Stays in Stykkishólmur
Stykkishólmur is the harbour town on the north coast of Snæfellsnes, and the best place to sleep if you are taking the Baldur ferry across Breiðafjörður to the Westfjords the next morning: the crossing takes about 1.5 hours to Flatey island and 2.5 to 3 hours to Brjánslækur, runs all year with more departures in summer, and cars must be booked ahead. We list 22 stays here, averaging 9.2 out of 10 over 8,560 guest reviews. For character I would choose Hótel Egilsen (9.2, 656 reviews), in a building from the 1860s with sea views and a small library. Hótel Fransiskus (8.7) is the most reviewed, with 1,501, Fosshotel Stykkishólmur (8.4) has sea-view rooms and a restaurant, and Akkeri Guesthouse and Hótel Karólína both score above 9. Sjávarborg (8.5) has a café but shared bathrooms. The old town is compact: the Norwegian House, the Library of Water, where Roni Horn's permanent installation fills the former town library at Bókhlöðustígur 17, and the basalt island of Súgandisey, joined to the harbour by a causeway, are all within a short walk. Stykkishólmur also works as a base for the north side of the peninsula, but the Snæfellsjökull end lies across the mountains, so for the national park and Arnarstapi I would sleep on the south or west coast instead.
Stykkishólmur, often called the 'town of a thousand islands,' is a captivating destination on Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This vibrant fishing village is celebrated for its distinctive old town, where colorful houses line the streets, and its bustling harbor, a hub for ferries to the Westfjords and the serene Flatey Island. Visitors are drawn to its unique blend of cultural heritage and dramatic coastal landscapes, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural wonders, from volcanic craters to basalt columns. Whether seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled journey, Stykkishólmur provides a memorable Icelandic experience.
Stykkishólmur in numbers
FamilyHrossholt
Spacious renovated villa with a hot tub and outdoor play area
Why guests love itHrossholt in Stykkishólmur is a recently renovated villa with five bedrooms and two bathrooms, a living room, family rooms and a private entrance. Outside there is a sun terrace, a garden with seating, a hot tub and an outdoor play area. Free WiFi covers the house. Guests rate it a perfect 10 across 35 reviews, a rare score that suits a family or a group.
FamilyBygghamar
Adults-only lodge with lake and mountain views, ideal for couples
Why guests love itBygghamar is an adults-only lodge in Stykkishólmur with self-catering units, each with a kitchen, a dining area and a bathroom. Guests get a garden, a terrace, free WiFi, free private parking and an electric vehicle charging station, with views over the lake, the garden and the mountains. Hiking is possible nearby. Children are not accepted, so families should look elsewhere. Guests rate it 9.9 across 171 reviews.
CoastalVilla Stykkisholmur
Spacious villa with sea views, pet-friendly, and family amenities
Why guests love itFour bedrooms and two bathrooms make Villa Stykkisholmur a rare fit for a large family, or two families travelling together, on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The indoor play area is what tips it for me: on a wet afternoon, younger children have somewhere to burn energy while adults cook in the full kitchen. The terrace looks out to sea and has a barbecue, pets are accepted, and guests score it 9.8 from 21 reviews.
CoastalTanginn
Spacious coastal holiday home with sea views and a garden
Why guests love itTanginn is a spacious holiday home in Stykkishólmur with three bedrooms, a living room and a fully equipped kitchen. Guests have sea views, a sun terrace and a garden, plus free WiFi and private parking. The listing describes it as perfect for families. Guests rate it 9.7 across 40 reviews, a strong score for a house of this size. The house suits a family well.
CoastalKlöpp Lodge - Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Spacious family lodge with sea and mountain views on Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Why guests love itKlöpp Lodge is a house I would suggest to larger families on Snæfellsnes: four bedrooms and two bathrooms, so mornings stay calm even with several children. The fully equipped kitchen covers every meal, and sea and mountain views make evenings indoors pleasant. Free private parking sits on site for day trips around the peninsula. Stykkishólmur is a harbour town with boat trips on Breiðafjörður, a good outing with older children. A 9.6 from 40 guests is reassuring.
FamilyHelgafell Guesthouse
Spacious guesthouse with lake and mountain views, ideal for families
Why guests love itI would choose Helgafell Guesthouse for a family or two couples who want space in Stykkishólmur. The recently renovated house has three bedrooms and a living room, a fully equipped kitchen, soundproofing and parquet floors, and family rooms are available. The garden and terrace look to the lake and mountains, and free Wi-Fi and private parking are included. Guests rate it 9.4 across 90 reviews. Without a restaurant on site, I would plan to cook here.
FamilyMainStreet20
Comfortable apartment with mountain views and a fully equipped kitchen
Why guests love itI would choose MainStreet20 for a self-catering stay in Stykkishólmur with a proper kitchen. The one-bedroom apartment has a living room with mountain and city views, a dining area and a sofa bed. It comes with a fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi and on-site private parking. Guests rate it 9.4 across 62 reviews. With one bedroom and a sofa bed, I would pick it for a couple, or a small family that is comfortable sharing the living room.
FamilyHelgafell
Mountain and lake views with a garden retreat near Stykkishólmur
Why guests love itHelgafell is a countryside stay 6 km from Stykkishólmur, with a garden and free Wi-Fi. Each room has a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom, and balconies look out to the mountains, with lake views from some accommodations. Guests rate it 9.4 across 497 reviews, and I would pick it for couples and families who want a quiet base for exploring the surroundings by car.
CouplesAkkeri Guesthouse
Comfortable guesthouse with sea or garden views and a welcoming garden
Why guests love itAkkeri Guesthouse is a calm, well-rated choice in Stykkishólmur, best for families with children who sleep better in quiet rooms. The rooms are soundproofed, with private bathrooms, TVs and work desks, and each has a sea or garden view. A garden, terrace and outdoor seating give space to relax, and the daily buffet breakfast is child-friendly. Free Wi-Fi covers the property, and a 9.2 rating from 551 reviews is excellent.
Glacier viewHótel Egilsen
Luxury and charm in an 1860s building with ocean views
Why guests love itStykkishólmur is the harbour town on the north side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where the Baldur ferry leaves across Breiðafjörður, and Hótel Egilsen occupies a house built in the 1860s. Rooms are small but have luxury beds, power showers and views over the Atlantic. Our editorial take for couples: read in the lounge library, eat the organic eggs at breakfast, and walk up Súgandisey island lighthouse before the morning ferry.
Pet-friendlySmiðjan - main road Stykkishólmi
Spacious, pet-friendly apartment with a terrace in Stykkishólmur
Why guests love itI would choose Smiðjan for a family or group with a pet in Stykkishólmur. The apartment has three bedrooms, a comfortable living area, a fully equipped kitchen and a private terrace, plus free Wi-Fi. It is a convenient starting point for exploring the area and its scenic views. Guests rate it 9.2 across 66 reviews. Because the name points to the main road, I would check the room position if quiet nights matter, and I would pick it mainly for space.
FamilyHoliday Guesthouse
Comfortable guesthouse with family rooms and outdoor spaces in Stykkishólmur
Why guests love itHoliday Guesthouse in Stykkishólmur has family rooms with parquet floors and shared bathrooms. Each room comes with free toiletries, a hairdryer and free WiFi. A garden, a terrace and an outdoor seating area are on site, along with free private parking. With a 9.1 score from 342 reviews, I recommend it to families and couples on a budget who are happy to share a bathroom.
FamilyHótel Karólína
Renovated guest house rooms with private bathrooms and a sun terrace
Why guests love itHótel Karólína in Stykkishólmur has recently renovated guest house rooms with private bathrooms, parquet floors and views of the garden or the city. Wi-Fi and on-site private parking are free, and there is a sun terrace and an outdoor seating area. The breakfast is highly rated, and the property is pet-friendly. Guests rate it 9.1 across 565 reviews, and I would pick it for couples and families, including those with a pet.
FamilyBirkilundur 10 Stykkishólmur
Holiday home with lake and mountain views, garden, and barbecue
Why guests love itI would choose Birkilundur 10 for a quiet, pet-friendly stay in Stykkishólmur. The holiday home has one bedroom and a bathroom, a private entrance, a garden and a terrace with views of the lake, mountains and garden. It has free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and a fully equipped kitchenette. Guests rate it 9.0 across 64 reviews. With one bedroom, I would pick it for a couple or a small family, and for anyone travelling with a pet.
FamilyVatnsás 10
A comfortable holiday home with mountain views and a sun terrace
Why guests love itVatnsás 10 is a holiday home in Stykkishólmur with a sun terrace, a garden and an outdoor seating area, and mountain views from the property. Family rooms, a kitchenette and a private bathroom with a walk-in shower make it practical for couples and families. WiFi is free. It is a quiet, self-contained stay rather than a hotel, and guests rate it very well.
FamilyBudanes family home
Spacious family apartment with mountain views and a private garden
Why guests love itThe Budanes family home is a four-bedroom apartment in Stykkishólmur with a private entrance and views of an inner courtyard. The kitchen is fully equipped, WiFi is free, and streaming services are included. A garden, mountain views and free private parking come with it. Guests rate it 9 from a single review. Our editorial verdict: a large, private base for a family or two couples, with the caveat that the rating is still thin.
FamilyHotel Stundarfridur
Countryside retreat with a restaurant and pet-friendly rooms near Stykkishólmur
Why guests love itHotel Stundarfridur is a countryside hotel 12 km from Stykkishólmur, which gives it a quiet, spread-out feel. Rooms have private bathrooms, a flat-screen TV and free WiFi, and there is a restaurant, a shared lounge and a terrace. Families, couples and pet owners are all catered for. With the town 12 km away, the on-site restaurant matters, so I would plan to eat here.
FamilyHótel Fransiskus Stykkishólmi
Comfortable family rooms, a sun terrace, and a delicious breakfast in Stykkishólmur
Why guests love itStykkishólmur is the harbour town on the north coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Hótel Fransiskus gives families comfortable rooms with hypoallergenic bedding, a sun terrace, a bar and a lounge. The breakfast buffet features local specialities. Our editorial advice: use the tour desk to book a Breiðafjörður island cruise, charge the electric car overnight, and walk up to the Súgandisey lighthouse before dinner.
Glacier viewSjávarborg
Fjord-view guesthouse with shared kitchen and a welcoming café
Why guests love itSjávarborg is a guesthouse in Stykkishólmur with rooms looking out to the sea or the mountains. Bathrooms are shared, there is a communal kitchen and a café on site, and parking and Wi-Fi are free. It works as a base for Breiðafjörður and Snæfellsjökull National Park. Guests rate it 8.5 across 702 reviews. I would pick it for budget-minded travellers happy to share a bathroom.
FamilyThe Stykkishólmur Inn by Ourhotels
Comfortable family rooms with outdoor spaces and convenient facilities
Why guests love itThe Stykkishólmur Inn by Ourhotels has family rooms with private bathrooms, work desks and soundproofing. Wi-Fi is free, and there is a sun terrace and a garden with outdoor seating. Free private parking, private check-in and check-out and a buffet breakfast are included. Guests rate it 8.5 across 854 reviews. I would pick it for families and couples who want a quiet base in town and can eat dinner elsewhere.
CoastalFosshotel Stykkisholmur
Coastal hotel with ocean views, local seafood, and pet-friendly rooms
Why guests love itStykkishólmur is the fishing town on the north coast of Snæfellsnes, and Fosshotel sits by the sea, 700 metres from the harbour where fjord sightseeing boats leave and 100 metres from the golf club. Many rooms face the ocean. Our editorial advice for families: take a morning boat trip among the islands of Breiðafjörður, eat local seafood at the in-house restaurant, and enjoy the Scandinavian breakfast buffet before driving on.
FamilyStundarfriður cottages
Comfortable cottages with a sun terrace, garden, and family-friendly dining
Why guests love itStundarfriður cottages in Stykkishólmur are holiday homes with a sun terrace, a garden, a restaurant and a bar. Free WiFi, private parking and an electric vehicle charging station are included, and pets are welcome. Outdoor seating and picnic areas suit families and couples who want a slower stay. Guests rate it 8.2 across 148 reviews, a good score for a quiet base.
What to expect
- Explore the charming old town with its well-preserved wooden houses.
- Visit the Stykkishólmur Church, a modern architectural marvel.
- Take a ferry to Flatey Island for birdwatching and tranquility.
- Discover the local maritime history at the Norwegian House museum.
- Enjoy fresh seafood at the harbor-side restaurants.
Local tips
- Consider renting a car to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula at your own pace.
- Book ferry tickets to Flatey Island or the Westfjords in advance, especially during peak season.
- Pack layers of clothing, as Icelandic weather can change rapidly.
- Visit the local swimming pool, Sundlaug Stykkishólms, for a relaxing dip.
- Don't miss the chance to try local delicacies, particularly fresh fish.
Where to stay
Frequently asked questions
What are the main attractions in Stykkishólmur?
Stykkishólmur offers a range of attractions including its scenic harbor, the unique Stykkishólmur Church, the Norwegian House museum, and the opportunity to take a ferry to Flatey Island or the Westfjords. The town's old quarter with its historic buildings is also a highlight.
What types of accommodation are available in Stykkishólmur?
In Stykkishólmur, you can find a variety of accommodations, from cozy guesthouses and charming bed and breakfasts to hotels that offer modern amenities. Many options provide views of the harbor or the surrounding natural landscapes.
When is the best time to visit Stykkishólmur?
The summer months (June to August) are popular for visiting Stykkishólmur due to milder weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring. The shoulder seasons (May and September) offer fewer crowds and beautiful scenery, while winter provides chances to see the Northern Lights.
How do I get around Stykkishólmur and the surrounding area?
Stykkishólmur itself is a walkable town. For exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, renting a car is highly recommended. Public transport options are limited, but local tours are available for specific attractions or regions.