Sundhöllin

Sundhöllin is Iceland's oldest public swimming pool, offering families an authentic geothermal bathing experience in the heart of Reykjavik. Kids will love splashing in the naturally heated pools and shallow areas, while parents can relax in the hot tubs after a day of sightseeing. This is a beloved local institution where you'll swim alongside Icelandic families, making it a genuine cultural experience rather than a tourist trap.

• ✓Naturally heated geothermal water that stays warm year-round, even in winter
• ✓Multiple hot tubs at different temperatures (up to 44°C/111°F)
• ✓Shallow wading areas perfect for young children learning to swim
• ✓Historic 1937 Art Deco architecture that's been lovingly maintained
• ✓Authentic local experience where you'll swim alongside Reykjavik families

1. 1.Icelanders take pool hygiene seriously: you MUST shower thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering the pool. Staff may check, and there are diagrams showing exactly what to wash. Bring your own towel or rent one for a small fee.
2. 2.Visit on weekday mornings (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM) to experience the pool like a local with fewer tourists. Afternoons after 3:00 PM can get crowded with after-school families.
3. 3.The water is naturally heated to about 29°C (84°F) in the main pool and hotter in the hot tubs. Bring water bottles as kids can get dehydrated in the warm water without realizing it.
4. 4.Changing facilities have family changing rooms available. Bring flip-flops or water shoes for walking between areas, though they must be removed before entering pools.
5. 5.While listed as free online, there is actually an admission fee (around 1,200 ISK for adults, 150 ISK for children). Bring a credit card as Iceland is largely cashless.

Weekday mornings (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM) offer the most authentic local experience with smaller crowds. Winter visits (November to March) are especially magical as you can swim in warm water while snow falls around you, though any time of year works well since it's indoors and heated year-round.

Admission costs approximately 1,200 ISK for adults and 150 ISK for children (prices subject to change). The mandatory pre-swim shower without a swimsuit is strictly enforced, so prepare kids in advance. Limited street parking is available nearby, or it's a 15-minute walk from downtown Reykjavik.

Open year-round with consistent hours. Winter swimming is particularly special as you can enjoy warm water outdoors in freezing temperatures. The pool occasionally closes for maintenance, so check their website or call ahead if visiting during off-peak tourist season.

Braud & Co bakery (10-minute walk) is perfect for post-swim pastries and hot chocolate, with cinnamon buns that kids adore. For a heartier meal, Grillmarkadurinn offers Icelandic dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere about 5 minutes away by car.