Reykjavík Geothermal Pool Crawl
Three of Reykjavík's neighbourhood thermal pools in 3 hours — the locals' alternative to expensive lagoons. Hot tubs, steam rooms, and the strange social ritual of Icelandic pool culture.
About this tour
Reykjavík has 18 public geothermal pools — not spas, not lagoons, just public swimming pools heated to 40°C and free of admission for residents. Locals consider the pool a non-negotiable part of life: the daily soak, the gossip in the hot tub, the cold plunge afterwards. Three pools, three hours, the cultural rather than the touristic version of Iceland's hot-water tradition.
What's planned
Briefing at Laugardalslaug entrance
15 minMeet at the main entrance to Reykjavík's largest pool. Briefing on the all-important shower etiquette before you change.
Laugardalslaug — the city's biggest pool
60 minOlympic-sized outdoor pool, six different hot tubs (35–42°C), a steam room, and a cold plunge. Open since 1968.
Sundhöllin — 1937 Art Deco original
45 minWalk to the city centre. Reykjavík's oldest indoor public pool, designed by Guðjón Samúelsson (also Hallgrímskirkja). Renovated 2017 with a cliff-edge rooftop hot tub looking over downtown.
Vesturbæjarlaug — the locals' pool
45 minFinal stop. The pool where Reykjavík's writers, politicians, and journalists actually go — small, no tourists, very Icelandic. Hot tubs in tight clusters; this is where you eavesdrop on real city life.
Goodbye at Vesturbær
15 minTour ends here. Walk back to downtown (15 min) or grab a coffee at Káffi Víner across the road.
Highlights
- Three pools — Laugardalslaug, Sundhöllin, Vesturbæjarlaug
- Outdoor 38–40°C hot tubs in any weather (yes, including snow)
- Local guide explains the etiquette — yes, you have to shower naked first
- Roughly 1/20 the price of the Blue Lagoon
- Ideal evening tour after a long day on the road
What's included
- Entry tickets to all three pools
- Local Reykjavík guide who'll point out which hot tub gets the best gossip
- Pool-etiquette briefing
Not included
- Hotel pickup — meet at the start point
- Towel and swimsuit — bring your own (rentals available at each pool)
- Food and drinks
Pickup & meeting point
Meeting point
Harpa Concert Hall
Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Ready to book Reykjavík Geothermal Pool Crawl?
From €49 per person