Hip hostel in a converted biscuit factory combining dorms and private rooms with vintage decor and vibrant social atmosphere. Features an excellent bar and restaurant, live music events, and friendly international crowd. One of Iceland's coolest budget accommodations.
Kex Hostel occupies a converted biscuit factory — kex translates as biscuit in Icelandic — at Skúlagata 28 in the 101 Reykjavík district, close to the Old Harbour and approximately 15 minutes' walk from the main Laugavegur shopping street. The original early twentieth-century factory building has been preserved and reimagined with an eclectic mix of vintage furniture, salvaged wood panelling, barber-shop fittings, and mismatched Scandinavian-industrial decor, creating one of Reykjavík's most characterful budget accommodation options. The conversion retains the industrial scale of the original structure while layering in warmth through exposed brick, pendant lighting, and curated second-hand objects.
The hostel offers both mixed and female-only dormitory beds alongside private rooms, ranging from compact doubles to rooms suited to small groups. Each dorm bed includes an individual reading light and power socket. Shared bathrooms are well-maintained and positioned throughout the building for convenient access.
The ground-floor bar and restaurant is the social engine of Kex, drawing both hostel guests and Reykjavík locals who come for the kitchen's simple, good-value Icelandic and international dishes — soups, open sandwiches, and house burgers — alongside Icelandic craft beers and a concise spirits selection. Live music events, film screenings, and occasional DJ nights are hosted in the common areas, giving the hostel a genuinely cultural character. An independent barber's shop also operates on the premises.
A shared kitchen allows guests to self-cater, a practical economy in one of Europe's more expensive cities. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout. The Old Harbour-adjacent location puts Kex within walking distance of whale-watching departures, the FlyOver Iceland attraction, and the Reykjavík Maritime Museum. The city centre and Tjörnin lake are approximately 20 minutes on foot. Kex operates close to full capacity during the June to August peak season; advance booking is strongly advised, especially for smaller dorms and private rooms.
Amenities
- restaurant
- bar
- live music
- shared kitchen
- vintage decor
- social atmosphere
Location
Skúlagata 28, 101 Reykjavík
64.1510, -21.9475 View on map
Highlights
- Converted 1920s biscuit factory with preserved industrial architecture and eclectic vintage-Nordic interior design throughout
- Lively bar and restaurant open to the public — hosts live music, film screenings, and DJ nights alongside hostel guests
- Old Harbour location, within easy walking distance of whale-watching departures and Reykjavík Maritime Museum
- Both mixed and female-only dorms plus private rooms, with a self-catering kitchen for cost-efficient stays
- One of Reykjavík's most socially vibrant hostels — a genuine neighbourhood venue, not just a place to sleep
Tips for visiting
- Book well in advance for June to August; Kex sells out quickly during Iceland's summer midnight-sun season
- The bar is open to the public and a reliable spot to meet locals — arrive early on weekends as seating fills fast
- Self-catering using the shared kitchen cuts daily food costs significantly; the nearby Bónus supermarket is among Reykjavík's most affordable
- Lockers are provided in dormitory rooms — bring a padlock or purchase one at reception
- A bus stop outside the hostel runs services toward the city centre and BSÍ bus terminal for Golden Circle and South Shore day trips
Accessibility
Kex Hostel is housed in a historic multi-storey converted factory building with limited accessibility infrastructure. Wheelchair access to upper floors is restricted by the building's original staircase layout. Guests with mobility requirements are advised to contact the hostel directly before booking to discuss ground-floor room availability.
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Frequently asked questions
What types of accommodation does Kex Hostel offer?
Kex offers mixed dormitory rooms, female-only dormitory rooms, and private rooms. Dorm beds include individual power sockets and reading lights. Private rooms are simply furnished; most share bathroom facilities with other guests unless otherwise stated at booking.
Is there a curfew at Kex Hostel?
The hostel operates 24-hour reception with no curfew. The bar stays open late, meaning common areas can be lively in the evenings — guests who prefer an early night may want to bring earplugs, particularly on weekends.
Can non-guests use the bar and restaurant at Kex?
Yes. The bar and restaurant are open to the general public and are popular with Reykjavík locals. This creates a genuinely social atmosphere, though it also means the ground floor can be busy on weekend evenings with live music events.
Is Kex Hostel suitable for families?
The hostel's lively bar culture and shared facilities make it better suited to solo travellers, couples, and small groups of adults. Families with young children may find the evening atmosphere, particularly during live music events, less well suited to their needs.