About Reykjavik

If you’re just here for a short break you’ll probably want to stay in Reykjavík city centre but if you’ve been hooked by Reykjavík’s hip and happening reputation then you might stay down by the marina. Either way our Guru’s recommendations for the best places to stay in Reykjavík have some great possibilities for you. Our pick of the hotels here vary from large city centre crowd pleasers to smaller and hipper properties that have a very individual feel. And whilst none are exactly cheap, we're pretty sure you'll find something to suit!

Colourful, vibrant Reykjavík is further north than any other capital city and much of its uniqueness can probably be, in part, attributed to the location. The varied length of the days and the nights, the strange colours of the sky and the spectacular, but very raw, Icelandic landscape, influence every aspect of the culture here, from the striking, colourful architecture to the lifestyle.

Where to stay - which neighbourhood?

  • Miðborg is considered downtown Reykjavic - it's where you'll find most of the city's bars, restaurants and sights. Stroll around the colourful streets and soak up the buzzy nightlife.
  • Laugardaler, AKA Hot Spring Valley, is where you'll find the city's largest outdoor thermal pool - a great way to unwind after a day spent sightseeing. It's also home to a wonderful botanic garden and a family-friendly zoo.
  • Vesturbær is a charming spot located right by the sea. It's a quieter and more laid back option, but still only 30 minutes walk away from the city centre.

By international standards, Reykjavík is a tiny capital, but it has all the accoutrements that you'd expect from a major city. An excellent National Museum, several world-class art and design museums, a very cosmopolitan restaurant and cafe culture and a music and nightlife scene that many larger capitals envy.

You’ll not experience all Reykjavík has to offer if you miss out trying some new cuisine in one of the myriad of restaurants. Even if you feel you are past your clubbing prime, to experience Reykjavík properly at least dip a toe into the nightlife here, whether that means dancing ‘til dawn or just seeing some late night live music. And you can always recover, like the locals, in one of the geothermal pools.

Reykjavík is an amazing place to come for a mini-break, there’s really a lot to see here. So if you only have a few days you’ll be sure to want to come back. Soon. Don't forget this is a popular year round destination, so if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Reykjavik get organised and book early.

The best places to stay in Reykjavik

Mioborg

  • The sleek and swish Sand Hotel enjoys a wonderfully central location. Boasting minimalist accommodation and a splendid restaurant, it's a great all-round pick.

  • Reykjavík’s 101 Hotel is a superb boutique hotel with minimalist decor in its 38 rooms and suites. Expect black and white furnishings, big bathtubs and balconies, plus a lively bar, an excellent spa and a very stylish restaurant.

  • The Centrehotel Thingholt is a contemporary hotel with an award-winning spa and 52 rooms and suites decorated mostly in white. There are stand-alone bathtubs and a state-of-the-art spa, plus a bistro and bar.

  • The Hotel Borg is a gorgeous Art Deco hotel with sophisticated accommodation. Expect cream leather furnishings against dark wood and marble floors, plus an excellent restaurant and plenty of character. You’re also perfectly located in the heart of town.
  • Stylish Ion City Hotel offers contemporary rooms and suites with colourful modern furniture, parquet flooring, Egyptian cotton linens and fabulous sea or city views.
  • The Kvosin Downtown Hotel is a beautiful property in the historic centre offering spacious scandi-chic suites. Near the parliament and the Old Downtown Church it's ideal for exploring the city.

Laugardaler

  • The Grand Hotel Reykjavík is an environmentally friendly, four-star hotel with great city views and light, spacious, modern rooms.
  • If you want a contemporary five-star hotel, you don't need to look much beyond the Hilton Reykjavik Nordica. Featuring swish suites, an excellent seafood restaurant and great views of the city, it's an ideal launchpad for a weekend in the capital.

Vesturbær

  • The Reykjavík Marina Hotel is a hip hotel in a landmark building overlooking Reykjavík’s marina, which is a pretty trendy part of town. There are 147 contemporary rooms and suites - some with floor-to-ceiling glass walls overlooking the marina. There’s also a lively bar and restaurant.

For an Apartment

  • For a self-catering option, browse through the extensive options at our online partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • International flights land at Keflavik, 23 miles away from Reykjavik. From there, take the Flybus into the centre of the city.
  • A car gives you a great chance to explore Reykjavik and beyond, so visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best options and prices.
  • Warm summers and midnight sun make the summer (May to August) a pretty unforgettable time to visit. If you're in search of the Northern Lights, the best time is either February to March or September to October.

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The best hotels in Reykjavik

Grand Hotel Reykjavik

Reykjavik (105 REYKJAVÍK)

Environmentally-friendly four star hotel in Iceland's capital Rekyjavik with great views across the city. Range of light, spacious and modern rooms and suites available including family friendly options. Free shuttle services to city centre, and free entry to Botanic Gardens. For a slick city stay.

  • Sights nearby - Botanical Gardens, Reykjavik Art Museum - free bus shuttle service to city centre
  • Views
  • Local markets
  • Back to Nature
from $207 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Centerhotel Thingholt

Reykjavik

Contemporary hotel with an award-winning spa. Rooms and suites decorated all in white with cow skin throws. Large comfy beds and stand alone bath tubs. State of the art spa, a bistro and bar. A stylish spot.

  • Spa breaks - Award-winning spa.
  • City Style
  • Local markets
  • Kayaking
from $174 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Eyja Guldsmeden

Reykjavik

An eco-chic hotel on Reykjavík's trendiest street. Balinese elegance meets Nordic cool, crafting an ambience of sophisticated tranquility with its four-poster beds and organic flourishes. This spot boasts a vibrant restaurant, a cosy bar, a 24-hour gym, and bike rentals to explore the city.

  • Local exploring - Explore Reykjavík's cultural gems, from Hallgrímskirkja to Harpa, all within easy reach
  • Designer Shopping - Wake up to Esja's majestic views before exploring Laugavegur's bustling shops
  • Active Holiday - With bike hire and a 24-hour gym, it's perfect for the active adventurer
  • Museums - Dive into Icelandic culture at countless nearby museums and galleries
from $211 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
101 Hotel

Reykjavik

A superb boutique hotel that combines high design with sophisticate minimalism. Simple rooms and suites have clean lines with wooden floors, black and white furnishings, bath tubs and balconies. Lively restaurant and bar, excellent spa, and family friendly. Very stylish.

  • City Style
  • Restaurant - Modern Icelandic and international cuisine
  • Sights nearby - Located in the centre of Reykjavik
  • Designer
from $228 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Sand Hotel

Reykjavik

Warm, comfortable hotel perched on Reykjavik's vibrant Laugavegur shopping street. The decor nods to Iceland's artistic legacy, blending modern comforts with treasures of Icelandic design. There's a simple restaurant on the ground floor and the allure of a cult bakery right next door. A great stay.

  • Great walks - Embrace Reykjavík's vibrant arts scene with a leisurely walk to discover stunning street murals that colour the city
  • Sights nearby - Nearby, the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church stands as a beacon of Icelandic spirituality and architecture
  • Romantic Break - Steps from Hallgrímskirkja, its terrace offers romantic city vistas for unforgettable moments
  • Short break - Shop till you drop on Laugavegur, then unwind in city-view rooms with all the luxuries
from $233 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hilton Reykjavik Nordica

Reykjavik

A chic hotel just outside of Reykjavic's downtown. It features a range of chic rooms and suites with wooden floors, excellent views and en suites. Eating at the delicious 5* VOX gourmet restaurant (specialising in regional seafood dishes) is a must! An upmarket and professional spot for a city stay.

  • Business meetings - Its location in Reykjavic's business district and on site meeting rooms make this the perfect choice for a business trip
  • Total relaxation - Unwind in their extensive spa facilities which include two steam baths, a relaxation pool and two aroma steam rooms
  • Local exploring - Situated in a prime central location for a spot of city exploring
  • Sights nearby - Plenty of local sights to explore whether that be Laugardalsholl Stadium, the Pearl building or the Kjarvalsstadir Art Museum
from $199 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Exeter Hotel

Reykjavik

A 4-star urban oasis, a short stroll from the Old Harbour and Reykjavík’s vibrant city centre. Scandinavian chic meets industrial sleek, creating a vibe that's as stylish as it is welcoming. With a fitness centre, courtyard, lively bar, and a sauna, it has everything for the modern traveller.

  • Sights nearby - Capture the essence of Iceland with a visit to Hallgrímskirkja Church, an iconic symbol of Reykjavik's skyline
  • Groups - With a shared lounge and rooms with sea views, it's an ideal spot for groups seeking a cosy Reykjavik retreat
  • Local exploring - A stone's throw from Reykjavik's Old Harbour, it's perfect for adventurers keen to dive into the city's heart
  • Kayaking - Embark on a kayaking adventure nearby, paddling through the serene waters that mirror Reykjavik
from $265 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Apotek Hotel

Reykjavik

A stylish boutique hotel set in a grand historic building in central Reykjavik. Vast rooms and suites boast parquet floors, large sash windows, and luxurious contemporary bathrooms with enormous rain showers. There's a chic restaurant and bar and nice touches like guided city walks and spa access.

  • Total relaxation - The luxurious Borg Spa includes hot tubs, steam baths, and relaxation areas, making it an ideal place to unwind and recharge
  • Sights nearby - Rent a car to chase waterfalls, traverse volcanic landscapes, and be mesmerised by the Northern Lights
  • Local exploring - Ideally located in the heart of Reykjavik (Austurvöllur Square) for accessing the best of the city
  • Historic - Apotek House was built by Iceland's renowned architect Guðjón Samúelsson in 1917
from $224 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Kvosin Downtown Hotel

Reykjavik

A beautiful hotel in the historic centre of Reykjavik offering spacious scandi-chic suites. Near the parliament and the Old Downtown Church; ideal for exploring the city. There is a bar, organised tours and the rooms have kitchenettes, balconies and artworks by local artists.

  • Active Holiday - Whether you're climbing glaciers, spotting whales or touring the innards of volcanoes, this hotel has got it covered.
  • Sailing - Take a boat excursion in search of whales and puffins.
  • Sights nearby - Book a guided tour to the Northern Lights.
  • Designer
from $256 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Borg

Reykjavik

A gorgeous Art Deco hotel with sophisticated interiors. Rooms and suites have cream leather furnishings, dark wood furniture and marble floors. An excellent restaurant serves traditional cuisine. A characterful spot in the city centre.

  • City Style
  • Foodies
  • Designer - Phillippe Starck fittings in the bathrooms
  • Sights nearby - Viking Settlement Museum.
from $257 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Reykjavik Marina Hotel

Reykjavik

A hip hotel in a landmark building overlooking the marina. Contemporary rooms, the best of which have floor-to-ceiling glass walls with fantastic marina views. A lively bar and restaurant. Located in a trendy part of town with plenty of restaurants and shops. A chic choice for a city crash-pad.

  • City Style - A trendy hotel overlooking the marina with a young vibe and a lively bar and restaurant.
  • Sights nearby - A 10 minute walk from the Harpa Concert Hall.
  • Views
  • Restaurant
from $266 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Ion City Hotel

Reykjavik

Stylish hotel in Reykjavik offering contemporary rooms and suites with colourful modern furniture, parquet flooring, Egyptian cotton linens and fabulous sea or city views.There is a restaurant, bar, sauna and gym. Ideal for exploring the city, surrounded by museums and sights.

  • Local exploring - In walking distance of two museums, an art gallery and a number of picturesque Icelandic churches.
  • Sights nearby - Only 550 yards from the Hallgrimskirkja Church.
  • Designer
  • Seaside
from $299 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Reykjavik EDITION

Reykjavik

A sleek escape in downtown Reykjavík, just steps from the Old Harbour. The stylish, contemporary design blends Icelandic minimalism with luxury. Guests can enjoy dining with waterfront views, a chic bar, and a well-equipped spa. Perfect for those seeking comfort and culture in Iceland's capital.

  • Other Activities - Capture the magic of the Northern Lights during the winter solstice, a breathtaking natural phenomenon visible from Reykjavik
  • Romantic Break - Elevate your romantic getaway with luxurious suites, offering stunning views of Mt. Esja and Snæfellsjökull glacier
  • Designer Shopping - Explore Laugavegur Street, Reykjavik's vibrant shopping hub, and discover unique Icelandic fashion, art, and cuisine
  • Spa breaks - Indulge in a rejuvenating spa break with views of Reykjavik’s Old Harbour and easy access to the Blue Lagoon
from $436 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia