Hostels in Reykjavik
Choose from the largest selection of cheap hostels in Reykjavik. Spend your time in the vibrant city center and make friends along the way.
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The best hostels in Reykjavik
Hotels & places to stay in all the top cities in Iceland
Popular types of accommodation in Reykjavik
We offer all types of accommodation and places to stay in Iceland
Everything You Need To Know About Hostels in Reykjavik
Hostels in Reykjavik offer a fantastic mix of affordability and comfort, perfect for travelers exploring Iceland's lively capital. Many provide modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, cozy common areas, and shared kitchens, catering to solo adventurers and groups alike. With options near popular attractions, they’re great for those who value convenience and social connections. These hostels ensure a welcoming stay without emptying your wallet.
Best Hostels in Reykjavik
- Bus Hostel Reykjavik - A no-fuss, budget-friendly stay at Skogarhlio 10, just minutes from Perlan and Nautholsvik beach. With direct access to major bus routes, Bus Hostel is a solid pick for travelers heading out on Icelandic adventures.
- KEX Hostel - Once a biscuit factory, KEX Hostel is now Reykjavik’s go-to social hub at Skulagata 28. Industrial-chic decor, live music, and a buzzing bar make it a hotspot for those who want energy and character in their stay.
- HI Loft Hostel - Right on Bankastraeti, HI Loft Hostel delivers rooftop views, an eco-conscious ethos, and instant access to Reykjavik’s best nightlife. Perfect for travelers who want style, sustainability, and a front-row seat to the city's action.
- Reykjavik Dalur HI Hostel - Tucked near Laugardalur Park at Sundlaugavegur 34, Reykjavik Dalur HI Hostel is ideal for a quieter stay. A cozy café, family-friendly vibe, and Reykjavik’s largest geothermal pool just steps away make it a top pick.
Best Areas To Stay in Reykjavik
Hostels in Reykjavik are scattered across the city, offering convenient access to top attractions and vibrant neighborhoods. Here are five key areas where you can find top-notch hostels:
- Austurbaer District - This area, located near the central bus station, is perfect for budget-conscious travelers relying on public transport. It serves as a convenient hub for exploring Reykjavik and venturing into Iceland’s stunning landscapes. Nearby, you’ll find affordable dining spots, grocery stores, and cozy cafés.
- Laugavegur Shopping Street - As Reykjavik’s main shopping area, Laugavegur shopping street is packed with boutiques, cafés, and local design stores. It’s the perfect place to find Icelandic fashion, souvenirs, and handmade goods while enjoying the city’s lively atmosphere. Day or night, it’s always buzzing with energy.
- Hlemmur Square - Hlemmur square is a lively area in Reykjavik, known for its mix of culture, dining, and transport connections. Once a central bus station, it now features Hlemmur Matholl, a trendy food hall with Icelandic and international cuisine. The spot is perfect for casual dining and people-watching.
- Laugardalur Valley - This area is Reykjavik’s recreational hub, home to the city’s largest geothermal pool, lush parks, and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can relax in hot springs, explore the botanical garden, or visit the zoo. It’s a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Reasons to Stay in Hostels in Reykjavik
Hostels in Reykjavik offer an affordable and social way to experience Iceland’s capital. Many are centrally located, making it easy to explore attractions, restaurants, and nightlife without spending on transportation. In addition, the communal atmosphere also makes it a great option for meeting fellow travelers.
Beyond affordability, Reykjavik’s hostels provide thoughtful amenities and a unique local charm. Many have in-house cafes with WiFi, lounges decorated with Icelandic art, and bike rentals for easy city exploration. Some offer organized tours, making it simple to experience Reykjavik’s culture and landscapes.
Frequently asked questions
What part of Reykjavik should I stay in?
The best place to stay in Reykjavik is the downtown area, sometimes called Reykjavik 101 after the postal code. While staying in the city center you can easily walk to Hallgrimskirkja church and the Harpa Concert Hall or have a stroll down Laugavegur shopping street. Booking a hostel like Kex Hostel in the downtown area lets you easily explore Reykjavik and its many restaurants, cafés, and nearby shops on foot.
What are the best hostels in Reykjavik?
One of the best hostel in Reykjavik is the HI Loft Hostel. The hostel is in central Reykjavik, just across from Austurstraeti, one of the oldest streets in Reykjavik. Guests can choose from different accommodation types ranging from four to eight-bed dorms. The hostel also offers free Wi-Fi and a popular bar on the rooftop terrace. HI Loft Hostel is also a few minutes walk from key attractions like the Sun Voyager and the Harpa Concert Hall, and to name a few.
KEX Hostel is a lively and popular hostel that's also located in the city center of Reykjavik. It's affordable to stay and a great way to meet other people as it is a popular nightlife destination and regularly has great live music. The hostel has mixed dormitories of varying sizes, including a six-bed room just for women.
Another trendy and affordable hostel in Reykjavik is Bus Hostel. It's called that because it's a meeting point for many bus companies, therefore making it very easy to catch a tour of natural wonders in Iceland. There's a 24-hour desk, and it's located just a stroll from the downtown area.
KEX Hostel is a lively and popular hostel that's also located in the city center of Reykjavik. It's affordable to stay and a great way to meet other people as it is a popular nightlife destination and regularly has great live music. The hostel has mixed dormitories of varying sizes, including a six-bed room just for women.
Another trendy and affordable hostel in Reykjavik is Bus Hostel. It's called that because it's a meeting point for many bus companies, therefore making it very easy to catch a tour of natural wonders in Iceland. There's a 24-hour desk, and it's located just a stroll from the downtown area.
What popular attractions are close to Reykjavik?
Several of Iceland's most famous attractions are close to Reykjavik. Book a Golden Circle day tour to visit the Geysir geothermal area, the beautiful Gullfoss waterfall, and the historic Thingvellir National Park. This tour also includes a visit to the Blue Lagoon, one of the most famous spas in the world.
What is there to do in Reykjavik?
Reykjavik offers a variety of activities and attractions. The city has numerous museums, galleries, and historical landmarks to explore, including Hallgrimskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the National Museum of Iceland. If you want to explore the city on foot, there's a variety of Reykjavik walking tours to choose from, such as the fulfilling Reykjavik Food Walk.
Visitors can enjoy the city's outdoor spaces, such as the Tjornin pond and Laugardalur park. Additionally, Reykjavik serves as an excellent base for day trips to Iceland's stunning natural wonders.
Visitors can enjoy the city's outdoor spaces, such as the Tjornin pond and Laugardalur park. Additionally, Reykjavik serves as an excellent base for day trips to Iceland's stunning natural wonders.
Can I book a capsule hotel in Reykjavik?
Yes, you can book a capsule hotel in Reykjavik. Galaxy Pod Hostel is a great example of a comfortable capsule hotel. Galaxy Pod Hostel offers an extensive range of amenities and services for your convenience. These features include free Wi-Fi, kitchen facilities, daily housekeeping, and wheelchair accessibility.
Are hostels in Reykjavik safe?
Yes, hostels in Reykjavik are generally safe. They have security measures in place, such as lockers, surveillance cameras, and secure entry systems, to ensure the safety of their guests.
Can I book a private room in a hostel in Reykjavik?
Yes, most hostels in Reykjavik offer private rooms in addition to dormitory-style rooms. These rooms may come with en-suite bathrooms and other amenities. Reykjavik Hostel Village and Reykjavik City Hostel are two hostels in Reykjavik that offer private rooms.
Is breakfast included in the hostel stay?
It depends on the hostel. Some hostels in Reykjavik offer complimentary breakfast, while others may charge an additional fee. Make sure to read the description of what's included with your stay before booking a hostel.
Are there hostels in Reykjavik which provide female-only dorm rooms?
Some hostels in Reykjavik offer female-only dorms, while others only provide mixed-gender dormitory rooms. The hostels in Reykjavik which provide female-only dorm rooms include HI Loft Hostel, KEX Hostel, HI Reykjavik City Hostel, and Bus Hostel.
Can I cook my own meals in the hostel?
Yes, most hostels in Reykjavik have communal kitchens where guests can prepare their meals. Cooking your meals can be a great way to save money on food while traveling.
Are there hostels in Reykjavik which provide family rooms?
Yes, while hostels are most popular amongst younger solo travelers, some hostels in Reykjavik have special family rooms that cater to families traveling together. For example, HI Loft Hostel has a 6-person family room available, while KEX Hostel has 4 or 6-person family rooms.
Do I need to bring my own bed linens and towels?
No, hostels in Reykjavik provide bed linens and towels for their guests.
Can I store my luggage at the hostel before check-in or after check-out?
Yes, some hostels in Reykjavik offer luggage storage facilities for their guests. Make sure to check with the individual hostel before you book it.
Is it necessary to bring a lock for the lockers?
Some hostels provide lockers with built-in locks, while others may require guests to bring their own lock. It's best to check with the hostel beforehand to confirm their policies.
What amenities can I expect at hostels in Reykjavik?
Hostels in Reykjavik typically offer free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, common areas, laundry facilities, and sometimes organized activities.
What are the check-in and check-out times at hostels in Reykjavik?
Check-in and check-out times vary by the hostel, but most hostels have check-in times in the afternoon and check-out times in the morning. It's best to check with the hostel beforehand to confirm their policies.
Can I find accessible facilities at hostels in Reykjavik?
Some hostels in Reykjavik have accessible facilities or rooms for guests with mobility challenges. We recommend contacting us directly, and we'll help you find a hostel with accessible facilities: info@guidetoiceland.is.
What is the weather like in Reykjavik?
The weather in Reykjavik is generally mild and wet, with cool temperatures in the summer and cold temperatures in the winter.
How do I get around Reykjavik?
Reykjavik has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and taxis. Walking and cycling are also popular options for getting around the city. The Reykjavik hop-on hop-off bus tour is an excellent option for sightseeing in the city. If you prefer more freedom, we recommend renting a car in Reykjavik so you can go where you want when you want.
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