Unique concept hostel featuring modern sleeping pods for privacy and comfort at budget prices. Clean, futuristic design with shared facilities. Convenient location near bus terminal. Perfect for solo travelers seeking affordable yet comfortable accommodation.
Galaxy Pod Hostel sits on Laugavegur 172, near the eastern end of Reykjavik's main commercial artery, with the Hlemmur bus hub — the city's central interchange for routes to the airport and all major day-trip destinations — immediately adjacent. The Hlemmur Mathöll artisan food hall is next door, and the Laugardalur park complex with its geothermal swimming pool is a short walk further east. The historic old town and Hallgrímskirkja are approximately 2.5 km west, manageable on foot or via frequent city buses.
Galaxy Pod Hostel introduces the sleeping-pod concept to Reykjavik's budget accommodation market, offering individual enclosed pods within shared dormitory rooms rather than standard open bunk beds. Each pod provides a degree of privacy — a curtain, personal reading light, USB charging port, and a lockable storage cubby — within a dormitory setting priced for budget-conscious travellers. The design is functional and modern, with clean Scandinavian lines that avoid the cluttered feel of older-style hostels in the city.
Shared bathroom facilities are maintained to a high cleanliness standard, and a common area serves as the social hub where guests exchange tips on Northern Lights viewing spots, cheap eats, and weekend nightlife. A 24-hour reception desk ensures late check-ins are handled smoothly — important for travellers arriving on international flights from Europe or North America. Luggage storage before and after the standard check-in window makes the property convenient for those with early flights or late departures.
The hostel attracts predominantly solo travellers and pairs from across Europe, with a noticeable community of budget travellers using Iceland as a stopover between continents. The pod system suits travellers who value personal space over the full social openness of traditional open-dormitory hostels.
Nightly rates typically fall between ISK 6,000–12,000 depending on season and pod type, placing Galaxy Pod among Reykjavik's more affordable central options for independent travellers.
Amenities
- sleeping pods
- shared bathrooms
- free Wi-Fi
- luggage storage
- 24-hour reception
- modern design
Location
Laugavegur 172, 105 Reykjavík
64.1391, -21.9076 View on map
Highlights
- Individual sleeping pods with privacy curtains, personal lighting, and USB charging
- Immediately adjacent to Hlemmur bus hub for city routes, airport coaches, and day tours
- 24-hour reception desk accommodating late-night and early-morning arrivals
- Hlemmur Mathöll artisan food hall next door for easy and affordable dining
Tips for visiting
- Book pod beds at least two to three weeks in advance for summer — the hostel is popular and fills fast.
- The Hlemmur food market next door is ideal for a cheap, high-quality dinner; it closes around 21:00 on most nights.
- City bus route 1 stops directly outside on Laugavegur and runs frequently toward the old town and Hallgrímskirkja.
- Bring earplugs; shared pod rooms still carry ambient sound even with individual privacy curtains.
- The hostel's position at Hlemmur is excellent for early-morning departure coaches to Keflavik Airport.
Accessibility
The hostel's pod dormitory format involves bunk-style access to upper pods, which are not accessible to guests with mobility limitations. Lower pods may be available; guests with specific accessibility requirements should contact the hostel directly before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
Do the sleeping pods have individual locks?
Each pod has a personal storage cubby with a lock; the pods themselves use curtains rather than locking doors. Valuable items should be stored in the lockers provided.
Is there a kitchen for guests to use?
The hostel typically provides a communal kitchen area with basic cooking facilities; confirm current availability with reception at check-in.
How far is Galaxy Pod Hostel from Keflavik Airport?
The airport is roughly 50 km away. Flybus airport coaches operate from Hlemmur bus hub immediately adjacent to the hostel, with a journey time of around 45–50 minutes.
Is the hostel suitable for families?
The pod dormitory format is designed for solo travellers and small groups. Families with children should consider private-room accommodation elsewhere in Reykjavik.