The highlights of the Golden Circle in Iceland
April 7, 2025
Content
Imagine the following: you float in the blue, geothermally heated water surrounded by lava fields and gentle patches of steam. A mineral-rich mud mask dries on your face while you completely relax. Welcome to the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland's most iconic destinations.
What is the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a world-renowned geothermal spa located in a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The mineral-rich water, from a depth of 2,000 meters, is known for its healing properties and unique milky blue color, caused by a combination of silica, algae and minerals. The temperature of the water varies between 37 and 40 degrees.
How does a visit to the Blue Lagoon work?
When you want to visit the Blue Lagoon, you can choose from several packages. You receive bij arrival a wristband that acts as a key to your locker and a means of payment for inside at the various facilities. You have access to everything (if within your package) and can enter the water after a good shower with swimwear.
Tip: Coat your hair with conditioner to prevent dehydration from the silica in the water.
The different packages for a visit to the Blue Lagoon
There are several access options, below we have conveniently arranged them in a table. More information about the options can be found at the website of the Blue Lagoon.
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Package
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Includes
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Starting price
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|---|---|---|
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Comfort
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Entrance, silica mud mask, towel, drink of choice
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€69,-
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Premium
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Entrance, silica mud mask, towel, 2 drinks of your choice, 2 additional masks, use of bathrobe
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€90,-
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Signature
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Entrance, silica mud mask, towel, 2 drinks of your choice, 2 additional masks, use of bathrobe, products for home
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€115,-
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What is the best time to visit the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon is a popular destination during a tour of Iceland. Consequently, the lagoon is often crowded, mostly by tourists. Do you like to avoid the crowds? Then it is best to visit the lagoon visit early in the morning or later in the evening. In the winter months, it is also possible to see the northern lights while bathing. That is quite a special experience!
Tip: book an overnight stay nearby
The town of Grindavík is close to the Blue Lagoon, making it a fine base from which to look for accommodation. The area around Grindavík is known for its volcanic activity and impressive landscapes. For example, you will find the beautifully situated Northern Ligt Inn, where the northern lights can often be clearly seen. The residence offers good facilities and comfortable rooms.
You can also consider staying overnight at the Blue Lagoon hotel: The Retreat. This luxury stay offers access to the Retreat Spa, Retreat Lagoon, Blue Lagoon and Blue Lagoon Ritual. And that's certainly not all. You can also participate in group hikes and yoga sessions.
What do you take to the Blue Lagoon?
This is a handy list of items you will need at the Blue Lagoon.
Swimwear: be aware of possible discoloration from minerals in the water, so don't bring your newest swimwear.
Slippers: for hygiene.
Hair conditioner: Protects your hair from drying out.
Towel and bathrobe: These are included with certain packages, but bringing your own can save costs.
Jewelry: Prefer to leave these as sulfur in the water can cause discoloration.
How do you get to the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon is about a 15-minute drive from Keflavik International Airport and about a 45-minute drive from downtown Reykjavik. The easiest way to get here is by (rental) car.
Most travelers who travel to Iceland are here to take an insane round trip. They often do this with a rental car that you can pick up at the airport. How convenient! We can offer you A rental car through SunnyCars recommend because of their all-in service.
Should you consider going to the Blue Lagoon right after arriving at Keflavik Airport? Then you can use the free shuttle that runs back and forth between the airport, the Blue Lagoon and downtown Reykjavik. Reservations can be made via the website of the Blue Lagoon. The shuttle is only free if you actually visit the Blue Lagoon.
Is the Blue Lagoon worth it?
For many travelers, a visit to the Blue Lagoon is a highlight of their tour of Iceland. Although it is a very touristy place, and can be hugely pricey, it offers a unique experience of relaxation in a surreal landscape. So visiting the Blue Lagoon is definitely fun to do, but are you going to explore more of Iceland? Then we think there are better places to enjoy a geothermal bath. Are you in Iceland for a short time, or only around Reykjavik? Then it's definitely worth visiting the Blue Lagoon.
Good alternatives to the Blue Lagoon
There are more than 100 hot pots scattered throughout Iceland. Some are indicated, others you really have to discover for yourself (for example, through apps like HotPotIceland). Also, feel free to ask locals about their favorite secret spots.
Other geothermal baths to consider are:
Sky Lagoon
Mývatn Nature Baths
Secret Lagoon
Interesting Iceland deals
From finding the cheapest airfare to tips on the most beautiful tours, and great deals. Be sure to take a look at these providers with interesting Iceland deals:
Still not quite getting there? Did you know that we also have an insane personalized itinerary can create for you? You will receive a PDF document with tips for accommodations, itineraries, rental cars, restaurants, activities, and so on. Everything is worked out for you. All that's left for you to do is book.
Lois Weeterings
A dreamer and adventure seeker, always on the lookout for new experiences. But also a hard worker with a thousand ideas racing through my mind. As a personal travel consultant and travel blogger, I share my passion for faraway destinations, thrilling adventures, and winter sports. With deep knowledge of places like Namibia, Colombia, the ABC Islands, and the Middle East, I’m here to help you craft a trip you’ll never forget. Through my personal stories and expert tips, I aim to inspire you to explore the world your way. Always with my camera in hand, I’m determined to capture every magical moment and share it with you.
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