Overview
Downtown Reykjavík’s classic pool, compact and practical
Sundhöllin is Reykjavík’s historic, central pool, the kind of place you can fit into a city day without turning it into a whole excursion. It’s a smaller complex than Laugardalslaug, but it covers the essentials well: an indoor pool, hot tubs, a sauna, and a cold tub, with the familiar Icelandic rhythm of warming up, cooling down, then repeating.
What’s on site
The city lists a 25-meter pool, hot tubs, a sauna, a cold tub, a steam room, children’s areas, diving boards, and a private changing room option. It’s a good pick when you want a “real pool culture” visit that still feels straightforward for travelers.
The one thing to plan around
Because it’s used for school swimming and programming, some parts of the pool can close to the public at specific times. A quick check of the schedule keeps the visit smooth.
Location & Access
Where it is
Sundhöll Reykjavíkur is in central Reykjavík at Barónsstígur 45a, 101 Reykjavík.
Hours and entry
Published general hours are Mon–Fri 6:30am–10pm and Sat–Sun 8am–9pm. Adult single admission is listed as 1,430 kr, youth (16–17) 220 kr, and children (0–15) free. The city also notes that opening hours may change without prior notice, so checking the official page before you head over is a good habit.
Program closures
The city lists school swimming times when the indoor pool is closed to the public on weekdays. If lap swimming is your main goal, confirm the daily schedule first and plan your timing around it.
What to bring
Swimsuit, towel, and traction sandals for wet floors. A warm layer helps for the transition between changing areas and outdoor sections, especially in winter wind.
Getting there
This is easy walk-in access on city streets, no hike and no special driving considerations.
Suitability & Accessibility
This is best for travelers staying in central Reykjavík who want a reliable geothermal soak without leaving town. It suits people who like a simple routine: a short swim, a hot pot, a sauna, then back out into the city.
Families
Family friendly, with the usual need for close supervision around wet floors and hot water. Kids often enjoy a shorter, more frequent break pattern here, because the space is compact and it’s easy to keep track of everyone.
Couples and solo travelers
A strong option for a low-effort soak day. Couples can keep it relaxed, solo travelers can show up without planning a big itinerary. If you want the calmest atmosphere, avoid the busiest after-work windows.
Mobility realities
No hiking, but expect wet floors, steps, and short outdoor transitions. Move slowly and keep footwear on outside the water. The city lists an Accessible Pool and private changing room options, which can help if you plan your route.
Wheelchair expectations
I’m marking this as wheelchair accessible based on the city’s listed accessible pool facilities. If you need specific water entry support, call ahead and ask what works best on the day, especially if areas are temporarily closed for programs.
Safety & Etiquette
Heat and cold contrasts add up
Hot tubs, sauna, and cold plunges are a classic combo, but your body still needs pacing. Short rounds with breaks usually feel better than pushing for long stretches.
Slips are the main hazard
Wet tile and steps are where people get hurt. Traction sandals and a slower pace make a real difference, especially if you’re moving quickly between hot and cold areas.
Showering and cleanliness
Expect thorough showering before entering shared water. It keeps the hot pots nicer for everyone and fits how Icelandic pools operate day to day.
Shared-space etiquette
It goes best when everyone shares space and keeps things moving. Leave room at ladders and steps, keep bags tidy, and keep voices lower when the hot pots are crowded.
Respect programmed use
If parts of the facility are reserved for school swimming, treat it like a normal local schedule. Checking the day’s closure notes before you arrive avoids frustration for you and for staff.
FAQs
Do parts of Sundhöllin close for school swimming?
Yes. The city publishes weekday school swimming times when the indoor pool is closed to the public. Check the official schedule before you go if you need the indoor lanes.
What are the opening hours?
Published general hours are Mon–Fri 6:30am–10pm and Sat–Sun 8am–9pm, with a note that hours may change. Confirm on the official page on the day of your visit.
How much is entry?
The city lists adult single admission at 1,430 kr, youth (16–17) at 220 kr, and children (0–15) free.
What should I pack?
Swimsuit, towel, and traction sandals. Bring a warm layer for outdoor transitions and plan for wet floors.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
The city lists an accessible pool facility. For step-free routes and the easiest water entry on your visit day, call ahead and ask what staff recommend.