Reykjavik Hotels

Named after its postcode, the 101 is one of Reykjavik’s coolest hotels and is a stylish affair with the emphasis very much on design (something of a national obsession). Good use is made of steel and glass, while judicious use of textured fabrics prevents it from becoming too post-industrial. The downstairs area doubles as an art gallery.

A Reykjavik institution, the grand Hotel Borg overlooks Austurvöllur and the Parliament building on the other side. Inside, rooms are comfortable and well appointed, while the split-level Tower Suite has proved a hit with visiting VIPs. Downstairs, it boasts its own gourmet restaurant, Silfur, which serves top-notch French fare.

Set inside an old chemists, Apotek is one of the new additions to Reykjavik’s stable of boutique hotels – and one of the nicest. Centrally located, inside it is a slice of classic Scandinavian cool with chic grey walls, thick woven blankets and quirky artwork. It also has an excellent restaurant situated in what was once a storeroom.

Located a 20-minute walk from the city centre, close to the domestic airport, Hotel Reykjavik Naturais is run by national carrier Icelandair. A short stroll from the Perlan complex, it is good for nature fans with biking, running and walking paths and a nearby geothermal beach. Inside, rooms are comfortable and there’s an onsite spa.

Good for anyone in search of a quieter stay, the Hilton Reykjavik Nordica sits 10 minutes from the city centre, close to the botanic gardens. Decked out in white and grey, the 284-room hotel is huge but boasts a soothing Scandinavian ambience. Along with the Vox restaurant, it also has an onsite spa.

One of the newer hotels in Reykjavik, the Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel is housed in the former offices of an old Icelandic shipping line. It has been meticulously refurbished with urbane minimalist chic, so sleek dark wood furnishings cut a fashionable jib against the tastefully off-white décor. Outside it’s officious, inside it’s delicious.

This Guesthouse is unique because it is in a private home with a large outdoor swimming pool. Located very close to the geothermal pool and about a 20 minute walk or 5 minute drive to down town. Breakfast included, free wi-fi, and with a gym and free parking on campus, this is a delightful location for a comfortable stay.

With its bright blue facade, you can't miss Hotel Fron. When the runtur (pub crawl) gets underway at the weekend, a couple of rooms at the front might get a bit noisy, but most of the rooms are remarkably quiet. It’s an excellent choice for leisure travellers wanting a central location at a reasonable price.

Just behind Hallgrimskirkja, this guesthouse in the heart of the old town is within easy walking distance of the major attractions, shops and restaurants. The rooms are basic but clean, and the buffet breakfast is included in the rate. Accommodation options range from rooms with shared facilities to studios and apartments.

It might not have much in the way of frills, but what Hotel Cabin lacks in decorative flourishes, it more than makes up in convenience and charm. That’s not to say that the rooms are unappealing. Most are comfortable and well-appointed, with huge beds and single Scandinavian-style pillows.