Sky Lagoon is one of the easiest major attractions in Iceland to reach from the capital — it sits in Kópavogur, just 7 km (about 15 minutes) from central Reykjavík. Whether you've got a rental car, want a hassle-free transfer, or are happy to ride the local bus, this guide covers every route, what it costs, and how long it takes — so you can pick the option that suits your day.
In a hurry? The single simplest choice is to book your pass with a round-trip shuttle included, so your transport is handled the moment you arrive.
Where exactly is Sky Lagoon?
Sky Lagoon is at Vesturvör 44–48, 200 Kópavogur, on the tip of the Kársnes peninsula on the southern edge of the Reykjavík capital area. It's right on the coast, facing the North Atlantic. Despite the wild-feeling setting, you're never far from the city — Kópavogur is effectively a southern suburb of Reykjavík.
| From | Distance | Driving time |
|---|---|---|
| Central Reykjavík (Hlemmur) | ~7 km | ~15 min |
| Keflavík Airport (KEF) | ~45 km | ~45–50 min |
| Reykjavík cruise port (Skarfabakki) | ~10 km | ~15–20 min |
Option 1: Shuttle transfer (easiest)
For most visitors, a round-trip shuttle is the best balance of price and convenience. Sky Lagoon's transfer partner runs a coach service between the BSÍ bus terminal in Reykjavík and the lagoon, and you can buy your admission pass and transfer together in one booking.
- How it works: Departures run roughly hourly from BSÍ through the afternoon and early evening (commonly around 12:00–19:00), with returns from the lagoon spread across the later afternoon and evening (around 14:30–21:30). Confirm the current timetable when you book, as it shifts seasonally.
- Hotel pickup: Some transfer packages include pickup from designated bus stops near central hotels, with passengers shuttled to BSÍ first. Check whether your booking is "from BSÍ" or "with hotel pickup."
- Why choose it: No driving, no parking, no working out bus connections — and your return is already arranged. Ideal if you want to fully switch off and relax.
Tip: Book the transfer time slot that matches your entry time, and give yourself a buffer. If you want a sunset soak, pick a later departure and an evening return.
Option 2: Self-drive (most flexible)
If you have a rental car, driving is quick and gives you total control over timing.
- Route: From central Reykjavík, head south on Kringlumýrarbraut (Route 40) toward Kópavogur, then follow signs down toward Kársnes and Vesturvör. The drive is about 15 minutes in normal traffic.
- Parking: There's free parking on site — a real advantage over some other Icelandic attractions.
- Best for: Visitors already renting a car, those combining Sky Lagoon with other stops, or anyone who wants to arrive exactly when they like (including early-morning quiet slots).
Option 3: Public bus (cheapest)
Reykjavík's public bus network, Strætó, reaches Kópavogur, so the bus is the budget option if you don't mind a couple of connections and a short walk.
- From Hlemmur square, take bus 4 to Hamraborg (about 15 minutes).
- At Hamraborg, change to bus 35 or 36 and ride to the Bakkabraut stop (about 5 minutes).
- From Bakkabraut, follow the signs and walk a few minutes down toward Vesturvör, then along the shore until you reach Sky Lagoon.
You can buy tickets or use the Strætó app; check straeto.is for live timetables. Allow extra time for the connection, and note that evening service is less frequent — plan your return so you're not waiting long in the cold.
Best for: Budget travellers and anyone comfortable with public transport.
Option 4: Taxi
A taxi is the most direct door-to-door option without a rental car. Expect a fare in the region of €30–35 (roughly 4,500–5,000 ISK) each way from a downtown hotel, depending on traffic and pickup point. For a couple or small group splitting the cost, this can be comparable to individual shuttle tickets while saving time. Reykjavík taxis can be hailed, booked by app, or arranged through your hotel; ask the driver for a rough fare before setting off.
Getting to Sky Lagoon from Keflavík Airport (KEF)
Sky Lagoon makes a great first or last stop on an Iceland trip, since it's roughly 45–50 minutes by car from Keflavík Airport.
- By car: Drive the Reykjanesbraut (Route 41) toward Reykjavík, then turn off toward Kópavogur. Straightforward and well signposted.
- By bus + connection: Take an airport coach (such as the Flybus) to the BSÍ terminal in Reykjavík, then continue to Sky Lagoon by the shuttle, local bus, or taxi options above.
- Why bookend your trip here: Arriving early and not able to check in yet? A soak straight off the plane is a popular way to shake off the flight. Just factor in luggage — there's storage on site, but confirm details when you book.
Which option should you choose?
| Option | Approx. cost (one way) | Convenience | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shuttle transfer | Bundled with pass | ★★★★★ | Most visitors; no-stress trips |
| Self-drive | Fuel only (free parking) | ★★★★☆ | Car renters; flexible timing |
| Public bus | Lowest (single bus fare) | ★★☆☆☆ | Budget travellers |
| Taxi | ~€30–35 | ★★★★☆ | Groups; door-to-door speed |
For the great majority of people staying in Reykjavík, the pass-with-shuttle bundle wins on simplicity. If you're driving Iceland anyway, just drive — the free parking seals it.
Beyond Sky Lagoon: other experiences you might enjoy
Once your transport is sorted, it's worth building a day or two of sightseeing around your soak. From Reykjavík you're within easy reach of the Golden Circle (Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir hot springs and Gullfoss waterfall), the South Coast with its waterfalls and black-sand beaches, Northern Lights hunts in winter, whale watching tours from the Old Harbour, glacier hikes and ice caves, and the Blue Lagoon on the Reykjanes Peninsula — many of which include hotel pickup. Browse the top-rated Reykjavík day tours and activities below.
