KEX Reykjavik: Biscuit Factory Turned Cultural Engine
industrial bones, vintage chaos, pure Reykjavik culture-core
Type: design hotel, hip hostel
Vibe: lively
DNA: boho chic, industrial chic, vintage
Factory Bones, Vintage Soul
Some stays are quiet retreats. KEX Reykjavik is a collision of character, community, and Icelandic cool. Housed in a repurposed biscuit factory, this design-driven hostel sits squarely in the heart of Reykjavik — and right in the middle of the city’s buzzing cultural current. More than just a place to crash, KEX is where Reykjavik gathers — travelers, locals, musicians, and creatives alike. And once you’ve stayed, you get it: this isn’t just a hostel. It’s a scene.
Step inside and you’re in a world where industrial grit meets curated nostalgia. The walls hold stories in salvaged wood, found objects, and worn leather armchairs that feel like they’ve hosted decades of conversation. There’s no design formula here — just a layered, lived-in charm that feels both spontaneous and cinematic. The look? A little Berlin, a little Brooklyn, and very much Reykjavik with a twist.
Sleep Social or Stay Solo
KEX offers something for every kind of traveler. Social bunk rooms come with personality, not just price tags. For those who prefer privacy, there are well-designed private rooms, two of which feature en-suite bathrooms. Whichever you choose, you’re not just booking a bed — you’re entering a creative commons, where connection happens naturally.
Common Spaces, Uncommon Vibe
At the heart of the hotel is a buzzing café-bar, serving up strong coffee by day and craft beers by night. Add in a laid-back lounge, a heated outdoor patio, and it’s easy to see why KEX is a favorite hangout even for locals. You’ll also find a small fitness room, guest kitchenettes, and all the practical touches that make extended stays feel effortless. This is hostel life elevated without losing its edge.
A Gateway to Reykjavik’s Wild Heart
Just steps from KEX are Reykjavik’s iconic music venues, rowdy bars, and indie boutiques. But the best part? The hostel hums with that same energy. With regular live gigs, pop-up events, and an always-changing cast of characters, KEX blurs the line between stay and scene.
DNA Hotels Verdict
KEX Reykjavik is Icelandic hospitality turned inside out — raw, real, and wildly welcoming. It’s not about perfection, it’s about personality. For travelers who want to live the city, not just visit it, this is where you check in and plug into the Reykjavik rhythm. A biscuit factory reborn — with better drinks, louder music, and way cooler company.
