standards — but don’t panic! There are private cubicles available, and it wasn’t strictly policed when I visited. Most people either kept their swimsuits on or ducked into a shower cubicle discreetly. The changing rooms are clean, warm, and gender-separated.
Is the Blue Lagoon Worth It?
Yes — but only if you go in with the right expectations. It’s a bit commercial and absolutely no longer “off the beaten track,” but it’s also unique, relaxing, and surreal, especially if you go in winter when there’s snow on the ground and steam rising all around you. Just don’t expect a quiet, hidden hot spring — this is a spa with a system, a wristband, and a bar menu. But honestly? You’ll love it.
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