Laugardalslaug is the largest and most popular public swimming pool in Reykjavik, Iceland. It is located in the Laugardalur (Hot Spring Valley) area, just a short distance from Reykjavik city center. Laugardalslaug is more than just a swimming pool—it’s a complete water and leisure facility with something for everyone, including families, fitness lovers, and tourists looking to experience Iceland’s famous geothermal culture.
With heated outdoor pools, hot tubs, water slides, steam baths, and a gym, Laugardalslaug offers a relaxing and enjoyable way to unwind. It’s a place where locals and tourists come together to enjoy Iceland’s unique bathing traditions in a clean and friendly environment.
Laugardalslaug is located at Sundlaugarvegur 30, 105 Reykjavik, in the Laugardalur recreational area. It’s easy to reach by car, bus, or even on foot or bike from the city center.
The weather in Reykjavik can vary depending on the season, but since Laugardalslaug is heated with geothermal energy, it is open year-round—even in winter. Outdoor pools and hot tubs stay warm no matter how cold it gets.
In summer (June to August), temperatures are mild, ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), while in winter (November to February), temperatures can drop to -1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F). Even when it's snowing, soaking in the hot tubs is a favorite Icelandic experience.
Laugardalslaug is open daily, though opening hours can vary slightly depending on the season and holidays. General timings are:
The swimming pool typically closes 30 minutes before the building closes, so it’s recommended to arrive a little earlier if you plan to swim.
Laugardalslaug is famous for being the biggest and most well-equipped geothermal pool in Reykjavik. It’s a great place to experience the Icelandic bathing culture that is deeply rooted in local life. The combination of natural hot water, clean facilities, and outdoor relaxation makes it a must-visit.
It is also known for its family-friendly environment, with water slides and a shallow pool for children. Locals often come here to socialize, relax, and even have business meetings while soaking in the hot tubs.
Laugardalslaug is open to everyone, and you don’t need a membership to visit. Here are the general entry details:
Laugardalslaug was first opened in 1968 and has been expanded and improved over the years. It was built as part of Reykjavik’s efforts to create a modern, community-friendly bathing area that made use of the country’s natural geothermal resources.
The architecture is functional and open, with a focus on outdoor and indoor bathing spaces. The main pool is Olympic-sized, making it suitable for competitive swimming and training. The design of the complex allows for easy access to all pools and hot tubs, with clean and simple lines reflecting Iceland’s modern style.
There are many things to do and enjoy at Laugardalslaug:
Here are some fun and useful facts about Laugardalslaug:
Here are some helpful tips for visiting Laugardalslaug:
Laugardalslaug is more than just a place to swim—it's a part of everyday life in Iceland. Whether you're visiting to relax in a hot tub, swim a few laps, or enjoy time with your family, it's an experience that gives you a true taste of Icelandic culture.