Modern budget accommodation adjacent to the lively Hlemmur food hall and the main city bus hub. Clean dorms and private rooms with Scandinavian minimalist design. The unbeatable central location makes this ideal for day-trippers using public transport.
Hlemmur Square Hostel occupies premises at Laugavegur 105, at the Hlemmur end of Reykjavik's main commercial boulevard, in the 105 postal district. The location directly adjoins Hlemmur, which functions simultaneously as the city's main bus interchange — the hub for routes serving all districts, airport Flybus connection points, and day-tour pick-up stops — and as Hlemmur Mathöll, a well-regarded artisan food hall with vendors selling Icelandic street food, bakery products, craft beer, and artisan coffee. The combination of transport connectivity and food options at the doorstep makes this one of the most practically situated hostels in Reykjavik.
Rooms follow a clean Scandinavian minimalist aesthetic, avoiding the institutional look of older-generation hostels in favour of light tones, considered furnishings, and functional modern fixtures. Dormitory beds are organised in standard bunk configurations, and private rooms are also available for guests requiring more space and privacy. The shared bathrooms are maintained to a consistent standard.
Common facilities include a shared kitchen, a communal lounge area well-suited to meeting other travellers, and luggage storage for flexible check-in and check-out logistics. Bike rental is offered through the hostel — practical for Reykjavik's flat, compact layout, which makes cycling an efficient way to cover the main attractions without relying on buses.
The Hlemmur bus hub location is particularly advantageous for travellers planning independent day trips by bus to Þingvellir, Geysir, or the South Coast, as many Reykjavik Excursions and Strætó services depart from this hub. The hostel is approximately 1.5 km from the old town and Harpa Concert Hall, walkable in under twenty minutes or easily reached by bus.
Nightly rates for dormitory beds typically range from ISK 4,500–8,000, with private room rates varying by season — placing Hlemmur Square among Reykjavik's more affordable central options for independent travellers.
Amenities
- shared kitchen
- common room
- free Wi-Fi
- luggage storage
- bike rental
- bus hub nearby
Location
Laugavegur 105, 105 Reykjavík
64.1429, -21.9195 View on map
Highlights
- Adjacent to Hlemmur bus hub — Iceland's main city transit interchange and day-tour departure point
- Hlemmur Mathöll artisan food hall immediately next door, with street food and craft beer
- Scandinavian minimalist design with clean, well-maintained dorms and private rooms
- Bike rental available on-site — ideal for exploring Reykjavik's flat, compact city centre
Tips for visiting
- Hlemmur Mathöll closes around 21:00–22:00; time evening meals accordingly to avoid finding vendors closed.
- The bus hub area can be noisy during peak morning hours (7:00–9:00) — request a room facing away from the terminal for a quieter night.
- Many Golden Circle and South Coast day tours have a pick-up stop at or near Hlemmur — confirm the stop location with the operator when booking.
- Lock bikes securely when exploring — Reykjavik has occasional petty theft of unattended cycles near the Hlemmur area.
- The 24-hour Kringlan shopping centre is a short bus ride east if looking for affordable food and services outside hostel kitchen hours.
Accessibility
Hlemmur Square Hostel's multi-floor layout includes stairs within the building. Guests with mobility requirements should contact the hostel prior to booking to confirm whether step-free room options are available on ground level.
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Frequently asked questions
How close is Hlemmur Square Hostel to the main Reykjavik bus hub?
The Hlemmur bus terminal is immediately adjacent to the hostel. Almost all city bus routes, day-tour coaches, and airport Flybus connections pass through Hlemmur.
Is food available on-site?
The hostel has a shared kitchen for self-catering. The Hlemmur Mathöll food hall immediately next door provides an excellent selection of Icelandic street food and artisan products.
Are private rooms available at Hlemmur Square?
Yes, in addition to dormitory beds, the hostel offers private rooms for travellers who prefer more privacy without paying hotel prices.
Is bike rental available?
Bike rental is offered through the hostel. Reykjavik's flat terrain makes cycling a practical option for fit travellers covering the city's main sights.