A local favorite

20/05/2021 14:05

LOCAL GEOTHERMAL SWIMMING POOLS

Soaking in hot water has many health benefits and bathing in hot thermal pools all year round is very common practice amongst Icelanders and dates back to the early settlement of Iceland. Visiting a local thermal pool in Iceland is a great and inexpensive fun for the whole family and a great way to experience the local culture. Many pools offer waterslides and shallow pools for kids and a variety of hot tubs and steam baths for adults. Here is a list of few of our favorite pools in the capital area.

LAUGARDALSLAUG Laugardalslaug is Iceland's largest thermal pool and the most popular amongst travelers. It is located in Laugardalur valley in Reykjavik, only a quick bus ride away from downtown Reykjavík and has a large outdoor pool, outdoor children’s pool and paddling pool, water slides, numerous hot tubs and a steam bath. The entry fee is 980kr. for adults, 160kr. for children 6-17 years old and free for children younger than 6. After your soak it’s important to stop by the hot dog stand located outside the swimming pool because having an Icelandic hot dog is a crucial part of the whole Icelandic pool experience.

ÁLFTANESLAUG Álftanes peninsula, a suburb of Reykjavik has an impressive local swimming pool, a whole lot of fun for kids. It has two large hot tubs, a kiddie pool, Iceland’s biggest waterslide and a wave pool (the only one of it’s kind in Iceland). After playing and soaking in Álftanes pool we suggest you stop by Bessastaðir, the official residence of the President of Iceland which is located at Álftanes.

VESTURBÆJARLAUG A small pool in close vicinity to downtown Reykjavik. The pool is one of the oldest ones in Reykjavik and is popular amongst downtown locals. It’s a no frills swimming pool without slides or a fancy wave pool but just a nice and friendly local pool with great hot tubs, sauna and a steam room.

SUNDHÖLLIN - THE SWIMMING PALACE Located downtown Reykjavík is the oldest public baths in Iceland, Sundhöllin. It was designed by the noted architect Guðjón Samúelsson and opened in 1937. The building's exterior is a minimalist white that is almost Art Deco in style with tall narrow rectangular windows. In Sundhollin you will find a 25m outdoor pool, 25m indoor pool, diving board, sauna, steam bath, hot tubs, kiddie pool, wading pool, massage tub and a cold tub.

Verslunarmannahelgi or Merchant Weekend 2025

01/08/2025

Verslunarmannahelgi, or Merchants’ Weekend, is Iceland’s biggest summer holiday. Held the first weekend of August, it’s packed with music festivals, camping, fireworks, and family fun across the country—from Reykjavík to the Westman Islands and Akureyri. Whether you’re up for live music or a peaceful nature getaway, this long weekend offers something for everyone.

August in Reykjavík – Festivals, Pride and Cultural Fun

01/08/2025

August in Reykjavík is packed with color, music, and celebration. From the epic Verslunarmannahelgi festival and vibrant Reykjavík Pride to the city-wide joy of Culture Night and the smooth sounds of the Jazz Festival, this month offers something for everyone. Whether you're running the Reykjavík Marathon or just soaking up the summer vibes, it’s the perfect time to explore Iceland’s capital.

Reykjavík Bus Stops for Center Hotels Guests

17/07/2025

Planning a tour or airport transfer from Reykjavík? This guide helps Center Hotels guests find the nearest designated bus stops for easy pick-ups and drop-offs. Whether you’re heading out for a Golden Circle adventure or catching your airport shuttle, we've got you covered with all the stop numbers and locations, just a short walk from your hotel.

A Winter Day in Reykjavík: Local Tips and Hidden Gems

11/07/2025

Snow-dusted streets, cozy cafés, and a chance to see the Northern Lights. Winter in Reykjavík is nothing short of magical. Start your day with freshly brewed coffee and a cinnamon roll at one of the city's charming cafés, wander by the serene Tjörnin pond and explore colorful shopping streets like Laugavegur and Rainbow Street. Warm up in geothermal pools like Sundhöllin or the luxurious Sky Lagoon, then wind down with a hearty Icelandic meal and a scoop of local ice cream, yes, even in winter! If you're lucky, your night will end under a sky painted green by the Northern Lights. Reykjavík in winter? Unforgettable.

Soak Up the Summer: July Highlights in Reykjavik

01/07/2025

Looking for ideas to make the most of July in Reykjavik? Whether you're into sunset cocktails, live music, outdoor adventures, or hidden art gems, the city is full of exciting ways to enjoy the summer. We've rounded up some of our favorite things to do in and around Reykjavik this month—from jet ski safaris and mountain climbs to intimate concerts and powerful festivals. Get inspired and plan your perfect July day (or night) in the city.