Where to Book a Stay in Reykjavík, Iceland

The best hotels in Reykjavík offer art-filled spaces, jacuzzis and views of the Northern Lights
The best hotels in Reykjavík offer art-filled spaces, jacuzzis and views of the Northern Lights | © Maciej Krynica / Alamy Stock Photo
Ellie Ross

Sip a pint of Einstök alongside Reykjavík locals or catch the Northern Lights from your hot tub – these are the best places to stay in the capital of Iceland.

Wondering where to stay in Reykjavík for a visit that isn’t just run-of-the-mill? We’ve got you covered. This Nordic city teems with hotels, ideal for millennial travellers or eager returnees who want to see a different side of the capital. Rub shoulders with residents in a hip bar or warm up in the sauna at these Reykjavík hotels.

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Destinations Unlocked:

Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture trip

Looking for an expert's perspective?

Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
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CentralAmerica

GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

5 days . Mini
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1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

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CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

5 days . Mini
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2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
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CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

5 days . Mini
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3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
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SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
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1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

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SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

9 days . Epic
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2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
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Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

10 days . Epic
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1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

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Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

7 days . Culture
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2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
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Europe

COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

8 days . Culture
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3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
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Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

10 days . Epic
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1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

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Asia

THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

11 days . Epic
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2. Thailand

From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.
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Asia

SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

Secrets Of Sri Lanka By Train

10 days . Culture
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3. Sri Lanka

A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price
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Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

11 days . Epic
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1. Morocco

An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!

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Africa

ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

9 days . Epic
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2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
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Africa

IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

8 days . Epic
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3. Kenya

An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
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Hotel Holt

Boutique Hotel

Dining tables with tablecloths and cushioned chairs on tartan carpet in dining room with many large paintings at Hotel Holt
Courtesy of Hotel Holt / Expedia

Art lovers need look no further than Hotel Holt, home to the largest private collection of Icelandic art. Hundreds of works are on display throughout, including seascapes, stoneware reliefs and bronze sculptures. You can learn more on a twice-weekly art walk around the hotel. Choose between a simple single or double room or a suite. Downstairs, cosy up by the fireplace with a whiskey before dining on the hotel’s tasting menu with organic wines to match.

Hotel Borg by Keahotels

Chain Hotel, Spa Hotel

Several cushioned seats and benches by tables in a well-lit dining area at Hotel Borg by Keahotels
Courtesy of Hotel Borg by Keahotels / Expedia

Overlooking Austurvöllur square, this grand Art Deco hotel has long been a Reykjavík landmark. Rooms include bathrobes, slippers, Bluetooth speakers and Nespresso machines as standard. Upgrade to the Tower Suite for panoramic city views. Downstairs, Borg Spa is one of the best in the city. Unwind in the hot tub or sauna after a long day pounding the pavements.

Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel

Hotel

Many tables and chairs set for two and four people in spacious monochrome dining room at Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel
Courtesy of Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel / Expedia

Where to stay in Iceland for some boho chic? Try this quirky hotel, located in an ex-office building in Reykjavík’s quaint Holt area. The vibe is cool yet unpretentious – think exposed brick walls, graffiti-style art and industrial lighting. The hotel offers standard or superior single, double and triple rooms. Expect four-poster beds, parquet floors and organic toiletries. Look out the window for great views of the city and Mount Esja.

Alda Hotel Reykjavík

Hotel

Double bed in suite with vaulted ceiling, cushioned chair, flat-screen TV and wooden storage at Alda Hotel Reykjavik
Courtesy of Alda Hotel Reykjavík / Expedia

Hotel Alda is located at the quiet end of Laugavegur, Reykjavík’s main shopping street. It’s a perfect locale if you’re after a calm oasis, only a 15-minute walk from the city centre. The outdoor hot tub is a highlight – candlelit at night, it’s just the spot for catching the Aurora Borealis. The hotel also boasts a trendy barber, plus a brasserie.

CenterHotel Thingholt

Chain Hotel, Spa Hotel

Indoor jacuzzi with four large rocks beside it, and two small lanterns behind it at CenterHotel Thingholt
Courtesy of CenterHotel Thingholt / Expedia

This centrally located, cosmopolitan hotel offers 52 modern rooms, designed by Icelandic architect Gulla Jónsdóttir. Book the Junior Suite – you’ll gain complimentary access to the spa with its large hot tub and rainfall shower. Downstairs, join the locals at a live music night at the Jörgensen Kitchen & Bar. Alternatively, take the elevator to the eighth floor for killer harbour views from the SKY Restaurant. The hotel also organises tours, including glacier, diving and whale-watching trips.

41 – A Townhouse Hotel

Hotel

Double bed, leather sofa and armchair, kitchenette and large circular mirror in black-toned suite at 41 – A Townhouse Hotel
Courtesy of 41 – A Townhouse Hotel / Expedia

Located on Reykjavík’s main thoroughfare, Laugavegur, this luxurious apartment hotel offers all home comforts in a prime location. The decor is slick and sexy – think dark walls, low lighting and vintage touches like retro leather sofas and Marshall radios. Kitchens feature all mod-cons while living areas are decorated with modern art and have large windows overlooking the city.

Kvosin Downtown Hotel

Boutique Hotel

Close-up inside a room at Kvosin Downtown Hotel, with large double bed, two small bedside tables and two overhanging lamps
Courtesy of Kvosin Downtown Hotel / Expedia

Join locals at Aldamót, the lively hotel bar, which serves light dishes and quality wines. Happy hour is from 4pm to 7pm – the perfect excuse to sample signature cocktails and seasonal beers. Then, head upstairs to find plush bedding, thick blackout curtains and smart bathrooms with locally sourced organic toiletries in the rooms, which range from cosy doubles to family-friendly boltholes that sleep up to six.

101 Hotel

Boutique Hotel, Spa Hotel

A modern monochrome bedroom interior at 101 Hotel, Reykjavik, with a double bed and desk by the window
Courtesy of 101 Hotel / Expedia

This former office block in downtown Reykjavík has been transformed into a sleek, boutique hotel with minimalist rooms and bags of comfort. Expect bathrooms with underfloor heating, balconies with city views (in the larger rooms) and Bang & Olufsen speakers. The restaurant and bar attract Reykjavik’s residents – it features a glass ceiling and menu with everything from hamburgers to fine cuisine.

Hotel Óðinsvé

Hotel

Light-filled suite at Hotel Odinsve, with kitchen and breakfast bar, six-person dining table and sitting area with sofa and TV
Courtesy of Hotel Óðinsvé / Expedia

With 50 elegant rooms, a popular restaurant and a central location, Hotel Óðinsvé is a great base from which to explore the city. Rooms are individually designed – solo travellers will appreciate the single-bed boltholes, whilst there is plenty of room for kids to spread out in the two-bedroom family suites. Don’t miss the pancakes with Icelandic blueberries at Snaps, the on-site bistro.

Still considering where to stay in Reykjavík? Check out our pick of the best bed and breakfasts to book in Reykjavík. Alternatively, make a visit even more special with our exclusive five-day Iceland trip – perfect for exploring the country’s phenomenal scenery and much more.

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Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip

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HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?

2 years.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?

It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.

WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?

I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!

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Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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