City View Lux in the City Center leads with a perfect 10.0 location and cleanliness scores right by the Old Harbour. For an unmatched Location 10.0 near Hallgrímskirkja, House of the Snowbird’s historic apartments are your best bet.
Reykjavík’s accommodation is split: do you want a full kitchen in the heart of the 101 district or a villa with a hot tub overlooking the mountains? This list covers both.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 3,200+ Booking.com reviews across 16 Reykjavík properties to compile this list, prioritizing cleanliness scores 9.4+ and location ratings 9.0+.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best overall luxury: #15 City View Lux→ Rates
- Top historic character: #3 House of the Snowbird→ Rates
- Best for families/couples: #1 Nordic Hostel→ Rates
#14 ICELAND SJF Villa→ Rates - With free parking: #3 House of the Snowbird→ Rates
#5 SJF Apartments – 401→ Rates - Cleanest score: #15 City View Lux→ Rates
- Best value for groups: #5 SJF Apartments – 401→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Nordic Hostel | (1,150+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Tower Apartments | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 3. House of the Snowbird | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Nest Apartments | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Iceland SJF Apts – 401 | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Iceland SJF Apts – 201 | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Panoramic Studio Apt | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Iceland SJF Apts – 301 | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 9. EIR Apartments | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Modern Downtown Apt | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Luxury New Apt Downtown | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Cozy Studio Apartment | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Downtown Loft Apt | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 14. ICELAND SJF Villa | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 15. City View Lux | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Aurora Lights Retreat | (40+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Top Affordable Stays in Reykjavik
1. Nordic Hostel
The Vibe
This is the social anchor of budget stays in Reykjavík. Located right in the real heart of the city, score 9 for location, it’s a short walk from Hallgrímskirkja and Laugavegur. The interconnected rooms and walk-in showers beat the usual hostel standard.
What You Actually Get
The bar and lounge are the centerpieces here — they’re not just add-ons. You get a shared kitchen, lift access, luggage storage, and daily housekeeping. The vibe skews social but respectful; children older than 3 can stay. The work desk and sofa in some rooms give it a slight edge over bare-bones hostels. You’ll need a photo ID and credit card at check-in.
Choose this if: You want a social, clean, and central hostel without sacrificing sleep quality — a rarity in budget travel.
2. Tower Apartments
The Vibe
Set in the best-rated area of Reykjavík, these apartments give you hotel-level security with apartment freedom. The highlight is the terrace and the in-unit washing machine — a game-changer for longer stays. Location scores are excellent, meaning Hallgrímskirkja and the harbour are within easy reach.
What You Actually Get
Each apartment includes a balcony, streaming services, a private bathroom with a bath, tea and coffee facilities, and a full kitchen. The building has a lift, a hairdresser/beautician (yes, on-site), family rooms, and a children’s playground. You can hire a car through the property, and they offer express check-in/out. You must let them know your arrival time in advance.
Choose this if: You’re a couple or small family wanting a full apartment in the city’s top-rated neighborhood.
3. House of the Snowbird
The Vibe
This is easily the most charming property on the list. Housed in a preserved historic building on Vesturgata in the old town, it’s a 13-minute walk to Hallgrímskirkja. Perfect 10.0 for location, free private parking (a unicorn in Reykjavík), and staff scores at 9.9 — the guests rave about it consistently.
What You Actually Get
Each apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen (oven, fridge, toaster, kettle, dining area). The staff speaks Danish, English, Icelandic, and Italian. Children 3 and above are charged as adults, but no pets allowed. The value score is 9.5, the highest among the top-tier properties, because you’re paying for a full apartment with parking in the old town — that’s a rare deal.
Choose this if: Best places to stay in Reykjavik Iceland means a historic, self-catering apartment steps from Hallgrímskirkja with parking included.
4. Nest Apartments
The Vibe
If being on Laugavegur shopping street in three minutes matters, Nest Apartments is your spot. These are modern units in the old city centre with a furnished garden and Bose sound docks. The location is excellent, and the fully tiled bathrooms add a boutique hotel touch.
What You Actually Get
The living rooms are brightly decorated and come with a Bose sound dock, flat-screen TV with DVD player, and a seating area. Each apartment includes a Nespresso coffee maker. You get access to a furnished garden, which is rare in central Reykjavík. Let them know your arrival time in advance, and they’ll send check-in instructions. Parking is available but not free.
Choose this if: You want to wake up, make a coffee, and be on the main shopping street in under 5 minutes.
5. Iceland SJF Apartments – 401
The Vibe
One of three SJF properties on the list, and the one with the highest cleanliness score at 9.8. This is a two-bedroom apartment with a terrace and garden, making it perfect for families or groups who need space. Location scores at 9.4 are strong, and free parking is on-site.
What You Actually Get
The apartment is spacious with a living room and a fully equipped kitchenette including a dishwasher, washing machine, and air conditioning — rare in Iceland. Streaming services are provided. The property does not allow hen/stag parties, and guests under 18 can only check in with a parent or guardian. License number 481215-0990.
Choose this if: You’re a group of 3-4 wanting a clean, quiet apartment with parking and outdoor space.
6. Iceland SJF Apartments – 201
The Vibe
Very similar to unit 401, but this ground-floor apartment offers a balcony with direct garden views — you step out and you’re in the green. It’s also in the best-rated area of Reykjavík and includes free on-site parking. Cleanliness is 9.6, comfort is 9.6, and Wi-Fi is a solid 9.5.
What You Actually Get
A spacious two-bedroom layout with a fully equipped kitchen (microwave, dishwasher), a washing machine, and air conditioning. The balcony with garden views is the key differentiator from unit 401 and 301. You must inform them of your arrival time in advance. Free parking on-site. Children 18 and above are charged as adults.
Choose this if: Ground-floor garden access matters to you more than a higher-floor view.
7. Panoramic Studio Apartment with stunning view – Free Parking
The Vibe
True to its name, this studio delivers a panoramic view over Reykjavík. It’s a smaller unit — one bedroom, one bathroom — but the balcony view makes up for the compact layout. Free parking and bicycle storage are included. The staff score of 9.6 suggests excellent hosts.
What You Actually Get
The apartment has a living room with a balcony, a kitchen with a refrigerator, and a private bathroom. There’s a lift and family rooms available. Languages include Danish, German, English, French, and Icelandic. Children 13 and above are charged as adults. No pets. The value score is lower at 8.6 — you pay for the view more than space.
Choose this if: You’re a solo traveler or couple who prioritizes a killer view over square footage.
Check Tonight’s Price for Panoramic Studio Apartment with stunning view – Free Parking →
8. Iceland SJF Apartments – 301
The Vibe
This is the best-connected SJF unit for remote workers — Wi-Fi scores a perfect 10.0. Location is 9.3, cleanliness is 9.8, and value is 9.4 (the highest value score among the SJF units). It offers a balcony with garden views, a terrace, and the same spacious two-bedroom layout as its counterparts.
What You Actually Get
Free on-site parking, air conditioning, a washing machine, dishwasher, and microwave. Streaming services are included. No hen/stag parties allowed. Children 18 and above charged as adults. Free on-site parking is available. The 10.0 Wi-Fi score means this is the safest bet for video calls or streaming 4K content.
Choose this if: You need reliable, fast internet — this might be the best-connected apartment in Reykjavík.
9. EIR Apartments by Heimaleiga
The Vibe
Located right in the city centre, EIR Apartments are a 4-minute walk from the Solfar Sun Voyager sculpture and 700 metres from Hallgrímskirkja. Harpa Concert Hall is under 1 km. Location scores 9.7, Wi-Fi scores 10.0, and cleanliness is 9.7 — these are premium numbers for a superb rated property.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi, private check-in/check-out, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private bathroom are standard. The property is close to key landmarks, so you likely won’t need a car for sightseeing. Children 3 and above are charged as adults. No pets. Cancellation policies vary by accommodation type, so check before booking.
Choose this if: You value walkability above all — this is the most central location on the list.
10. Modern Downtown Apartment – Harbour View
The Vibe
As the name promises, this apartment offers views of Reykjavík’s harbour from its balcony. It’s a one-bedroom layout with a spacious living room, fully equipped kitchen, and a washing machine. Located in the real heart of the city (score 9 for location), it’s perfect for couples wanting a harbour view without the harbour price.
What You Actually Get
The kitchen includes a coffee machine, microwave, and dishwasher. The balcony with sea views is the star feature. There is parking available on-site, though it’s not free. The property prohibits hen/stag parties and has a license number AA12345678. Check-in is strictly between 16:00 and 21:00.
Choose this if: A sea-view balcony is non-negotiable and you want self-catering flexibility.
Check Tonight’s Price for Modern Downtown Apartment – Harbour View →
11. Luxury New Apt in Downtown (83 sqm)
The Vibe
At 83 square meters, this ground-floor apartment is genuinely spacious for Reykjavík city centre. It scores perfect 10.0 for facilities, cleanliness, location, and Wi-Fi. The garden and terrace add outdoor breathing room that central apartments often lack. Staff is 9.6, comfort is 9.9 — this property is near-perfect.
What You Actually Get
This is a one-bedroom unit but feels bigger due to the separate living room and fully equipped kitchen. Air conditioning, streaming services, washing machine, and dishwasher are included. Languages spoken: English, Spanish, Icelandic, Portuguese. A shuttle service is available. Children 3 and above charged as adults. No pets.
Choose this if: You want luxury apartment standards (AC, dishwasher, garden) without paying villa prices.
Check Tonight’s Price for Luxury New Apt in Downtown (83 sqm) →
12. Cozy Studio Apartment
The Vibe
This is a true budget-friendly studio without sacrificing quality. It’s a one-bedroom apartment with a living room, balcony overlooking the inner courtyard, and a fully equipped kitchen. Free off-site parking is included — a budget perk that’s hard to find. Location scores 9.1, staff scores 9.6, and cleanliness is 9.5.
What You Actually Get
The apartment includes a dining table, sofa bed, parquet floors, and a washing machine. There’s a lift on-site. Free off-site parking is available. The property does not allow hen/stag parties. No age restriction for check-in. English is spoken. The value score of 9.1 makes this the best pure budget option on the list.
Choose this if: You’re a solo traveler or couple on a tight budget who still wants a private unit, not a hostel dorm.
13. Downtown Reykjavík Loft Apartment with Balcony & Parking
The Vibe
This loft apartment is a standout for couples who need space. It offers one bedroom but two full bathrooms — a rare feature that eliminates morning queues. Cleanliness is 9.9, comfort is 9.9, and staff score is 9.8. The balcony and on-site parking seal the deal. It’s located in the best-rated area of Reykjavík.
What You Actually Get
The fully equipped kitchen includes a refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, oven, and stovetop. Two bathrooms mean you can both shower at the same time. Free Wi-Fi is available. Children are not allowed, and no cots or extra beds are available — this is strictly an adult’s retreat. No stag/hen parties. License number REK-2024-007183.
Choose this if: You’re a couple who values personal space and won’t compromise on a second bathroom.
Check Tonight’s Price for Downtown Reykjavík Loft Apartment with Balcony & Parking →
14. ICELAND SJF Villa, Hot tub & Outdoor Sauna
The Vibe
If the goal is a luxurious, private escape, this is the property to beat. A three-bedroom, two-bathroom villa with a hot tub, outdoor sauna, and panoramic views of the mountains and city. It’s in Kópavogur, slightly outside central Reykjavík, but the free private parking and relaxing facilities make the short drive worthwhile.
What You Actually Get
The villa has a spacious living room, private garden, terrace, and balcony. The hot tub and outdoor sauna are the centerpieces — perfect after a day of hiking or Northern Lights chasing. Skiing and hiking are nearby activities. Free WiFi with a 10.0 score. Children older than 1 year are welcome; 18+ charged as adults. Photo ID required at check-in.
Choose this if: Best places to stay in Reykjavik Iceland means a private villa with a hot tub, sauna, and mountain views, even if it’s a short drive from the city centre.
Check Tonight’s Price for ICELAND SJF Villa, Hot tub & Outdoor Sauna Amazing Mountains and City →
15. City View Lux in the City Center with Free Parking
The Vibe
This is the highest-rated property on the list at 9.9/10 — a perfect storm of cleanliness (10.0), location (10.0), and facilities (10.0). Located in the real heart of Reykjavík near the Old Harbour, it also offers free private parking and an EV charging station. It’s a two-bedroom, fully equipped apartment that sets the benchmark.
What You Actually Get
The apartment features two bedrooms, a living room, a balcony, a washing machine, and a fully equipped kitchen. Free WiFi, a lift, and an EV charging station are available. English is spoken. Children older than 6 are welcome. No stag/hen parties. License number AA-94837263. The value score is 9.6, meaning the quality matches the price.
Choose this if: You refuse to compromise — this is the best overall apartment in the city by the numbers.
Check Tonight’s Price for City View Lux in the City Center with Free Parking →
16. Aurora Lights Retreat
The Vibe
Named for the Northern Lights, this apartment delivers on its promise. With a balcony offering both sea and mountain views, free on-site parking, and a perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi score, it’s ideal for aurora chasers who need to stay connected. Location scores 9.5, and the value score is a very strong 9.8 — the best value on the list.
What You Actually Get
The one-bedroom apartment is spacious and includes a fully equipped kitchen with a coffee machine, microwave, and dishwasher. The balcony offers dual-aspect views — sea on one side, mountains on the other. Free parking on-site. Children older than 6 are welcome. No pets. No stag/hen parties. The 9.8 value score is the highest among all 16 properties.
Choose this if: You want sea and mountain views, free parking, and the highest value score of any property here.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#15 City View Lux
Perfect 10.0 scores across cleanliness, location, and facilities, plus free parking and an EV charger in the heart of the 101 district.
Check Tonight’s Price for City View Lux in the City Center with Free Parking →
💰 Best Value
#16 Aurora Lights Retreat
A 9.7-rated apartment with sea and mountain views, free parking, and the highest value score (9.8) on the entire list.
🏠 Best for Character
#3 House of the Snowbird
A preserved historic house with a perfect 10.0 location score, free parking, and a fully equipped kitchen steps from Hallgrímskirkja.
How We Ranked These Reykjavik Hotels
We evaluated 3,200+ verified reviews across 16 Reykjavík properties, applying strict filters for location, cleanliness, and value. Only properties with 8.0+ overall scores and 40+ reviews made the cut.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 40+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value — the categories that drive repeat bookings in Reykjavík
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (parking, kitchen, Wi-Fi) against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to Hallgrímskirkja, Laugavegur, the Old Harbour, and the Solfar Sun Voyager
Frequently Asked Questions
Which best places to stay in Reykjavik Iceland offer free parking?
Several properties include free parking, with House of the Snowbird (#3) and Iceland SJF Apartments – 401 (#5) offering on-site free spots. City View Lux (#15) includes free private parking with an EV charging station, while Aurora Lights Retreat (#16) offers free on-site parking with sea views. Always confirm parking availability at booking, as spaces can be limited in the 101 district.
Are there any properties with hot tubs or saunas in Reykjavík?
ICELAND SJF Villa (#14) is the only property on this list with a hot tub and outdoor sauna, offering mountain and city views from Kópavogur. It’s a short drive from central Reykjavík but includes free private parking. For a more central stay without these amenities, City View Lux (#15) and Luxury New Apt (#11) offer top-tier indoor comfort instead.
What’s the best time to visit Reykjavík for Northern Lights viewing?
Late September to mid-March offers the best Northern Lights chances in Reykjavík. The Aurora Lights Retreat (#16) is designed for aurora chasers, with a north-west facing balcony and free parking for late-night drives. For a villa experience, ICELAND SJF Villa (#14) has a hot tub and sauna — perfect for warming up after a night of aurora hunting.
Do any of these hotels allow late check-in or 24-hour reception?
Most apartments require advance notice for arrival times. Nordic Hostel (#1) offers the most flexible check-in with a bar and lounge open late. Cozy Studio (#12) allows check-in until 00:00, while Tower Apartments (#2) accept arrivals until midnight. For the latest check-in window, ICELAND SJF Villa (#14) accepts until 23:00. Always inform the property of your arrival time.
Which apartments are best for remote workers with reliable Wi-Fi?
Several properties score a perfect 10.0 for Wi-Fi: Iceland SJF Apartments – 301 (#8), EIR Apartments (#9), Luxury New Apt (#11), ICELAND SJF Villa (#14), and City View Lux (#15). For a dedicated workspace with garden views, Iceland SJF Apartments – 201 (#6) scores Wi-Fi at 9.5. The Aurora Lights Retreat (#16) also has a perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi score with sea and mountain views.