Best Luxury Hotels in Iceland
Located in the heart of the North Atlantic, Iceland beckons with its otherworldly beauty, captivating culture, and a sense of untouched wilderness that evokes awe at every turn. From the mesmerising dance of the Northern Lights to the soothing warmth of geothermal springs at the Blue Lagoon, and the buzzing cultural and dining scene of Reykjavik, Iceland offers an exclusive experience that promises to leave an indelible mark on the discerning traveller’s soul.
Before you choose your favourite luxury hotel in Iceland, read on to learn a little more about this jewel of an emirate destination.
Why Visit: The land of geysers, hot springs, heavy metal, volcanic rock and Bjork makes for an exciting and adventurous holiday destination. With some lunar-like terrain, adrenaline-pumping activities, and plenty of alternative attractions, it has much to offer those of all ages and tastes. Reykjavik is one of the top city break destinations in the world, particularly for the discerning traveller, while further afield, visitors can explore stunning landscapes. The country has a reputation for being open-minded as well as environmentally conscious and its unusual architecture proffers some unique, luxurious, and eco-friendly places to stay.
Who Goes: Due to its remarkable diversity, Iceland caters to a wide spectrum of travellers. Whether your passions lie in nature, wildlife, street art, or luxury experiences, this destination offers something extraordinary for everyone. It’s also a popular destination for solo travellers too.
When to Visit: As there is so much to do and see no matter what time of year you visit there will be something that captivates you. For outdoor adventures, the best time to visit Iceland is between June and August when the weather is at its warmest and the midnight sun emerges. If you’re seeking a glimpse of the spectacular Aurora Borealis, AKA the Northern Lights, then the darker winter months are the time to go.
How to Get There: Keflavik is the main international airport, and the arrival point for most international travellers to Iceland. It offers meet-and-greet services and a private airport lounge.
Private jets can fly into Keflavik or Reykjavik City Airport, which is the main domestic airport in Iceland.
In the Know: For a spot of whale watching visit Akureyri, it’s said to be the best place to see these majestic marine mammals and is known as Iceland’s capital of the Nort, it’s a great city in which to spend a couple of days.
Hotel Selection: The hotels we showcase in this collection have been selected by our editors, contributors, or trusted locals based on personal experience or credible recommendations. From the renowned international resorts to the lesser-known boutiques, each hotel must excel in service, design and facilities.
Reykjavik Greater Region, Reykjavík, Downtown
Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
(4 stars)This former department store (previously owned by Consul Thomsen’s family) dates back to the turn of the 20th century and bears a vintage style. This is paired with a cool Icelandic design and exposed original stone walls in some areas. Inside you’ll find a sauna and whirlpool, a fitness centre and the all-day restaurant, the Konsulat Wine Room. Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel is found beside Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dogs ( a very popular street food source), a stroll away from the day-tour bus stops and Harpa Concert Hall.
Reykjavik Greater Region, Reykjavík, Laugavegur
Sand Hotel by Keahotels
(4 stars)This is a new boutique hotel right in the middle of Reykjavik. Its strategic location offers the guests the pleasure of enjoying the lively Reykjavik cultural life. You will find numerous Icelandic natural marvels nearby when you choose to stay at the Sandhotel. They have decorated their rooms with a combination of art designs that explain the history of the surroundings and contemporary artwork that sets each room apart. The rooms are designed with only the guests’ comfort in mind. You will have some of the best moments when you spend a night or two there.
Reykjavik Greater Region, Reykjavík, Laugavegur
Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre
(4 stars)The upscale Hilton chain has you covered on a trip to the heart of the capital at the Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik. The building was once a furniture factory, music and arts venue, repurposed across six interconnected areas forming this eclectic approach to hospitality. Guests are invited to peruse Canopy’s vinyl collection and take a portable record player back to one of their 112 rooms – a selection of which are fully accessible. Pet-friendly and 100% smoke-free, this isn’t the place to stay if you’re a smoker, but a literal breath of fresh air if you’re not. It’s also home to several dining options, including Geiri Smart, an exclusive restaurant, where chefs prepare food based on the farmers and fishers’ offers of the day.
South Iceland, Skogar
Umi Hotel
(4 stars)One of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Iceland is the backdrop to the UMI hotel. The hotel presents bare-foot luxury at its best and is rooted with a deep connection to nature that flows throughout the design, décor and overall experience of the hotel with only 28 simple yet stylish rooms, offering mountain or ocean views, guests will never feel over-crowded. Stunning vistas can also be enjoyed from the hotel’s top-class restaurant which serves Nordic and Icelandic cuisine with a Japanese twist in a warm and welcoming atmosphere and the lounge and bar is the ideal spot to take in panoramas of Eyjafjallajökull, the famous subglacial volcano. For guests wishing to enjoy more than the beautiful views, many action-packed activities such as glacier hikes, kayaking and ice-cave adventures can easily be arranged by the team at the hotel. For those who love nature and adventure, this is the hotel for you!