5 AMAZING Hostels in Reykjavik (2024 • Insider Guide!)

• Overall Best Hostel in Reykjavik – Kex Hostel
• Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Reykjavik – Laekur Hostel
• Best Party Hostel in Reykjavik – Reykjavik – Loft HI Hostel
• Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Reykjavik – Bus Hostel

Hostels are generally known to be one of the cheapest forms of accommodation on the market. That doesn’t just go for Reykjavik, but pretty much every place in the world. However, that’s not the only good reason for staying at a hostel. The unique vibe and social aspect is what makes hostels TRULY special. Head down to the common room, make new friends, share travel stories and tips, or just have a great time with like-minded travellers from all over the world – you won’t get that opportunity in any other accommodation. 

If you want to be a backpacking master, the most important parts of picking a hostel are 1) making sure it’s within your budget and 2) making sure it suits your personal travel needs. This is why I split up the best hostels in Iceland and Reykjavik into a few different categories. You can decide what’s more important to you (partying, saving money, privacy, space to work) and easily book from there!

Some other things I took into consideration…

• Location – This wasn’t too difficult. Iceland is small. Reykjavik is smaller. While it can be challenging to get around without a car, the island as a whole is fairly compact, and all of the hostels are in places you’d hope they’d be – near the sights!
• Price – Unfortunately, for all of it’s nature-glory, Reykjavik is a premium destination and it comes at a premium price. Expect to drop around $50 a day, and much more if you are not careful about where you eat. Plan your food as strategically as possible, because restaurants are not cheap.
• Amenities – The Reykjavik hostel scene is a bit on the stingy side… Not a lot of freebies, so try and save money where you can. A few hostels did offer free (or cheap breakfast) so try and pinch a penny where you can.

Reykjavik, and Iceland in general, is known for being a pretty pricey place to explore. Securing budget accommodation is, therefore, of particular importance to backpackers who want to enjoy the varied attractions and activities without breaking the bank.

When looking for those budget accommodations, you’ll find the best options on HOSTELWORLD. This platform offers you a super safe and efficient booking process. All hostels are displayed with a rating and previous guest reviews. You can also filter your personal travel needs easily and find the perfect place for you.

We’ve split Reykjavik’s best hostels into different types, such as best hostel for solo travellers, best hostel for couples, and best hostel for digital nomads, to make your final choice easier.

1. Kex Hostel – Overall Best Hostel in Reykjavik

Solid all-around, Kex Hostel is our pick for the overall best hostel in Reykjavik. It has awesome facilities and modern rooms with an industrial-chic vibe, with a choice of private rooms and dorms for four, six, and 16. Sleeping up to 200 guests, there are heaps of potential new buddies to bond with.

Close to central Reykjavik restaurants, nightlife, shops, and attractions, the sociable onsite bar-cum-restaurant might tempt you to stay indoors some nights too. Unwind on the patio, kick hunger to the curb in the kitchen, stay connected with Wi-Fi, and plan your Icelandic travels at the tour desk. Other bonuses include laundry facilities, bike hire, a book exchange, and luggage storage.

Why you’ll love it here:

• Super central location
• Two kitchens
• Instagram-worthy design

You’ll find KEX Hostel in the centre of Reykjavik in a buzzing area packed with cafés, bars and music venues. Browse handmade items in the boutiques, learn about Iceland’s history in one of the museums or relax in a geothermal swimming pool. Any art lovers out there? The National Gallery of Iceland is just a 20 minute walk away too.

Once you’re done exploring, head back to the hostel and chill in one of the social areas with your fellow backpackers. It’s the perfect spot to exchange some travel stories. Hungry after a long day? No problem, simply head to one of the two kitchens and prepare a tasty three-star meal! There’s so much space and equipment that even the heftiest dinner can be served up with ease.

2. Laekur Hostel – Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Reykjavik

Laekur Hostel has comfortable dorms for four, six, and eight, all beautifully decorated in a traditional Nordic style. Located in a quiet and high-class area, the stylish youth hostel in Reykjavik is just a short walk from many of Reykjavik’s major attractions.

Sociable travellers can mingle in several awesome common areas, and there’s a communal kitchen where you can save money by cooking your own meals. You don’t even need to worry about doing your dishes afterwards—there’s a dishwasher! If you really can’t be bothered cooking, however, there’s an onsite café-cum-bar. Wi-Fi is free and lockers are provided.

Why you’ll love it here:

• Super homely vibes
• Bright rooms
• Family-room options

There aren’t many hostels in the world where you walk in and instantly feel like you’re at home – Laekur Hostel is one of those! Thanks to the charming nordic style, really cool common areas and some of the kindest staff you’ll ever meet, staying here is a dream come true for solo travellers in Iceland.

Each bed, no matter if dorm or private room, is equipped with a small reading lamp and an international plug socket to keep your electronics charged! The beds themselves are pretty simple, yet stylish and very comfortable according to previous guests. If you happen to bring your family or friends on the next trip, you can even opt for the family room options.

3. Reykjavik – Loft HI Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Reykjavik

Although the Icelandic capital isn’t really known for its wild nights of hedonism (it’s generally too freaking pricey!), the energetic award-winning Reykjavik – Loft HI Hostel is one of the best party hostels in Reykjavik. Head to the bar for happy hour each afternoon and join in with fun events like karaoke sing-alongs, music performances, extravagant drag shows, quizzes, and more. There’s something for hippies-at-heart too, with yoga, crafts, and similar.

Socialise and relax in the lounge, with board games, foosball, a book exchange, and free-to-use computers, soak up the views from the roof terrace, and cook up a meaty feast on the BBQ. Wi-Fi is free and the hostel has a tour desk and laundry facilities.

Why you’ll love it here:

• Free events
• Rooftop terrace
• Happy hour

You simply can’t NOT like the Scandinavian interior design. It’s clean, it’s welcoming and still very modern – the perfect place to call home for a couple of nights. Fall asleep in one of the super comfy beds (we’re quoting previous guests here) in one of the spacious dorms or charming private rooms.

if you’re visiting during winter, be sure to head up to the rooftop terrace at night to see the Northern Lights! It’s an incredible thing watch and it’s even better if you can experience it with one or two of your bunk bed buddies.

Speaking of, you’ll have absolutely no problems making new friends at Loft HI Hostel! A quick drop in at the common room will give you the chance to chat with like-minded travellers, exchange cool stories. And maybe come up with some new travel plans. If you need some inspiration on what to do in Reykjavik, simply stop by at the reception and ask the friendly staff for some insider knowledge.

4. Bus Hostel – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Reykjavik

A well-equipped Reykjavik backpackers’ hostel, Bus Hostel is also one of the best hostels for digital nomads in Reykjavik. Free Wi-Fi and free-to-use computers, along with quiet spots to sit and think, make cracking on with work easy. Meeting rooms are available if you’re in town for networking and hustling up new deals.

Affordable and with a choice of private rooms and dorms, do note that you’ll need your own sleeping bag if staying in a dorm. Take a break from work to cook a tasty meal in one of the two kitchens, or get sociable in the cosy lounge and bar.

Why you’ll love it here:

• Plenty of workspaces
• Bike rental
• Free parking

We’re not going to lie, it’s definitely not the most stylish hostel. Rooms and common spaces are pretty simple and basic, but that’s absolutely enough for a great and comfortable stay. It might not be totally Instagram-worthy, but it offers some massive bang for your buck.

For the active travellers, head to the reception and ask the staff about the bike rental. Cruising through the streets of Reykjavik during summer is something we can highly recommend. If you’re visiting in winter and bring your own car, you’ll be happy to hear that there’s free parking available for all hostel guests.

Once you’re done with work an exploring the area, come back home and prepare a tasty meal at the communal kitchen. This is also a great way to meet other travellers and get chatting. the kitchen is fully equipped and pretty spacious, so you can let your cooking skills shine!

5. Galaxy Pod Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Reykjavik

One of the best cheap hostels in Reykjavik, Galaxy Pod Hostel provides all the facilities you would expect from a top hostel, and has a sociable vibe, but allows plenty of privacy come bedtime. A brilliant option for travellers who are completely over clambering up ladders and sleeping in bunk beds, Galaxy Pod Hostel has cool little pods, each with a power outlet, light, mirror, shelf, hangers, and alarm clock.

They’re like tiny capsule hotel rooms (almost!). Communal areas include a TV room, lounge with PS3 and Wii, bar, and kitchen, providing plenty of opportunities for lone backpackers to meet and mingle.

Why you’ll love it here:

• Cool design
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Epic views from the common room

It might feel like you’re sleeping in a funky Japanese hostel, but you’re actually 10min from centre of Reykjavik. It’s also outside the pickup restriction zone (we don’t really know why it’s forbidden to pick someone up) so pick up’s are right in front and parking is free. The hostel offers single or double space pods instead of regular bunk beds in shared dormitories and also provides lockers in all of rooms.

Plenty of previous travellers have enjoyed their stay here, and all of them were very impressed with how much bang you’ll actually get for your buck! Privacy, clean sheets, cool common spaces, great views of the city and even a bar… the list of why this hostel is truly epic goes on. No matter what kind of traveller you are, Galaxy Pod Hostel will make you fall in love with the place!

Is This the Best Backpack EVER???

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

View on Osprey View on REI

Travel with peace of mind. Travel WITH a security belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Hide Yo’ Money!

Although the Icelandic capital doesn’t have a whole heap of hostels to choose from, we’ve searched high and low to find you another 8 top hostels in Reykjavik and nearby areas, giving you more choices when it comes to the perfect place to stay.

Vatnsholt – Best Hostel Near Golden Circle, Iceland

Situated around 50 kilometres outside of Reykjavik city, Vatnsholt is part of the glorious Golden Circle, close to the magnificent Selfoss Waterfall. A perfect place for groups of friends and families to crash and enjoy Iceland’s dramatic countryside, the farm has private rooms for two, three, and six. Most rooms share bathrooms. Savour delicious farm-fresh meals in the onsite restaurant, make friends with the farm animals, and bond with human pals over a board game. Outdoor active adventures abound, with bike and boat rentals and lake fishing close to hand.

Bakki Hostel and Apartments – Best Hostel in Eyrarbakki

Located in Eyrarbakki (an orgasm of natural wonders), around 50 kilometres from Reykjavik, Bakki Hostel and Apartments is conveniently located for both the Icelandic capital and the stunning delights of the Golden Circle. With a cool story to tell, the building was once an old fish factory! Don’t worry, there are no lingering smells! There’s a ten-bed mixed dorm and a six-bed dorm for females only. All guests can feel a little fancy with rain showers and lavish living rooms, and lockers add to your peace of mind.

Self-catering facilities, free Wi-Fi, free parking, and hair dryers are available, and there’s a small bar that adds to the sociable atmosphere.

Reykjavik City Hostel

The award-winning Reykjavik City Hotel is bursting with amenities and has a terrific location. It’s a top hostel in Reykjavik for travellers seeking wellness and relaxation. Within a ten-minute bus ride of downtown, you won’t go far to benefit from Iceland’s famous thermal waters—the hostel is right next door to the awesome Laugardalslaug thermal pool. There are indoor and outdoor social areas, a games room, kitchen, BBQ, tour desk, and café-bar, and the hostel offers free Wi-Fi and parking, hair dryers, laundry facilities, bike hire, and more. And, if all that wasn’t enough, the hostel regularly organizes social events too.

IGDLO Guesthouse

Although not strictly a hostel, the family-run IGDLO Guesthouse is still a great choice for backpackers in Reykjavik. Single rooms are available for solo travellers, the four-bed room is perfect for families or groups of buddies, and there are also rooms for couples. All rooms share bathrooms. The friendly members of staff are a great source of info about local must-sees and the guesthouse is in a prime location just a short walk from Reykjavik’s main bus station. There’s a shared kitchen and dining area, an outside terrace, and laundry facilities. Wi-Fi and parking are free.

Start Hostel

A convenient Reykjavik hostel near the airport, Start Hostel is eight kilometres from Keflavik Airport and 47 kilometres from Reykjavik city centre. A fairly new property, it is clean, comfortable, and modern. The six-bed dorms are separated by gender, and there are private rooms for two, three, four, and five. There’s a large communal kitchen as well as a shared lounge and laundry facilities. Breakfast and Wi-Fi are included and parking is free, ideal if you’ve collected a car for a self-driving backpacking trip around Iceland.

Oddsson – Another Cheap Hostel in Reykjavik #1

Describing itself a being for “thrifty people with expensive taste”, Oddsson is the best cheap hotel in Reykjavik for budget backpackers. Price may be reasonable (for Reykjavik!) but that doesn’t mean the hostel is lacking in any way. You’ll find restaurants and bars for chilling and chatting in the building, a shared lounge and kitchen, a book exchange, and free Wi-Fi. The sound-proof rooms have lockers (you’ll need your own lock), though do note that you’ll need your own sleeping bag and towel if you don’t want to pay to rent them and bump the price up.

Reykjavik Downtown Hostel – Another Cheap Hostel in Reykjavik #2

A recommended hostel in Reykjavik for travellers that want to stay in a quiet area that’s still within reach of the action, Reykjavik Downtown Hostel sits close to the harbour and all of central Reykjavik’s attractions. Pick the helpful staff members’ brains for all the top travel tips for exploring Iceland’s diversity, and swap travel stories in the lounge, kitchen, and café. Regular social events take place, including movie nights and live music. Tours and car hire are easily arranged, and long-term luggage storage is possible.

Base Hotel – Another Cheap Hostel in Reykjavik #3

Another Reykjavik hostel near the airport, Base Hotel has mixed and female-only dorms for six as well as private rooms. The low prices make this one a recommended hostel in Reykjavik for budget travellers who need a night or two close to Keflavik Airport. There are few facilities beyond sleeping accommodation, but many guests are simply passing through. Airport transfers are easy to arrange. Key card access and lockers help to create a secure environment. There’s an onsite café and laundry facilities, ideal if you don’t want to deal with a mountain of washing when you get home.

The Capital-Inn – Best Hostel for Couples in Reykjavik

The comfortable double rooms, complete with private bathroom and TV, make this one of the best hostels for couples in Reykjavik. A popular hostel in Reykjavik, The Capital-Inn boasts a large kitchen with two separate well-equipped cooking areas to prevent waiting around and getting hangry. The onsite restaurant serves tasty food if you want a date night away from DIY meals. Laundry facilities, bicycle rentals, and free Wi-Fi are available, though do note that you will need your own towel and sleeping bag if staying in a dorm bed.

Route 1 Guesthouse – Best hostel in Hafnarfjordur, Iceland

Located in Hafnarfjordur, Route 1 Guesthouse may only have private rooms (for two, four, and five) but it makes our list of top Reykjavik hostels for its good amenities, clean and smart designs, peaceful atmosphere, and reasonable prices for budget backpackers travelling in a group. Around a 20-minute bus ride from downtown Reykjavik, the hostel has a shared kitchen and offers free Wi-Fi and parking. Stock up on supplies for your home-made meals at two nearby supermarkets.

Hlemmur Square – Best Hostel with a Private Room in Reykjavik

A perfect Reykjavik pad for budget backpackers and fancy flashpackers, Hlemmur Square offers a combination of affordable dorm beds and fancy private rooms with flashes of luxury. Splashes of colour breathe life into the property and the spacious rooms have blackout curtains and big lockers. Grab a drink or bite to eat in the restaurant/bar and unwind in one of the comfy lounges. Challenge friends, old and new, to a game of pool or a board-game marathon, make full use of the two kitchens, explore with rented bikes, book exciting trips, and surf the net with free Wi-Fi. If you’re looking for a private room and you’re not too keen on these options, why not go for a bed and breakfast in Reykjavik instead – You’ll be surprised at how affordable some of them are!

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Product

Description

Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Ear Plugs

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Check Best Price

Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Check Best Price

Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Check Best Price

Make Some New Buddies…

Make Some New Buddies…

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Check Best Price

Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check Best Price

Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!

Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Reykjavik.

How much does a hostel cost in Reykjavik?

The average price of a hostel in Reykjavik is around $39-40 USD per night. Being a premium destination, thus it comes at a premium price.

What are the best hostels in Reykjavik for couples?

The Capital-Inn is our best hostel for couples in Reykjavik. It has affordable private rooms with private bathrooms and a TV.

What are the best hostels in Reykjavik near the airport?

Start Hostel is 8 km by road from Keflavik Airport. It is conveniently located close to the airport.

Travel Safety Tips for Reykjavik and Iceland

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Over to you

Get ready. Iceland is going to blow you away. Hopefully, with the help of this guide you’ll have a better understanding of the best hostels in Iceland so you can focus on the amazing sights this country has to offer.

And remember, if you are having a tough time deciding which hostel to book, our highest recommendation is Kex Hostel.

By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Reykjavik has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!

If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!