Iceland, a land of breathtaking landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and the Northern Lights, is a dream destination for many travelers. With its unique culture and stunning natural beauty, it’s no wonder that Iceland has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. However, finding the right place to stay in Iceland can be a daunting task, especially for first-time visitors. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Iceland, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels, and provide you with the information you need to plan your trip.
Get ultimate traveler plannerWhy Choose the Right Accommodation in Iceland?
Iceland is a vast and sparsely populated country, and getting around can be challenging, especially if you don’t have a car. Staying in the right location can make a big difference in your travel experience. By choosing the right accommodation, you can be close to the attractions you want to visit, enjoy the local culture, and take advantage of the unique experiences that Iceland has to offer.
Types of Accommodations in Iceland
Iceland offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Guesthouses (Gisting): These are family-run establishments that offer a cozy and intimate atmosphere. They often have a shared kitchen and living area, and prices start from around 10,000 ISK (around $80 USD) per night.
- Hostels: Hostels are a great option for budget-conscious travelers. They offer dormitory-style rooms and shared facilities, and prices start from around 5,000 ISK (around $40 USD) per night.
- Hotels: Iceland has a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts. Prices vary depending on the location and amenities, but you can expect to pay around 20,000 ISK (around $160 USD) per night.
- Self-Catering Apartments: These are a great option for families or groups of travelers. They offer a fully equipped kitchen and living area, and prices start from around 15,000 ISK (around $120 USD) per night.
Best Places to Stay in Iceland
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to stay in Iceland, including:
- Reykjavik: The capital city is a must-visit destination, and there are plenty of accommodations to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels.
- South Coast: The South Coast is a popular destination, with stunning natural beauty and a range of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.
- North Iceland: The North is a great destination for nature lovers, with its stunning landscapes, hot springs, and the Northern Lights.
- Westfjords: The Westfjords are a remote and rugged region, with a range of outdoor activities and stunning natural beauty.
In the next section, we’ll explore some of the best places to stay in each of these regions, and provide you with the information you need to plan your trip to Iceland.
Best Places to Stay in Iceland
Iceland is a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and the Northern Lights. With its unique natural beauty, it’s no wonder that tourists flock to this tiny island nation every year. When it comes to finding the best places to stay in Iceland, there are many options to consider. From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels, Iceland has something for everyone.
Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the capital and largest city of Iceland, and it’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to the city’s vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and shops. There are many hotels and hostels to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly options like the Reykjavik Hostel 101 to luxury hotels like the Hotel Borg. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Delhi)
* **Budget-friendly options:**
+ Reykjavik Hostel 101: Starting at around $30 per night, this hostel is a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
+ Loft Hostel: With dorm rooms starting at around $25 per night, Loft Hostel is another affordable option.
* **Mid-range options:**
+ Hotel Reykjavik 101: This hotel offers comfortable rooms starting at around $150 per night.
+ Hotel Fosshótel Reykjavik: With rooms starting at around $120 per night, Hotel Fosshótel Reykjavik is a great mid-range option.
* **Luxury options:**
+ Hotel Borg: This luxurious hotel offers rooms starting at around $300 per night.
+ Hotel Reykjavik Grand: With rooms starting at around $250 per night, Hotel Reykjavik Grand is a great luxury option.
The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that takes you to three of Iceland’s most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. There are many hotels and guesthouses in the area, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts.
* **Budget-friendly options:**
+ Guesthouse 101: This guesthouse offers rooms starting at around $80 per night.
+ Hotel Gullfoss: With rooms starting at around $100 per night, Hotel Gullfoss is a great budget-friendly option.
* **Mid-range options:**
+ Hotel Kea: This hotel offers comfortable rooms starting at around $150 per night.
+ Hotel Ork: With rooms starting at around $120 per night, Hotel Ork is a great mid-range option.
* **Luxury options:**
+ Hotel Ranga: This luxurious hotel offers rooms starting at around $250 per night.
+ Hotel Husafell: With rooms starting at around $200 per night, Hotel Husafell is a great luxury option.
The South Coast
The South Coast of Iceland is known for its stunning natural beauty, with waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers. There are many hotels and guesthouses in the area, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts.
* **Budget-friendly options:**
+ Guesthouse Vík: This guesthouse offers rooms starting at around $60 per night.
+ Hotel Reynir: With rooms starting at around $80 per night, Hotel Reynir is a great budget-friendly option.
* **Mid-range options:**
+ Hotel Vestmannaeyjar: This hotel offers comfortable rooms starting at around $120 per night.
+ Hotel Ljosbrekka: With rooms starting at around $100 per night, Hotel Ljosbrekka is a great mid-range option.
* **Luxury options:**
+ Hotel Ritz-Carlton, Reykjavik: This luxurious hotel offers rooms starting at around $300 per night.
+ Hotel Ion: With rooms starting at around $250 per night, Hotel Ion is a great luxury option.
The Westfjords
The Westfjords are a remote and rugged region in northwest Iceland, known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. There are fewer options for accommodation in this area, but there are still some great choices to consider.
* **Budget-friendly options:**
+ Guesthouse Djúpavík: This guesthouse offers rooms starting at around $50 per night.
+ Hotel Hornstrandir: With rooms starting at around $70 per night, Hotel Hornstrandir is a great budget-friendly option.
* **Mid-range options:**
+ Hotel Isafjördur: This hotel offers comfortable rooms starting at around $100 per night.
+ Hotel Tálknafjörður: With rooms starting at around $80 per night, Hotel Tálknafjörður is a great mid-range option.
* **Luxury options:**
+ Hotel Edda: This luxurious hotel offers rooms starting at around $200 per night.
+ Hotel Vatnajökull: With rooms starting at around $150 per night, Hotel Vatnajökull is a great luxury option. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Charleston South Carolina)
Accommodation Tips
When choosing where to stay in Iceland, there are a few things to consider. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:
* **Book in advance:** Iceland is a popular tourist destination, and many hotels and hostels fill up quickly. Booking in advance is a good idea to ensure that you get the accommodation you want.
* **Consider the location:** Iceland is a country with a lot of natural beauty, and many of the best attractions are located in remote areas. Consider the location of your accommodation and how it will affect your travel plans.
* **Pack accordingly:** Iceland can be a cold and rainy country, so be sure to pack accordingly. Bring warm clothing, waterproof gear, and comfortable shoes.
* **Be prepared for limited amenities:** Some of the more remote areas of Iceland may have limited amenities, such as restaurants and shops. Be sure to pack snacks and other essentials to keep you going.
Conclusion
Iceland is a country with a lot to offer, from its stunning natural beauty to its vibrant culture and history. When choosing where to stay in Iceland, there are many options to consider, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. By considering the location, booking in advance, and packing accordingly, you can make the most of your trip to this amazing country.
Here are five FAQs related to “Best Places To Stay In Iceland”:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best areas to stay in Reykjavik?
Reykjavik is a small city, and most areas are within walking distance to each other. However, some popular neighborhoods to stay in include the city center, which offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions; the harbor area, which is close to the city’s main bus terminal; and the upscale neighborhood of Laugardalur, which is known for its natural hot springs and outdoor recreation opportunities.
What are some budget-friendly accommodation options in Iceland?
Iceland can be an expensive country, but there are some budget-friendly accommodation options available. Consider staying in a hostel, which typically offers dormitory-style rooms and shared facilities. You can also look into guesthouses, which often offer private rooms and a more homey atmosphere. Additionally, many Airbnb apartments and houses are available at affordable prices, especially if you’re willing to stay in a shared space or outside of the city center. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Dominica)
What are the best places to stay in the Golden Circle?
The Golden Circle is a popular day trip from Reykjavik that includes stops at Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. If you want to stay overnight in the area, consider staying in the nearby towns of Selfoss or Hveragerði. These towns offer a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels, and are within easy driving distance to the Golden Circle attractions.
What are some unique and quirky accommodations in Iceland?
Iceland is known for its unique and quirky accommodations, which can add to the country’s charm. Consider staying in a converted lighthouse, a geothermal-powered cabin, or a luxury ice hotel. You can also look into glamping options, such as yurts or safari tents, which offer a more rustic and adventurous experience. These types of accommodations can be found throughout the country, from Reykjavik to the countryside.
What are some eco-friendly accommodations in Iceland?
Iceland is a leader in sustainable tourism, and many accommodations in the country prioritize eco-friendliness. Look for hotels and guesthouses that have received certification from the Icelandic Tourist Board’s Green Travel Iceland program, which recognizes businesses that meet certain sustainability standards. You can also consider staying in accommodations that use renewable energy sources, such as wind or geothermal power, or those that have implemented recycling programs and reduce waste.
