Staying in an Icelandic guesthouse is one of the best ways to experience the country like a local. You get cozy rooms, personal service, and often a closer connection to nature than in a big city hotel. At Ourhotels.is, we welcome guests from all over the world to our family of inns in West Iceland, including Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes), Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords. To help you feel at home and make the most of your stay, here’s a simple guide to Iceland guesthouse etiquette.
First, remember that most Icelandic guesthouses are small, family-run places. This means you’re often sharing common spaces with other travelers and sometimes with the owners themselves. A friendly greeting, a smile, and a few polite words go a long way. Icelanders tend to be relaxed and informal, but they appreciate respect and quiet consideration.
Noise is one of the most important points of guesthouse etiquette. Many guests are waking up early for tours, hikes, or long drives, so late-night noise can easily disturb others. At Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, for example, guests often head out early to explore waterfalls, hot springs, and lava fields in the area. Keeping voices low in hallways, closing doors gently, and using headphones for music or videos after quiet hours helps everyone enjoy a good night’s sleep. The same applies at Stykkishólmur Inn and Ísafjörður Inn, where early mornings are common for boat trips, wildlife tours, and scenic drives.
Shoes are another key detail. In many Icelandic homes and smaller guesthouses, it’s normal to remove your shoes at the entrance. Some places provide slippers or ask you to walk in socks. If you’re unsure, just look around or ask the staff. At Ourhotels.is properties, including Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, you’ll often find clear signs or a shoe rack by the door. Following this custom keeps the guesthouse clean and comfortable for everyone, especially in winter when there’s snow, slush, or mud outside.
Shared bathrooms and kitchens are common in Icelandic guesthouses, and good etiquette here makes a big difference. In shared bathrooms, keep your toiletries organized, don’t leave personal items scattered around, and try to keep showers reasonably short if others are waiting. Wiping down surfaces after use and leaving the space as clean as you found it is always appreciated.
In shared kitchens, clean up immediately after cooking or eating. Wash your dishes, wipe the counters, and label your food clearly if you’re storing it in the fridge. At Stykkishólmur Inn, many guests like to prepare simple meals before heading out to explore the Breiðafjörður islands or the Snæfellsnes coastline. A tidy kitchen means everyone can enjoy this flexibility. The same goes for Ísafjörður Inn, where guests often pack lunches for hikes in the Westfjords. Respecting shared spaces helps create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Breakfast is often included or available at many Icelandic guesthouses. At Ourhotels.is locations, breakfast is usually served during set hours. Arriving within that time frame ensures you get the full selection and helps the staff manage food and service smoothly. If you have dietary needs, it’s polite to let the guesthouse know in advance so they can do their best to accommodate you.
Respect for nature is a big part of Icelandic culture, and that extends to guesthouse etiquette. Use water and electricity thoughtfully, turn off lights when leaving your room, and don’t leave windows open with the heating on. In rural locations like Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, you’re surrounded by rivers, fields, and mountains, so being mindful of the environment fits naturally with the experience. The same mindset applies in Stykkishólmur and Ísafjörður, where the sea and mountains are part of daily life.
When it comes to interaction with staff and hosts, Icelanders are generally friendly but not overly formal. A simple “takk” (thank you) or “takk fyrir” (thank you very much) is always welcome. If you’re curious about local tips, don’t hesitate to ask. At Hvítá Inn, the team can point you toward hidden hot springs and scenic viewpoints in Borgarfjörður. At Stykkishólmur Inn, staff can recommend boat tours, local restaurants, and the best spots for sunset over the harbor. At Ísafjörður Inn, you can get advice on hiking routes, fjord viewpoints, and cultural sites in the Westfjords. Showing interest in the local area is a great way to connect.
Another part of good guesthouse etiquette is being clear and considerate with your bookings. If your arrival time changes, or if you’re running late due to weather or road conditions, let the guesthouse know. In West Iceland and the Westfjords, weather can change quickly, and roads can be challenging in winter. A quick message helps the staff at Ourhotels.is plan for your check-in and makes your arrival smoother.
Respecting house rules is essential. Each guesthouse may have its own policies about smoking, alcohol, pets, or use of certain facilities. These rules are usually there for safety, comfort, and local regulations. At Ourhotels.is properties, you’ll find clear information in your room or at reception. Taking a moment to read and follow these guidelines helps ensure a pleasant stay for you and your fellow guests.
Finally, remember that staying in a guesthouse is about more than just a bed for the night. It’s an opportunity to experience Iceland’s hospitality and culture in a more personal way. Whether you’re watching the northern lights from Hvítá Inn, enjoying the harbor views near Stykkishólmur Inn, or soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of Ísafjörður Inn, a little courtesy and awareness go a long way.
By following these simple Iceland guesthouse etiquette tips—keeping noise down, respecting shared spaces, following house rules, and treating staff and fellow guests with kindness—you’ll feel more at home and help create a warm, welcoming environment for everyone. When you’re ready to explore West Iceland, Snæfellsnes, or the Westfjords, Ourhotels.is is here to welcome you with comfortable inns, local knowledge, and a genuine Icelandic guesthouse experience.
