Is The Blue Lagoon Worth It In 2026?
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1. What Is the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa located in a lava field near Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Its surreal, milky-blue waters come not from a natural hot spring - but from the runoff of the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant. Sounds unappealing? Surprisingly, it’s anything but. The water is mineral-rich (especially in silica), giving it its cloudy blue colour and skin-soothing properties.
It first started gaining traction in the 1980s when locals began bathing in the outflow waters, noticing improvements in skin conditions like psoriasis. Fast-forward a few decades, and thanks to strategic marketing and the rise of Instagram tourism, the Blue Lagoon became a global sensation - especially for travelers looking to combine wellness with otherworldly landscapes.
Of course, with popularity came a fair share of skepticism. Some travelers began labeling it as "overrated" or "too commercial." But does it deserve that reputation in 2026?
2. Where Is the Blue Lagoon and How Do You Get There?
The Blue Lagoon is conveniently located about 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport and around 45 minutes from Reykjavík, making it one of the most accessible attractions in the country.
Getting There:
Shuttle Buses: Several companies run transfers from both the airport and Reykjavík. Great for solo travellers or those not renting a car.
Car Rental: If you're exploring Iceland on your own, it's an easy drive with ample parking.
Tours: A highly recommended option. Some tours bundle entrance tickets and transport, saving you money and hassle - especially if you’re landing early and want to head straight there before hotel check-in. Some also include other attractions, such as the Golden Circle.
Check out these handpicked, recommended tours to that include transport and entrance tickets to the Blue Lagoon:
Highly Recommended: Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket and Kerid Volcanic Crater - visit some of Iceland’s most famous and most beautiful attractions all in one go on this ticket-inclusive tour.
Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket with Optional Private or Shared Transfer - if you want to only visit the Blue Lagoon and not have to worry about how to get there, this is your best option.
Volcano Hike and Blue Lagoon Including Admission Small Group Tour - for adventure lovers, this tour not only includes admission to the Blue Lagoon, but a fun hike to Fagradalsfjall Volcano. One of the coolest things you can do around the Reykjavik area!
Tip: If your flight arrives early, consider going directly from the airport to the Blue Lagoon. It’s a surprisingly efficient way to make the most of your arrival day - and beat the crowds.
3. What’s Changed at the Blue Lagoon in 2026?
Since borders reopened fully post-COVID, travel to Iceland has surged - and the Blue Lagoon has felt the impact. In 2026, dates often sell out in advance, especially during the summer and holiday seasons. Booking early is not just advised; it’s essential. We would encourage you to book as early as you can, or as soon as you know which dates you’re going to visit. You can check availability on the Official Website. The other alternative is to book a tour, where your tickets will have already been pre-booked.
What’s new?
There have been expanded Retreat Spa offerings, improved locker facilities, and updates to the onsite Lava Restaurant and cafés.
Packages have been streamlined slightly, and pricing has increased compared to pre-COVID times.
Volcanic activity in the Reykjanes Peninsula continues to shape infrastructure and travel patterns in the region. The area is geologically active but safe to visit. The spa remains operational, with additional monitoring in place.
4. Pricing and Packages: Is It Overpriced or Worth the Splurge?
Let’s talk numbers, and the difference packages on offer at The Blue Lagoon. Please keep in mind the some of the prices fluctuate according to the date, and this is a rough guide only.
Comfort Package – ISK 8,990 (~USD 65)
Entrance
Silica mud mask
1 drink
Use of towel
Premium Package – ISK 11,490 (~USD 85)
All of the above
Second mask
Use of bathrobe
Glass of sparkling wine if dining at Lava Restaurant
Retreat Spa – ISK 69,000+ (~USD 510)
4-hour access to the private Retreat Lagoon and Spa
Access to the Blue Lagoon
Skincare amenities, changing suite, and more
We personally went with the Comfort package, and honestly, it was more than enough.
You still get the iconic Blue Lagoon experience - arm water, breathtaking visuals, and a free drink. But of course, if you’re looking for that lux experience – by all means, go for the Premium or Retreat Spa packages
There are also optional add-ons like in-water massages, private changing areas, and luxury dining - but they aren’t essential to enjoy the core experience.
5. What’s the 2026 Blue Lagoon Experience Actually Like?
We visited the Blue Lagoon between 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM on a Friday and were genuinely surprised: it was almost empty when we arrived. The first hour felt like a private spa session, with only a few others floating quietly around. It started filling up closer to 11, but never felt overwhelming.
The water temperature was perfect - warm and relaxing without being too hot. And yes, it looks just as magical (if not more) in person as it does in photos. The steamy blue water against the black lava rock is truly a sight.
Tips from our experience:
Go as early as possible. Trust us - it makes a huge difference.
Bring a change of clothes and heed the advice about hair: the minerals in the water can make it feel dry or strange afterward.
Don’t wear anything delicate; my board shorts still haven’t felt the same since, but I don’t regret it.
Explore the outer areas of the lagoon. Most people hover near the entrance, but you’ll find serenity by wandering further out.
6. Blue Lagoon: The Pros and Cons of Visiting in 2026
Pros:
Still incredibly photogenic
Still can get the place relatively to yourselves if you go early
Easy to access via driving or tour, especially from the airport
High-quality amenities (clean showers, lockers, bars, skincare products)
A once-in-a-lifetime kind of location
Cons:
It’s man-made, which some purists dislike
Can be expensive, especially with upgrades or families (although these are not required or necessary)
Can be crowded (if you go later in the day, after 11am)
7. Is There a Better Alternative?
We tried a few other hot springs and spas across Iceland - and while some were lovely, the Blue Lagoon still stood out as our favourite.
Other hot springs we tried:
Mývatn Nature Baths (North Iceland): Nice, quieter, but doesn’t quite have the visual wow factor of the Blue Lagoon.
Beach Baths Hauganes: Intimate and authentic. Beautiful setting, but it’s a very different experience - more local, less polished.
Hammamvik Hot Springs: Definitely recommend! Gorgeous setting and relaxing. That said, the Blue Lagoon still looks more striking in photos.
Others we didn’t get to but are also worth noting:
Sky Lagoon (Reykjavík): Supposed to be amazing, with a focus on the Icelandic bathing ritual.
Geosea, Forest Lagoon, Secret Lagoon: All look lovely but vary in scale, accessibility, and design.
If aesthetic matters to you - Blue Lagoon still wins.
9. Where To Stay When Visiting The Blue Lagoon in 2026
While the Blue Lagoon itself has a couple of premium accommodation options onsite, most travellers opt to stay in Reykjavík or near Keflavík International Airport for convenience. Reykjavík, in particular, offers the perfect base - it’s only 45 minutes from the Blue Lagoon and has plenty of restaurants, shops, and attractions to explore.
Just remember: Iceland is expensive. What might qualify as “budget” in Iceland could still be considered mid-range elsewhere in the world. That said, here are three excellent accommodation options to suit a range of travel styles and budgets:
Budget: Nordic Hostel
If you're looking for a comfortable and convenient budget option, Nordic Hostel in Reykjavík is a solid choice. It offers interconnected rooms with walk-in showers, comfortable beds, and free WiFi throughout. Guests can also enjoy access to a bar and lounge space, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring.
There’s a shared kitchen for self-catering, a coffee shop, and luggage storage, making it particularly practical for short stays. You'll also find work desks, sofas, and even a lift - little touches that make a difference.
To book or take a closer look at Nordic Hostel, click here.
Mid-Range: Midgardur by Center Hotels & Center Hotels Laugavegur
The Center Hotels group is a fantastic option if you're after comfort, style, and convenience—without the full luxury price tag. We personally stayed at both Midgardur and Center Hotels Laugavegur, and they were spot-on.
Expect clean, modern rooms, incredibly comfortable beds, and prime city centre locations -perfect for walking to Reykjavík’s best restaurants, bars, and attractions. Service was attentive and warm, and both hotels offered excellent amenities including in-house dining, cozy lounges, and great breakfast options.
In a city where location is everything, Center Hotels hit the sweet spot for travellers wanting comfort and accessibility without breaking the bank. We honestly couldn’t recommend these properties enough.
To book or take a closer look at Midgardur by Center Hotels or Center Hotels Laugavegur, click here.
Luxury: Black Pearl Apartment Hotel
If you’re after a more indulgent stay, look no further than the Black Pearl Apartment Hotel. These sleek, high-end apartments are located in central Reykjavík, just 350 metres from the Old Harbour, and combine five-star comfort with the freedom of apartment-style living.
Each suite is bright, spacious, and beautifully furnished with contemporary décor, heated marble floors, and large windows that offer gorgeous city views. Expect thoughtful luxuries like an iPad, flat-screen TV, Nespresso machine, and complimentary tea. You can even order a breakfast package to be delivered directly to your room.
If you want to experience Reykjavík in style, Black Pearl is a top-tier choice.
To book or take a closer look at Black Pearl Apartment Hotel, click here.
9. Final Verdict: Is the Blue Lagoon Worth It in 2026?
Yes. Absolutely. Despite the hype and despite the crowds, the Blue Lagoon remains one of Iceland’s most unique and rewarding experiences. The setting is surreal, the water feels incredible, and the photos you’ll leave with are next-level. You should still go, even in 2026.
Who should go:
First-time Iceland visitors
Photography lovers
Anyone seeking a luxury spa day
People who want something iconic and relaxing
Who might skip it:
Hardcore hot spring purists
Travelers on an ultra-tight budget
Those who really dislike popular tourist spots
But for most people - especially if it’s your first time in Iceland - I’d say don’t overthink it. The Blue Lagoon is definitely still worth it in 2026.
Planning to visit Iceland and want to know more? Let me know in the comments below!
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