From spotting puffins to epic waterfalls, staying in Vik is a great bet if you want to explore Iceland’s south coast wonders from your hotel.
Whether you’re traveling Iceland on an epic Ring Road itinerary or looking to extend your Golden Circle adventures, then spending a night or two in the traditional village of Vik is a must.
One of the main reasons to stay in Vik is its proximity to some of the region’s most popular sights, such as the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls and the Reynisfjara black sand beach.
While you won’t find the same variety as the accommodation in Reykjavik, there are still some really great places to stay in Vik, with options for a range of budgets.
My top picks include the Hotel Vík í Mýrdal for its breathtaking mountain views and just a short walk from the black sand beaches and The Barn for its cozy budget dorm options.
Awesome South Iceland Hotels & Accommodations in Vik
In this guide, I'll break down the best accommodation options for all budgets, and provide a useful guide for you to plan your stay in the Southern region of Iceland.
1. Hótel Kría
Having only opened in 2018, Hótel Kría is relatively new to the accommodation scene in Iceland. However, it has quickly become one of the best hotels in Vík due to its quiet location.
Set amongst the towering mountains in South Iceland, some of the features that make up this beautiful 3-star hotel include a restaurant, a bar, and a garden.
All of the guest rooms at this property feature modern interior design. They are fully equipped with free wifi, satellite TV, a communal area, and a private bathroom.
Hiking is one of the best activities to do in the area and the black sand beaches of Vík are only a five-minute walk from the property.
After a day of exploring the area, enjoy a cocktail at the hotel bar while taking in the stunning mountain views.
2. Hotel Vík í Mýrdal
Situated against a gorgeous backdrop of South Iceland's mountains and only 400 meters from Black Sand Beach, Hotel Vík í Mýrdal is one of the best places to stay for breathtaking mountain views.
This 3-star property features a fitness center, a restaurant, a bar, and a 24-hour front desk, and is only 34 km from Skogafoss Waterfall.
All of the comfortable modern designed rooms at the hotel feature a desk, free wifi, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Vík, so guests can wake up each morning and have a delicious buffet or continental breakfast before going out to explore.
3. The Barn - Budget-friendly choice
If you're looking for the best place to stay in Vík that is budget-friendly, look no further than The Barn, one of the best hostels in Iceland.
This super unique hostel is located near the village of Vík between the Mýrdalsjölill Glacier and the south coast of Iceland.
The double rooms at the hostel come with a shared bathroom and some rooms boast a view over the nearby towering mountains.
The hostel features a shared kitchen, an information desk, lockers for your belongings, and a hostel bar where you can meet people from around the world.
An ideal choice for someone looking to save on accommodation costs.
Tip: Vik is very well connected to other major towns in Iceland via the Ring Road. However, public transport is limited, so renting a car in Reykjavik is best.
4. Vík Cottages
If you want to wake up and be surrounded by nothing but lush greenery and beautiful mountains, Vík Cottages is one of the best places to stay.
The rooms and cottages are individually decorated at this property and feature free wifi, a lounge area, and a private bathroom. Each room also has a terrace for you to relax on and take in the beautiful scenery.
A restaurant and bar can also be enjoyed where you can indulge in a delicious meal or relax with a cocktail in hand.
Since Vík is famous for its hiking, you can guarantee there are plenty of trails around the accommodation to explore. Skogafoss Waterfall is only 34 km from Vík Cottages which is a perfect trip for the day.
5. Vík Apartments - Great for Large Groups to Stay
Vik Apartments is one of the best places to stay in Vik which caters to large groups and families.
This modern accommodation boasts sea views a fully equipped kitchen, and a private bathroom. Some room options comfortably fit six adults and four children.
Some of the best things to do near the accommodation include visiting Black Sand Beach Vík and Hálsanefshellir Cove. There is also an array of fantastic hikes to enjoy in the area as well.
6. Vík Hostel
Looking to stay at an affordable hostel in the small village of Vík on the south coast of Iceland? Vík Hostel is a great place for you!
Located within proximity to the famous Black Sand Beach, Vík Hostel offers free parking, a shared lounge, and a bar. Guests can enjoy the free wifi throughout the property and the shared kitchen.
Guest rooms at the hostel include bed linen, and each morning you can start your day with a delicious free breakfast.
Although hiking is popular in the area, if walking isn't your thing, you can explore the area on a bike with the bikes for hire at the accommodation.
Tip: Suður-Vík deserves to be on the menu if you're looking for something delicious to eat. With over 2,000 positive reviews why not make it one more?
7. Puffin Hotel Vík
Only a ten-minute walk from the black sand beaches of Southern Iceland, this Puffin Hotel Vik is one of the best accommodations to base yourself for adventures.
The hotel features free wifi, free parking, and all rooms come with a private bathroom.
Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast served in the modern dining room before going off to explore the area. Some of the best things to do around the hotel include Jeep tours, visiting the Katla Geopark Museum, swimming at the public outdoor swimming pool, and horseback riding on the beach.
If you're wanting to experience something a little different be sure to check out the Lava Show which is only a short walk from the property.
8. Guesthouse Carina
Located at the base of a mountain in Vík, Guesthouse Carina offers great value-for-money accommodation.
All of the bright guest rooms in the guest house have easy access to shared bathroom facilities, and some rooms have a great view of the sea or mountains.
Each morning, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast and meet other guests from different parts of the world. It boasts free wifi throughout the property and free parking is available.
Some of the best activities near the accommodation include golf and horse riding. The famous Black Sand Beach is only 500 meters from the property.
Best Places to Stay Near Vik
9. Black Beach Suites - Best for Spotting the Northern Lights
If you're traveling to Iceland with the intention of spotting the Northern Lights, staying at Black Beach Suites is a good option.
Located just outside Vík town, this property boasts spectacular views of the sea from the rooms and sun terrace. All of the units at this accommodation include free wifi, a flat-screen TV, a terrace, and a kitchen. Free parking is also available on-site.
Popular points of interest such as Reynishverfisvegur Beach, Dyrhólaey Peninsula are nearby.
Tip: Staying outside of the town center gives you a higher chance of spotting the Northern Lights due to less light pollution.
10. Hótel Dyrhólaey
Located northwest of Vík is where you'll find Hótel Dyrhólaey, one of the best hotels in the region for its fantastic views of the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and the Atlantic Ocean
This accommodation offers free wifi and wood-furnished rooms with private bathrooms and an on-site restaurant. After a day of exploring the area, you can indulge in traditional Icelandic cuisine and beers at the hotel's restaurant.
Some of the best things to do around the hotel by the Ring Road are snowmobiling and hiking on the Mýrdalsjökull and Sólheimajökull glaciers. In summer, you can watch puffins nets on the Dyrhólaey Cliffs.
Tip: The puffin area is fenced off for their safety. However, if visiting you have a high chance of spotting them if you stay quiet and visit around 7 am or 5 pm.
11. Hotel Katla
If you're looking for the perfect place to stay in Vik Iceland which has everything from luxurious rooms with an on site sauna and hot tub, Hotel Katla is for you.
All of the classically decorated rooms at this hotel feature TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom. Each morning, you can enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast, and in the evening dine at the hotel restaurant. There is also a hotel bar where you can enjoy after-dinner drinks.
If you're interested in activities in the area, such as horseback riding, snowmobiling, or guided hikes on the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, the hotel staff can arrange this for you.
My Hotel Selection Process
- Accommodation Criteria: I selected accommodations in Vik based on location & proximity to town and attractions like the black beaches, as well as current reviews, prices, and recommendations.
- My Experience: During my ring road trip, I visited Vik and stayed in the mentioned hostels. I've also reviewed and analyzed hundreds of listings, comparing them all based on my criteria to select hotels offering the best value for money.
- Top Reviews: All of the selected accommodations maintain exceptional ratings on booking sites such as Hotels.com, Expedia, & Booking.com.
- Local Insights: My accommodation selections are based on online listings and word of mouth from people I met on the tours whilst visiting Iceland along with my experiences.
Read more about how I review & select hotels & accommodations.
I'm Olly, a full-time traveler since 2018. Each accommodation option in this guide is handpicked by me. Read my travel review ethics statement.
Things to Know About Staying in Vik
Here are some useful tips you'll want to know before planning your accommodation in Southern Iceland.
- Weather: Vik experiences a subarctic climate, meaning the weather can be quite unpredictable. Be prepared for strong winds, rain, and even snow, especially during the winter months.
- Restaurants & food: While there are a few restaurants and cafes in Vik, options are limited compared to larger towns and cities. It is a good idea to stock up on groceries and snacks if you plan on cooking your own meals, which is a good idea if you're trying to travel Iceland on a budget.
- Activities: Vik is a paradise for outdoor adventurers, with plenty of hiking trails, glacier walks, ice cave tours, and scenic drives nearby. Additionally, the village itself has some cultural and historical sites worth exploring, such as the Vik Church and the Reynisdrangar basalt sea stacks.
Alternative: Book a Golden Circle Tour In Iceland Instead
The most convenient and cost-effective way to visit Iceland's southwest highlights near Reykjavik is to jump on a Golden Circle tour.
This epic bus trip departs from Reykjavik daily and visits top natural highlights including the Geysir area, Gullfoss waterfall, and the incredible Þingvellir National Park. However, as one of the most popular tours in Iceland, you'll want to book it in advance, since it is very likely to sell out.
FAQ About Staying in Vik
Is it worth staying in Vik?
Yes! While there isn't a lot to do in Vik itself, the town is surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural attractions in the country, making it a great place to base yourself for a few days.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Vik?
Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Vik. The black sand beaches and dramatic landscapes make Vik a great backdrop to watch the Aurora Borealis.
What month is the cheapest in Iceland?
Like most places, the cheapest time to visit Iceland is during the off-peak season, which is September to November and January to May.
How far is Vik from the Blue Lagoon?
Vik is 177 km from the Blue Lagoon.
Now that you've planned your stay in Vik, check out my other Iceland travel, adventure, and accommodation guides to help you plan the Iceland trip of a lifetime.
- Coolest Places to Stay in Iceland - my favorite unique cabins, lodges, and hotels in Iceland
- How to Travel Iceland on a Budget - learn how I traveled the Ring Road for less than $50 per day
- 4 Epic Glacier Boat Tours - these are the best zodiac tours and glacier lagoon trips
- 10 Top Iceland Bus Tours - the best day trips from Reykjavik and multi-day journeys across Iceland
- Golden Circle Tours - find the best Golden Circle Trips from Reykjavik
- Where to Stay in Reykjavik - the best hotels and accommodation picks for Iceland's capital
