Reykjavik is a city always on the rise, combining a unique, laid-back vibe with a love of partying and a very sharp sense of style – which shines through in its trendy, design-forward hotels. From my time spent exploring, and from quirky boutiques to Insta-worthy stays, here are my favorite spots in town…
1. Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel
This romantic 4-star boutique gem – part of the Guldsmeden eco-hotel chain – totally charmed me, the decor was an exceptional mix of Nordic minimalism and Balinese-inspired warmth, creating a space that felt both elegant and incredibly cozy.
With reclaimed wood, retro-modern furniture, and eco-friendly accents, to me the space felt instantly cozy and very ‘hygge’ – like a warm, stylish retreat!
My guest room (a standard sized double) was compact but cleverly designed and beautifully decorated with a gorgeous four-poster bed, wooden floors, the hotel’s very own organic toiletries, and the really stunning views of Esja mountain, which was my favorite feature!
I also stumbled an on-site restaurant offering local, organic dishes with plenty of veggie and vegan options, a welcoming bar, a modern fitness center, and bike rentals which were perfect for exploring the area.
I loved that it was tucked into one of the city’s most vibrant central neighborhoods, just a block from buzzing Laugavegur Street, where I enjoyed browsing indie boutiques, cozy cafés, and cool art galleries.
My favorite highlights…
- I especially loved curling up with a comforting Hibiscus & Rosehip Tea in the plant-filled lobby after a breezy cycle around the nearby harbor – it was the perfect way to unwind!
Address: Brautarholt 10, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland
I was really won over by this sleek and modern large design 5-star hotel! I thought it had a sophisticated yet inviting vibe, combining modern minimalism with Nordic influences. I found clean lines, warm wood accents, muted tones, and expansive windows showcased gorgeous coastal and mountain views, which I thought created a space that felt both stylish and cozy!
My room (a standard King) came with retro-modern furniture, hardwood floors and floor-to-ceiling windows with a gorgeous view of the harbour.
I loved that the hotel felt like a destination on its own. Tides restaurant, led by Iceland’s first Michelin-star Chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason, is celebrated for its modern Icelandic cuisine. The spa was another highlight for me and it featured Icelandic-inspired treatments and a cutting-edge fitness centre!
I found a chic rooftop bar which had superb city and harbour views, the TÖLT bar, and the lobby bar which served carefully crafted cocktails and snacks and the Tides Cafe had delicious coffee, baked goods and to-go meals.
I also thought the downtown location was fantastic and it was located near the old harbor, the vibrant city life at Laugavegur Street and the Harpa Concert and Conference Center.
My personal highlights…
- I loved unwinding in true Icelandic style in their mineral-rich geothermal plunge pool – it felt invigorating and very relaxing at the same time!
Address: Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík
3. CenterHotel Thingholt
Staying at this chic and creative hotel was a great choice! I thought it had a cozy, and cocoon-like vibe and combined dark tones, natural materials, and touches of local art to creative a striking boutique haven featuring black and white rugs and reclaimed wood furnishings.
My guest room (a Deluxe Double) came with a huge comfy double bed, a striking monochrome design, retro-modern furniture, large window and art prints.
I also found a relaxing modern spa which came complete with a sauna, hot tub, and steam room, a stylish and cozy bar and lounge area, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast buffet (Icelandic style)!
The location was really awesome too, it placed me right in the centre in the center of the city within walking distance of lively bars, nightclubs and excellent restaurants!
My highlights…
- I loved how helpful the staff were with guests trying to spot the Northern Lights, I was offered a wake-up call when the lights were visible outside and they sounded a bell in there too!
Address: Þingholtsstræti 5, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
I thought this was a chic new small boutique hotel! I discovered a laid-back yet stylish atmosphere with Scandinavian-inspired design and warm, earthy tones with custom-made furniture, hardwood parquet floors and modern art. It had a similar sense of style to its big sister hotel – the Eyja Guldsmeden which was located just around the corner!
My guest room (a Standard Double) came with a design, modern design with soft tones, a wooden four poster bed, Varmi organic toiletries, a large rainfall shower and a beautiful granite stone sink (my favorite design feature)!
I found the other amenities included a cozy lounge area, an inviting bar which served up both Icelandic and international drinks, a superb French-inspired restaurant and daily buffet breakfast made from locally sourced ingredients (I especially loved this)!
It also had a great central location which placed me right on Laugavegur Street, the city’s main shopping and dining hub. The Sofar Sun Voyager and the Hallgrimskirkja Church were also just around the corner!
My highlights…
- Dining in their romantic onsite Bon Restaurant – I thought the chunky Truffle Fries and their sweet (but not too sweet!) Apple Tarte Tatin dessert were just divine!
5. Grandi by Center Hotels
I thought this was a gorgeous and eclectic spot! It has an upbeat and trendy urban vibe with a modern industrial-chic design with playful Icelandic and retro accents. Inside I found bold colors, sleek lines, and raw materials like exposed concrete and metal and local artwork.
My guest room (a standard double) was spacious with lashings of wood, colourful retro-modern furniture, a large double bed with crisp white linens and a private bathroom complete with a soaking bath.
I also found a modern spa with communal hot tubs, a sauna, and cozy spaces for relaxation. There was a welcoming bar and lounge area perfect for mingling with other guests, a stylish restaurant serving Icelandic-inspired dishes, and a coffee shop offering freshly brewed coffee and pastries – everything set up to feel both vibrant and comfortable!
I really liked its location in Grandi Harbor District. The scenic waterfront views were beautiful and it was great to be within walking distance of trendy restaurants, local art galleries, and excellent restaurants.
My favourite highlights…
- Going for a relaxing anti-aging facial in their atmospheric onsite spa which was adorned with cozy fireplaces – I loved the innovative peel-off biphasic mask (which left my skin feeling very soft!) which was part of the treatment.
6. Center Hotels Laugavegur
Here I discovered a stylish retro-modern retreat! It had a sophisticated yet welcoming vibe with a sleek, contemporary design inspired by Scandinavian minimalism. I saw clean lines, soft lighting, cozy fireplaces, and earthy tones, which was really enhanced by cool original photography.
My guest room (a deluxe corner room) came with a trendy monochrome design, floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony with city views, a retro swing chair (which I loved!) and a modern bathroom with eco-friendly toiletries.
Walking around I also found a cozy lounge bar serving Icelandic-inspired cocktails, as well as several dining options on-site. Lóa Restaurant featured a diverse menu with Icelandic and international dishes, while the Street Food Station offered tasty global street foods. Each morning, I dined on a tasty Icelandic-style buffet breakfast which used locally sourced ingredients.
It also had a great location on the main shopping and dining street near vibrant cafes, boutiques, lively bars and nightlife and I was within an easy walking distance of Harpa Concert Hall and Hallgrímskirkja Church.
My personal highlights…
- I loved how helpful the staff were! One morning, I had to leave early for a tour, and they thoughtfully packed a breakfast for me to take on the go – it was such a nice, personal touch!
Address: 95-99 Laugavegur 95 – 99, 101 Reykjavík
7. Reykjavik Marina Hotel
I really liked this quirky medium-sized hotel! I discovered a laid-back yet contemporary vibe with a playful, nautical-inspired design that perfectly reflected its harbor-side location.
The style blended industrial-chic elements with vibrant colors, modern art, and unique maritime touches like ship ropes, boat-themed furniture, and exposed wood and metal details – creating a fun and stylish atmosphere which I loved!
My guest room came with a comfy double bed, a trendy modern design with playful prints, retro-modern furniture, hardwood floors and a private balcony with gorgeous harbour views!
I saw that the café, bar, and trendy industrial-style restaurant were the social hubs and came with cuddle-up cozy seating, quirky design features, and roaring log fires all overlooking the surrounding sea and mountains.
I loved its location in the Old Harbor for its stunning waterfront views and because it was within walking distance of all the popular attractions, cafes, and cultural hotspots.
My highlights…
- I loved how my shower was naturally heated by natural geothermal energy! The water felt smooth, almost velvety with a faint mineral scent which reminded me of natural hot springs!
Address: Myrargata 2, Vesturbær, 101 Reykjavík
8. Oddsson Hotel
As well as being trendy, I thought this was a fun and playful mid-range spot! It had youthful and creative vibe with colorful retro-modern design and lots of quirky design details. From the large bronze palm trees in the lobby to the retro table football game (and chess board) I found everything there was a little unexpected but in a good way – I loved how it danced to its own tune!
My room (a superior double) came with a funky retro-inspired design, wooden parquet floors, soundproofing (I had a blissfully peaceful sleep!), city views and a modern bathroom complete with a glass-encased rain shower.
There was no onsite restaurant but I dined on a delicious warm buffet breakfast every morning, bike tours were also available.
I personally thought the location was great – it was nestled near the city’s waterfront within easy reach of lively bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a perfect base for exploring both the local scene and Iceland’s stunning landscapes.
My personal highlights…
- I absolutely loved the “Make Your Own Waffle” station at breakfast! The fluffy Belgian-style waffles were perfect for piling on all kinds of tasty toppings. My favourites were the homemade lingonberry jam and the Icelandic caramel syrup – both are local specialties and added an amazing flavour twist!
Address: Grensásvegur 16a, 108 Reykjavík
9. 101 Hotel
This was once awarded the title of ‘Leading Boutique Hotel in the World’! I found the vibe was upscale and artfully cool, with chic, minimalist design with Scandinavian influences, with monochrome palette, polished black leather seating, oversized glass windows, custom Icelandic artwork and furniture and cozy natural rugs.
My hypoallergenic guest room featured silver-clawed freestanding bath, blanched-oak floors, rows of crisp white warmed towels, plush bathrobes, organic Aveda toiletries, a patio with sea views, BOSE bluetooth speakers, soundproofing and underfloor heating (which was very welcoming)!
Walking around I found it had its own on-site art gallery, modern gym, a well-regarded trendy restaurant, a buffet breakfast (although this was an additional fee) a cozy bar serving creative cocktails and a fabulous spa complete with a hot tub, sauna and steam room.
It was located in the heart of all the action in downtown, next to lively bars, nightclubs and trendy restaurants and art galleries.
- To book, check prices or availability for 101 Hotel
My personal highlights…
- Brunching on local specialties at their stylish Kastrup restaurant was a treat! I finally got to try pickled herrings – with a twist. They were curried here, which added an unexpected and delicious kick to the classic dish!
Address: Hverfisgata 10, 101 Reykjavík
10. Exeter Hotel by Keahotels
I thought this medium sized hotel was both cozy and modern! I found that it had a stylish and welcoming vibe with a trendy industrial-chic style with Icelandic design elements – exposed grey concrete, reclaimed wood accents, large factory-style windows, and cozy textiles.
My guest room (an Urban Double) featured dark hardwood floors, retro-modern furniture, a view of the inner courtyard, a plush bathrobe, modern art, and a smart TV.
I also found a stylish restaurant with Icelandic-inspired dishes, a cozy bar offering cocktails and locally crafted beer, a trendy bakery selling fresh pastries and coffee, as well as bike rentals, an onsite sauna, and a modern gym – everything I needed for a comfortable stay!
It had a lively location in Grandi Harbor District, just steps from the Old Harbor and I was also within walking distance of the famous Harpa Concert Hall, the Sun Voyager sculpture, and downtown’s buzzing shopping and dining scene.
My highlights…
- The divine house-made sourdough bread from their adorable onsite bakery which was freshly baked to perfection! It was served warm with a sprinkle of sea salt, fresh herbs, and a side of tangy pickled vegetables – a treat I kept going back for!
Address: Tryggvagata 12, 101 Reykjavík
11. Tower Suites
I thought the exclusive accommodation, with its unique twist, offered a one-of-a-kind experience that truly set it apart from a standard stay! It consisted of only eight high-design penthouse suites on the 20th floor of a glass tower and each had gorgeous panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
I discovered it was an intimate and high-end experience with a superb chic design and hardwood parquet floors, high-end marble accents, and cozy Icelandic textiles.
My hypoallergenic suite featured floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking mountain and sea views, a large bathtub, soundproofing, and thoughtful amenities like a well-stocked honesty mini-bar, an iPad, an Nespresso coffee maker, Apple TV, and walk-in wardrobes. Breakfast was served right to my suite each morning which was a luxurious start to my day!
It was located in the bustling business district, and I saw fantastic ocean views along with easy access to excellent dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.
My personal highlights…
- The thoughtful touches – I loved how I was greeted with a glass of champagne at reception and then taken to my suite by the friendly staff. I also really appreciated the long, extending telescope and how my bathtub faced the windows so I could gaze at the gorgeous views – it made it an extra-special experience!
Address: Katrínartún 2, 105 Reykjavík
12. Canopy by Hilton City Centre
I thought this was a funky gem of a place! I found the atmosphere sociable and immersive, with the vibe of a true lifestyle hotel. The design really wowed me – contemporary and urban with a blend of Scandi-chic and retro flair. Warm wood accents, local artwork, and fun splashes of color gave it a stylish yet welcoming feel!
My room had plush bedding, hardwood floors, trendy Nordic furniture and an industrial-chic bathroom complete with matching bathrobes, floor-to-ceiling windows and a coffee machine.
Each morning, I enjoyed a delicious Icelandic artisanal breakfast buffet, and in the evenings, the exclusive onsite restaurant served creative, seasonal dishes based on fresh local ingredients, accompanied by cold-climate wines and handcrafted cocktails. I thought the bike rental service and modern gym were also super convenient as it made it easy to stay active and explore!
It was also located in the heart of the city centre close to popular attractions, excellent dining options, and buzzy bars and nightlife.
Address: Smidjustigur 4, 101 Reykjavík
My personal highlights…
- Feeling like a local in the stylish bar while sipping on very strong Icelandic Mule (which the barman told me was made with brennivín – Icelandic vodka!) and eating freshly baked rye bread garnished with sea salt!
13. Kvosin Downtown Hotel
I found that tradition met culture in this gorgeous boutique! It felt stylish but with a homely, welcoming vibe and the design was very charming with a Nordic-inspired design featuring warm wood accents, soft lighting, and retro patterns.
My guest room, called a ‘Big Room,’ featured beautiful wooden parquet floors, an oversized double bed with a classic wooden frame, trendy retro-modern furniture, and an industrial-chic bathroom. The room also included a convenient kitchenette, complete with a fridge, cooking hobs, and a Nespresso coffee machine – it was perfect for a comfortable and flexible stay!
I was a big fan of their cool industrial-chic wine bar which had ambient lighting, and the tasty continental breakfast which used locally sourced ingredients (although it wasn’t included in the room rate sadly).
I also really enjoyed its historic centre location as I was close to the Parliament, Harpa Concert Hall, and excellent local dining and shopping spots.
My favourite highlights…
- Their award-winning concierge team – as well as being incredibly welcoming they also helped me book discounted tours to the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle and gave me local restaurant recommendations (one was for Apotek Restaurant which turned out to bc an awesome suggestion)!
14. OK Hotel
In my opinion, the OK Hotel was much more than just OK! This quirky, budget-friendly option offered eco-friendly, self-catering apartments with a wonderfully eclectic design. I found the decor combined vintage furniture, vibrant colors, and creative touches like exposed brick, urban art, and unique antique finds, which created a fun and stylish space with lots of character!
My mini-apartment had decor which was truly a feast for the eyes with a heady mix of vintage furniture, recycled materials and local art plastered and old newspapers plastered all over the walls! There was also a mini-kitchen, a flat-screen TVs and bluetooth speakers.
Located in a fantastic central spot along Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main social hub, I also found great amenities such as a variety of delicious Korean dishes at the K-bar, BBQ facilities, bike rentals, and a concierge who was eager to help me arrange tours!
- To book, check prices or availability of OK Hotel
My favorite highlights…
- I loved the playful attention to detail this place had – I even found an old acoustic guitar tucked away in the corner of my apartment!
15. Kex Hostel
This place is a much-loved city institution! I thought the vibe here was like a cross between a hostel and a budget boutique hotel – it was buzzy, fun, and super sociable, with a bold, eye-catching design! I was instantly transported into a boho-retro world filled with vintage finds, exposed concrete, second-hand books, and reclaimed wood!
My guest room was compact with a shared bathroom (it is a budget-friendly option, after all!), but I loved the hipster-friendly styling. It had vintage decor, interesting art on the walls, retro furniture, and even board games and puzzles – a quirky personal touch that I l really made use of!
I also stumbled across a heated outdoor patio, an on-site vintage-style barbershop, an old-school gym, and a cozy café serving home-baked biscuits. With a communal kitchen and regular events like music, comedy, karaoke, and open-mic nights, it was honestly very hard to leave!
- To book, check prices or availability for Kex Hostel
My personal highlights…
- The incredible retro details which made it really stand out – I loved spotting the authentic barber’s chair from 1933 and the retro boxing gloves in the gym. It felt like a true artistic haven!
