Frequently asked questions

The sauna can accommodate up to 14 people at a time.

Yes, you can bring your own supplies, and our staff is here to help with any sauna equipment you need.

Absolutely! We provide a variety of snacks and beverages to enhance your sauna experience.

Exeter Hotel offers a variety of services catering to both leisure and business travelers. For business-related needs, the hotel provides an Executive Meeting Room equipped with modern technology, comfortable accommodations suitable for both independent business travelers and business groups attending conferences at the nearby Harpa Concert Hall, as well as Food and Beverage outlets to unwind after a business day.

Yes, high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel free of charge.

Yes, our Executive Meeting Room is perfect for hosting business meetings of up to 8-10 people. You can send us an inquiry through our website's booking form or by emailing us at sales@exeterhotel.is.

Check-in begins at 15:00, and check-out is at 11:00. Early check-in and late check-out are available for an additional fee, subject to availability. For more information, please contact our Front Desk team at info@exeterhotel.is.

Yes, we offer special corporate rates for both groups and frequent individual corporate travelers (FIT). For more information, please send an inquiry to sales@exeterhotel.is.

All our rooms are well-equipped to meet the needs of modern business travelers. However, for business colleagues sharing a room, we recommend avoiding our Suites and Harbor Deluxe rooms, as the beds cannot be separated into two singles.

To make a group booking for a business event, please send your inquiry to booking@exeterhotel.is.

Our Event Room comfortably accommodates up to 10 attendees, depending on the seating arrangement.

Yes, you're welcome to bring your own equipment, but our tech team is also available to assist with our in-house audio-visual gear.

Yes, we offer a range of refreshment and catering options tailored to your event.

The Greenhouse is perfect for intimate gatherings, workshops, small parties, or informal events.

The Greenhouse comfortably fits up to 12 seated guests or more for standing receptions.

Yes! Our climate-controlled space ensures comfort throughout all seasons.

March and September give the strongest odds, thanks to the equinox effect on geomagnetic activity. Both months also offer long enough nights for solid viewing windows.

No, but a tour with local guides saves time, since they already track the aurora forecast. Independent travelers with a rental car can easily reach similar dark-sky spots on their own.

The Kp index rates geomagnetic storm strength on a scale from zero to nine. A reading of three or higher usually indicates a good chance of seeing the aurora with the naked eye.

Yes, solar activity remains elevated following the recent solar maximum, with more frequent aurora displays as a result. Activity is expected to stay strong through at least the next year or two.

Warm, windproof, waterproof layers make the biggest difference, along with insulated boots and gloves. Standing still in cold wind takes more warmth than walking around in daylight.

Yes, tap water in Iceland is clean and safe, and it ranks among the best in the world. A reusable water bottle saves money on the go.

Waterproof boots are strongly recommended, since rain and wet ground are common in autumn. Good ankle support helps on uneven trails, too.

Layering with merino wool base layers, a fleece-lined mid layer, and a waterproof shell works best. A hat and gloves help retain body heat.

Yes, autumn is one of the better seasons for the northern lights, since nights grow longer. Late September through November often brings strong viewing chances.

A car gives flexibility for a road trip, though autumn weather can affect remote roads. Checking daily road updates each morning is a good idea.

A short stop over works with as little as six hours. Seven to nine hours allows time to leave the airport and explore downtown comfortably.

Icelandair allows passengers to extend a connecting flight into a multi-day stopover at no extra airfare. Hotel and meal costs are separate. Confirm current terms directly with Icelandair before booking.

No, downtown Reykjavik is walkable. A car is only useful for day trips beyond the city, such as the Golden Circle.

Downtown Reykjavík is about 40 to 50 minutes from Keflavík Airport by car, taxi, or shuttle bus.

Pack layers and a waterproof jacket, since coastal weather near Reykjavík can shift quickly, even during a brief visit.

Yes, the airport and most downtown hotels offer luggage storage. This makes it easier to explore the city without dragging bags around.

One day covers the city's main sights and a meal downtown. Staying close to the harbor area makes the most of that time.

Classic boat tours from Reykjavík typically cost between ISK 10,000 and 15,000 (approx. $79 to $119 USD) per adult. Faster RIB tours run higher, often ISK 20,000 to 25,000 (approx. $159 to $198 USD), since they carry fewer passengers.

Whales feed throughout the day, so morning and afternoon tours both offer good chances. Mornings tend to have calmer water, while evenings can bring better light for photos.

Classic boat tours run 2.5 to 3.5 hours, while RIB boat tours last about 2 hours. Both depart from the Old Harbor, close to most downtown hotels.

No, a car is not needed since tours depart from the Old Harbor in the city center. Staying at a hotel near whale watching tours means you can walk to the dock.

Most operators offer a free ticket to join another tour if no whales appear. This makes it worth booking early in your stay, in case you need to use it.

Most visitors find it worthwhile, since sighting rates stay high for most of the year. The short trip from downtown also makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary.

Whales feed throughout the day, so morning and afternoon tours both offer good chances. Mornings tend to have calmer water, while evenings can bring better light for photos.

Classic boat tours run 2.5 to 3.5 hours, while RIB boat tours last about 2 hours. Both depart from the Old Harbor, close to most downtown hotels.

Dress in warm layers and bring a waterproof jacket, since sea winds add a chill. Most boats provide thermal overalls, but warm clothing underneath still helps.

Booking ahead is wise from June through August, when tours fill up fast. Off-season slots are easier to find, though weather can still cause cancellations.

Tipping is not expected in Reykjavík, since service charges are already built into menu prices. A small tip is welcome when service stands out, but it is never required.

Reykjavík dining runs higher than in most European cities, with a casual dinner often costing 3,000 to 6,000 ISK (approx. $24 to $48 USD) per person.

Lamb, fresh cod, and skyr appear on most Reykjavík menus, alongside the classic Icelandic hot dog. Adventurous eaters can also try fermented shark or smoked puffin at select restaurants.

Most downtown restaurants sit within a 5- to 15-minute walk of each other. Exeter Hotel's location on Tryggvagata puts guests close to this entire stretch, with no car needed.

Most Reykjavík restaurants, including Skál and Skreið, offer vegetarian small plates alongside their seafood and meat dishes. Dedicated vegan spots also operate throughout downtown Reykjavík.

No, they share a name only. Laugavegur Street is downtown Reykjavík's main shopping street, while the Laugavegur Trail is a multi-day hike in the Highlands.

Yes, the lower section of Laugavegur is pedestrian only for most of the year. This makes it easier to browse shops without traffic to worry about.

Laugavegur gets lively on Friday and Saturday nights, with bars staying open well past midnight. Weekday evenings are calmer if you prefer a relaxed walk.

Public restrooms are limited along Laugavegur, so plan to use facilities at cafes or shops you visit. Many restaurants and bars also allow restroom use for paying customers.

Kringlan shopping mall sits a short drive from Laugavegur, offering indoor stores and a food court. Most visitors stick to Laugavegur for its outdoor, walkable shopping experience.

Reykjavík's Strætó buses use the Klappið app and reach most neighborhoods. Downtown stays walkable, so a car isn't needed for these hidden gems.

No. Uber and Lyft do not operate in Iceland. Visitors can book taxis through local providers such as Hreyfill or use taxi-booking apps like Hopp where available. Licensed taxis are available 24 hours a day across Reykjavík.

The Reykjavík City Card includes the Viðey ferry and free city buses around town.

Early mornings and weekday visits offer the quietest experience at most Reykjavík hidden gems. Kolaportið and Viðey Island get busiest on summer weekends and early afternoons.

The museum welcomes all ages, but its small, dim space suits older kids better than young children.

No. Reykjavik Old Harbor is a free public waterfront. Whale watching tours and museums charge separate admission.

Rarely. Land sightings near Reykjavik Old Harbor are uncommon. A whale watching tour in Faxaflói Bay offers better odds.

Yes. Both free and paid parking options are available near major attractions, including Whales of Iceland and the Maritime Museum. Road tax regulations apply separately.

May through August generally offer the best whale watching conditions, although tours operate for much of the year. Minke whales and white-beaked dolphins appear most often during these summer months.

Yes. Paths are paved and mostly flat. Some piers and the Þúfa mound include steps.

Lunch is the better-value window at most harbor restaurants, with shorter waits and lower prices than at dinner. Kopar and Kaffivagninn both draw larger dinner crowds, so arriving before 6 pm gives you more flexibility.

The Old Harbor sits about 1.2 km (0.75 miles) from Hallgrímskirkja, making it a 10 to 15-minute walk from central Reykjavík. The area is easy to reach on foot from most downtown hotels and accommodations.

Paid street parking is available throughout the Old Harbor area during the day. Parking is generally free after 6 pm and on weekends, making it more practical for evening dining.

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is the most budget-friendly option, with hot dogs starting at around 650 ISK (roughly $5 USD). Sægreifinn is a step up in price but still more affordable than sit-down restaurants like Kopar.

Most established harbor restaurants, including Kopar, Kaffivagninn, and Sægreifinn, operate year-round. Hours may be shorter in winter, so checking directly with the restaurant before visiting is worth it.

Yes. Reykjavík has one of the lowest crime rates of any European capital. Violent crime is rare, and the downtown streets are well-lit throughout the night. On weekend nights, the bar area gets busy in the early hours, so standard caution applies: stay alert and keep your belongings close in crowded areas.

Two to three days is enough time to see the main sights in Reykjavík. Most first-time visitors then use the city as a base for day tours to the Golden Circle and the south coast.

Mid-range hotels in downtown Reykjavík typically cost between $150 and $250 per night. Budget options like guesthouses and hostels start from around $80 to $120 per night.

Book three to four months ahead for summer visits, especially July and August. Shoulder season months like April, May, and September have more availability and lower rates.

Flybus is Iceland's official airport shuttle, departing roughly 35 to 45 minutes after each flight arrives. Gray Line Iceland also runs a shared shuttle called Airport Express, with a similar 45-minute journey time.

The 101 district is Reykjavík's downtown postal code, covering the city center and the Old Harbor area. It is the most popular area to stay in Reykjavík for first-time visitors.

Uber does not operate in Iceland. Licensed taxis are available 24 hours a day across Reykjavík and can be booked by phone or through local taxi apps.

Yes. Guided Northern Lights bus tours run from September through April, with central Reykjavík pickup included.

Yes. Electric scooters are available through Hopp and Zolo, and dedicated cycling paths connect the harbor and city center.

Three to five days is enough to cover the city on foot and fit in two or three guided day trips.

Yes. Direct shuttle transfers run from downtown Reykjavík and BSÍ Bus Terminal to the Blue Lagoon, with no car required.

Reykjavík consistently ranks among the safest capital cities in the world. The city center is well lit and busy on weekend nights.

Walking is free for most city center sights. A single Strætó bus fare costs ISK 690 and covers the wider capital region.

Yes. Iceland consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world for solo female travelers, with extremely low crime rates and strong gender equality standards, as reflected in the Global Peace Index and the Women, Peace and Security Index.

Yes. Reykjavík consistently ranks among the safest cities in Europe, and women regularly walk alone at night in the city center without concern.

Pack waterproof layers, sturdy walking shoes, and warm base layers regardless of the season, as Reykjavík's weather can shift quickly. Tap water in Iceland is safe to drink, so a reusable bottle is a practical addition.

Not for the city itself. Reykjavík's center is walkable, and the Strætó bus network covers most areas. A rental car is useful for day trips outside the city, though guided tours are a practical alternative, especially in winter.

Yes, Iceland is one of the more expensive destinations in Europe. Eating out, alcohol, and tours add up quickly. Booking day tours in advance, using happy-hour deals at bars, and picking up groceries for some meals help manage costs without missing out.

The legal drinking age is 20. Some venues set their own minimum at 22, and bouncers check ID on weekends, so carry a valid photo ID.

Thursdays are the best weeknight option, with several bars hosting live music and DJ nights. Sunday through Wednesday is quieter, and most venues close at 1 am, so weekends are where the full experience happens.

Queues form outside the busiest venues after midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Arriving before midnight avoids most of them, and weeknights rarely have any wait at all.

Yes. Iceland is largely cashless, and cards are accepted almost everywhere, including at most bars, clubs, and even the famous hot dog stand on Tryggvagata.

Yes. The scene runs year-round, and winter nights are some of the most social, with locals and visitors packed into warm bars. The shorter days mean people head out earlier, and the energy builds faster.