Summary
A Nordic island nation situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, Iceland lies between Europe and North America but is considered part of Europe. This country features an astonishing landscape that encompasses glaciers, hot springs, volcanic mountains, and national parks, making it an unparalleled destination for adventure seekers.
As one of the premier locations to observe the Northern Lights (also known as Aurora Borealis), a phenomenon highly regarded by travelers, this small island is graced with captivating panoramas that are often unvisited. Moreover, the inhabitants of this nation are recognized for their remarkable friendliness.
In addition to the striking landscapes and the mesmerizing Northern Lights, Iceland’s compelling Viking heritage is another reason to visit. Regardless of your purpose for travel, the following are some well-known destinations in the country that are important to consider when determining your accommodations in Iceland.
Reykjavík
Sitting on the coast of Iceland, Reykjavík serves as the capital and largest city of this island nation. The city’s coastline is characterized by coves, peninsulas, straits, and numerous smaller islands, including Videy Island. As a dynamic urban center, Reykjavík offers a plethora of activities and sights to explore, whether one chooses to visit in summer or winter. The city boasts a rich culinary scene, mesmerizing art galleries and museums, vibrant nightlife, and ample shopping opportunities, along with a number of public swimming pools that are ideal for family outings. Furthermore, the metropolitan nightlife, particularly on weekends, is among the finest in the country. While in Reykjavík, ensure that you visit the Settlement Exhibition and the engaging Saga Museum.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Hallgrímskirkja, The Sun Voyager, Icelandic Phallological Museum, Reykjavík 871±2, and Vikin Maritime Museum.
Hotel Recommendations:
- The Swan House – RÆTUR Apartment Hotel – Just a minute’s walk from the renowned Laugavegur shopping street, this establishment offers contemporary self-catering apartments featuring kitchens, wooden flooring, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars are also located nearby, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
- Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel – Conveniently located next to Hlemmur Square, this elegant hotel boasts beautifully designed guest rooms adorned in Balinese décor, equipped with four-poster beds, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms with organic toiletries. Additional amenities include an on-site restaurant, a bar, a fully-equipped fitness center, and bicycle rental services. Selected accommodations provide views of the Esja mountain, making it ideal for all types of travelers.
- Skuggi Hotel Reykjavík by Keahotels – Just a few hundred meters from Hallgrímskirkja Church, this upscale hotel features well-appointed guest rooms equipped with modern conveniences. Guests can relax at the on-site bar or explore the various eateries and bars in the vicinity. Bike and car rentals for exploring the area are available at the 24-hour front desk, catering to solo travelers and couples.
Keflavík
Located along the shore near Reykjavík, Keflavík is home to Iceland’s only international airport, Keflavík International Airport. While smaller than the capital city, this neighborhood is easily navigable on foot. As the fifth most populous town in the country, Keflavík served as a NATO base during the Cold War era. It hosts a vibrant music scene and is home to one of the most intriguing museums in the area, the Icelandic Museum of Rock ‘n’ Roll, which is dedicated to the nation’s musical heritage. Additionally, Keflavík serves as a gateway to the nearby Blue Lagoon, and the harbor is a popular departure point for whale watching boat tours, another favored activity in the region.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Viking World Museum, The Icelandic Museum of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Viking World, Giantess Cave – Skessuhellir, and Reykjanes Art Museum.
Hotel Recommendations:
- The Base by Keflavik Airport – A highly sought-after hotel situated near Keflavik International Airport, The Base offers spacious, air-conditioned rooms and suites equipped with satellite TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and soundproofing. Guests can relax at the communal lounge, peruse the library, or enjoy a game of table tennis in the game room, making it suitable for all types of travelers, including large groups.
- Bergás Guesthouse – A family-run, cozy guesthouse located adjacent to Keflavík Harbor, it features well-furnished rooms and studios with kitchenettes, seating areas, and private bathrooms. Complimentary bicycle rentals are available for guests to explore the area. This property accommodates all types of travelers, including larger groups.
- Hotel Berg – Located just a short drive from Keflavik Airport, Hotel Berg offers comfortable guest rooms with modern amenities and views of the marina or surrounding hills. A daily breakfast option is available, and a one-way airport shuttle service is included in the room rate, making it perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
East Fjords
East Fjords, or Eastern Iceland, while not heavily frequented by tourists, presents a captivating region of the country and is home to the largest forest in Iceland, containing only 3% of the island’s population. This area is defined by excellent hiking trails, charming lighthouses, breathtaking vistas, and rugged fjords that offer some of the most pristine shorelines in Iceland. Búðarárfoss Waterfall, a concealed treasure, resides behind the town of Reyðarfjörður, accessible only via a hike. For those seeking a unique experience, a drive to the quaint town of Seyðisfjörður reveals a small blue church reminiscent of locations featured in The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Borgarfjordur Hiking, Selardalur swimming pool, Papey – the island of puffins, The Worm of Lagarfljot, Breiddalsvik black beach, and Stodvarfjordur.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Við Lónið Guesthouse – Set within a beautifully appointed wooden house, the guesthouse presents comfortable guest accommodations featuring Scandinavian minimalist design. In addition to modern amenities, guests can enjoy unparalleled views of the surrounding fjord, catering to all types of travelers.
- Hótel Aldan – Boasting in-house dining, a café, free parking, and exceptionally friendly staff to assist with activities such as kayaking and fishing, Hótel Aldan is situated within two historic buildings renowned for their remarkable 1920s architecture. Seydisfjordur Public Swimming Pool is a mere two minutes’ walk from the property, ideal for all types of travelers.
- Nord Marina Guesthouse – A short walk from the beach, Nord Marina Guesthouse provides well-furnished guest rooms and self-catering apartments equipped with shared or private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and stunning views of the Seydisfjörður Fjord. This accommodation is perfect for all types of travelers, including larger groups of up to seven members.
Westfjords
As the least populated region in Iceland, the Westfjords boast geological features that are the oldest in the country. Due to its remote location relative to many of Iceland’s “must-see” attractions, this area remains comparatively less traveled. Nonetheless, the Westfjords offer some of the most impressive landscapes in the nation. Dynjandi Waterfalls, a favorite among nature enthusiasts and photographers, is the largest waterfall in the region, often referred to as the “Jewel of the West Fjords.” Furthermore, the Látrabjarg birdwatching cliffs are an ideal spot to view and observe puffins. Accessible only during the summer months due to heavy snow and unsuitable road conditions in winter, the Westfjords house the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, which is the least populated area outside of the Highlands in Iceland, home to the elusive Arctic Fox, which is difficult to spot in other regions of the country.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Arnarfjörður fjord, The Nonsense Museum, The Sorcerer’s Cottage, and Drangajökull glacier.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Country Hotel Heydalur – Featuring natural hot springs, a restaurant, an indoor pool with a hot tub, and a sauna, Country Hotel Heydalur presents well-appointed guest accommodations throughout the breathtaking Westfjords of Iceland. Guests may fish in the area year-round and request kayak or horse rentals, making it great for couples and families.
- Fisherman Hotel Westfjords – Located within the fishing village of Sudureyri in the Westfjords Peninsula, this simple yet tasteful hotel offers cozy guest rooms with free Wi-Fi, kitchenettes in select accommodations, and workspaces. The on-site restaurant serves packed lunches and a fresh fish menu throughout the year, catering well to solo travelers, couples, and small families.
- Guesthouse Bjarmaland – Featuring a manicured garden, a 24-hour front desk, a shared lounge, and a terrace, Guesthouse Bjarmaland offers well-appointed lodgings with complimentary Wi-Fi, TV, and private bathrooms along the beachfront in Talknafjordur. Ideal for solo travelers and couples.
Húsavík
Known as the “Whale Capital of Iceland,” the town of Húsavík, located on the shores of Skjálfandi Bay, is globally recognized for whale watching. This town offers an unparalleled opportunity to spot these majestic marine mammals, surpassing any other location in the country. The region’s flourishing ecosystem, nourished by its nutrient-rich waters and prolonged summer sunlight, provides an ideal habitat for these massive creatures. After an adventure filled with marine life observations, visitors can indulge in a meal at one of the charming cafes or restaurants overlooking the bay.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Húsavík Whale Museum, The Exploration Museum, Húsavík Museum, Husavík Church, and Mánárbakka Museum.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Fosshotel Husavik – Centrally located in Húsavík, this upscale hotel features elegant guest accommodations with free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and seating areas. The on-site tour desk assists with arranging various excursions, including whale-watching boat tours from Húsavík Harbor, suitable for all types of travelers.
- Húsavík Cape Hotel – This renovated 1950s structure overlooks Skjálfandi Bay and features comfortable guest rooms equipped with TV, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi within a five-minute walk from the premises. Recommended activities include whale watching, bird watching, and hiking along the nearby trails. Perfect for solo travelers and couples.
- Saltvík Farm Guesthouse – Positioned amidst magnificent mountains and the stunning Skjálfandi Bay, this charming guesthouse offers simple yet comfortable rooms featuring cozy beds, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. The friendly staff provides information on nearby attractions and activities, including organizing horseback riding excursions, suitable for all types of travelers.
Selfoss
Home to fewer than 10,000 residents, Selfoss is a picturesque town in South Iceland situated along the banks of River Olfusa. The striking Ingolfsfjall mountain provides a dramatic backdrop to the town’s landscape, offering excellent opportunities for climbing. Additionally, this town gained significance during World War II, particularly due to the old bridge spanning the river. If you are in Selfoss in August, be sure to experience the Sumar a Selfossi Annual Festival, an event characterized by beautifully decorated local gardens and a carnival featuring magicians, musicians, bonfires, and fireworks.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Kerid Crater Lake, Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Paradisarhellir Caves, and Þjórsárdalur.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Arctic Nature Hotel – Located on the bustling streets of Selfoss, Arctic Nature Hotel offers self-catering apartments equipped with fully-equipped kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and satellite TV. Guests can relish the picturesque surroundings and the tranquil River Ölfus flowing adjacent to the property, ideal for all types of travelers.
- Bella Apartments & Rooms – Featuring comfortable guest accommodations and self-catering apartments, Bella Apartments & Rooms is situated in the vibrant Selfoss area, just 500 meters from a variety of restaurants and shops. Activities such as golfing and skiing are available in and around the neighborhood, making it suitable for all types of travelers, including larger groups.
- Guesthouse Bitra B&B – Located approximately 400 meters off the scenic Ring Road (Route 1), this family-run guesthouse features single, double, and family rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, cozy beds, and spectacular views. Guests can observe the impressive Northern Lights during the winter months. A complimentary breakfast, which includes pastries, homemade bread, and jam, is served daily, ideal for all types of travelers.
Höfn
Sitting in proximity to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, the stunning town of Höfn has emerged as a significant tourist destination, not just in Iceland but across Europe. Home to Europe’s largest national park, Vatnajökull National Park, Höfn is filled with hotels, restaurants, shops, camping areas, swimming facilities, and hiking trails. With a burgeoning fishing industry, Höfn is particularly famous for its Icelandic lobster catch and organizes an annual “Lobster Festival” each summer to celebrate its prominence in the national fishing landscape.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Gamlabúð Folk Museum, Skeiðarársandur, Hornafjörður Art Museum, Öræfajökull, and Iceland Glacier Exhibition.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Old Airline Guesthouse – Located in the picturesque village of Höfn, near the harbor, Old Airline Guesthouse offers well-appointed rooms complemented by modern décor, a shared lounge, free parking, and close proximity to Vatnajökull National Park. Guests can visit the visitor center, situated a short stroll from the property for more information about the national park, suitable for all types of travelers.
- Milk Factory – Once a dairy facility, the aptly named Milk Factory provides unmatched views of the Vatnajökull glacier and is conveniently located just a short drive from the town center. The accommodations feature simple décor, equipped with satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. Some rooms offer views of the mountains, while others face the gardens. Bicycles can be rented at no charge, catering to all types of travelers.
- Hotel Höfn – Featuring an on-site restaurant specializing in lobsters and local cuisine, a furnished terrace, free parking, and complimentary Wi-Fi, Hotel Höfn offers spacious and well-appointed guest rooms with flat-screen TVs and ensuite bathrooms. Most accommodations include stunning views of either the adjacent mountains or the sea, ideal for all types of travelers.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Another captivating region in Western Iceland, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is located just a couple of hours’ drive from Reykjavík and boasts the rare golden and pink beaches of Iceland (most of the country’s beaches are comprised of black lava sand). The area’s landscape is dominated by extensive lava fields, breathtaking gorges and waterfalls, along with enchanting villages, each featuring its own unique museum, including a Shark Museum where visitors can taste cured shark. However, the primary attraction in this region is the 1,446-meter-high Snæfellsjökull, a 700,000-year-old dormant stratovolcano capped with a glacier, which was famously referenced by Jules Verne in his 1864 science fiction work, Journey to the Center of the Earth.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Olkelda Mineral Spring, Budir Church, Rauðfeldsgjá Cave, Djúpalón Beach, Öndverðarnes, and Kirkjufell.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Við Hafið Guesthouse – Located along the scenic coastline in Ólafsvík, this inviting guesthouse provides beautifully decorated guest rooms featuring sea or mountain views. Guests can make use of complimentary Wi-Fi for work-related needs and an on-site fitness center to maintain their fitness regimen. Popular activities in the area include golfing and horseback riding, suitable for all types of travelers.
- Fosshotel Hellnar – Recognized as an award-winning, eco-friendly property located within the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Fosshotel Hellnar offers opulent guest accommodations furnished with modern amenities. Guests here can begin their day with an impressive complimentary breakfast and engage in hiking, horseback riding, and exploration of the nearby Snæfellsjökull glacier and volcano. Evenings can be spent in the library or enjoying dinner along with a refreshing glass of organic wine at the on-site restaurant, catering to all types of travelers.
- West Park Guesthouse – Providing exceptional views of the surrounding mountains, lava fields, and ocean, West Park Guesthouse is one of the most esteemed accommodations located within Snæfellsjökull National Park. Hiking, cycling, and fishing are common activities in this area, and ice climbing can also be organized. Suitable for all types of travelers, including larger groups of up to seven members.
Akureyri
The second-largest urban area in Iceland, after Reykjavík, Akureyri is often referred to as the “Capital of North Iceland” and offers a variety of attractions in a compact space. As the gateway to the breathtaking beauty of Northern Iceland, the town hosts Laufás turf homes, which were constructed in 1865; these well-preserved structures provide a glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Icelanders. A short 15-minute drive outside the town leads to remarkable farmlands and stunning countryside, best explored on horseback. Eyjafjörður, a long and narrow fjord adjacent to Akureyri, serves as a habitat for humpback whales, dolphins, and seals. Due to the town’s smaller population and reduced light pollution, Akureyri is an optimal location for viewing the Northern Lights during winter.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Akureyrarkirkja, Akureyri Art Museum, Motorcycle Museum of Iceland, Icelandic Aviation Museum, Akureyri Botanical Garden, and Akureyri Museum.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Hótel Sveinbjarnargerði – Featuring a terrace perfect for observing the Northern Lights and the midnight sun during summer, this exquisite hotel enjoys a pristine location amidst the Eyjafjordur region and its fjord. Guests can indulge in a wonderful Icelandic dinner by the fireside at the on-site restaurant, suitable for all types of travelers.
- Skjaldarvík Guesthouse – Nestled in the picturesque northern Icelandic countryside, Skjaldarvik Guest House is an elegant family-run accommodation offering well-appointed guest rooms, an outdoor hot tub with views of the Eyjafjörður fjord, a library, and an on-site restaurant. The outstanding daily breakfast buffet is a must-try for all types of travelers.
- Hotel Nordurland by Keahotels – A stylish establishment located a brief drive from Akureyri Airport, Hotel Nordurland by Keahotels features beautifully decorated guest rooms equipped with contemporary facilities including flat-screen TVs, seating areas, and private bathrooms, appealing to all types of travelers.
