If you’re visiting Iceland for the aurora borealis, you’ll need somewhere to stay. Here, we’ve shortlisted 13 of the best Northern Lights hotels Iceland has to offer, in a variety of price ranges from premium to more affordable options.
Since the Northern Lights appear throughout the cold months in Iceland, it is important that you choose somewhere that is comfortable and safe from the freezing cold, and provides all the amenities you need and want to make your stay enjoyable.
In this article, we share tips for what to consider when selecting a hotel in Iceland with the primary goal of seeing the northern lights, as well as a shortlist of the best northern lights hotels Iceland that you could book into. While not a complete list, it does represent the most popular places to stay for aurora hunters to the country. Let’s jump in.
How to Choose Northern Lights Hotels Iceland
There are a number of important factors to take into consideration when it comes to choosing the perfect hotel in Iceland for viewing the northern lights. Regardless of whether you want to increase your chances of viewing the natural phenomenon, or spend more time absorbing the local culture while waiting for the aurora to appear, you are bound to find the perfect place for your particular needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Northern Lights Hotels Iceland
Location
Without question, one of the most important factors is the location of the hotel. Although it is possible to view the elusive lights from the center of Reykjavík during the peak of the solar cycle, the experience will not be as immersive as it would be in a more remote destination of the countryside. For viewing the elusive lights, you want to be close enough to an urban center, to keep you busy during the daytime, but far enough away that the lights of the city do not interfere with the viewing experience.
For more on this, check out our article on the best places to see Northern Lights in Iceland.
Proximity to Northern Lights Hotspots
There are countless destinations throughout Iceland that are known to be hotspots for viewing the elusive lights, as discussed in our article on the best places to view the aurora borealis in Iceland (see link above). In order to save yourself time and money, while simultaneously increasing your chances of viewing the auroras, you will want to choose a location that is known for having good weather, excellent visibility, and an increased opportunity for viewing the natural phenomenon.
Geomagnetic Activity Alerts
Geomagnetic activity plays a crucial role in determining how visible the northern lights will be when they appear. While most accommodations in Iceland offer some form of wake-up service when the lights are visible, not all places specialize in the experience. Make sure you choose a place where the staff are knowledgeable about the geomagnetic activity, and can help you to plan your viewing experience accordingly.
Winter Amenities
Naturally, the Icelandic winter can be harsh. Selecting a hotel that offers a wide selection of winter amenities can ensure that you are able to enjoy the Icelandic winters in comfort and style. Pay close attention to things such as hot water, heating, and cozy interiors when making your selection.
Guided Tours and Excursions
Many hotels throughout Iceland offer some form of a guided tour that will take you out into the countryside to view the elusive lights. These hotels often collaborate with local operators, who will bus you to well-known viewing locations that provide some of the most picturesque scenery imaginable.
Facilities for Aurora Photography
Of course, it’s impossible to simply view the elusive lights without also taking a photo of them to remember the experience forever. If you are a serious or even casual photographer, facilities that help you capture that perfect shot will be a welcome sight. Depending on your particular skill set, you will find that there are a number of excellent hotels throughout Iceland that provide facilities for the avid photographer. Some of these destinations may even offer workshops and equipment rentals.
Flexibility in Staying Duration
There is no guarantee that you will capture a glimpse of the elusive lights when you visit Iceland. In order to increase your chances of viewing the natural phenomena, select a destination that offers flexibility and will provide you with the opportunity to extend your stay. Not all accommodations in Iceland are flexible, due to high demand.
For the best viewing opportunity, make sure you choose the right time of year to visit Iceland and spend at least 3-4 nights in the region to allow for those nights they don’t appear and adverse weather conditions (eg snow clouds) that may block the view.
Reviews and Recommendations
As always, before you book your stay at any accommodation, take the time to check all of the reviews and recommendations that other travelers provided about the hotel. There are countless travel sites spread out across the Internet, where you can find a plethora of valuable information to help you make a well-informed decision.
To get you started, below is a shortlist of the most popular and best Northern Lights hotels Iceland has to offer.
PREMIUM Best Northern Lights Hotels in Iceland
We’ll start the list with the very best Northern Lights Hotels Iceland has to offer. These are premium-level hotels, with a premium price-tag to match. If you are seeking a memorable and unique aurora borealis experience, and cost is no barrier, then you will want to look into these options. You can find more affordable northern lights Iceland hotels a little further down.
Hotel Rangá
Official Website: https://hotelranga.is/
Indicative Price: $1,100 USD per night
The Hotel Rangá is a popular (but expensive) option that offers a rustic setting and provides visitors with a tranquil experience to view the northern lights. Its remote location reduces the amount of light pollution, which ensures a more enjoyable experience of the auroras.
Location
South Iceland (Hella), 120 km from Keflavik International Airport.
Amenities
- Outdoor Hot Tubs
- Stargazing Observatory
- Restaurant
- Spa
- Wellness Facilities
Hotel Grimsborgir
Official Website: https://www.grimsborgir.com/
Indicative Price: $950 USD per night
If you are looking for a remote location that provides one of the most comfortable northern lights hunting experiences imaginable, then look no further than the Hotel Grimsborgir. This luxurious and state-of-the-art hotel is the perfect choice for those looking for spaciousness and privacy.
Location
South Iceland (Selfoss), 100 km from Keflavik International Airport.
Amenities
- Hot Tubs
- Sauna
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Free Wi-Fi
Silica Hotel
Official Website: https://www.bluelagoon.com/accommodation/silica-hotel
Indicative Price: $750 USD per night
Situated along the edges of the famous Blue Lagoon, the Silica Hotel is one of the most unique hotels in all of Iceland. Those who choose to stay at the hotel will have private access to the geothermal spas, where you can soak in the soothing waters and stare up at the night skies waiting for the appearance of the auroras.
Location
Reykjanes Peninsula (Grindavik), 20 km from Keflavik International Airport
Amenities
- Access to Blue Lagoon Spa
- Restaurant
- In-Water Massages
- Private Lagoon Area
Apotek Hotel
Official Website: https://www.apotekhotel.is/
Indicative Price: $450 USD per night
The stylish Apotek Hotel is located in the center of Reykjavík, and offers visitors a comfortable yet luxurious base camp for those wishing to explore the capital city as well as hunt for the northern lights. You will find that this enchanting hotel is the perfect destination for a winter getaway.
Location
Reykjavik (City Center), 50 km from Keflavik International Airport.
Amenities
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Spa
- Northern Lights Wake-Up Service
BUDGET Best Northern Lights Hotels Iceland
If you’ve been looking at the premium offerings and are thinking wow that’s nice but I can’t afford that, then not to worry. Most of the so-called best northern lights hotels in Iceland are actually at a more budget-friendly price point, between USD $300-400, with some even lower. Here are the most popular budget-friendly hotels Iceland has to offer northern lights chasers throughout the country in the mid-range and low-range price points.
Best MID-RANGE Northern Lights Hotels in Iceland ($300-450)
Hotel Húsafell
Official Website: https://www.hotelhusafell.com/
Indicative Price: $375 USD per night
Nestled in the pristine Icelandic wilderness, the Hotel Húsafell brings luxury to the rustic countryside. You will find the Hotel Husafell situated deep within an oasis of geothermal activity that provides visitors with picturesque and awe-inspiring views of the Icelandic landscape and night skies. The surrounding area is covered by lava fields, hot Springs, and glaciers, which provides visitors with a secluded destination that is perfect for those looking to get away from all of the distractions of urban life.
Location
West Iceland (Húsafell), 120 km from Reykjavik.
Amenities
- Geothermal Pool
- Hot Tubs
- Sauna
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Golf Courses
Hotel Klettur
Official Website: https://www.hotelklettur.is/
Indicative Price: $350 USD per night
The Hotel Klettur is a budget-friendly choice for those wishing to experience the nightlife of Reykjavík without all of the added costs. It is conveniently located in the capital city, where you can still view the elusive lights during the peak of the solar cycle.
Location
Reykjavik (City Center), 50 km from Keflavik International Airport.
Amenities
- Bar
- Free Wi-Fi
- Northern Lights Wake-Up Service
Hotel Kria
Official Website: https://hotelkria.is/
Indicative Price: $350 USD per night
The stylish yet modern Hotel Kria can be located in the quaint little village of Vík í Mýrdal. This popular hotel is the perfect base station for those wishing to view the Icelandic coastline and the majestic northern lights.
Location
South Iceland (Vík í Mýrdal), 180 km from Reykjavik.
Amenities
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Northern Lights Wake-Up Service
Siglo Hotel
Official Website: https://www.siglohotel.is/
Indicative Price: $330 USD per night
You will find the boutique Siglo Hotel in the charming little town of Siglufjörður. Here in the northern part of Iceland, you are presented with one of the most picturesque settings for viewing the aurora borealis.
Location
North Iceland (Siglufjörður), 80 km from Akureyri.
Amenities
- Geothermal Hot Tubs
- Sauna
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Sea Views
Northern Light Inn
Official Website: https://www.nli.is/
Indicative Price: $325 USD per night
When it comes to environmentally friendly hotels, look no further than the popular Northern Light Inn. This friendly hotel is situated in the midst of a lava field close to the famous Blue Lagoon, and provides a secluded yet serene ambiance that makes the experience of viewing the northern lights even more memorable.
Location
Reykjanes Peninsula (Grindavik), 20 km from Keflavik International Airport.
Amenities
- Proximity To Blue Lagoon
- Hot Tubs
- Complimentary Airport Transfers
- Free Wi-Fi
Ion Adventure Hotel
Official Website: https://ioniceland.is/
Indicative Price: $300 USD per night
If you are looking for a more modern and stylish hotel that is affordable and offers stunning views of the surrounding Icelandic countryside, then the Ion Adventure Hotel is a perfect choice. Thanks to their panoramic windows, you will be provided with a completely unobstructed view of the surrounding vistas which makes it much easier to view the elusive lights.
Location
South Iceland (Nesjavellir), 45 km from Reykjavik.
Amenities
- Outdoor Thermal Pool
- Sauna
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Northern Lights Wake-Up Service
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
Official Website: https://www.fosshotel.is/
Indicative Price: $300 USD per night
The Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon is a popular and stylish hotel that is located very close to the Vatnajökull Glacier. During the daytime, you can head out onto the glacier with a guided tour, as you wait for the aurora borealis to dance through the night skies.
Location
Southeast Iceland (Hnappavellir), 390 km from Reykjavik.
Amenities
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Free Wi-Fi
- Modern Rooms
- Views of Vatnajökull Glacier
Best CHEAP Northern Lights Hotels in Iceland (Under $300)
Hotel Laki
Official Website: https://www.hotellaki.is/
Indicative Price: $225 USD per night
The Hotel Laki can be found close to Kirkjubæjarklaustur. This charming countryside retreat offers amazing views of the surrounding Icelandic landscapes. Its remoteness makes it the perfect destination for those who are looking to spot the elusive Northern lights.
Location
South Iceland (Kirkjubæjarklaustur), 270 km from Reykjavik.
Amenities
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Hot Tub
- Scenic Views
- Free Wi-Fi
Hotel Egilsen
Official Website: https://www.egilsen.is/
Indicative Price: $200 USD per night
You will simply fall in love with the Hotel Egilsen. This affordable and popular boutique hotel is situated in the town of Stykkishólmur and provides visitors with a cozy yet intimate experience. If you are looking to hunt for the northern lights, and want to add a bit of romance to the evening, then look no further than the Hotel Egilsen.
Location
West Iceland (Stykkishólmur), 180 km from Reykjavik.
Amenities
- Seafront Location
- Breakfast Included
- Cozy Atmosphere
Final Thoughts on the Best Northern Lights Hotels Iceland
This brings us to the end of our article on the best northern lights hotels Iceland. You should by now have a good idea of what to look for when choosing a hotel or resort to base yourself for your aurora borealis hunt.
Final Tips for Choosing the Best Northern Lights Hotels Iceland
- Travel in Winter. Choose the right time of year to travel to Iceland, to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora. You will not see them throughout the summer months.
- Pick a Remote Location. Choose an Iceland location that is far from light pollution and out of the city. Remote locations in the countryside will offer better views of the sky. For organized trip planners, make your vacation coincide with a New Moon to avoid lunar light pollution, too.
- Northern Lights Amenities. Look for hotels that offer their own northern lights facilities. This may include tours or wake-up services, which mean you can sleep and don’t need to stay up until 3am looking out for the aurora yourself. That said, you might be too excited to sleep, anyway!
- Allow Enough Time. Ideally, stay for 4-5 nights in the accommodation. Not allowing enough time was for me the biggest factor in missing the northern lights in Lapland. The aurora is not visible every night due to variances in auroral activity and poor weather such as cloud cover. Ensure you allow yourself enough budget and time to stay for several nights.
While we have shared a shortlist of the best northern lights Iceland hotels you could book, there are many other accommodation options throughout the country that are worth looking into. Just follow the tips for choosing a suitable hotel, and if you can’t find one, then be mindful that the northern lights are a huge tourism activity in Iceland. That means, even if you can’t find the perfect spot for viewing the aurora borealis right overhead, then you will most likely be able to access a range of northern lights tours from your doorstep.
Reykjavik, for instance, is not ideal for seeing the aurora borealis from due to light pollution. However, many tours depart from there, to the best Northern Lights viewing locations. For more information, check out our article on the most popular Northern Lights short tours departing from Reykjavik, Iceland.
Enjoy your adventure and happy aurora chasing!
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