The Best Hotels in Reykjavik

The best hotels in Reykjavik come in a variety of sizes and styles of accommodations. Some are owned by large international conglomerates, while others are quaint family-owned establishments. Pricing varies depending on where you book the hotel room. For example, if you book a vacation package through a tour company or airline, you will find the hotel pricing cheaper due to volume discounts that can be offered. If you show up at the hotel while on vacation, you will invariably pay a higher price. The rooms are quite modern with wireless internet access regardless of whether you are booking for business or pleasure. Almost all rooms have wonderful views, as the landscape in Iceland is spectacular.

When booking your hotel arrangements, if you need a double room, always inquire about the beds since most come with two single beds. Staff are only too happy, however, to provide a double bed instead when asked in advance. Likewise, ask about the inclusion of meals because some of the hotels do offer buffet breakfasts as part of their pricing. Although your budget will determine which hotel you choose, we have provided our list of the best hotels in Reykjavik.

One of the most architecturally unique hotels is 101 Hotel, owned by designer Ingibjörg S. Pálmadottir, a graduate of Parsons School of Design in New York. Decorated in grays, blacks and whites, this contemporary designed hotel includes local works of art, heated oak floors, walk-in showers, and a restaurant that boasts fancy gourmet fare alongside fast food.

The Hilton Reykjavik Nordica hotel offers four-star accommodations and the award winning Vox Restaurant. With views of the sea or mountains, guests may choose between simple but elegant rooms, executive rooms with in-suite office area, or suites overlooking Reykjavik Bay and Mount Esja. All have access to the internet and televisions.

Hotel Borg, another four-star establishment, was originally built in 1930 and restored in 2007. A combination of modern elements coupled with old-time charm make this hotel quite elegant. Restaurant Silfur only opened in 2006, but has already received numerous international accolades, and is recognized as one of the finest in the country.

Grand Hotel Reykjavík is the largest hotel in Iceland with just over three-hundred rooms. A new tower was built in 2007, as well as the Grand Spa. The hotel is known environmentally for being the first in the world to manage electro-magnetic pollution. All of the rooms have bath and shower, ironing boards and irons, hair dryers, satellite television, coffee and tea makers, and safes for your valuables.

Park Inn Island, although promotional material does state that it caters to both vacationers and business travelers alike, is perfect for families with children due to its proximity to several attractions including Laugardalur Park, Botanical Garden, and Family Park that has its own zoo. Guests are also granted free access to the swimming pools in Reykjavik. The hotel does encourage families to stay with its variety of special events and features for children.

Fosshotel Baron is the place to stay if you are interested in the famed Reykjavik nightlife and famous shopping on Laugavegur Street. Twenty-one of the rooms cater to historical themes, and are decorated from the time period 1890 - 1910. The standard rooms provide a view of the city or the ocean, and the hotel also offers business suites and apartments.

Incredibly, for the size of Reykjavik, there are so many hotels. What is really special about each of them is that they are probably all very nice, since cleanliness is extremely important in Iceland's accommodations, and they all boast magnificent views of the countryside.