Iceland is home to some of the most incredible geothermal spas in the world, and if you’re planning a trip, chances are you’re torn between the two big players: Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon.
Both are stunning, both are bucket-list worthy, and both promise a relaxing soak in geothermal waters.
But the experiences are so different.
In this post, I’ll break down everything from cost and location to vibe, views, and overall experience of both.
Spoiler: if you’re looking for a full sensory journey, one of these clearly has the edge.
So let’s settle this once and for all and find out if the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon should make it onto your itinerary.
Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents:
- What is the Blue Lagoon?
- What is the Sky Lagoon?
- Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon: Let’s Compare
- Iceland Hot Springs Map
What is the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s top attractions and the most famous geothermal spa.
You’ll recognise it from the milky blue waters, rich in minerals, which are also said to do wonders for your skin.
While it looks like a natural hot spring, the lagoon is actually man-made.
You can expect steamy pools perfect for soaking, optional spa treatments if you’re feeling fancy, and even restaurants and hotels on-site if you want to turn it into a whole experience.
Find out more about the Blue Lagoon here.👇
➡️ READ: Is The Blue Lagoon Worth It? Everything You Need To Know About Iceland’s #1 Attraction
What is the Sky Lagoon?
The Sky Lagoon is a thermal spa with an incredible infinity pool that seems to spill right into the Atlantic Ocean, and sunsets here are unreal.
They’re best known for their 7-Step Ritual. It’s a sensory experience that takes you through a hot sauna, cold plunge, mist room, a salt scrub, and more.
There’s also a swim-up water bar in the pool where you can relax with a drink before your spa treatment.
Is the Sky Lagoon worth it? Absolutely! Check out my experience below.👇
Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon: Let’s Compare
Choosing between the Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon can feel a bit like picking your favorite dessert. So let’s compare the details that might tip the scales for you.
1. Location + Accessibility
Where is the Blue Lagoon? It’s located about 30 miles (48 km) southwest of Reykjavík, in Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
It’s only about 20 minutes from Keflavík Airport, which makes it perfect for an Iceland stopover itinerary. Got a long layover? You can easily soak, relax, and still catch your next flight. Or, if you’re planning a trip around your arrival or departure day, it’s super convenient to slot it in without much extra driving.
Are you landing in Iceland soon?
💥Grab my 👉 FREE Iceland Arrival Guide and learn exactly what you can (and can’t) bring, how to breeze through Keflavík Airport, plus get exclusive tips and discounts to kick off your trip the smart way.
Where is the Sky Lagoon? It’s located just outside Reykjavik, but isn’t quite as close to the airport.
Since most travelers spend at least some time in Reykjavík, and the lagoon is on the way to popular spots like the Golden Circle or Ring Road, it fits into most itineraries pretty easily.
Important to Note: Blue Lagoon Volcano Eruption
When it comes to comparing Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon on location, the Blue Lagoon seems to have the edge due to its airport accessibility.
One thing worth mentioning, though: the Blue Lagoon has had closures in recent years due to volcanic activity in the area.
That’s something to keep in mind if you’re building your itinerary around it. Imagine planning to go there only to find out the lagoon is closed because, well… Iceland is busy erupting again.
That kind of unpredictability can definitely be a downside.
OVERALL WINNER?
Sky Lagoon. While the Blue Lagoon wins for airport convenience, the recent volcanic activity makes the Sky Lagoon a more reliable option.
Find out more about the volcanoes and how they can impact your trip to Iceland below.👇
➡️ READ: Icelandic Volcanoes: Can I Visit Iceland Safely? Everything You Need To Know
2. Crowds at the Blue Lagoon vs Sky Lagoon
When all you want is a relaxing experience, a huge factor to consider is the crowds.
To be honest, both can get busy, but in different ways.
I recently visited the Sky Lagoon on a Sunday afternoon for our anniversary, and it was busier than I expected.
They do limit the number of people in the lagoon at a time, so it never felt impossible to move around, and there are plenty of quiet nooks and built-in lava rock chairs in the water to relax.
You can swim and relax without feeling totally packed in.
That being said, once you start the 7-Step Ritual, it actually feels much calmer, since people are spread out and focused on each step of the experience.
With the Blue Lagoon, there are A LOT of people there!
I mean, it’s famously crowded, even though they schedule entries and limit numbers.
It’s also close to the airport, so there’s a steady flow of people throughout the day. If you’re planning to go, expect to share the experience with a LOT of other tourists (and maybe dodge a few selfie sticks 🤣).
It’s harder to find that quiet, relaxing moment you might get at other Icelandic spas.
OVERALL WINNER?
Sky Lagoon. If crowds are something you prefer to avoid, the Sky Lagoon might feel a bit more manageable. Just try to avoid weekends if possible!
3. The Atmosphere at Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon
As one of Iceland’s most famous attractions, many people visit the Blue Lagoon just to tick it off their bucket list.
It often feels more like a sightseeing stop than a serene spa. You’ll see plenty of visitors trying to capture that iconic shot — floating in the milky-blue water with a drink in hand.
So you can expect an atmosphere that’s less about quiet relaxation and more about the experience: snapping photos, chatting with friends, and soaking in the fact that you’re at the Blue Lagoon.
The Sky Lagoon, on the other hand, offers the opposite vibe.
It’s calmer, more chill, and the 7-Step Ritual really helps you settle into that relaxed mode.
You’re there to soak and unwind, not rush to get the perfect photo for social media.
OVERALL WINNER?
If you’re looking for an immersive spa experience, Sky Lagoon is the clear winner for me. It’s the kind of place where you lose track of time (in the best way).
If you’re after deep relaxation and a less touristy atmosphere, this one’s hard to beat.
4. Facilities + Amenities
Sure, both spas have warm water and epic views — but when it comes to Sky Lagoon vs. Blue Lagoon, the setting really changes the experience.
From locker rooms and changing spaces to bars, cafes, and those little extras that make the experience smoother.
So let’s break down the key differences when it comes to the amenities at both the Sky Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon.
Sky Lagoon facilities: The changing areas at Sky Lagoon are modern, well-thought-out, and feel very clean.
They have two separate locker room options: the more expensive Sky Lagoon private changing facilities, or the group shower area included with standard admission.
The design of the spaces, the lighting, materials, wristbands, and overall mood feel intentional and calming.
Everything seems to be built with a focus on comfort and a calming atmosphere.
Blue Lagoon facilities: Because it gets so busy, the facilities can feel crowded. Paths get a lot of foot traffic, and common areas can feel a bit hectic, which makes maintaining that pristine vibe trickier. Still, it’s functional, and you do have access to saunas, steam rooms, and the iconic milky-blue water.
Amenities: Both lagoons have swim-up bars, cafes, restaurants and small gift areas.
At the Blue Lagoon, you could add extras like the hotel stay, high-end dining, or premium packages, but those aren’t accessible for everyone.
OVERALL WINNER?
When it comes to facilities and amenities, both the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon have their strengths, but in my opinion, Sky Lagoon just edges ahead.
For a standard lagoon visit, Sky Lagoon feels like you get more value with a carefully curated experience, clean facilities, and thoughtful amenities, all in one place. That said, if you’re looking for extras like an on-site hotel or fine dining, the Blue Lagoon might be the better match for you!
5. Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon Price + Value for Money
Which lagoon actually gives you the best bang for your buck?
At the Sky Lagoon, every ticket includes the 7-Step Ritual – no exceptions.
The only difference between the Sky Lagoon packages is the changing facilities you choose: private (more expensive) or shared (standard admission).
This does mean Sky Lagoon can sometimes be slightly more expensive than the Blue Lagoon.
Here’s the pricing breakdown:
Blue Lagoon Cost: 9 990 – 16 490 ISK (82-136 USD)
👉 Admission Ticket: Blue Lagoon Admission
Sky Lagoon Cost: 13,990 – SK 16,990 (115- 140 USD). This does not include packages with transfers.
👉 Admission Ticket: Sky Lagoon Saman Pass
The Blue Lagoon’s basic admission includes a silica face mask, a drink, and the use of a towel.
Nice perks, sure, but when you stack it up against Sky Lagoon packages (where the 7-Step Ritual is always included), the Blue Lagoon cost doesn’t quite measure up in terms of value.
OVERALL WINNER?
For me, Sky Lagoon wins this category. The overall experience makes it worth it. The ritual, the design, the vibe, it all adds up to something special.
6. Which One is More Beautiful + Has the Best Views?
Okay, let’s tackle the big question: which one wins for beauty and views? Honestly… it’s a toss-up.
Both are stunning, but the feel is very different.
The Blue Lagoon feels more ethereal. You’ve got that milky-blue water, the black lava rock, steam rising from the ground – it almost feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet.
There’s something mythical and surreal about it, the kind of place where you pause mid-swim and go, “Wait… is this real?”
The Sky Lagoon, on the other hand, leans into Icelandic nature and design. It’s modern but rooted in tradition, with lava rocks, turf-inspired elements, a waterfall, and that infinity-edge lagoon that seems to spill straight into the Atlantic.
The wide-open views, the ocean in front, mountains in the background, and little cozy nooks to float in – it’s a very scenic, calming kind of beauty.
OVERALL WINNER?
Here’s the verdict: Blue Lagoon is iconic, ethereal, almost magical.
The Sky Lagoon is scenic, immersive, and deeply relaxing.
Both are beautiful, just in very different ways.
If you’re wondering what other stunning hot springs, pools and spas there are, check out some Blue Lagoon alternatives, Iceland has plenty of them!
7. Best Overall Experience: Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon
Which is better, Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon?
If we’re talking about the best overall experience, this one’s a no-brainer for me: Sky Lagoon wins, hands down.
Here’s why: the Blue Lagoon experience is mainly about the water.
Yes, you can float in that milky water, put on a face mask, and maybe wander into a sauna or steam room, but that’s basically it.
After a while, it can feel a bit like… “Okay, now what?”
Sky Lagoon, on the other hand, has the 7-Step Ritual where you’re guided through a whole sensory journey.
It’s structured but flexible, taking you step by step through an immersive Icelandic experience.
Every sense is engaged, and it never feels like you’re just drifting aimlessly.
There’s an actual flow to it.
And listen, my Type-A brain thrives here! I like a plan, even when I’m supposed to be relaxing.
Give me steps.
Give me order.
Give me the satisfaction of mentally checking off the ‘To Do List.” 🤓
OVERALL WINNER?
For me, the Sky Lagoon experience wins.
It’s not just about being in the water—it’s about doing something, enjoying a ritual, and feeling like you’ve actually experienced Iceland in a meaningful, sensory way.
Blue Lagoon is beautiful, iconic, and dreamy, but the Sky Lagoon is an all-around, can’t-miss adventure for your senses.
Iceland Hot Springs Map
Hopefully, I’ve saved you from going down a Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon Reddit rabbit hole! 😊
No matter which one you choose, soaking in a geothermal pool or hot spring is a must while you’re in Iceland.
But here’s the thing…
There are so many more geothermal gems scattered across the country, and most don’t get half the attention these two do.
That’s where my Iceland Maps + Guidebooks come in.
Each region-specific guide includes must-see sights, hidden gems, and a digital map that has hundreds of pinned locations. From hot springs and geothermal pools to the practical stuff you’ll actually need on the road.
Think gas stations, grocery stores, clinics, parks, restrooms, and restaurants, it’s all there.
Plus, I’ve added some exclusive discounts to help you save money along the way.
Now, I’ll let you get back to daydreaming about soaking in those dreamy Icelandic waters! 😍
Happy Planning!
Pin it for later!
