Thing to do
Sky Lagoon
Geothermal lagoon on the Kársnes shore just outside Reykjavik, with an infinity edge facing the Atlantic and a seven-step bathing ritual of hot, cold, sauna and…
Laugardalslaug
Iceland's largest swimming pool, in the Laugardalur valley, with a 50-metre outdoor pool, hot tubs, a steam room, water slides and children's pools, open early until late.
At a glance
- Type
- Geothermal public swimming pool
- Area
- Laugardalur, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Opening
- Open daily
- Official site
- reykjavik.is
Good to know
- 50-metre outdoor pool
- Indoor pool
- Hot tubs
- Cold tub
- Steam room
- Water slides
- Children's pools
- Accessible pool
Why we recommend it
Swimming pools are at the heart of daily life in Iceland, and Laugardalslaug, in the Laugardalur valley east of the centre, is the largest in the country. Run by the City of Reykjavik, it is where locals come before work, after school and at weekends to swim, soak and chat in the hot tubs, and visiting is one of the best and cheapest ways to experience everyday Icelandic culture.
The facilities are extensive. The centrepiece is a 50-metre outdoor pool, certified for competitions, and there is also an indoor pool. Around them are hot tubs at different temperatures, a cold tub, a whirlpool, a steam room and a salt-water tub. Families are well catered for, with children's pools, a wading pool, a children's slide and larger water slides. There is an accessible pool and private changing rooms, as well as infant facilities, two beach volleyball courts, running routes and a fitness trail outside.
Bathing in Laugardalur has a long history. People are believed to have bathed in the valley's warm springs for hundreds of years: a bathing pool was reported south of Laugarnes in 1772, swimming lessons began in 1824, for boys only, and in 1907 and 1908 the town council paid for a stone pool basin, probably Reykjavik's first sports facility.
The pool is open from 06:30 to 22:00 on weekdays and from 08:00 to 22:00 at weekends. From late August to June, parts of the pool may be reserved for school swimming and training. Visit early in the morning or in the evening for the local atmosphere, or in the afternoon if you have children. The Reykjavik City Card includes entry to the city's pools.
Pool etiquette matters in Iceland: you must shower thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering the water, following the signs in the changing rooms, and leave your shoes at the entrance to the changing area. Bring a towel and swimsuit, or buy swimwear at the pool. Laugardalslaug is about 30 to 40 minutes' walk from the centre or a short bus ride, and the valley around it also holds the Reykjavik Botanic Garden and the Family Park and Zoo.
Laugardalslaug FAQs
What are Laugardalslaug's opening hours?
The pool is open from 06:30 to 22:00 on weekdays and from 08:00 to 22:00 at weekends.
Is Laugardalslaug the biggest pool in Iceland?
Yes. It is described as the largest swimming pool in Iceland.
What facilities are there?
A 50-metre outdoor pool, an indoor pool, hot tubs, a cold tub, a whirlpool, a steam room, a salt-water tub, water slides and children's pools.
Is it good for children?
Yes. There are children's pools, a wading pool, a children's slide and water slides.
Do I have to shower before swimming?
Yes. Everyone must shower thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering the water.
Is the pool accessible?
Yes. There is an accessible pool and private changing rooms.
Is it busy with schools?
From late August to June, parts of the pool may be reserved for school swimming and training.
How do I contact the pool?
Call +354 411 5100 or email [email protected].