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Last updated: 13 December, 2022
Expert travel writer: Oliver Berry

This hostel is located in a refurbished biscuit factory by the sea in central Reykjavik (kex is Icelandic for biscuit).

The chic vintage design moves it a cut above the classic hostel; it’s also got its own library, gym and pizza restaurant, as well as a hair salon in the basement. You can also arrange tours here and hire bikes for exploring the city.

There are four-, six-, ten- and 16-bed dorm rooms available – with shared bathrooms – plus private family rooms and even two hotel-quality, en-suite rooms.

As hostels go, it’s top quality, and great value in an otherwise expensive city.

 

Surrounding area

Kex is just off the main street, Laugavegur, in a quiet residential neighbourhood close to the Hlemmur bus station.

It’s not an aesthetically-pleasing area by any means, with dark grey concrete buildings and a slightly gritty feel about the place, but just a short walk down the road are the busy bars, bright cafés and shops of Reykjavik’s old town, as well as the sea and a shoreline path.

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Key facilities

Airport transfers: Not available
Beach: None
Creche
Fitness centre
Fitness classes
Golf course
Hot tub
Parking
: On-site *
Pool (adults only)
Pool (indoor)
Pool (outdoor)
Pool (kids)
Spa
Tennis courts
WiFi: Free
Yoga

Food & drink

All inclusive
Kids menu
Restaurant on-site
Self catering
*
Additional charge

Room types

Apartments
Bedrooms
Cabins
Suites
Tents
Villas
Yurts

Room facilities

Air conditioning
Flat screen TV
Jacuzzi (private)
Pool (private)
Tea & coffee making facilities
WiFi

Bedding options

2+ bedrooms
3+ beds
Connecting rooms
Rollaway/sofa bed

Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Perlan Museum

Reykjavik, Iceland[1.8 miles]

A high-tech museum that recreates Iceland’s geological wonders: volcanoes, ice caves, glaciers, sea cliffs and even the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights).

Best for ages: 4+ | £25 | 1 night

Whale-watching in Iceland

Iceland[3.9 miles]

Once-in-a-lifetime trips to see migrating humpback and minke whales up close, as they pass by on their annual north–south migration. Tours from Husavik, Akureyri and Reykjavik can be arranged.

Best for ages: 4+ | £70 | 3-4 hours

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Overview >

Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first

front view of the Hallgrimskirkja
Experience

Hallgrimskirkja

Reykjavik, Iceland[0.5 miles]

Iceland’s tallest church, built from 1945 to 1986, has become a symbol of Iceland’s identity and a Reykjavik landmark. It’s striking design is inspired by Iceland’s geothermal geology – it’s supposed to resemble basalt lava and trap rocks. It’s also a decent viewpoint. Take an elevator ride to the top for sweeping views over the city.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Overview >
Kjarvalsstadir art museum
Experience

Kjarvalsstadir art museum

Reykjavik, Iceland[0.9 miles]

An art museum showcasing modern paintings and sculptures by well-known Icelandic artists, notably Johannes Kjarval, housed in a striking Nordic Modernist building. One of three museums that officially make up the Reykjavik Art Museum. Open daily.

Best for ages: 13+ | £12 | 1 night

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Overview >
Exterior of the Hafnarhus art museum in Reykjavik
Experience

Hafnarhus art museum

Reykjavik, Iceland[1.1 miles]

An art museum on the Reykjavik waterfront showcases the work of pop artist Erro alongside new installations by local and international artists. One of three museums that officially make up the Reykjavik Art Museum. Open daily.

Best for ages: 13+ | £12 | 1 night

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Overview >
exterior of the National Museum of Iceland in Reykjavik
Experience

National Museum of Iceland

Reykjavik, Iceland[1.4 miles]

A dynamic National Museum focusing on the island’s turbulent and colourful past but also examining life in modern-day Iceland. There are treasures dating back to the Vikings and Saga Age, alongside modern displays on fashion and photography. Suðurgata, 101

Best for ages: 13+ | £15

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Overview >

Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay

Iceland

Iceland

From volcanoes and glaciers to black beaches, geothermal pools and the Northern Lights, Iceland is one of the world’s wildest, weirdest destinations. A paradise for adventurous travellers.

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Overview >