Grettir Guesthouse

For the generous price, this was about what I expected. The owner was very friendly and would get in touch if needed, and there was a nice gift waiting in my room. The place is cozy but a bit small, so I’d only recommend it if you’re mainly planning to sleep there. It’s tucked between buildings, though they send clear directions by email before check-in.

The owner seemed to be making money without putting anything back into guests' comfort. This old, unkempt house sits in a back alley up steep steps, smells like sewage, has no TV or amenities, and the kitchen only has a toaster and water heater, no stove or microwave. I don't understand the positive reviews. In my two nights there, workers and other people suddenly opened the door four times. The owner couldn't be bothered to warn me in advance. I was so relieved to move to the hotel next door. It was a real hotel with a reception, good restaurant, secure door locks, tour booking services, and clean white sheets, and it cost less. It's just steps away on the best street in Reykjavík.

This quiet little guesthouse is right in the middle of the tourist promenade, and it’s easy to keep to yourself around the other guests. The shower has great pressure. Bring your own pillows, though, since they only provide one very thin one and there’s no desk to ask for another. A microwave in the kitchenette would also be useful for heating leftovers.

I would definitely stay somewhere else. The entire flat is below street level, and our room had only a small window at ground level, right beside rubbish containers, so you can imagine the smell. Noise from nearby construction came straight into the room as well. The bathroom hadn't been cleaned after the previous guests, and the flat hadn't been aired out. Towels were supposed to be included, but we didn't get any. There was no cooking area either. A very bad place to stay.