BLUE LAGOON | PRICES, HOURS, AND ALTERNATIVES IN ICELAND
What is the entrance fee for the Blue Lagoon, how does a visit work, how long should you stay, and where can you book at the best price? Find all the answers to your questions in this travel guide.
Is Iceland's Blue Lagoon natural?
The Blue Lagoon, or Bláa Lónid in Icelandic, is artificial. It was formed in 1976 following the overproduction of hot water from the nearby geothermal power plant. To heat homes, the plant pumps hot underground water. This 200°C mineral-rich water would damage the piping system if injected directly. Instead, it’s used to heat freshwater before being discharged into the surrounding lava fields. As it cools, the silica in the water turns into mud that makes the ground impermeable, resulting in the formation of a lagoon. There’s ongoing debate about the Blue Lagoon’s impact on the local ecosystem. To drain excess water, new settling pools are dug in the lava field. Some consider the Blue Lagoon an ecological disaster.
Today, this silica-rich water is known for its skin benefits. When it opened in 1987, the Blue Lagoon was exclusively used to treat skin diseases like psoriasis. The first person to bathe there was Valur Margeirsson, an Icelander with psoriasis. He noticed the water’s therapeutic properties and had to fight for permission to swim there. Because of its milky aspect and bluish tint, Icelanders initially thought it was toxic. In reality, the opacity is caused by silicates and the blue color by algae. Since then, the site has continuously expanded, now offering spa, hotel, and dining services.
The lagoon water is made up of 30% freshwater and 70% seawater, enriched with silica, algae, and minerals (calcium, sodium, chloride, magnesium). The water contains no chemicals — on the contrary, it’s beneficial for dermatological conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
How much does entry to the Blue Lagoon cost?
Clry2 - Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0
For adults (14+), prices start at 59 EUR, with an average price of 83 EUR. There are three packages (Comfort, Premium, and Luxury), and prices vary depending on entry time, day, demand, and season. Children aged 2–13 enter free of charge if accompanied by an adult. Once inside the lagoon, you may stay until closing. Children under 2 are not allowed because the mineral-rich water can be harmful to their health.
We recommend avoiding the last time slot, even if it’s the cheapest. You’ll need at least three hours to fully enjoy the lagoon. Entry can take time if there’s a queue for locker access, and you’ll need time to shower and change before and after your visit.
From 59 EUR (after 7 p.m. or in the low season). Average price: 90 EUR. Up to 100 EUR at certain times.
• Entrance ticket
• One silica mud mask
• One drink of your choice at the in-water bar
• Towel
Premium Package
From 76 EUR (after 7 p.m. or early morning in low season). Average price: 100 EUR. Up to 110 EUR at some times. Choose this option if you want to try multiple masks.
• Entrance ticket
• Three masks of your choice (silica or algae)
• One drink of your choice at the in-water bar
• Towel
• Bathrobe
• A glass of wine if you dine at the Lava Restaurant
Luxury Package (Spa)
From 410 EUR. Up to 526 EUR at some times.
• Access to the Blue Lagoon Ritual, Retreat Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and Spa Restaurant
• Skincare products
Child Pass (13 and under)
Free.
• Entrance ticket
• One silica mud mask
• One drink of your choice at the in-water bar
• Towel
How to get to the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon is located 15 minutes by car from Keflavik International Airport and 45 minutes from downtown Reykjavik. Parking is free. For people with reduced mobility, the site is fully equipped to ensure quality access.
In addition to renting a car or taking a taxi, there are shuttle buses from Reykjavik or Keflavik Airport. If you don’t have a car or plan to return your rental in Reykjavik, several bus companies offer Reykjavik–Keflavik routes with a stop at the Blue Lagoon for 5500 ISK | 37.84 EUR.
If you’ve opted for a camper van, parking is available, though overnight stays are not allowed.
You can also book one of the organized day tours such as “Golden Circle + Blue Lagoon.”
When to visit the Blue Lagoon?
Bri - Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0
No matter the weather — rain or snow — the water stays at 39°C year-round. However, in rare cases of major storms, the site may close temporarily. The Blue Lagoon has only had to turn visitors away three times in the past decade. On average, people stay two to three hours, but you can remain until closing if you wish. Special hours apply on December 24–25 and January 1.
Given its location (close to the airport and Reykjavik), this activity is ideal at the start or end of your trip.
Should you book your Blue Lagoon visit in advance?
Along with the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most visited attractions. 39% of visitors go there — over 700,000 people a year. In 2012, National Geographic named Iceland’s Blue Lagoon one of the world’s 25 wonders in the “Water” category, alongside the Great Barrier Reef and Victoria Falls. Its spa, The Retreat Lagoon, is world-renowned and attracts international celebrities. Online booking is mandatory, and we strongly recommend booking in advance to avoid higher prices. In high season (outside pandemic periods), the lagoon can be fully booked days or even weeks in advance. Entry is limited to ensure enough space for everyone to relax.
You can book via GetYourGuide, where you can pay in euros and get a full refund up to 48 hours before your selected date.
The official website bluelagoon.com is only available in English. Even if prices are displayed in EUR/USD, payments are processed in ISK — beware of possible bank fees.
What to expect during a visit to the Blue Lagoon?
The color you’ll likely see – Peter Collins – Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0
Before bathing
Upon arrival, you’ll receive an electronic wristband that unlocks your personal locker and lets you pay for drinks. Towels are provided free of charge.
After changing and removing jewelry, you must take a full shower without a swimsuit for hygiene reasons. Remember, the Blue Lagoon water isn’t chlorinated — no bacteria can survive in it. Shampoo, shower gel, and conditioner are provided for free in the showers. Men’s and women’s changing rooms are separate, and private shower stalls with curtains are available.
Children over 7 are not allowed to accompany someone of the opposite sex into the locker rooms; staff can assist if needed.
Hair care
The water’s high silica content can make your hair stiff for several days if soaked. To prevent this, apply conditioner before entering the water — all products are provided for free in the showers.
Children (2–13 years)
The minimum age is two. Children aged 2–8 must wear the complimentary flotation devices provided. One adult can only supervise up to two children under 10 at a time.
Good to know
• Swimsuit rental available for 800.00 ISK | 5.50 EUR
• Minerals may make your swimsuit colors fade. Simply rinse your swimsuit with cold water and soap.
• Bringing food into the premises is prohibited.
• Maximum depth is 1.40m.
• Sunscreen recommended.
• If you need to keep your glasses on, avoid submerging them. Blue Lagoon water can damage your lenses.
• Preferably remove your contact lenses.
• You may bring your camera, but staff have cameras and can send photos for free via email.
• For large suitcases, a specific area is available near the parking lot.
Can you bring your smartphone into the Blue Lagoon?
Smartphones are allowed for taking pictures. To protect your device, use a waterproof pouch.
Can you see the Northern Lights from the Blue Lagoon?
It’s generally possible to see auroras between late August and mid-March if all conditions are right: clear skies, darkness, and strong solar activity. If you’re interested, check out our dedicated guide on how to see the Northern Lights in Iceland.
Guided tours
To learn more about the history, operation, and volcanic activity of the Blue Lagoon, you can join a guided tour lasting just under an hour for 2000 ISK | 13.76 EUR. A minimum of seven participants is required. To book, email: contact@bluelagoon.is
Alternatives to the Blue Lagoon in Iceland
The high admission price can be off-putting, and some criticize the Blue Lagoon’s touristy atmosphere. While it’s true that the experience is commercialized, visitor quotas prevent overcrowding. Over 95% of visitors report being satisfied with their experience. If you’re looking for less touristy alternatives, consider Sky Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, or Myvatn Nature Baths.
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