Top places to stay in Reykjavík, Iceland.
Reykjavík is where the air feels sharper, cleaner, almost electrically alive, where the landscape hums beneath everything, where color and quiet coexist in a way that feels surreal, and where you realize within hours that this little northern city carries more soul than most capitals ten times its size.
The charm begins in its contrasts. Bright, cheerful houses line streets framed by volcanic mountains. Steam rises from natural hot water grates. The ocean is always in view, dark and glassy, reflecting skies that change mood every fifteen minutes. Reykjavík invites you into its rhythm slowly: morning walks with cold air brushing your face, the smell of baked bread drifting from cafés, locals wrapped in wool sweaters sipping coffee like it's a daily ritual of grounding. Despite its small footprint, the city pulses with creativity, galleries, artisan shops, design studios, music rolling out of tiny venues, and a food scene far richer than you anticipate this close to the Arctic Circle. But it's the energy beneath the city that's unforgettable: geothermal warmth that feeds pools and spas, clean air that feels almost medicinal, and a sense of calm that settles under your skin. Nights glow softly with streetlight reflections on wet pavement; winter skies shimmer with the possibility of northern lights; summer evenings stretch into almost-endless twilight. Reykjavík isn't loud about its beauty, it simply lets you feel it, in slow and steady waves.
Foresyte Travel's top five choices.
5. Sand Hotel by Keahotels
Located on Laugavegur, Sand Hotel offers boutique refinement with a strong sense of place. Curated interiors and central positioning sustain its premium status. It's intimate, cultured, and distinctly Reykjavik.
4. Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre
While more contemporary than traditional luxury, Canopy commands strong pricing through location and design-forward interiors. Spacious rooms and polished finishes elevate it above typical boutique stays. It's stylish, modern, and confidently upscale.
3. Tower Suites Reykjavík
Set high above the city skyline, Tower Suites offers ultra-private, panoramic luxury with only a handful of expansive suites. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame mountain and ocean views from every angle. It's intimate, exclusive, and unapologetically premium.
2. Hotel Borg by Keahotels
Overlooking Austurvöllur square, Hotel Borg blends Art Deco heritage with upscale comfort. Marble bathrooms and a refined spa elevate its historic presence. It's classic, central, and quietly prestigious.
1. The Reykjavik EDITION
Anchoring the Old Harbour waterfront, Reykjavik EDITION delivers contemporary luxury with sleek Nordic design. Harbor views, refined interiors, and elevated dining sustain its premium pricing. It's modern, polished, and firmly positioned at the top of Reykjavik's market.
Reykjavik Hotels FAQ.
What's the best area to stay in Reykjavík?
Downtown Reykjavík (Miðborg) is the ideal base, steps from Hallgrímskirkja, Laugavegur shopping street, and top restaurants. It's walkable, cozy, and full of local charm.
Are Reykjavík hotels expensive?
Yes, Reykjavík tends to be pricier than other cities, but you can still find deals at guesthouses or off-season stays. Many hotels include breakfast to offset costs.
Do Reykjavík hotels offer views of the Northern Lights?
Some do! Hotels on the outskirts or with rooftop access may give you a front-row seat, especially between October and March. Just ask the front desk for aurora wake-up calls.
Is it easy to get from Reykjavík hotels to Blue Lagoon?
Very, most hotels can book direct transfers, and many tour buses include hotel pickup. The drive takes about 45 minutes, making it a popular day trip.
Do Reykjavík hotels offer geothermal spa access?
Not all, but many include access to nearby pools or discounted passes to local spas. The city's public pools, like Laugardalslaug, are a must-experience.
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