Iceland
Laugardalur
F D / Unsplash
Family district east of centre — botanical garden, Iceland's largest geothermal pool, and local parks.
Laugardalur (Hot Spring Valley) sits 2km east of the city centre and was where Reykjavik's geothermal energy was first harnessed in the 1930s. Today it anchors a family-friendly green district around the Laugardalslaug — the city's largest and most beloved public geothermal pool complex, with indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, and a water slide popular with locals year-round. The adjacent botanical garden, sports halls, and zoo give this area a distinctly local, unhurried character.
Scores
Walkability
Transit
Price
Local feel
Nightlife
Family-friendly
Centrality
What you gain
- ↑Laugardalslaug geothermal pools: the most local swimming experience in Reykjavik, far less touristy than the Blue Lagoon
- ↑Botanical garden and Reykjavik Zoo next door — the most family-complete neighbourhood in the city
- ↑Cheaper accommodation than 101 with more family-sized apartments available
What you sacrifice
- ↓2km east of the centre: a walk or bus ride to the main restaurant and nightlife areas
- ↓Very quiet at night — not a destination for evening entertainment
- ↓Fewer restaurants and cafés immediately on the doorstep compared to 101 or Grandi
Best for
Avoid if
Other Iceland neighbourhoods
The walkable core — Laugavegur shopping street, Hallgrímskirkja, and the best restaurants all on foot.
Reykjavik's creative revival quarter — whale watching, seafood, and art without the tourist density.
Quiet residential west side — locals only, geothermal beach, and a 20-minute walk to the centre.
Know where to stay — now find when to go.
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