Here are our tips for deciding where to stay in Iceland in winter, according to your interests and schedule:
- Our favorite places to stop on a winter road trip around the country
- Our hotel recommendations, whether for their practicality, their originality or their advantage for seeing the Northern Lights!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Content
Choose where to stay in Iceland in winter + map
Map
Admittedly, there are fewer tourists in winter, but many accommodations close (especially in January), so book early to have a choice.
Here’s a map with all our favorite places to stay in Iceland in winter. In this article we’ve listed them for a counter-clockwise tour.
Where to stay on a Route 1 winter road trip
The options below are suitable for a road trip on Route 1. Especially Vik, Jokulsarlon, Höfn, Egilsstadir, Lake Myvatn, Akureyri and Borgarnes.
See our suggested 1 week itinerary with cities to sleep in (coming soon).
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What to look for in a winter hotel
- Geothermal jacuzzis or indoor pools for relaxing after outdoor activities.
- Cosy living room with fireplace for a warm evening ambience.
- On-site restaurant, so you don’t have to go out in the cold after finally warming up
- Wake-up call from the night team to make sure you don’t miss the northern lights
- Close to nature and dark skies for optimum aurora viewing.
If you don’t drive
If you’ve never driven on snow before, we don’t recommend starting out in Iceland. You have 2 options:
- stay in Reykavik and book day trips – see our favourites
- book a multi-day guided tour, such as this 8-day small-group tour (to relax and enjoy the scenery).
Hotels in Iceland to see the northern lights
If you want to have the opportunity (if conditions are right) to see the northern lights as you leave your room, you need to choose accommodation outside the city, surrounded by nature.
Here are some of our recommendations:
- Hotel Ranga
With an astronomical observatory, between Selfoss and Seljalandsfoss towards the south coast
See photos and availability - Aurora Igloo
For a unique experience in transparent domes. Between Selfoss and Seljalandsfoss towards the south coast
See photos and availability - Klettar Tower
In Fludir, a completely unique accommodation with panoramic views.
See photos and availability - Sky sighting Igluhus
North of Akureyri, wooden dome and 360° views.
See photos and availability - Hotel Laxá
In Myvatn, with beautiful lake views.
See photos and availability
See our complete selection (coming soon).
1. Reykjavik
Why stay in Reykjavik in winter?
Reykjavik, Iceland’s bustling capital, is a must-see to start your winter holiday. We were charmed by its unique blend of modernity and tradition. The city offers an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding natural wonders, as well as a vibrant cultural scene. In winter, illuminated streets and cosy cafés create a welcoming atmosphere.
It’s also the only option if you don’t rent a car. Reykjavik is the starting point for many excursions, including Northern Lights hunts and visits to the Golden Circle. The organized tours all depart from the capital and are very well organized.
Hotel recommendations
- Black Pearl Apartment Hotel
A 5-star hotel with smart, self-contained apartments in the city center.
See photos and availability - Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel
I love the interior design of this hotel. Not too modern, comfortable but refined.
See photos and availability - Kvosin Downtown Hotel
Quiet location, close to one of the pick-up points for day trips. With rooms and apartments.
See photos and availability - Rey Apartments
Spacious apartment with kitchen equipment in the city center, I had a great time at the Rey apartments.
See photos and availability
Find out more in our article: where to sleep in Reykjavik in summer and winter (coming soon).
2. Fludir and the Golden Circle
Why stay on the Golden Circle in winter
The Golden Circle, one of Iceland’s most famous itineraries, offers a unique winter experience. We were amazed by the beauty of the snow-covered landscapes and the magic of the geysers in the winter light. A stay in this region allows you to take full advantage of iconic sites such as Thingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss.
The accommodations, often surrounded by nature, offer total immersion in the Icelandic landscape.
Fludir, a small hamlet in the heart of the Golden Circle. It offers a tranquil ambience and access to the Secret Lagoon, where you can relax and warm up in the evening with a dip in the hot spring.
Hotel recommendations
- Hotel Geysir
2 steps from the geyser (closed late December and January)
See photos and availability - Gullfoss Hotel
3 km from the waterfall
See photos and availability - The Hill Hotel at Fludir
at Fludir, modern comfort and a warm atmosphere close to attractions
See photos and availability
Selfoss alternative
You can also choose to sleep in the town of Selfoss, strategically located between the Golden Circle and Iceland’s southern coast. But it’s a city…
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On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
3. Vik
Why stay in Vik in winter
Vik, a small coastal town in southern Iceland, is an ideal base for exploring this region rich in natural wonders. In winter, Vik offers an enchanting setting with snow-covered black sand beaches, majestic cliffs and a peaceful atmosphere.
Our stay in Vik allowed us to discover the south coast at a slower pace, adapted to the length of winter days.
Hotel recommendations
- Hotel Vik i Myrdal
In the town of Vik, elegant and quiet
See photos and availability - Hotel Kria
On the edge of town with large bay windows
See photos and availability - Hotel Katla
Surrounded by nature, only 5min drive away (we like the rooms which have been redecorated)
See photos and availability
4. Around Jokulsarlon
Why stay around Jokulsarlon in winter
Staying in the countryside near Jokulsarlon in winter is an unforgettable experience. We were fascinated by the surreal beauty of this glacial lagoon with its floating icebergs. Lodging in this region means you can get as close as possible to this exceptional site for sunrises and sunsets (and the Northern Lights).
And don’t miss the famous Diamond Beach, where blocks of ice wash up on the black sand – a unique place!
Hotel recommendations
- Hali Country hotel
Closest to Jokulsarlon, 15min drive (closed December and January)
See photos and availability - Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
30min west, very elegant
See photos and availability - Hotel Smyrlabjorg
30min to the east, in a more rustic style
See photos and availability
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5. Höfn
Why stay in Höfn in winter
Höfn, a small port town to the east of Jokulsarlon, is an ideal stopover for those touring Iceland via Route 1. We appreciated its authentic fishing village atmosphere and its breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and glaciers.
In winter, Höfn offers a warm refuge after a day exploring the eastern fjords or the south coast.
We particularly enjoyed the sunrise over these peaceful landscapes.
Accommodation recommendations
- Höfn Berjaya Iceland Hotel
Ideally located with sea views on both sides.
See photos and availability - Guesthouse Dyngja, also close to the port.
Near the port, Studio, apartment and rooms with shared bathroom.
See photos and availability - Old Airline Guesthouse
Rooms with shared bathrooms
See photos and availability
6. Egilsstadir
Why stay in Egilsstadir in winter
Egilsstadir, the main town in eastern Iceland, is a strategic stopover if you’re touring Iceland via Route 1. We were convinced by its ideal position to end the day after exploring the eastern fjords. In winter, the town offers a comfortable, well-equipped retreat, with its many services and amenities. Egilsstadir is surrounded by a variety of landscapes, from forests (rare in Iceland) to frozen lakes.
Hotel recommendations
- Gistihusid – Lake Hotel Egilsstadir
Warm and modern, on the lakefront
See photos and availability - Hérad – Berjaya Iceland Hotels
Simple and practical
In front of a field to see the northern lights when the hotel warns you of activity
See photos and availability
7. Reykjalid and Lake Myvatn
Why stay at Lake Myvatn in winter
The Lake Myvatn region offers a unique black-and-white interlude during the Icelandic winter. We were captivated by the lunar landscapes and volcanic formations surrounding this shallow lake. In winter, the Hverir geothermal zone, with its fumaroles and pools of bubbling mud, creates a striking contrast with the surrounding snow. Staying near Lake Myvatn means you can explore the pseudo-craters of Skutustadagir, the lava formations of Dimmuborgir, and relax in the natural baths.
The main town is Reykjalid, but there are accommodations all around the lake (not all open in winter).
Hotel recommendations
- Fosshotel Myvatn
Modern with beautiful lake views
See photos and availability - Salt – Hotel Myvatn
Right next to the pseudocraters
See photos and availability - Myvatn – Berjaya Iceland Hotels
Modern, classic and well located with large windows
See photos and availability
8. Akureyri
Why stay in Akureyri in winter
Akureyri, often referred to as the capital of the North, is a charming town that offers an excellent base for exploring northern Iceland in winter. We were seduced by its urban ambience, but not too big. In winter, Akureyri is decked out in festive lights and offers access to ski slopes. It’s also an ideal starting point for whale-watching tours, a particularly magical experience in winter.
Hotel recommendations
- Akureyri Berjaya
Very modern with a nice bar and a great location
See photos and availability - Saga Apartments Akureyri
Convenient apartments in a central location
See photos and availability - Hotel Akureyri Dynheimar
A very central location and a unique design
See photos and availability
9. Borgarnes
Why stay in Borgarnes in winter
Borgarnes, about an hour’s drive north of Reykjavik, is a strategic stop on Route 1, offering easy access to the Silver Circle and the Snaefellsnes peninsula. We appreciated its ideal position for exploring these less-frequented regions of West Iceland. This strategic location means you can start your Snaefellsnes adventure early, without having to make the long journey from the capital. Your itinerary is more relaxed.
In winter, the town offers a comfortable retreat with a breathtaking view of the Borgarfjördur fjord.
Hotel recommendations
- Hotel Hamar (before Icelandair)
A peaceful setting with modern, minimalist rooms, private patios and breathtaking views of the Borgarfjördur fjord. Outdoor saunas and jacuzzis (summer and winter).
See photos and availability - Hotel Stafholt
Away from the city, surrounded by Iceland’s magnificent nature
See photos and availability - Kria Cottages
On the other side of the water, charming cottages at the foot of small mountains.
See photos and availability
10. Grundarfjördur
Why stay in Grundarfjördur in winter
Grundarfjördur is nestled in the heart of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. We were delighted by its ideal location, offering privileged access to the iconic Kirkjufell mountain. In winter, this small fishing port becomes a veritable paradise for photographers and northern lights hunters.
The proximity of Kirkjufell allows us to observe this iconic site in different lights, from sunrise to sunset, and potentially under the magical spectacle of the northern lights.
But there’s even more to see on the Snaefellsnes peninsula, and Grundarfjördur is a good base.
Accommodation recommendations
- Guesthouse 43
rooms with sea and mountain views, shared bathroom.
See prices, pictures and availability - Hellnafell
Apartment with large windows and a direct view of Kirkjufell!
See prices, pictures and availability - Guesthouse The Old Post Office
Excellent location, convenient and clean. We had an excellent night here. Please note that some rooms have private bathrooms and others have shared bathrooms.
See prices, pictures and availability
More ideas in our article on where to sleep on the peninsula (summer and winter).
Camper Vans and Camping in Winter in Iceland
Another option is to rent a camper van.
Advantages of winter camping in Iceland
- Low cost: Camping is generally less expensive than traditional accommodation.
- Flexibility: Campers can choose their pitch without having to reserve in advance.
- Close to nature: Campsites offer direct access to spectacular landscapes
Disadvantages
- Temperatures and wind: Temperatures can be very low and changeable, making camping uncomfortable.
- Limited campsites: Few campsites are open in winter, and freedom camping is not allowed.
- Driving risks: Roads can be dangerous in winter, as a van or motorhome is less stable and catches more wind.
See motorhome options and van options.
Where to stay in Iceland during the winter months: December, January, February, March
Where to stay in Iceland in December
All the options listed in this article are possible: Vik, Höfn, Borgarnes…
In December, Reykjavik is an excellent choice, thanks to its festive atmosphere and numerous activities. The city lights up for Christmas, with markets and cultural events. Lake Myvatn also offers a few surprises.
Beware, the days are very short. See our article on Iceland in December.
Where to stay in Iceland in January
In January, all the options listed in this article are available: Vik, Höfn, Borgarnes…
No place has more appeal than another.
Beware, the days are very short. See our article on Iceland in January.
Where to stay in Iceland in February
In February, all the options listed in this article are available: Vik, Höfn, Borgarnes…
No place has more appeal than another.
The days are already longer and allow us to visit more places, see our article on Iceland in February.
Where to stay in Iceland in March
In February, all the options listed in this article are available: Vik, Höfn, Borgarnes…
No place has more appeal than another.
The days are long enough to visit many places, see our article on Iceland in March.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO iceland IN WINTER
- Best of
Iceland’s winter landscapes
Best things to do in Iceland in winter
The most beautiful waterfalls
Ice caves
Best excursions from Reykjavik
- Practical advice
Getting around (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Iceland
Winter driving tips
Where to stay in Iceland in winter
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days (to come)
- The must-dos
Reykjavik in winter
Golden Circle in winter
South coast in winter
Snaefellsnes in winter
Silver Circle in winter (coming soon)
Lake Myvatn in winter
Eastern Fjords in winter
Seljalandsfoss in winter
Jokulsarlon in winter
