Where To Stay in Reykjavik (For First Time Solo Travellers)

Choosing where to stay in Reykjavik can feel pretty overwhelming for such a small city – especially when it’s your first solo trip to Iceland, and you want somewhere that feels safe, is central, and is actually worth your money in a notoriously expensive city.

When I planned my own first solo trip to Iceland in January, I went DEEP into hotel research!

I spent so much time comparing neighbourhoods, reading way too many reviews, and running up and down Google Street View.

I also filtered every single hotel through my non-negotiables as a solo female traveller:

• Walkability
• Safety at night
• Tour pickup access
• Somewhere I’d actually feel comfortable coming back to alone

And now, in this guide, I’ll show you exactly where I stayed, the other hotels I seriously considered, and how to choose the best area to stay in Reykjavik, depending on what kind of solo trip you want!

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Things to Consider When Booking Reykjavik Accommodation

Choosing where to stay in Reykjavik isn’t just about finding a nice hotel, but about how safe and relaxed the location of that hotel makes you feel.

Reykjavik (and Iceland) are incredibly safe overall, ranking as the safest country in the world. But as a solo traveller (especially in winter), location still matters above everything else.

It will decide how relaxed you feel walking back at night after a Northern Lights tour, how easy your mornings are and whether your trip feels calm or anxiety-inducing.

The biggest things I looked for when deciding on hotels were safety and walkability.

After being there myself (and spending more time than I’ll admit on Google Street View previously!), I can tell you that central downtown Reykjavik has:

• More consistent street lighting
• More foot traffic (even late at night, thanks to tours getting back at all hours)
• Pavements that are cleared more quickly and reliably in winter

Plus, being close to things you actually want to do also makes a huge difference.

And most tours pick up from the central hotels or nearby bus stops, so staying close means no early-morning stress or rushing, and no worries about walking back at night either!

Of course, central Reykjavik isn’t cheap, but (if you can) paying more for location is absolutely worth it for peace of mind.

Katie’s Top Tip: Prioritise location over everything else as a solo traveller. A hotel with good reviews in a central, walkable location always beats a cheaper option further out – especially given it’s your first time in Reykjavik.

How Reykjavik Is Laid Out (And Why It Matters)

Reykjavik looks tiny on a map, right?

But actually, the distances feel a lot greater and more isolated when you leave the heart of Reykjavik Downtown – especially at night.

Most visitors end up staying in one of four areas, and these are the neighbourhoods I will be covering in this post:

Downtown Reykjavik

This is the heart of the city and the base I recommend for first-time solo travellers to Iceland. There are loads of restaurants, shops, things to do, tour pickup points, and bus stops all within short walking distance here, so it’s super convenient. Plus, streets are well-lit and there’s constant foot traffic.

The Harbour Area (Vesturbaer)

Just west of downtown, Vesturbaer feels calmer and more local, with beautiful waterfront walks and great restaurants. It’s still walkable to the centre if you don’t mind a longer stroll, but the vibe is quieter – and depending on your travel style/confidence, you’ll either love that or hate it!

Outer Residential Districts (Laugardalur, Hlíðar, beyond)

These areas are more affordable, often with free parking included in the price of your room. They’re safe, but not as central, meaning you’ll either have a longer walk or have to rely on public transport to get around.

Katie’s Top Tip: If this is your first solo trip to Iceland, make your life easy and book downtown accommodation. You can always experiment with other areas on future trips!

Best Neighbourhoods in Reykjavik for Solo Travellers

The difference between Reykjavik’s neighbourhoods isn’t necessarily about safety (Iceland ranks and feels very safe in general), but convenience, lighting, foot traffic and how connected you are to the heart of the city.

For first-time solo travellers, I highly recommend staying in downtown Reykjavik, so most of my recommended hotels in Reykjavik are based there.

But, there are other neighbourhoods, as I mentioned above, that can also work for solo travellers (depending on your budget and confidence).

So let’s get into the comparison and Reykjavik hotel recommendations for each neighbourhood!

Reykjavik Downtown (Miðborg)

If you’re unsure where to stay in Reykjavik for a first-time visit, my number one recommendation is to stay in downtown Reykjavik (known locally as Miðborg).

Streets are well-lit, pavements are well-maintained in winter (even when I visited in January!), and there’s constant foot traffic without it feeling overwhelming.

You’re also close to cafés, restaurants, museums, shops, supermarkets, things to do and tour pickup points.

I personally walked back through central Reykjavik alone at 3am, after Northern Lights tours, and never once felt uncomfortable.

(And trust me, as an anxious solo traveller, I’ve never said that about anywhere else!)

It’s best for solo travellers who:

• Want maximum walkability and peace of mind
• Are visiting Reykjavik for the first time
• Plan to join tours (Golden Circle, South Coast, Northern Lights…)
• Want to feel connected, not isolated

Best Hotels in Downtown Reykjavik (Solo Traveller Approved!)

Hotel Borg

If you’re looking to treat yourself during your trip, Hotel Borg is a stunning choice and one of the best places to stay in Reykjavik for a more luxurious experience!

It’s centrally located, close to Tjörnin Lake and Bus Stop #1 (for the airport bus), which puts you right in the heart of downtown Reykjavik.

Inside the hotel, the rooms are elegant, spacious and beautifully designed. Plus, the top-rated on-site fitness centre and spa is perfect for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing and tours!

For solo travellers, everything you need is within easy walking distance, there is a 24-hour reception, and the surrounding area feels very safe and well-lit at night.

Hotel Reykjavik Saga

Hotel Reykjavik Saga is another great option right in the heart of downtown, and its location close to Tjörnin Lake is beautiful (I can just imagine an early morning stroll by the water would be the perfect way to wake up!)

Plus, being right next to Bus Stop #1 also makes arrivals, departures and joining guided tours straightforward.

The hotel itself is modern, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed in Scandinavian style, with private bathrooms and, of course, free WiFi.

I also love that you get the calm of the lake combined with the convenience of downtown!

For solo travellers, this is a great choice if you want a central location with a slightly more peaceful atmosphere, and again, it has a 24-hour reception for peace of mind.

Canopy Hotel by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre

Canopy Hotel is one of the most popular, top-rated hotels in Reykjavik, thanks to its beautifully modern interiors and rooms, and great central location.

It’s in a slightly different area from my first two recommendations, close to Harpa Concert Hall and the waterfront.

But from here, you can still easily walk into town, and you have easy access to Bus Stop #3 (Laekjargata) and Bus Stop #5 (Harpa) for airport buses and some excursions.

Rooms are stylish, modern, and very comfortable, all with private bathrooms and free WiFi. And you can also add breakfast (which I definitely recommend if you want relaxed, decision-free mornings!)

For solo travellers, this is a dreamy hotel with 24-hour front desk services, an on-site restaurant and bar for convenience, and still a great central location.

Thingholt Hotel Apartments

Thingholt Hotel Apartments is an amazing option if you want the flexibility of self-catering while still staying central and enjoying a luxurious, hotel-style stay.

Having your own kitchen in Reykjavik will save you a LOT of money, especially if you don’t want to eat out for every meal (restaurants are seriously pricey in Reykjavik!)

All of the apartments are modern, bright and well-equipped, with a full kitchenette including a hob, oven, fridge and toaster. There is also a private bathroom and free WiFi.

The apartments are located just off Laekjargata, one of Reykjavik’s main streets, and close to Bus Stop #3 for airport transfers.

Laekjargata was also where all of my day tours picked up from.

For solo travellers, it’s great for a longer stay or if you want to balance privacy and the convenience of a central location.

Center Hotels Plaza

This is where I stayed in Reykjavik, and honestly, I was so happy to have this hotel as my base for my first solo trip to Iceland!

Center Hotels Plaza is located right on Aðalstraeti Square, putting you in the heart of downtown and within easy walking distance of pretty much everything you could need, including shops, restaurants, things to do and tour pickup points.

I stayed in a comfortable twin room overlooking the square, which felt lively during the day but calm and safe at night without being isolated (even when I visited in January!)

Just this incredible, central location alone makes this one of the best places to stay in Reykjavik if it’s your first visit to Iceland.

But what really stood out for me as a solo traveller was how easy everything felt.

Tour pickup points are a short, straight walk through the centre (in the image above, the street you need is between the red and black buildings). And Bus Stop #1 for airport transfers is also just a few minutes’ walk away.

All rooms have private bathrooms and free WiFi.

Plus, the buffet breakfast is genuinely delicious. It’s always so nice not to have to think about where to go for breakfast each morning, especially if you have limited time before a tour!

For solo travellers, Center Hotels Plaza is so conveniently located, with a 24-hour front desk, friendly and welcoming staff, and even an on-site coffee shop.

Hotel Fron

Hotel Fron is one of the more affordable hotels in Reykjavik, but it is still incredibly central.

(Although please keep in mind that when I say “affordable,” this is Iceland we’re talking about!)

It’s located right near the famous Rainbow Street, putting you in a lively, well-lit part of downtown, with plenty of foot traffic and good street lighting.

Rooms are comfortable, with private bathrooms and free WiFi, and the free buffet breakfast is a huge bonus in a city where food is so expensive!

You’re also within walking distance of Bus Stop #6, which is useful for airport buses and some excursions.

For solo travellers, this is a great (slightly more affordable) option if you still want to stay in the heart of Reykjavik but don’t have a big budget. There is also a 24-hour reception here.

Hlíðar

The neighbourhood of Hlíðar can be a good option if you’re watching your budget but still want relatively easy access to the city centre.

It is located just outside the main downtown area, and depending on where you stay, you may even be able to walk into the centre itself (although this is less easy in winter).

This area is quieter and more residential, which some solo travellers will love. But this does mean fewer restaurants and cafés nearby.

Plus, in the winter months, especially, parts of Hlíðar can feel more isolated, and you’ll be limited to tours that offer pickup rather than being able to walk to meeting points.

It’s best for solo travellers who:

• Are on a tighter budget
• Don’t mind using public transport
• Prefer quieter residential areas

Best Hotels in Hlíðar

Miðgarður by Center Hotels

Miðgarður Hotel is just outside central downtown, which keeps prices slightly more reasonable, but you still get a comfortable, luxurious hotel with amazing facilities – including a top-rated spa and fitness space!

The rooms are modern and comfortable, all with private bathrooms, free WiFi. Plus, there is a 24-hour reception here, for extra peace of mind as a solo traveller.

The on-site restaurant, Jörgensen Kitchen & Bar, also offers a delicious buffet breakfast, which is a huge bonus both for saving money and reducing morning stress. And you could also enjoy dinner here, if you didn’t want to go out for the evening.

For solo travellers, this is a great option because you have everything you need under one roof – a restaurant for breakfast and dinner, a spa, gym and even laundry facilities. The only consideration, again, is the location and being further away from meeting points.

Downtown Reykjavik Apartments

If you like having your own space and don’t want to rely on restaurants for every meal, Downtown Reykjavik Apartments are a really good self-catering option.

You get a full kitchenette, laundry facilities, free WiFi, and even free on-site parking (which is a huge win if you’re solo travelling with a car!)

In fact, if you are renting a car, parking is something most central hotels do not offer – and if they do, it’s definitely not free! So that’s something to consider.

The interiors aren’t ultra-modern, but they are comfortable, clean and practical – especially if you’re planning to stay in Reykjavik for a longer stay.

In terms of location, you’re close to the edge of Laugavegur, so walking into the centre is doable if you don’t mind a slightly longer walk.

For solo travellers, this is a great option if you love independence and your own space, or if you’re bringing a car. However, the area is quieter and less busy than downtown, especially in winter. And, of course, there’s no 24-hour reception.

Alva Hotel Brautarholt

Alva Hotel Brautarholt is a really good option if you want comfort, convenience and a delicious breakfast without paying downtown prices.

Rooms are clean and comfortable, with private bathrooms, free WiFi and a mini fridge. Plus, free parking is included, making this another great option if you’re driving.

There’s even an on-site restaurant, Potturinn and Pannan, for evenings when you’d rather stay in altogether!

For solo travellers, this is a more affordable accommodation option, where you can still walk into the centre if you don’t mind a slightly longer walk. Something to consider, though, is that there isn’t a front desk – it is virtual check-in.

Vesturbaer

The neighbourhood of Vesturbaer is one of the prettiest parts of Reykjavik, located around the old harbour, and it has a calmer feel, despite not being too far from the centre!

It’s peaceful, scenic and lovely for waterside walks, but public transport or taxis are sometimes needed to get around if you’re staying here (especially in winter).

For solo travellers, Vesturbaer is great if you want a quieter base and don’t mind being slightly removed from the buzz and convenience of central downtown.

It’s a beautiful area, but less ideal if you want spontaneous dinners out, easy access to nightlife, or early tour starts.

It’s best for solo travellers who:

• Prefer a calm stay over total convenience
• Don’t mind relying on buses or taxis to get around
• Want a more relaxed, residential feel

Best Hotels in Vesturbaer

Grandi by Center Hotels

Located by the harbour, Grandi Hotel offers a peaceful setting with beautiful views, while still being walkable to downtown if you don’t mind a longer stroll (around 15 minutes).

The rooms are modern, spacious and very comfortable, with free WiFi, a private bathroom, and some even have beautiful views over the water.

But the highlight here is the beautiful on-site spa and fitness centre – perfect if you want to unwind after a long, cold day of sightseeing!

There’s also a restaurant and buffet breakfast available, so (if you want it to be) everything you need to feel comfortable during your stay is taken care of within the hotel!

For solo travellers, there’s a 24-hour reception for peace of mind, a calm atmosphere, and the convenience of knowing that everything you could need for your stay is available on-site.

Reykjavik Marina Hotel

Reykjavik Marina Hotel has one of the best locations if you love being near the water!

Located right on the harbour, with some rooms even offering spectacular views over the water, the hotel offers a relaxed stay in a modern, comfortable room (some even with their own private balcony!)

Inside all rooms, you have free WiFi, a private bathroom and tea/coffee making facilities.

And in the hotel, you have the option to add a delicious buffet breakfast to your stay, grab drinks at the on-site bar and lounge, or dine at the fabulous restaurant.

You can also walk to downtown Reykjavik from the hotel in around 15 minutes. And popular whale watching boat tours also leave just a few steps away from the hotel.

For solo travellers, there’s a 24-hour front desk for extra comfort, and you’re in a more peaceful location (compared to staying in the heart of Reykjavik), with access to beautiful walks around the harbour!

Laugardalur

The neighbourhood of Laugardalur is a great option if you want easy access to some of Reykjavik’s best leisure facilities and green spaces.

This area is home to the city’s most popular swimming pools, museums and the botanical garden. Plus, the whole vibe feels more local than touristy.

However, Laugardalur is the least central neighbourhood of this guide so far, meaning you’ll need to rely on public transport to reach downtown and book tours with pickup included.

For me personally, I wouldn’t choose to stay in Laugardalur on a first visit to Reykjavik, as the peace of mind of being able to walk everywhere beats price as a solo female traveller.

But, if you’re confident navigating public transport, or if you specifically want to visit nearby attractions such as the pool, zoo or botanical garden, I still want to give you some great hotel options in the area!

It’s best for solo travellers who:

• Love swimming pools and wellness culture
• Prefer quieter, local-feeling neighbourhoods
• Are comfortable using public transport abroad

Best Hotels in Laugardalur

Hilton Reykjavik Nordica

Hilton Reykjavik Nordica is one of the top-rated hotels in Reykjavik, and it’s a great option if you value comfort and reliability.

Rooms are modern, spacious and very comfortable, with private bathrooms, free WiFi, free parking, and lovely views over either the city or the surrounding mountains.

Plus, they also offer the option to add a buffet breakfast or even half board to your stay, meaning you don’t have to worry about meals in a city that has notoriously expensive restaurants!

I personally had breakfast included in my hotel in Reykjavik and would recommend it to everyone – especially if you have early starts for tours or sightseeing.

In terms of attractions, you’re about a 10-minute walk from Laugardalslaug geothermal pool (a local favourite!), and a 15-minute walk from Reykjavik zoo and botanical garden.

You’ll need public transport or a taxi to easily reach downtown Reykjavik.

For solo travellers, this hotel offers a calm and easy stay, with close walking distance to some attractions, the option to upgrade to breakfast or even half board, and a 24-hour reception for peace of mind.

Hotel Lotus

Hotel Lotus is a smaller, more affordable hotel in Reykjavik’s Laugardalur neighbourhood, but it’s still a great option for solo travellers.

Rooms are smaller but still very comfortable and cosy, with private bathrooms, free WiFi, and lovely city views.

Plus, breakfast here is included in the price of your stay, which makes such a difference in an expensive city like Reykjavik!

You will need public transport to get into downtown, but you are still within walking distance of the geothermal pool, zoo and botanical garden.

Plus, the hotel even offers its own 24-hour airport shuttle service, which is a huge bonus if you’re arriving late or leaving early, or just want one less thing to have to organise yourself!

For solo travellers, this hotel is practical and budget-friendly, with free parking, the airport shuttle, and an included continental breakfast. Just keep in mind that the front desk only operates during limited hours.

Reykjavik Lights by Keahotels

Reykjavik Lights is another more affordable hotel in Reykjavik, with a free continental breakfast and free, top-rated parking available on-site.

Rooms are bright, modern and comfortable, with private bathrooms, free WiFi, and some even with spectacular mountain views!

There is also a bar onsite, serving both drinks and deli-style snacks.

Like the other Laugardalur hotels, you’ll need public transport or a taxi to reach central Reykjavik. But you are still within walking distance of the pool, zoo and botanical garden.

For solo travellers, this is another practical and comfortable option, with handy free parking, modern and bright rooms, and a 24-hour reception for extra peace of mind.

Where to Stay in Reykjavik for the Northern Lights

You can see the Northern Lights from Reykjavik city centre on strong, cloud-free nights, but if seeing them is high on your bucket list, staying slightly outside the city is the best choice.

Light pollution in the city makes sightings less reliable, which is why many of the best places to stay in Reykjavik for Northern Lights are further out in nature.

As a solo traveller, the key is choosing somewhere that still feels safe and accessible for your stay, so I’ve listed my favourite options (that meet this criteria!) below:

Hotel Laxnes

Hotel Laxnes is only around a 20-minute drive from central Reykjavik but is still well clear of the main light pollution zone, making it perfect for Northern Lights sightings!

If you’re not driving, you can reach the hotel via public bus number 7, or the hotel also offers a 24-hour airport shuttle service for easy convenience.

Alternatively, there is free parking available if you are driving yourself.

Rooms are comfortable and cosy, with free WiFi, a private bathroom, and beautiful mountain or garden views.

Some of the rooms even have their own balconies, which I would highly recommend if you want the chance to view the Northern Lights privately, from the comfort of your room.

There’s even a relaxing, outdoor hot tub, which is such a treat after a cold day of exploring!

You also have the option to add breakfast to your stay or upgrade to a room with its own private kitchenette, if you want to save money and make your own meals.

As a solo traveller, if seeing the Northern Lights is a dream of yours, I recommend staying here for a few nights of your trip, before moving to downtown Reykjavik for easier sightseeing!

Reykjavik Domes

Reykjavik Domes is very much a bucket-list stay, where you’ll get to sleep under the stars in a beautiful, cosy “igloo” tent!

The Reykjavik Domes are about 15 minutes’ drive from Reykjavik, but give you uninterrupted views of the sky and surrounding mountains, which means you can watch the Northern Lights from bed.

(I don’t know about you, but that’s a HUGE dream of mine!)

Also included in your stay, there is free parking, WiFi, heating, a cosy fireplace, an outdoor BBQ, and even the option to upgrade to a convenient airport shuttle transfer.

This is more of an experience than a traditional hotel stay, but it’s well organised and the tents are cosy and warm, even during the famously brutal Icelandic winter!

This is one of the most memorable ways to experience Iceland for the first time!

For solo travellers, this is again a bucket-list stay that I would recommend you combine with time based in Reykjavik city centre, for easier sightseeing and tours.

Comparing Neighbourhoods in Reykjavik (Decision Guide)

If you’re still feeling stuck choosing where to stay in Reykjavik, this is the exact decision framework I used my trip in January:

If you want maximum walkability, great lighting, easy tour pickups and zero logistics stress:

→ Downtown Reykjavik, Center Hotels Plaza

If you want somewhere quieter and more local, but still walkable to the city centre:

→ Vesturbaer, Grandi by Center Hotels

If you want better value, space and easy parking, and don’t mind using public transport:

→ Laugardalur, Hotel Lotus

If you want to self-cater to reduce food costs:

→ Hlíðar, Downtown Reykjavik Apartments

If seeing the northern lights is a dream:

→ Reykjavik Domes

8 Quick Tips for Booking Hotels in Reykjavik

1. Location beats everything else, especially in winter or if this is your first visit
2. Read recent reviews, don’t just look at the star rating
3. Choose walkable or well-connected areas, especially if you plan to go out in the evening
4. Private bathroom = non-negotiable for how comfortable you’ll feel
5. Breakfast included is a big win in such an expensive city
6. Look for a 24-hour staffed reception if you value peace of mind
7. Check the guided tours you want to do and pick a hotel within easy walking distance of the meeting point(s)
8. Don’t underestimate the weather, ice and darkness in winter
9. Be cautious of deals that feel too cheap, as Reykjavik accommodation is rarely a bargain

Choosing Where to Stay in Reykjavik as a Solo Traveller

Choosing where to stay in Reykjavik as a first time solo traveller really comes down to how easy you want your days (and nights) to feel throughout your stay.

Reykjavik is a compact city that feels (and statistically is) very safe and manageable as a solo female traveller – but where you base yourself will still affect everything about your trip.

If this is your first time in Iceland, staying central is almost always worth the extra cost.

I personally recommend the hotel I stayed at, Center Hotels Plaza, for first-time solo travellers to Reykjavik.

But if you’re prioritising the Northern Lights or budget, staying slightly outside the city can be ok, as long as you know what you’re trading off and feel confident in that decision.

The bottom line?

There’s no single “best” hotel or neighbourhood for where to stay in Reykjavik, but I hope that this post has helped you see your options and figure out what works best for you!

FAQs: Best Hotels in Reykjavik

Read More About Travel in Iceland:

• How to Get Around Iceland Without A Car (Winter Edition)
• The ULTIMATE Iceland Winter Packing List For Women (2026)
• Visiting Iceland in January: Must-See Sights, Weather & Tips
• Where To Stay in Reykjavik (For First Time Solo Travellers)
• Norway vs Iceland in Winter: Ultimate Solo Travel Comparison
• The Ultimate Iceland Solo Female Travel Guide (For 2026!)
• Iceland’s Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Winter (Without a Car!)
• How to Visit Iceland’s South Coast in Winter (Without a Car)
• 7 Unmissable Day Trips From Reykjavik in Winter (No Car!)
• How to See Iceland’s Golden Circle in Winter (Without a Car)
• Iceland’s Blue Lagoon in Winter: What to Expect (and Pack!)
• 15 Iceland Travel Tips for Winter You’ll Be Glad You Know
• How Many Days Do You Need in Iceland in Winter?
• How to Spend 5 Days in Iceland in Winter (Without A Car!)
• 19 Prettiest Places in Iceland Every Traveller Must See

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