Best Aurora Stays in Reykjavík, Iceland
Experience the magic of the Northern Lights with our selection of aurora-friendly accommodations in Reykjavík. While the city lights can sometimes obscure the view, certain properties offer advantages for those hoping to witness this natural phenomenon. Our guide focuses on stays that provide comfort and convenience, making your aurora hunting adventure as enjoyable as possible. From well-located apartments to hotels offering easy access to darker viewing spots, find the perfect base for your Icelandic winter escape.
Reykjavík, with its vibrant cultural scene and proximity to wild nature, offers a unique backdrop for aurora hunting. The city itself is a hub of activity, but its relatively small size means that escaping the light pollution is often just a short drive away. This blend of urban amenities and natural accessibility makes Reykjavík an excellent base for those who want to combine city exploration with the pursuit of the Northern Lights, providing a dynamic and memorable travel experience.
Where to stay
Stays in Reykjavík
Choosing an aurora-focused stay in Reykjavík means prioritizing comfort and strategic location for your Northern Lights quest. While a direct view from your window is rare within the city, these accommodations offer features that enhance your experience. They provide a cozy retreat after cold nights spent stargazing and often facilitate access to organized tours or quieter, darker areas just outside the city. The convenience of returning to a warm, well-equipped space after an aurora hunt is invaluable.
The Aurora Nooks Apartments by Heimaleiga offer comfortable apartment-style accommodation, ideal for travelers seeking flexibility and space. Each apartment features a kitchenette, allowing guests to prepare their own meals, which can be a significant advantage during aurora hunting trips where schedules might be irregular. The presence of a private bathroom, free WiFi, and soundproofing ensures a relaxing and undisturbed stay, crucial for resting up before or after a night out in the cold.
These apartments are well-equipped with modern amenities designed for convenience. Guests will find a tea and coffee maker, hairdryer, coffee machine, dining table, refrigerator, dishwasher, and stovetop in each unit. Additional features like a washing machine, sofa bed, seating area, microwave, and oven provide all the comforts of home. This comprehensive setup is particularly beneficial for longer stays, offering a practical and self-sufficient environment for aurora enthusiasts.
Located 2.2 km from the city center, Aurora Nooks Apartments by Heimaleiga provides a good balance between urban access and potential for aurora viewing. While not directly in a dark sky area, its position allows for relatively easy access to the city's amenities while also being a convenient starting point for excursions to less light-polluted areas. The availability of family rooms makes it suitable for groups traveling together, ensuring everyone has a comfortable base for their Icelandic adventure.
A traveler's takeFor aurora seekers, staying in Reykjavík means balancing convenience with the need to escape light pollution. These accommodations are chosen for their comfort and their ability to serve as a practical base. You'll likely need to join a tour or drive a short distance out of the city for the best viewing opportunities. Consider the winter months (October to March) for the highest chances of seeing the Northern Lights, and always check the aurora forecast. Dress warmly, as Icelandic nights can be very cold.
Northern LightsAurora Lights Retreat
Spacious apartment with sea and mountain views, ideal for aurora watching
Why guests love itAurora Lights Retreat is a spacious one-bedroom apartment in Reykjavík with a living room, parquet floors and a balcony with sea and mountain views. It has a fully equipped kitchen, a washing machine, streaming services and free WiFi. The listing places it near the Sun Voyager sculpture and Hallgrímskirkja church. Guests rate it 9.7 across 44 reviews. Streaming services help on slow evenings.
Northern LightsAurora Nooks Apartments by Heimaleiga
Comfortable apartments with kitchenettes, ideal for families and aurora hunters
Why guests love itAurora Nooks offers apartment-style rooms in Reykjavík with a kitchenette, private bathroom, washing machine and soundproofing, so a family can cook, do laundry and sleep undisturbed. There is a lift, free WiFi and private check-in and check-out, which suits late arrivals. Services are practical rather than hotel-like. I would choose it for self-catering stays where space and flexibility matter more than a lobby.
Local tips
- 1Always check the aurora forecast and weather conditions before heading out; clear skies are essential.
- 2Consider booking an organized aurora tour; guides know the best spots and conditions.
- 3Dress in layers, including thermal underwear, a warm coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots.
- 4Find a spot away from city lights, such as Grótta lighthouse or areas just outside Reykjavík.
- 5Bring a camera with manual settings and a tripod to capture the Northern Lights effectively.