Best Hot Springs in Iceland: Blue Lagoon vs Sky Lagoon vs Hvammsvík

Planning a trip to Iceland and wondering which hot springs in Iceland are actually worth it — Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, or Hvammsvík? Here’s an honest, side-by-side breakdown of the country’s three most iconic lagoons. Whether you’re chasing a postcard-perfect photo op, craving an authentic luxe wellness experience, or looking for a hidden gem that feels untouched — this guide will help you figure out which Iceland hot spring fits your vibe. Or if you’re like me, you’ll end up doing all three:)

Blue Lagoon: The Iconic Must-See (Even If It’s Tourist-y)

Famous for: Silica-rich, milky blue water and dreamy steam rising from lava fields

Vibe: Busy but beautiful. Go early morning to avoid the crowds.

Pros:

Near the airport — great for first or last day
Very photogenic
Iconic milky turquoise-blue water packed with skin-loving minerals
Full spa amenities
On-site café with great vegan and healthy options for a post-soak snack. They also have a variety of coffee beverages, including espresso, cappuccino, and lattes, to warm up after your soak.

Cons:

Crowded
Feels more commercial than natural
Can seriously dry out and damage your hair if you get it wet

Verdict: A little touristy? Yes. Still worth experiencing at least once? Also yes.

Want to skip the hassle? Book my favorite package deal — it includes transportation, sauna access, a mud mask face mask, and even a free drink to sip while you soak.

Sky Lagoon: Designer Spa Energy With Epic Views

Famous for: The 7-step Sky Ritual + that glass-walled sauna with ocean views

Vibe: Minimalist luxury meets Icelandic tradition

Pros:

Includes the full 7-step Icelandic bathing ritual: warm soak, cold plunge, sauna with ocean views, cold mist, body scrub, steam room, and final shower — the ultimate reset.
Adults-only
Best sauna view ever
Feels relaxing and refined
Cozy café and bar on-site with great coffee, Icelandic snacks, and cocktails — perfect for unwinding post-sauna with a view

Cons:

Slightly more expensive with full ritual access
Doesn’t feel as wild/natural as others

Verdict: If you love a curated wellness experience with an incredible view, this one’s for you.

This is the best-value Sky Lagoon package I found — it includes full access to the 7-step ritual, the iconic ocean-view sauna, and your choice of time slot.

Hvammsvík: Wild, Local, and Magical

Famous for: Eight hot pools built into the edge of a private fjord

Vibe: Cozy, quiet, and local

Pros:

Feels like a hidden gem
Pools mix with the actual ocean depending on the tide
Less crowded, more nature
On-site bistro with locally sourced dishes by a Michelin-trained chef, plus a swim-up bar — perfect for warming up with seafood soup or sipping wine mid-soak.

Cons:

Farther from Reykjavik so you need a car or to book a tour, but honestly it’s definitely worth it.

Verdict: The most peaceful, unique experience. It felt like a core memory in the making.

If you don’t have a car, no worries — this package deal includes round-trip transfer from Reykjavik and entry to Hvammsvík, so you can just relax and enjoy the magic.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

Want the classic Iceland experience? Go Blue Lagoon.

Craving luxury wellness with views? Choose Sky Lagoon.

Looking for a magical, quiet moment in nature? Hvammsvík is it.

Honestly, each one has its own vibe, and you can’t go wrong. If you have time for more than one, do it.

Iceland is filled with natural wonders, but these hot springs truly hit different. Whether you’re floating in mineral-rich water under the midnight sun or warming up after glacier hikes, a good soak here is essential.