Welcome to the heart of Iceland, Reykjavik – a city bursting with Viking history, pulsating geothermal waters, and vibrant culture. It’s a destination where old meets new, where quirky architecture intertwines with dramatic landscapes. If you’re planning a trip, one key decision you need to make is where to stay. Our focus? To help you discover the best hotels in Reykjavik, which will act as your haven after a day exploring the city’s wonders.
Note: I have a personal bias towards Hilton properties. Three of these are in the top five of the below list of hotels in Reykjavik, but for very good reason. For one of the most comprehensive breakdowns on Hilton reviews, check out my in-depth guide on another one of my sites, Credit Card Churning.
How We Determined the Best Hotels in Reykjavik
Selecting the best hotels in any city is never a simple task. It involves sifting through countless reviews, comparing a myriad of amenities, and assessing various price ranges. For Reykjavik, a city as unique as its geographical location, this selection process becomes even more intricate. Here’s a look at our approach:
- Guest Reviews: We delved into a multitude of reviews across various booking platforms. Our selection represents hotels that consistently receive high praise from past guests for aspects such as cleanliness, service, comfort, and more.
- Location: Reykjavik is a compact city filled with an array of attractions. We prioritized hotels offering easy access to popular sights, whether by foot or a short drive.
- Amenities: A hotel isn’t just a place to sleep; it’s part of the travel experience. Hence, we looked for hotels providing enticing amenities – from comforting spas to fine dining options.
- Value for Money: Price matters, but what matters more is what you get for it. We sought hotels that offer excellent facilities and services at a price that aligns with what’s provided.
- Uniqueness: Reykjavik isn’t your ordinary city, and your hotel stay shouldn’t be either. We hunted for places offering a dash of uniqueness – perhaps through their history, architecture, or sustainable practices.
Stay with us as we journey through the best hotels in Reykjavik that meet these criteria, offering you the best experience in Iceland’s heart.
Our Picks for the Top 10 Best Hotels in Reykjavik
Skuggi Hotel
Skuggi Hotel is a modern marvel that reflects Reykjavik’s unique blend of city and nature. With a neutral color scheme inspired by Icelandic nature, each room is a peaceful haven offering uncomplicated comfort and modern amenities. Its downtown location means you’re never far from the city’s vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining scene.
Guests are captivated by the hotel’s stunning minimalist design, often praising its clean lines and attention to detail. What’s more, the helpful staff goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. Skuggi Hotel’s rates offer excellent value, especially considering its prime location and excellent service. Its unique selling point? The hotel’s design is inspired by the photographs of Ragnar Axelsson, a renowned Icelandic photographer, making you feel intertwined with Icelandic nature even within the hotel’s walls.
Reykjavik Residence Hotel
Reykjavik Residence Hotel marries the convenience of a hotel with the comfort of a home. The aparthotel setup gives you the chance to enjoy self-catering facilities within stylish, cozy apartments. Nestled in the old town, you’re just a stone’s throw away from famous sights like Hallgrímskirkja church and the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture.
With rave reviews highlighting the warm hospitality and spacious, well-equipped suites, this hotel shines for those seeking a home-away-from-home experience. Not to mention, the complimentary breakfast delivered straight to your room offers the perfect start to your day of exploring.
Reykjavik Residence Hotel is reasonably priced for the wealth of comfort and convenience it offers, making it a top pick for family or longer stays. Its distinctive feature is the historical significance of the building, offering you a slice of Reykjavik’s history.
CenterHotel Thingholt
Step into a world of chic comfort with CenterHotel Thingholt. This design hotel, located in the city center, showcases modern Icelandic style throughout its rooms and lounges. It’s also a short stroll from the charming Old Harbor, with its array of seafood restaurants and whale-watching tours.
Highly rated by guests for its stylish rooms, wellness area, and friendly staff, CenterHotel Thingholt knows how to make your stay special. The price matches the quality provided, offering excellent value in the heart of the city. What sets it apart is the design aspect: inspired by the Icelandic nature and local folklore, staying here offers more than just a place to rest—it offers a uniquely Icelandic experience.
Hotel Borg by Keahotels
Hotel Borg by Keahotels invites you to a world of timeless elegance. Standing gracefully in the heart of Reykjavik since 1930, it offers a mix of classic charm and modern amenities. With the Parliament and the Reykjavik Cathedral as its neighbors, you’re in the midst of history.
Guests are charmed by the hotel’s Art Deco elegance, superior service, and top-notch facilities, which include a spa and a renowned restaurant. The hotel might be higher on the price range, but it justifies every penny with its unique blend of luxury and location. A stay at Hotel Borg places you in a piece of Reykjavik’s history, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.
ION City Hotel
ION City Hotel offers a contemporary take on the Icelandic aesthetic. Located on the bustling Laugavegur Street, the city’s best shopping, dining, and nightlife are at your doorstep. The hotel’s design is an artistic nod to the country’s landscapes, creating a serene urban oasis.
Reviews highlight the top-tier restaurant, stylish interiors, and eco-friendly practices. The price reflects the hotel’s dedication to offering high-quality, sustainable lodging in Reykjavik’s heart. The panoramic gym and an in-house farm-to-table restaurant are unique features that will amplify your Icelandic experience.
Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre
Enjoy the vibrant Reykjavik city spirit at the Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre. Situated near the main shopping street, this stylish hotel embodies the essence of the local neighborhood, from its design to its locally sourced breakfast.
Guest reviews commend the comfy rooms, helpful staff, and the charming evening tastings of local beverages and spirits. The rates offer great value, considering the prime location and the unique Canopy experience. The hotel’s décor, inspired by local traditions and nature, ensures your stay is authentically Icelandic.
Kvosin Downtown Hotel
Kvosin Downtown Hotel is a boutique gem nestled in Reykjavik’s historical center. Located in a building dating back to 1900, it is surrounded by charming cafés, boutiques, and the Reykjavik Cathedral.
Guests love the spacious, chic rooms and the personal service, not to mention the spectacular views from the hotel’s bar. Prices reflect the excellent location and high-quality service. The hotel’s standout feature is its commitment to giving each guest a personalized experience in a setting that blends historic charm with modern luxury.
Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel
Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is a charming blend of classic and contemporary. Housed in a former 1900s department store, this hotel places you in Reykjavik’s historic heart, with top attractions a leisurely stroll away.
Guests laud the chic rooms that echo the building’s rich history, alongside top-notch amenities and friendly service. The price aligns well with the value offered, considering its prime location and the unique ambience. The hotel’s unique draw is its fascinating history and design, which pays homage to the historic roots while offering a luxurious, modern stay.
Hotel Ranga
Welcome to Hotel Ranga, a log-cabin style lodge that offers a world-class stay amidst serene landscapes. It’s situated a bit outside Reykjavik, but this only adds to its appeal, offering magnificent views of mountains and rivers, and, in winter, a perfect spot for Northern Lights viewing.
Rave reviews highlight the outdoor hot tubs, exceptional staff, and excellent dining options. Guests love the themed suites, inspired by the seven continents. While the hotel is pricier, the unique features, coupled with its geographical setting, make it worth the expense. The unique selling point of Hotel Ranga is its optimal location for enjoying Iceland’s natural beauty, providing a tranquil stay unlike any other.
Iceland Parliament Hotel
Taking the crown is Iceland Parliament Hotel, another gem in the Curio Collection by Hilton. Located next to the Icelandic Parliament and Reykjavik Cathedral, you’ll be at the center of it all. Yet, inside the hotel, tranquility reigns, making it a perfect urban retreat.
Guests applaud the tastefully decorated rooms, impeccable service, and excellent location. While priced at the higher end, the unparalleled experience, prime position, and top-tier amenities offer good value. The standout feature? It’s the hotel’s close proximity to the country’s power core, offering a unique perspective into Iceland’s political and cultural heartbeat.
Things to Consider When Booking a Hotel in Reykjavik
Reykjavik’s charm lies in its mix of city energy, cultural richness, and close proximity to nature. Here are some tips to consider while booking a hotel for your visit:
- Location: Consider what you want to be closest to. Are you more interested in exploring the city’s cultural heart, or are you yearning to be closer to nature? Both are within reach in Reykjavik, but your hotel location can enhance your desired experience.
- Season: Reykjavik’s allure shifts with the seasons. Winter can offer a chance to see the Northern Lights, while summer offers the Midnight Sun. Depending on your interests, align your stay with the right season and hotel. Some hotels are better equipped or located for certain seasonal experiences.
- Amenities: Think about the amenities you value most. This could be a spa, a gourmet restaurant, room service, or a gym. Choosing a hotel that matches your personal preferences can make your stay all the more comfortable.
- Sustainability: Iceland is known for its commitment to sustainability. If that’s something you value, look for hotels with eco-friendly practices.
- Price: Reykjavik offers accommodation options across different budgets. Be sure to consider what each rate includes (such as breakfast, access to amenities, etc.) to ensure it offers good value for the price.
Our Final Thoughts
Reykjavik is a city that enchants and surprises. As the northernmost capital in the world, it offers an inviting mix of rich history, dynamic culture, and stunning landscapes. The best hotels in Reykjavik enhance this experience, providing a warm Icelandic welcome, comfortable accommodations, and unique touches that make your trip memorable.
Whether you’re looking for luxury, proximity to top attractions, great value, or a blend of these factors, Reykjavik’s hotels offer something for every traveler.
We hope our selection of the top 10 best hotels in Reykjavik helps you find the perfect base for your Icelandic adventure. Remember, your choice of hotel can add so much more to your journey. Happy travels!