The 8 BEST Igloo and Bubble Hotels in Iceland in Reykjavik 2026
Explore Iceland’s most memorable igloo and bubble stays, from aurora views to secluded countryside escapes. Finding Iceland’s igloo and bubble hotels can take serious digging. This curated list highlights standout stays, locations, and what makes each worth considering.
Hlidsvegur 1 (Check-in: Hotel Viking , Strandgata 55, 220 Hafnarfjördur), Álftanes
Seaside cottages keep open skies and the shoreline close. Cottage-style rooms with sea views bring you close to the open Icelandic sky. The small seaside village feels intimate, with outdoor hot tubs and a sauna for warming up after a night outside. Coastal walking paths start at the property, and Álftanes Swimming Pool is a five-minute drive away. You get a quiet, windswept stay for couples who want nature right beyond the door.
Kriunesi Vatnsenda, Reykjavík
A quiet lakeside lodge faces broad Icelandic skies. Lake-facing rooms and a fireplace lounge give this small hotel a peaceful, nature-led feel. Its setting by the water makes stepping outside to look for the aurora part of the evening. Lake Elliðavatn is right beside you, with Heiðmörk Nature Reserve across the water. You get a warm lakeside retreat that suits travelers seeking quiet nights near Reykjavík.
Haholt 7, Mosfellsbær
Countryside balconies and horse-country calm just beyond Reykjavík. Some rooms open onto balconies with scenic views, giving you a little more sky and space than a city stay. The hotel can also help arrange horse riding, bringing a taste of the countryside into your trip. Mosfellsbær’s center is nearby, while downtown Reykjavík is about a 10-minute drive away. You get a relaxed, country-town stay with the capital within easy reach.
Strandgata 55, Hafnarfjördur
Viking-inspired rooms overlook Hafnarfjörður's old harbor. Rustic Viking-inspired rooms and a harbor setting bring a distinctive, close-to-the-elements feel to your Reykjavík-area stay. Some rooms look out over the sea or harbor, and a sauna and hot tub make chilly evenings cozy. Hafnarfjörður harbor is about 150 meters away, with Reykjavík’s center roughly 10 kilometers away. You get a characterful coastal night with a lively local story.
Nauthólsvegur 52, Reykjavík
Woodland trails and geothermal shoreline frame a nature-led stay. Set beside Öskjuhlíð Hill’s woods, this hotel gives your Reykjavík stay a welcome dose of greenery and open air. Its Icelandic art and nature-inspired character keep the feel rooted in the landscape. Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach is about a kilometer away, with woodland trails close by. You get a comfortable, nature-minded city stay that suits travelers who want fresh air between aurora outings.
Sudurlandsbraut 12, Reykjavík
Icelandic light inspires this bright, design-led city stay. Rooms draw on Iceland’s seasonal light, giving this city hotel a thoughtful connection to the skies beyond its windows. Scandinavian design and artwork make the stay feel distinctive, even when you’re back indoors. Laugardalur Family Park is about a kilometer away, with central Reykjavík a short drive away. You get a bright, design-focused city stay for travelers who want Iceland’s light woven into the experience.
Tjarnavellir 3, Hafnarfjördur
A quiet capital-edge stay with mountain air and aurora skies. On the capital’s outskirts, this hotel puts you nearer to mountains and lakes than Reykjavík’s busy center. Its open surroundings offer a calmer backdrop for keeping an eye on winter skies. Ásvallalaug swimming pool is about 350 meters away, and Reykjavík’s center is around a 15-minute drive. You get a practical, quieter stay for travelers who want the city nearby but not at their window.
Gufunesvegur, Reykjavík
Private dome stays pair Esja views with your own hot tub. A private dome with wide windows brings Mount Esja and the changing sky into view from bed. A fireplace and your own outdoor hot tub make aurora-watching feel wonderfully cozy. Gufunes Park is nearby, while downtown Reykjavík is a 10-minute drive away. For a night under Icelandic skies, you get a rare dome stay with the capital close at hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What unique features should I expect in igloo hotels in Iceland?
Igloo hotels often feature transparent roofs for stargazing and sleeping under the northern lights. They typically have cozy interiors with heating and comfortable bedding to ensure a pleasant stay.
How can I book an igloo or bubble hotel in Reykjavík?
You can book igloo and bubble hotels through various travel websites, directly on hotel websites, or by contacting local tour operators in Reykjavík. It is advisable to book in advance due to high demand.
What is the best time of year to stay in a bubble hotel in Iceland?
The best time to experience bubble hotels is during winter months from November to March. This period increases your chances of witnessing the northern lights, which is one of the main attractions.
Are igloo and bubble hotels suitable for families?
Yes, many igloo and bubble hotels accommodate families. Some hotels offer additional sleeping arrangements or family-friendly amenities, but it is best to check availability and policies when booking.
What amenities can I expect in bubble hotels?
Bubble hotels typically offer comfortable bedding, heating, and private bathrooms. Many also feature outdoor seating areas, secluded locations for privacy, and stunning views of the surrounding nature.
Can I see the northern lights from an igloo hotel?
Yes, igloo hotels are designed for optimal viewing of the northern lights. Their transparent roofs provide a perfect vantage point for this stunning natural phenomenon, especially in remote locations away from city lights.
Is it necessary to have a rental car to reach bubble hotels outside Reykjavík?
While having a rental car can provide flexibility and ease of access, many bubble hotels offer shuttle services from Reykjavík. It is recommended to check the specific hotel’s transportation options before your arrival.
What activities can I enjoy while staying in or near igloo and bubble hotels?
Guests can enjoy various activities such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, and hiking in nearby national parks. Many hotels also arrange tours to see the golden circle or geothermal hot springs.
What should I pack for my stay in an igloo or bubble hotel in Iceland?
Pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy footwear. Don’t forget essentials like a camera for photography, as well as personal items like toiletries and chargers.
Are meals provided at igloo or bubble hotels?
Some igloo and bubble hotels offer meal options, including breakfast or dinner, while others may have kitchen facilities. It is best to check with the hotel for dining arrangements and local restaurants nearby.
