Is Blue Lagoon worth it? That was the million-iskróna question rattling around in my head before our trip to Iceland. I scoured blog posts, read a dozen Blue Lagoon Iceland reviews, and even asked a few locals. Was it really the best lagoon in Iceland or just an overpriced photo-op? With blue lagoon Iceland tickets starting around $100 USD, it is not a casual splurge. Still, we decided to go (twice). And here’s what I wish someone had told me before we booked and what you can expect from the Blue Lagoon in Iceland.
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First Things First: What to Expect at the Blue Lagoon Iceland
Let me paint the picture. The Blue Lagoon sits in a lava field about 45 minutes from Reykjavik and just 20 minutes from Keflavík Airport. It’s not just any hot spring; it’s a sprawling, milky-blue, geothermal wonder that looks like something out of a sci-fi movie. Steam rises off the surface like fog on a chilly morning, and the water is thick with minerals like silica and sulfur—the secret sauce behind its famous color and its reputation for skin benefits.
Now, when people ask what to expect Blue Lagoon Iceland, the short answer is: warm waters, dramatic views, and plenty of tourists. But there’s more to it.
You check in with a wristband that acts like your wallet and locker key, shower before entering (non-negotiable), and step into a warm, misty dreamscape. There are in-water bars, free silica mud masks, and quiet corners where you can float and forget the world. Just don’t expect to have the place to yourself.
Why Some Call It a Tourist Trap (And They’re Not Totally Wrong)
Alright, let’s rip off the Band-Aid: yes, it’s pricey. And yes, it gets crowded.
Basic Blue Lagoon Iceland tickets will set you back about $100 USD per person. That gets you entry, a towel, one drink, and a mud mask. Upgrade to premium, and you get a robe, two masks, and a glass of sparkling wine. Sound fancy? It is—and that’s kind of the problem for some travelers.
Why the criticism?
- It’s very commercialized — Think gift shops, spa packages, and curated photo spots.
- Timing is everything — Arrive midday in peak season and it’s wall-to-wall people. Forget the tranquil vibes.
- There are other lagoons — Some folks prefer the quieter, less touristy spots like the Sky Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, or even local swimming pools.
So, is Blue Lagoon worth it if you’re hunting for solitude? Maybe not. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth going.
But Honestly? It Was Kind of Magical
You know what? Despite the crowds and the price, we loved it. Maybe it was the jet lag or the cold air contrasting with the hot water, but there was something otherworldly about floating in that surreal, mineral-rich pool with steam curling around us.
The water feels like velvet. The lava rocks, the snow-capped hills in the distance, the way your skin feels afterward—smooth and squeaky clean. We stayed for a few hours, but I could’ve stayed all day.
And that silica mask? Surprisingly effective. My skin felt so soft after, I skipped moisturizer that night. (That never happens.)
It also made logistical sense. We went straight after landing at KEF airport, which gave us time to relax before the drive to our rental near Selfoss. It was the perfect soft landing.
Tips to Make the Most of It
So, if you’re still asking, is Blue Lagoon worth it, here are a few things that made a difference for us:
- Book ahead — Don’t wing it. Blue Lagoon Iceland tickets sell out fast, especially in summer.
- Go early or late — First slots of the day or late evenings are much less crowded. We went early.
- Bring a waterproof phone pouch — Trust me, you’ll want pics. But the water’s no joke for electronics.
- Use conditioner generously — That mineral water will mess with your hair. Load it up before you hop in.
- Skip the robe upgrade — Unless it’s freezing or you’re going all-in on the spa, the basic ticket is fine.
- Stay Hydrated. The geothermal water can be dehydrating, so be sure to drink plenty of water before and after your visit.
Is It the Best Lagoon in Iceland?
That depends on what you’re after. If you want quiet, consider the Secret Lagoon near Flúdir or the newer Sky Lagoon near Reykjavik—both beautiful, more local-feeling options. But if you’re okay with a few crowds and want to check something iconic off your list, then yes, the Blue Lagoon holds its own.
It’s the kind of place where you realize the hype exists for a reason. Sure, it’s Instagram-famous, but it delivers the wow factor.
Final Verdict
So, back to that big question: Is Blue Lagoon worth it? Honestly? Yeah. Just don’t expect a secret hot spring in the middle of nowhere. Expect a high-end, carefully managed experience with solid amenities and scenery that’ll stick with you.
The truth is, it’s both a little touristy and kind of magical. And that’s okay.
If you go in with realistic expectations, it might just be the steamy, mineral-soaked memory your Iceland trip needs.
Blue Lagoon Iceland reviews can be mixed, and fairly so, but many visitors (ourselves included) leave feeling glad they went. It might not be the best lagoon in Iceland for everyone—but it could be the one you remember most.
