Iceland is one of the most vibrant and diverse places to visit. With year long inconsistent weather, brutal winters and some of the most unique terrain on earth, it is a good idea to prepare when booking a trip to Iceland, particularly with hotels as the country can be busy year-round.
One of the first things to decide on is the type of accommodation in Iceland. While some people are looking for unique stays like an overnight experience in the Buubble hotel in Iceland’s Golden Circle, others prefer to have a room closer to downtown Reykjavik where there are many bars, restaurants and tourist attractions.
In addition, to find the perfect hotel, travelers will have to consider their budget, compare reviews, search for promotional codes and accommodation comparison sites online.
Many visitors flock to Iceland every year with a hope of seeing the Northern Lights. Check out this comprehensive guide to seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland for the very best tips.
Here are several essential tips for finding the perfect accommodation in Iceland.
Deciding on the Budget
The first thing is determine the accommodation budget as part of the overall travel experience. Iceland is a notoriously expensive country in terms of food, drink and excursions.
It might be a good idea to start with the estimation of the total cost of the trip before deciding on how much will be spent on accommodation. Iceland is a year-round destination though bargains can be found in the off season months such as February and September.
Most hotels/hostels/Airbnb’s are more expensive during peak season (mid-June through August) or during special events like business conferences or festivals.
By doing a little research on local festivities and peak season activities in Iceland will allow an idea of accommodation costs and length of stay.
Deciding on What to Look for
There are numerous types of accommodations in Iceland, from hostels and glamping to five-star hotels. Depending on what a traveler might be looking for, they might choose a unique kind of accommodation to compliment the Icelandic experience.
One of the cheapest options to stay in Iceland is to share a dorm room in a hostel. Sometimes private rooms (including single) are available for similar prices if the rooms are not sold. It’s always best to call or email the hostel direct for the best deals.
Generally speaking, the closer the accommodation to a city center, the more expensive it is. If walking or taking public transport is not ideal, then it is best to stretch the budget a little further. Iceland also has a lot of luxurious accommodations that include spa and swimming pool access for the high end budgets. Use hotel comparison sites for the best deals.
With Iceland being a small country in high demand with US and European visitors, it is always advisable to book accommodation ahead.
Consider Needs
After the budget is set and the preferred kind of accommodation is determined, it is time to think about individual needs. For example, when traveling alone staying in the heart of Reykjavik, a hostel is a great choice over a hotel. Most hostels have communal areas where it is easy to mingle and meet other travelers.
Consider the number of guests when deciding on accommodation, when traveling with a lot of items in a group, for example, hotel rooms might be the best option, as they usually have larger storage facilities. With accommodations such as Airbnb apartments, guests usually have to vacate the property early in the morning with luggage which could be an inconvenience when exploring.
It is also good to think about the type of services that might be needed during the trip. For example, if it is a luxurious break where guests may wish to relax, a hotel with room service, an on-site restaurant, laundry service, city tours, spa treatments or a pool might take priority over a bare minimum Bed and Breakfast.
Looking at the Location
When it comes to visiting Iceland, it is good to find accommodation close to some of the most famous spots and activities worth visiting, such as Blue Lagoon Spa or one of the whale watching tours (available from Reykjavik). It would be best to have a place close to a city center or other major attractions if possible as pick up for these tours often occurs at the major hotels and hostels.
It’s always good to ensure any accommodation offers a good security system and safety measures, such as electronic keypad entry and a reception/security worker.
Comparing Reviews
While searching for the perfect accommodation, it’s best to check other guests’ reviews online. This will help to make an informed decision and prevent the vacation from becoming disastrous.
Read both positive and negative reviews to be aware of any potential problems and how the hotel staff handled them.
It is also good to look at pictures of the accommodations from previous guests over the hotel promo pictures which are often outdated.
Using Promotional Codes
There are millions of promotional codes websites available online. While some discount sites offer codes only for selected hotels, others offer these codes for all types of accommodation, including hostels and apartments.
Before booking a hotel, it can be beneficial to check online for any available discounts. These discounts could be as high as 15 percent off the entire stay or free Wi-Fi in the room. Some companies offer seasonal discounts too, so it is worth taking advantage of them while they are available – they can save a lot of money and time. Google the hotel name followed by ‘promo code’ or ‘coupon’.
The Bottom Line
Finding a god affordable hotel in Iceland may turn out to be a challenging task. It requires planning and time. However, doing research beforehand will definitely save some valuable time and money.
To find the perfect hotel, it is essential to consider the travel budget, individual needs, seasonal peaks, events happening in the country, and the hotel’s location.
Checking reviews and using promotional codes will also be helpful in finding the right hotel, but booking the stay beforehand should be every tourist’s top priority to ensure a worry-free Nordic experience.
Cover image credit: Buuble hotel
