What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?

For budget-conscious travellers, Iceland offers plenty! Hiking is free and incredibly rewarding; explore the many trails around Reykjavik, like those in Þingvellir National Park, or venture further afield to Laugavegur Trail (though you'll need to factor in transport costs). Many waterfalls are easily accessible and free to visit, such as Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss. Exploring Reykjavik itself is relatively inexpensive, with free walking tours and many affordable museums like the National Museum of Iceland. Look for free activities like swimming in geothermal pools (some are free, others have a small fee) and exploring the city's parks.

What are the best hostels in Iceland?

Among the hostels in Iceland, Geysir Hestar , Midgard Base Camp and Havarí Hostel are the most popular ones.

Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from Iceland?

Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is the main airport serving Iceland, handling the vast majority of international flights. Domestic flights primarily operate from Reykjavík Airport (RKV), located closer to the city centre.

What are the best hostels with a pool in Iceland?

Midgard Base Camp , Héradsskólinn Historic Guesthouse and Framtid Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in Iceland.

What currency is used in Iceland?

The Icelandic króna (ISK) is the official currency.

What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Iceland?

The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Iceland are Midgard Base Camp , Bakki Apartments & Hostel and The Freezer Hostel & Culture Center .

How easy is it to navigate the roads in Iceland?

Driving in Iceland can be challenging, especially outside of urban areas. The Ring Road (Route 1) is mostly well-maintained, but many F-roads (highland roads) are only accessible with a 4x4 vehicle and require experience in driving on gravel and potentially challenging terrain. Conditions can change rapidly, so checking road.is for updates before setting off is essential. Remember that driving in winter requires specific precautions, including winter tyres.

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Iceland?

The best hostels for families and kids in Iceland are Geysir Hestar , Midgard Base Camp and Havarí Hostel .

How can travellers best respect local customs while visiting Iceland?

Respect for nature is paramount in Iceland. Stick to marked paths when hiking, leave no trace behind, and avoid disturbing wildlife. Showing consideration for the environment is crucial. In towns and cities, be mindful of noise levels, especially during evenings. Learning a few basic Icelandic phrases is always appreciated, and respecting personal space is generally valued.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Iceland?

The best pet friendly hostels in Iceland are Loft - Hi Eco Hostel , Bakki Apartments & Hostel and Berunes Hi Hostel .

Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Iceland?

Þjóðhátíð (National Day) on 17 June is a significant celebration of Icelandic independence and national identity. Other festivals are often more local, but Yule (Jólin) during Christmas is a widely celebrated time, with unique Icelandic traditions.

What are the best hostels with parking in Iceland?

Geysir Hestar , Midgard Base Camp and Havarí Hostel are the best hostels with parking in Iceland.

What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Iceland?

For medical emergencies, dial 112. This number connects to the emergency services, including police, ambulance, and fire services. For non-emergencies, you can contact the local police or relevant authorities.

What are the best areas to spend a week in Iceland?

A week allows for a good exploration of the south coast, encompassing iconic sites like Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, waterfalls such as Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, and the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara. Alternatively, a focus on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula offers diverse landscapes in a more compact area, or you could explore the Westfjords for a more remote experience.

What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Iceland?

A weekend in Reykjavik allows for a good taste of city life, with museums, art galleries, and delicious restaurants. Alternatively, a short trip to the Golden Circle (Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall) is easily doable in a weekend, offering a classic Icelandic experience.

Are there specific regions in Iceland known for great weather?

Iceland's weather is notoriously unpredictable. While no region guarantees consistently good weather, the south coast tends to experience slightly milder temperatures and less frequent rainfall compared to the highlands or northern regions. However, it's always best to be prepared for changeable conditions regardless of location and check forecasts regularly.

Iceland Hostels at the Best Price

8.6 2333 reviews

Héradsskólinn Historic Guesthouse

hostel, Laugarvatn

Héradsskólinn Historic Guesthouse is situated in Laugarvatn, just 26 kilometres from Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and within easy reach of other popular attractions in the Golden Circle. This former school building offers a range of accommodation options, including private rooms and dorms, as well as a bistro, café, bar, swimming pool, and fitness centre.

8.9 2504 reviews

Reykjavik Lights Hotel By Keahotels

hostel, Reykjavík

Reykjavík Lights Hotel by Keahotels is located just 1.9 kilometres from central Reykjavík, close to Laugardalur Family Park, a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. This 3-star hotel enjoys very good user ratings for both its location and overall experience.
The hotel offers a range of amenities and features to enhance your stay, including a restaurant, bar, room service, free underground parking, and free Wi-Fi. Each room is individually decorated with artwork and inspiration from the ancient Icelandic calendar, creating a unique and culturally immersive atmosphere.

8.1 17 reviews

Saeberg Hi Hostel

hostel, Reykjaskóli

Saeberg Hi Hostel in Reykjahlíð is situated 1 kilometre from Ring Road 1, midway between Reykjavík and Akureyri, and 0.4 kilometres from the Local History Museum, showcasing traditional Icelandic life and a shark fishing boat.
This oceanfront hostel offers diverse lodging, including dorm rooms, private rooms, camping pitches and cabins, a geothermal hot tub, and 24-hour self check-in, with excellent birdwatching opportunities nearby including potential sightings of oystercatchers, eider ducks, seals, and whales.

8.2 389 reviews

Volcano Huts ÞóRsmörk

hostel, Thorsmork

Volcano Huts ÞóRsmörk is a remote mountain lodge situated within the Thorsmork Nature Reserve, 32 kilometres from Seljalandsfoss waterfall, offering access solely via hiking, regional buses, or 4x4 super jeeps for a genuine wilderness experience. This accommodation provides a base for exploring the Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls hiking trails, featuring an on-site restaurant, bar, and cottages with kitchenettes and private terraces, alongside optional jeep safaris arranged by staff.

9.0 332 reviews

Reykjanes Guesthouse Studio 2

apartment

This Grindavik apartment is ideally located near the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, 3.2km from the Hópsnes Lighthouse, and within a 14.5km radius of the Blue Lagoon and Brimketill Lava Pool.
The one-bedroom flat offers self-catering facilities including a fridge, freezer, microwave, dishwasher, and a terrace, plus free Wi-Fi and parking, and is perfect for exploring the nearby geothermal wonders and scenic coastline.

8.9 4936 reviews

Loft - Hi Eco Hostel

hostel, Reykjavík

Loft - Hi Eco Hostel is located on Laugavegur, Reykjavík's main street, just a short walk from Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall. The hostel has excellent user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
Loft - Hi Eco Hostel offers a choice of private rooms and dormitories, all with shared or en-suite bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a rooftop terrace, a restaurant, a bar, a fitness centre, and a garden, as well as social events and local recommendations from the friendly staff.

8.5 13585 reviews

Kex Reykjavík

hostel, Reykjavík

Kex Hostel is conveniently located in central Reykjavík, just a short walk from Laugarvegur shopping street and Harpa Concert Hall, making it ideal for exploring the city's vibrant nightlife, shops and cultural attractions. It has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and an excellent rating for location.
The hostel features a unique industrial-chic design with communal spaces, including a kitchen, a lounge area and a heated outdoor terrace. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast, a restaurant, a bar with live music, free Wi-Fi, luggage storage and a fitness centre.

8.3 207 reviews

Skogar Hostel

hostel, Rangárþing eystra

Skogar Hostel in Rangárþing eystra offers a tranquil rural setting, conveniently located approximately 1.6 kilometres from Skogafoss waterfall and Skógar Museum, and within 4.8 kilometres of Kvernufoss Waterfall and the historic Drangshlio Houses.
This budget-friendly accommodation provides complimentary WiFi in public areas, free on-site parking, and shared bathroom facilities, making it a practical choice for travellers exploring the region.

8.6 28 reviews

Grundarfjördur Hostel

hostel, Grundarfjordur

Grundarfjörður Hostel, located in Grundarfjörður, is a short 5-minute walk from Grundarfjörður Public Pool and Grundarfjarðar Swimming Pool, 3.8 kilometres from Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall and 15.7 kilometres from Berserkjahraun Lava Field, offering convenient access to local attractions.
This accommodation provides complimentary Wi-Fi, on-site parking, and a shared kitchen with a microwave and refrigerator, alongside a garden with a view, all within easy reach of swimming pools and notable natural sites.

9.2 2641 reviews

Midgard Base Camp

hostel, Hvolsvöllur

Midgard Base Camp is conveniently located in Hvolsvöllur, just 21 kilometres from Seljalandsfoss waterfall and 50 kilometres from Skogafoss waterfall, making it an ideal base for exploring the stunning South Coast of Iceland. The hostel has consistently received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of comfortable accommodation options and features a shared kitchen with a fridge, microwave and dishwasher. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities including a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, spa, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, terrace and garden, as well as free Wi-Fi and parking.

8.5 4640 reviews

Dalur - Hi Eco Hostel

hostel, Reykjavík

Dalur - Hi Eco Hostel is situated in Laugardalur, a district about 2.2 miles north of Reykjavík's city centre, next to the Laugardalslaug Swimming Pool. This eco-certified hostel has received very good ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
This hostel offers a range of communal spaces, including two kitchens and a lounge, perfect for meeting fellow travellers. You can also enjoy the outdoor terrace, a garden, and a restaurant serving organic breakfast, fairtrade coffee, and local meals.

8.4 2736 reviews

Kanslarinn Hostel

hostel, Hella

Hotel Kanslarinn Hella is situated on Iceland's Ring Road in Hella, a short drive from both Selfoss and the Eyjafjallajökull glacier, offering easy access to the south of Iceland's scenic attractions. The hotel consistently receives very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The accommodation offers a range of rooms, including those with private bathrooms and shared facilities. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a daily breakfast buffet, and a communal garden, as well as the convenience of an on-site restaurant and bar.

Best Iceland hostels with breakfast

Among the 264 hostels in Iceland, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast

8.2 2382 reviews

Centrum Hotel

hostel, Akureyri

Centrum Hotel is conveniently located in the centre of Akureyri, within easy walking distance of shops, restaurants, museums, and the Akureyri Public Swimming Pool. It has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and an excellent location rating.
The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and terrace. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi, a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, and private bathrooms.

8.6 4776 reviews

Start Keflavík Airport

hostel, Keflavík

Start Keflavík Airport is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from Keflavík International Airport and within walking distance of restaurants, a gym, and a children’s playground. The hostel has consistently received very good ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The hostel offers a choice of private rooms or dormitory-style rooms, all with modern decor and blackout blinds for a peaceful night’s sleep. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, a terrace, a garden, a restaurant, a bar, a fitness centre, room service, parking, and laundry facilities.

9.4 29 reviews

Cityhub Rvk

hostel, Reykjavik

Cityhub Rvk is a new hostel in the city centre, just a short walk from Hallgrímskirkja church and the Harpa Concert Hall. It is located in a lively area with easy access to restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
The hostel offers private "Hubs" with modern amenities, including a double bed, WiFi, app-controlled lighting, and personal audio streaming. Guests can enjoy a bar, a kitchen with a microwave and dishwasher, and a range of other facilities.

9.2 261 reviews

Hlemmur Suites

apartment, Reykjavik

Hotel Hlemmur Square enjoys a central Reykjavik location, minutes from the city centre and within easy reach of major attractions.
This Reykjavík establishment, offering the Hlemmur Square package, boasts a spa, restaurant, bar, and various amenities including free Wi-Fi, parking, and multilingual staff, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Top cities

Best Iceland hostels with a locker

8.0 11631 reviews

Bus Hostel Reykjavik

hostel, Reykjavík

The Bus Hostel Reykjavik - Reykjavik Terminal is conveniently located near the city centre, just over a mile from Reykjavík Domestic Airport and within walking distance of popular attractions like Hallgrímskirkja Church. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness, location, and overall user experience.
The hostel offers a range of facilities for guests, including a shared kitchen, a terrace, and a bar. Guests can enjoy a fitness centre, room service, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

8.7 3431 reviews

Hotel Framtid

hotel, Djúpivogur

Hotel Framtid is located in Djúpivogur, a charming village situated in the East Fjords, approximately 150km from Egilsstadir Airport. The hotel has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The apartments feature a balcony or terrace with panoramic views of the ocean and mountains. Guests can enjoy a restaurant and bar on-site, free parking, and a swimming pool, as well as a shared or private bathroom.

8.0 4655 reviews

Hostel B47

hostel, Reykjavík

Hostel B47 offers budget-friendly accommodation in central Reykjavík, a 0.8km walk from Hallgrímskirkja Church and 1.9km from the Solfar Sun Voyager.
This family-friendly guesthouse features a swimming pool, spa, and on-site restaurant and bar, alongside free parking and WiFi; it also boasts a garden and terrace.

8.8 3598 reviews

Hafaldan Hi Hostel, Old Hospital Building

hostel, Seyðisfjörður

Hafaldan Hi Hostel, Old Hospital Building is located in Seyðisfjörður, just 30 metres from the swimming pool and a 10-minute walk from the harbour, in a picturesque village setting. The hostel has received very good user ratings, with excellent scores for location and cleanliness.
The hostel offers a mix of private and shared rooms, all with access to a fully equipped kitchen, lounge, BBQ area, and laundry facilities. Guests can enjoy a sauna, spa, children's playground, and fishing lake, along with free parking and a complimentary breakfast.

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Iceland

What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?
For budget-conscious travellers, Iceland offers plenty! Hiking is free and incredibly rewarding; explore the many trails around Reykjavik, like those in Þingvellir National Park, or venture further afield to Laugavegur Trail (though you'll need to factor in transport costs). Many waterfalls are easily accessible and free to visit, such as Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss. Exploring Reykjavik itself is relatively inexpensive, with free walking tours and many affordable museums like the National Museum of Iceland. Look for free activities like swimming in geothermal pools (some are free, others have a small fee) and exploring the city's parks.
What are the best hostels in Iceland?
Among the hostels in Iceland, Geysir Hestar, Midgard Base Camp and Havarí Hostel are the most popular ones.
Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from Iceland?
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is the main airport serving Iceland, handling the vast majority of international flights. Domestic flights primarily operate from Reykjavík Airport (RKV), located closer to the city centre.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Iceland?
Midgard Base Camp, Héradsskólinn Historic Guesthouse and Framtid Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in Iceland.
What currency is used in Iceland?
The Icelandic króna (ISK) is the official currency.
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Iceland?
The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Iceland are Midgard Base Camp, Bakki Apartments & Hostel and The Freezer Hostel & Culture Center.
How easy is it to navigate the roads in Iceland?
Driving in Iceland can be challenging, especially outside of urban areas. The Ring Road (Route 1) is mostly well-maintained, but many F-roads (highland roads) are only accessible with a 4x4 vehicle and require experience in driving on gravel and potentially challenging terrain. Conditions can change rapidly, so checking road.is for updates before setting off is essential. Remember that driving in winter requires specific precautions, including winter tyres.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Iceland?
The best hostels for families and kids in Iceland are Geysir Hestar, Midgard Base Camp and Havarí Hostel.
How can travellers best respect local customs while visiting Iceland?
Respect for nature is paramount in Iceland. Stick to marked paths when hiking, leave no trace behind, and avoid disturbing wildlife. Showing consideration for the environment is crucial. In towns and cities, be mindful of noise levels, especially during evenings. Learning a few basic Icelandic phrases is always appreciated, and respecting personal space is generally valued.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Iceland?
The best pet friendly hostels in Iceland are Loft - Hi Eco Hostel, Bakki Apartments & Hostel and Berunes Hi Hostel.
Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Iceland?
Þjóðhátíð (National Day) on 17 June is a significant celebration of Icelandic independence and national identity. Other festivals are often more local, but Yule (Jólin) during Christmas is a widely celebrated time, with unique Icelandic traditions.
What are the best hostels with parking in Iceland?
Geysir Hestar, Midgard Base Camp and Havarí Hostel are the best hostels with parking in Iceland.
What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Iceland?
For medical emergencies, dial 112. This number connects to the emergency services, including police, ambulance, and fire services. For non-emergencies, you can contact the local police or relevant authorities.
What are the best areas to spend a week in Iceland?
A week allows for a good exploration of the south coast, encompassing iconic sites like Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, waterfalls such as Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, and the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara. Alternatively, a focus on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula offers diverse landscapes in a more compact area, or you could explore the Westfjords for a more remote experience.
What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Iceland?
A weekend in Reykjavik allows for a good taste of city life, with museums, art galleries, and delicious restaurants. Alternatively, a short trip to the Golden Circle (Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall) is easily doable in a weekend, offering a classic Icelandic experience.
Are there specific regions in Iceland known for great weather?
Iceland's weather is notoriously unpredictable. While no region guarantees consistently good weather, the south coast tends to experience slightly milder temperatures and less frequent rainfall compared to the highlands or northern regions. However, it's always best to be prepared for changeable conditions regardless of location and check forecasts regularly.

Best Iceland hostels with air conditioning

9.4 2857 reviews

Bakki Apartments & Hostel

hostel, Eyrarbakki

Bakki Apartments & Hostel is located in Eyrarbakki, a village situated 80 kilometres south of Reykjavík and a short walk from the Eyrarbakki Museum.
This family-friendly hostel offers a range of accommodation options, including self-catering apartments with fully equipped kitchens, a shared lounge, and a terrace with views of the sea or mountains.

8.4 847 reviews

B14 Hostel

hostel, Reykjavík

B14 Hostel in Reykjavík is located just over a mile from Laugavegur, the city's main shopping street, and a short distance from Laugardalur Swimming Pool, making it easy to explore the city's attractions. The hostel has consistently received very good ratings for cleanliness and overall experience, and a good rating for its location.
The hostel features a communal kitchen equipped with a fridge, microwave oven, and dishwasher, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. Guests can enjoy a range of on-site amenities, including a restaurant, café, and ice cream parlour, as well as free Wi-Fi and parking.

9.6 1389 reviews

Braz Guesthouse - Double Room - 2 Persons

farm

The Karlsstadir farm is located in the Berufjordur valley of the Icelandic East Fjords, just 10km from the towns of Djupivogur and Breiddalsvik, offering a peaceful rural setting with stunning views of the East Fjords. The farm consistently receives excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
This family-run guesthouse offers a range of accommodation options, from family rooms to double bedrooms, all with shared bathroom facilities. Guests can enjoy a traditional Icelandic farm experience, including interacting with the local family, exploring the surrounding countryside, and dining at the nearby BRAZ café.

8.3 1767 reviews

Hafnarstræti Hostel

hostel, Akureyri

Hafnarstræti Hostel in Akureyri enjoys a central location, approximately 0.35km from Akureyri Church and the Hof Cultural and Conference Centre.
This family-friendly guesthouse offers single and double capsule beds, a shared kitchen with fridge, microwave, and dishwasher, plus a swimming pool, terrace, garden, and free Wi-Fi; nearby attractions include whale watching and cycling tours.

Best Iceland hostels with laundry available

8.3 1796 reviews

Lækur Hostel

hostel, Reykjavík

Lækur Hostel is located in Reykjavík, a short distance from the city centre, with the Solfar Sun Voyager and Hallgrímskirkja Church within easy reach. The hostel has received very good ratings for its cleanliness, location and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of facilities, including a shared kitchen, terrace, restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a swim in the pool, relax in the garden, or take advantage of the airport shuttle service.

8.2 367 reviews

ÓSar Hostel

hostel, Vatnsnes

ÓSar Hostel is a family-friendly lodging situated on the Vatnsnes peninsula's beachfront, approximately 208km from Akureyri Airport, offering easy access to the region's renowned wildlife viewing areas.
This beachfront guesthouse provides guests with free Wi-Fi, private parking, a shared lounge, bar, and kitchen facilities including a fridge and microwave, alongside shared bathrooms and bed linen in all rooms.

8.8 1302 reviews

Hafaldan Hi Hostel - Harbour Building

hostel, Seyðisfjörður

Hafaldan HI Hostel - Harbour Building is situated in the charming town of Seyðisfjörður, just a short walk from the harbour and within easy reach of the town's main attractions. The hostel has received very good user ratings, with excellent marks for location and cleanliness.
The hostel offers a shared kitchen, free parking, and free WiFi throughout the property. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains or the fjord, and there are plenty of outdoor activities on offer in the area, including golfing, fishing, and hiking.

9.3 2784 reviews

Nordic Hostel

hostel, Reykjavík

Nordic Hostel is conveniently located in Reykjavík, just a short walk from Laugavegur Shopping Street, Harpa Concert Hall & Conference Centre, and Reykjavik Art Museum: Kjarvalsstadir. The hostel is in a central location, making it easy to explore the city's main attractions.
The hostel offers a single room with a shared kitchen, bathroom, and lounge. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a bar, luggage storage, and hairdryers.

All Hostels in Iceland

264 Hostels in Iceland

Héradsskólinn Historic Guesthouse

Reykjavik Lights Hotel By Keahotels

Saeberg Hi Hostel

Volcano Huts ÞóRsmörk

Reykjanes Guesthouse Studio 2

Loft - Hi Eco Hostel

Kex Reykjavík

Skogar Hostel

Grundarfjördur Hostel

Midgard Base Camp

Dalur - Hi Eco Hostel

Kanslarinn Hostel

Best Iceland hostels with breakfast

Centrum Hotel

Start Keflavík Airport

Cityhub Rvk

Hlemmur Suites

Top cities

Best Iceland hostels with a locker

Bus Hostel Reykjavik

Hotel Framtid

Hostel B47

Hafaldan Hi Hostel, Old Hospital Building

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Iceland

Best Iceland hostels with air conditioning

Bakki Apartments & Hostel

B14 Hostel

Braz Guesthouse - Double Room - 2 Persons

Hafnarstræti Hostel

Best Iceland hostels with laundry available

Lækur Hostel

ÓSar Hostel

Hafaldan Hi Hostel - Harbour Building

Nordic Hostel