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House of the Snowbird

Apartment near Reykjavik Harbour in Reykjavik

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Photo gallery for House of the Snowbird

A bedroom with a wooden bed frame, a window with a view of greenery, and a kitchen area with a countertop and a bag labeled "El Gato de Rojo".
A dining area with wooden furniture, a large window, and artwork on the walls.
A red building with white trim, a staircase, and potted plants.
A marina with several boats docked, featuring names and numbers on their sides.
A kitchen with wooden beams, a window with a view, and a sink.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire apartment

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2646 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Reykjavík, Capital Region
  • Place, Reykjavik City Hall
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Laugavegur
    ‪4 min walk‬
  • Place, Harpa
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Airport, Reykjavik (RKV-Reykjavik Domestic)
    ‪6 min drive‬

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About the neighborhood

Reykjavik

Seaside stay .At this Downtown Reykjavik apartment, you'll be well placed to visit Reykjavik Harbour and Reykjavik City Hall, both within a 5-minute walk. Reykjavik City Library and Reykjavik Art Museum are also within half a mile (1 km).
View more Apartments in ReykjavikOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Reykjavik Harbour - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Reykjavik City Hall - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Laugavegur - 4 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Iceland Phallological Museum - 4 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Harpa - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles

Getting around

  • Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) - 5 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Bæjarins Beztu - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Le Kock - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪BakaBaka - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Icelandic Street Food - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Te & Kaffi - ‬4 min walk

About this property

House of the Snowbird

In the historic center where Reykjavík City‘s old heart beats there is a unique old house that used to be called Aberdeen.

The house is owned by a family of artists who have left their mark on every detail of the house. The style of the house is an interesting fusion of Scandinavian wooden old style from before the year 1900 and a modern raw artistic touch.

The location is fantastic, with a view over the streets of the old town, surrounded by museums, galleries, cafés, restaurants and the old harbour.

If you are into the unusual and want to experience an artistic side of Reykjavík, then this is your place.

Practicalities:
- This is a whole apartment (60sqm), which is ideal for a couple.
- A very descriptive Guest Guide packed with information and ideas for things to do in Reykjavík.
- Complimentary toiletries.
- The house is warm and cosy and full of home made art.
- Fully equipped kitchen.
- Parking is included during your stay.
- There is a laundromat just 3 mins walk away.
- This is one of Reykjavík's oldest wooden houses and is located so centrally that there may naturally be some noises from the city's street life.
- The proprietor is quite a seasoned traveler herself, speaks several languages and is well in tune with her beautiful country. She will be happy to be of assistance.

Well then, see you in 101 Reykjavík, at the very place this young city began!

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the apartment: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV

Laundry

  • Dryer
  • Laundry facilities

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Handrails in stairways
  • No elevator
  • Smoking not allowed

Location highlights

  • In the city center
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • Near an outlet shopping mall
  • Near the bay
  • Near the marina
  • Near the sea

Things to do

  • Optional golf privileges
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Whale watching nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Composting
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Local artist showcase
  • Local culture and ecosystem education
  • No plastic coffee stirrers
  • No plastic drinking straws
  • No plastic soft drink bottles
  • No plastic water bottles
  • Recycling
  • Reusable cups
  • Reusable tableware
  • Some LED lighting used
  • Unit size: 646 square feet
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Please be careful with the artwork in the house.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit in each accommodation.

Property is also known as

Artistic Experience Reykjavík Apartment
An Artistic Experience in Reykjavík Apartment
An Artistic Experience in Reykjavík Reykjavik
An Artistic Experience in Reykjavík Apartment Reykjavik
An Artistic Experience in Reykjavík Apartment
An Artistic Experience in Reykjavík Reykjavik
An Artistic Experience in Reykjavík Apartment Reykjavik

Frequently asked questions

How close is House of the Snowbird to the airport?

This apartment is 1.8 mi (5-min drive) away from the Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does House of the Snowbird have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this apartment.

How close is House of the Snowbird to the beach?

This apartment is 2.5 mi (13-min drive) from Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach.

Does House of the Snowbird offer free breakfast?

This apartment does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at House of the Snowbird?

No, there is no casino at this apartment.

What time is check-in at House of the Snowbird?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

Is there free parking at House of the Snowbird?

Free parking is not available at this apartment.

Does House of the Snowbird have a pool?

This apartment does not have a pool.

Does House of the Snowbird have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this apartment.

How close is House of the Snowbird to downtown Reykjavik?

This apartment is 0.1 mi away from Reykjavik.

House of the Snowbird Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 14 out of 18 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 18 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 18 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Shelley A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was so accommodating and the property was perfectly located.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Janet B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely apartment in an ideal location!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Doris M.

Beautiful place, delightful host!

Old Town is a must see in Reykjavik, and this property is in the heart of old town. A beautifully restored cottage with every modern amenity. Our host Elsa provided all basic kitchen necessities, and snugly bathrobes and flip flops. Walk-able to all of the interesting sights in town as well as the waterfront. She left us some excellent recommendations - including the darling Tapas place next door -winner! I recommend this cottage to any first timer or returning visitor and will hopefully get the opportunity to return! But be prepared, dining out in Iceland is a very expensive proposition...a must is to find the famous downtown hot dog stand (started with a B) - seriously. Great value and amazing dogs! Bring layers, rain gear, and don't forget, hot water from the geothermal sources smells like sulfur! There is nothing wrong with it and promise, you don't smell after your shower!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2018
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

William F.

Beautiful apartment located near the old harbor and a good starting point for exploring the island.

Elsa is very attentive and has a neat and clean property. Only warning—-ask for the upper level apartment. We had the first floor apartment—-you could clearly hear footsteps from those above. On our second night a very loud and drunk group came in around 1am and kept us awake for an hour. Would have been okay but had to get up at 4am to go to the airport. Overall, can’t say enough nice things about this property and the price was much better than comparable apartments.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2018
Archival

8/10 Good

Lindsay B.

Cozy but loud

The location and amenities are great. It is on a bustling corner and within walking distance of many restaurants, shops, and sights. The space was perfect for my grandma and me while we were in town for two days. She slept in the bedroom while I used the sofa bed. The free parking was especially nice to have but we arrived after dark and the exact location was confusing. You have to jump a small curb to get into the spots in the back. We had a supermini rental car and it was intimidating. There are also spots in the front of the house but there is a large red warning sign which looks like the area is a tow-away zone (although it is not). I was able to get in touch with the manager quickly and she was very helpful but it was stressful after first arriving. The other thing to be aware of is the high level of noise audible from outside and upstairs. I live in a large US city so I'm used to noise but you could hear every footstep and whisper. If you are a light sleeper, I would recommend bringing ear plugs.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2017
Archival

8/10 Good

Meg G.

Quaint apartment right in old harbor!

The House of the Snowbird was in a great location near the old harbor neighborhood, with easy access to many restaurants and pubs, and within walking distance of many Reykjavik sites. The apartment was clean and had many amenities in the kitchen for making you own meals. We enjoyed our trip to Iceland and are looking to come back again soon!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2017
Archival

10/10 Excellent

MARK F.

Peaceful setting on Burfell Mountain with lovely views over the countryside

This is a lovely hytte in a peaceful setting with awesome views over the countryside that fall away toward the ocean, and a mountain behind the hytte called Burfell. The hytte is within 15 minutes driving distance to Selfoss, yet neighbors are far and few, and the setting is still and quiet. The hot tub/jacuzzi on the outdoor patio is incredibly relaxing! Water out of the tap is ice cold and delicious! The interior is spacious, well-furnished and stocked with all the essentials. We enjoyed the peacefulness in, and around, the hytte all day long, occasionally venturing out for a mountain hike, or an excursion to nearby sights! For anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, look no further: this secluded hytte tucked in front of the Burfell mountain is your place!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Kelly T.

Perfect location in the heart of Reykjavik

We did a 3-night stop over in Reykjavik and this place was perfect for our stay. The space is extremely comfortable and clean with plenty of space. There is an abundance of restaurants and shops all within walking distance and the tourism office is just across the street making it easy to plan out our time in Reykjavik. Elsa left an extensive booklet with recommendations for the area and was very responsive to all of our questions. We wouldn't hesitate staying here again and highly recommend it to anyone looking at spending time in Reykjavik.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2017
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Ren M.

Incredibly charming apartment in incredibly convenient location

This delightful apartment surpasses anything I could have dreamed up while envisioning the perfect home base for my Iceland stopover. This gem impeccably designed and decorated, bright and cheerful, located within a stone's throw of fantastic restaurants, and just a quick walk from just about everything I wanted to see and do in Reykjavik. I fell in love with the ceramics on display in the apartment and ended up buying several at the store downstairs.... which ended up being my favorite purchases in Iceland by far. The parking spot was a huge plus as I rented a car to self-tour the beautiful countryside. Elsa was a thoughtful host, proving exceptional recommendations and responding quickly to questions. I cannot recommend staying here enthusiastically enough!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2017
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Cathleen a.

Wonderful experience

Loved loved loved Elsa's home of the snowbird! Beautiful art, photography and pottery throughout. Not to mention the clean lines of the kitchen and furniture. Bathroom was fantastic with modern amenities and soft fluffy towels. Kitchen was thoughtfully stocked with all the essentials one may need for a nice meal , tea and coffee. The location was perfect Central to everything nice in Reykjavik. And all I had to do was request snow and it magically was delivered. Look forward to our return to Iceland. Such a beautiful country in need of exploration.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2017
Archival

10/10 Excellent

erin s.

Amazing location and fabulous host

I traveled to Reykjavik with my husband and two children (8 and 6) and this house could not have been more perfect. Don't let the solitude advertised in the listing fool you- this house is located smack in the middle between the harbor and the old city. We walked almost everywhere we wanted to go. The one place that was not walkable was the Laugardalslaug pool, but that was an easy bus trip on the very convenient city bus. We walked to the National Museum, the harbor museums, and two other municipal pools while being able to stay in a quiet and private location. The tourist information office right outside the door was really helpful, there is a convenience/grocery store around the block, and there is a hotdog stand in the adjacent square for an evening snack. While we were unable to any tours outside of Reykjavik due to the horrible weather during our stay, the busses (including the FlyBus for the airport) pick up around the block at the Centerhotel plaza. Elsa was an amazing host, and quickly answered all our questions before and during our stay. She has a very helpful Visitor's Guide and the house had basic food staples which was greatly appreciated. The house was cozy and warm, and the kitchen had all the utensils we needed to cook 1-2 meals a day. I would stay in the home again (as a couple or with children) again. My children slept on the sleeper sofa in the living room but given the location of the entyy door to the apartment, and the entry door of the building, I never worried about them leaving the apartment without me knowing it. (Sometimes in hotels we don't like to put them near the entry door for security reasons- my kids can be very curious!). This is a wonderful vacation spot. Clean, safe, accommodating, and accessible to all the wonderful things Reykjavik has to offer.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2016
Archival

8/10 Good

Susie F.

Great location

The owner's daughter kindly emailed information about the apartment in advance so we were able to access the property when we arrived at 2am. The apartment was exactly as advertised -- very clean, very European with it's simple furnishings, and includes off-street parking. It's located in the area of Reykjavik VERY close to restaurants, bars, shops -- which was so nice. It's a one minute walk from the Center Plaza Hotel where the tour bus will pick up. The owner's daughter was very responsive when we needed more bath towels and had them delivered within an hour or two of my email request. Here are the drawbacks: no hair dryer (thankfully we visited during the summer), no tv (we were looking forward to watching the Summer Olympics from an Icelandic point of view), and it was loud from street noise (not really from bar goers but mostly from cars and the domestic airport traffic when the approach pattern changed during our last two nights). We met the owner and her daughter upon checking out and they are very proud of this historic Icelandic property.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2016
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Scott G.

Well done, Elsa!

Wonderful flat in the heart of Reykjavik. Wonderfully renovated. Nice decor and furnishings! Location is great, Car parking was right down the stairs, very convenient.. One can easily walk to the Harbor and Downtown area. Very comfortable bed in bedroom. Sofa bed would be cramped for more than one person. Elsa was prompt is responding to my emails. She has a really nice place. The only downside is the area is somewhat noisy. You can hear people outside and the tenant in the basement you can hear them talking, while you're in the flat. If you're OK with that (Elsa mentioned that there are rules in Reykjavik about even putting in double pane windows which would help wit the noise). this a great rental!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Konstantin G.

Ideal location in a tastefully decorated apartment in a historic building

We had a great stay at Elsa's apartment. It's right in the city center, very close to virtually anything plus there's a private parking right by the house. It was ideal for two adults and a 4 y.o. daughter who had a very good sleep every night on the couch. We met Elsa and a nice chat with her. There are no cons so book it if you can, you'll be happy you did. We'll definitely be back. And do visit gallery downstairs where you'll find authentic pottery.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

David K.

Fantastic apartment in downtown Reykjavik

This apartment is very clean, tastefully furnished and right in the heart of downtown Reykjavik. Elsa was a wonderful host, going out of her way to help us find a product we needed for our baby. We will be staying here again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2016