Galtafell Guesthouse * 1916 Historic near Hallgrímskirkja

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Guesthouse Galtafell Reykjavik Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

Laufasvegur 46, Reykjavik, 101

Close to Hallgrimskirkja

Great

8.7

9.4

/10

4.2

4.5

Loved by Guesthouse Galtafell guests

Convenient location

Comfortable beds

Quiet area

Easy check in

Well-equipped room

"Bathroom had a heated cloth hanging system. Very usefull on rainy days."

Torino from United States

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"We stayed in the studio apartment that has a private bathroom, small kitchen and living room."

Ivorykay from United States

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"The little kitchen was perfect for making a quick meal, which is nice as dining out is pricey in Reykjavík."

Abigail

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Charming Guesthouse in the Heart of Reykjavik

Rooms

Guesthouse Galtafell offers individually decorated rooms with private bathrooms, including Double and Twin Rooms. The Studio Apartment features a kitchenette, while the One-Bedroom Apartment accommodates up to four guests with a separate bedroom and sitting area. All room types are equipped with flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, and essential kitchen amenities.

Location

Located in Reykjavik, Guesthouse Galtafell is 1.14 km from Reykjavíkurflugvöllur airport and only 0.40 km from the main transit station, Umferðarmiðstöðin (BSÍ). Guests can explore nearby attractions such as Hallgrímstorg and the Einar Jónsson Museum, both within walking distance. The hotel also offers easy access to popular dining options, with numerous restaurants within a 1 km radius.

Dining

While Guesthouse Galtafell does not have an on-site restaurant, numerous dining options are conveniently nearby. Guests can enjoy Icelandic cuisine at Snaps Bistro, just 0.33 km away, or savor seafood specialties at Icelandic Fish and Chips, located 1 km from the hotel. A variety of cafes and eateries, including Café Paris and Grillmarkaðurinn, can be reached within a short stroll.

Transportation

The hotel's strategic location provides easy access to Reykjavik's public transport system, making it convenient for guests to navigate the city. The nearby Umferðarmiðstöðin (BSÍ) transit station offers bus services to various attractions and destinations. Additionally, Reykjavíkurflugvöllur airport is only 1.14 km away, facilitating straightforward arrivals and departures.

Amenities

Guesthouse Galtafell provides essential amenities, such as a safety deposit box and free WiFi throughout the property. Guests can utilize well-equipped kitchenettes in specific room types, allowing for self-catering options during their stay. Laundry services are also available, catering to longer stays and family travelers.

Highlights

Location: 1.14 km from Reykjavíkurflugvöllur

Rooms: One-Bedroom Apartment accommodates 4 guests

Dining: Nearby restaurants like Snaps Bistro

Transportation: 0.40 km from main transit station

Must-do experiences

Catch a show at Harpa Concert Hall for stunning architecture and music.
Savor the traditional Icelandic lamb soup at Café Loki nearby.
Visit the quirky Víkingaheimar Viking Museum for a step back in time.
Explore the local food scene at the Kolaportid Flea Market on weekends.
Take a stroll in the peaceful Hljomskalagardur Park by the lake.

Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.

Double or Twin Room Private Bathroom
2 persons
16 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Studio
2 persons
35 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Apartment Ground Floor
2 persons
45 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details

Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

August 2026 - August 2027

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Check-in/ Check-out

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay

Facilities: Great

8.6/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Allergy-free rooms
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Housekeeping

Children

Cots

Spa & Leisure

Garden area

Room features

Heating
Sitting area
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Parquet floor

Guesthouse Galtafell Location

Laufasvegur 46, Reykjavik, 101

Explore Reykjavik

Hallgrimskirkja

7 minutes' walk

Iconic church known for its striking architecture and panoramic views from the tower.

National Museum of Iceland

9 minutes' walk

Comprehensive exhibitions on Iceland's history and culture, ideal for history buffs.

The Settlement Exhibition

11 minutes' walk

Interactive displays focused on Iceland's Viking history, featuring archaeological finds.

Lake Tjornin

7 minutes' walk

Serene lake surrounded by walking paths, perfect for birdwatching and relaxation.

Whale Watching Tours

11 minutes' walk

Thrilling boat tours departing from the Old Harbour to see whales and marine life.

Yoga Classes

8 minutes' walk

Relaxing classes available at local studios, focusing on wellness and mindfulness.

Cafe Loki

6 minutes' walk

Casual eatery offering traditional Icelandic dishes like lamb soup and rye bread ice cream.

Snaps Bistro Bar

6 minutes' walk

Charming bistro with a vibrant atmosphere, specializing in French-inspired cuisine.

Harpa Concert Hall

15 minutes' walk

Stunning architectural venue hosting concerts, festivals, and cultural events year-round.

Kolaportith Flea Market

13 minutes' walk

Vibrant market open on weekends, offering local crafts, food, and unique finds.

Getting around

City Centre
Reykjavik 10 min · 2700 ft
Airports
Reykjavik (RKV) 22 min · 1.1 mi
Reykjavik Keflavik (KEF) 76 min · 31.2 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible at a location nearby for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 2.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

English, Dutch, Danish, Icelandic

Number of rooms:

Former name

galtafell guesthouse

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Guesthouse Galtafell is frequently praised for its convenient location, a short walk from downtown Reykjavik and close to the BSI bus terminal, making it easy to get around, especially if you don't want to organize a bus stop or taxi. Many guests find the rooms comfortable and spacious, some even featuring a bathtub and a half bath, plus a kitchenette to save money by not eating out. The free parking nearby is generally appreciated, though some have found it limited at times, especially later in the evening.

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Review score

Based on 641 verified reviews

8.5 /10

Great

89 %

Recommend

Location

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.6/10

Free WiFi

8.3/10

Pros

Comfortable bed

Clean room

Free parking

Cons

Soft mattresses

theodore from canada

studio

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 12, 2026

9.0/10

practical lodging with handy amenities

convenient location cooking utensils coffee facilities smooth communication

the location allowed easy walking to the city center. the provided cooking utensils and dining ware allowed simple meal preparation. i found tea and coffee facilities readily available. i appreciated the smooth and prompt communication regarding check-in. free public street parking was beneficial.

Rooms

9/10

My studio came equipped with a well-equipped kitchenette. the lounge area and dining table were useful. The beds were quite comfortable. the bathroom was also quite nice, functional experience.

Service

9/10

I received excellent instructions for arrival. the customer service was also very helpful and quick to respond. when i asked a question, i received answers almost immediately. It was a basic space, just what i needed.

Location

9/10

the location offered easy access to the city center and the bus station. a supermarket was close. restaurants and bus stops for tours were within walking distance. the area still maintained a quiet atmosphere.

0 Helpful

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Brigitte from Germany

Family with children

Studio

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 02, 2026

8.8/10

clean and well-equipped

central location useful appliances

i appreciated the central location it was quiet at night. i found a good hairdryer plus useful kitchen appliances. the location worked well both for the city centre and the bus station. i would stay here again.

Rooms

9/10

the studio had essential amenities like a hairdryer and kitchen supplies. the room provided adequate space for a comfortable stay. the bed was comfortable and clean after a long day of exploring.

Dining

8/10

while the hotel does not have a restaurant, the kitchen included useful appliances. this enabled me to prepare my own meals easily. several grocery stores are within walking distance.

Location

10/10

the location is very central and conveniently quiet. it is close to the city centre and the bus station. downtown is about a 10-minute walk from the accommodation.

Service

9/10

communication before arrival was clear and friendly. the staff helped with luggage pre check-in. i found this service very helpful for managing my travel.

Facilities

8/10

the accommodation has a functional kitchen with necessary appliances. i always appreciate a good hairdryer being available.

0 Helpful

Rowan from United Kingdom

Single

Studio

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 30, 2025

9/10

convenient stay near everything

comfortable beds smooth check

location was great near the domestic airport and bus terminal. beds were very comfortable and the room was neat. Check in was smooth.

none

0 Helpful

Riley from Australia

Couple

Double or Twin Room Private Bathroom

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 30, 2025

8.7/10

good location, basic but clean

friendly landlady quiet location home environment easy walk

the landlady lives upstairs. she is quite friendly and helpful. i arrived really late at night, and my room was ready. it was a home like environment. the location is on a quiet residential street, but it is an easy walk to the city center.

the tv didn't function well. the room was not too cozy for the price.

Dining

8/10

i saw sufficient coffee and soap products provided. it included fridge to store some beverages and snacks. several restaurants are nearby to the location, which makes it easy to get food.

Location

9/10

the location is good. the city center is within walking distance. it is just 7-8 mins from bsi bus terminal. location is convenient to downtown and the harbor for tours and some great views.

Rooms

9/10

rooms were kept well and cleaned daily. it was a pretty basic space, just what i needed. beds were comfortable so i could get a good nights sleep. room was nice and warm, it has a hot shower and bath.

0 Helpful

Jade from United Kingdom

Single

Studio

2 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: October 24, 2025

9.0/10

Convenient Stay Near Downtown

great location prompt communication basic utensils free parking

The location was close to Hallgrímskirkja church and the Rainbow Road, about a 10-20-minute walk. I found free public street parking easily. Communication was prompt, even about check-in. The basic cooking and dining utensils allowed for preparing simple meals, which i appreciated.

The room was a little small, but it suited my needs for a short stay.

Rooms

9/10

The room included tea and coffee facilities, offering added convenience. I had access to two toilets, a shower, a living area with a sofa bed, and a dining table. The bed was comfortable and the heating worked well.

Location

9/10

This guesthouse is near many restaurants and stores. It's conveniently located within walking distance of the main downtown area (i walked everywhere!). The neighborhood felt quiet and safe.

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About Guesthouse Galtafell

Is parking available nearby, and is it free of charge?

12 November 2024

Yes, free public parking is available on the street surrounding the guesthouse.

Can luggage be stored for a few days while on a hiking trip?

15 December 2024

Absolutely! Luggage storage is available for guests between stays.

Are hair dryers provided in the accommodations, and is there a shuttle service to the airport?

22 January 2025

Every room and apartment is equipped with a hair dryer. The airport shuttle to Keflavik operates at select times for a fee of 3,499 Iskr per person.

Is it possible to check in later than the usual hour in the evening?

5 February 2025

Yes, late check-in is permitted.

Are refrigerators available in the guest rooms for storing medicine?

28 February 2025

Yes, each room is equipped with a small refrigerator.

Is breakfast offered on-site, or are there nearby options?

10 March 2025

While breakfast is not included, complimentary tea and coffee are available in the double rooms, and apartments feature kitchenette facilities. Several great breakfast spots are within a short walking distance.

How close is the guesthouse to the nearest bus terminal?

15 April 2025

The guesthouse is just a 10-minute walk from the BSI bus terminal.

Can luggage be stored after checkout for later travel?

23 May 2025

Yes, guests are welcome to store their luggage after checking out.

Do the apartments come with bathtubs, or just showers?

30 June 2025

Apartments are equipped with bathtubs for those who prefer them over showers.

What if travel restrictions prevent me from using a booking? Are there refund options?

12 July 2025

Bookings can be made with a 3-day cancellation policy for flexibility in case of new travel restrictions.