The Best Hotels in Iceland, From Rural Lodges to Reykjavik Boutiques

It’s no secret by now that Iceland is one of the world’s greatest destinations. First-time visitors drive jaws agape around the Ring Road, marveling at the primal landscapes being molded in front of their eyes, ancient to us but younger than most other countries on Earth. Repeat visitors delve into the hidden corners of the country, immersing themselves in the small towns that cling to precarious coastlines, undertaking epic multi-day treks, and discovering that every fjord, valley, and mountain holds something wondrous.

What is universal for everyone visiting this island in the North Atlantic is the feeling of awe that journeys through the country bring about. With such drama and adventure on the outside, the hotels sprinkled across the country are suitably relaxed and luxurious, offering peaceful refuges from the elements. From cushy country lodges to sophisticated Scandinavian hideaways, these are the best hotels in Iceland.

Kvosin Downtown Hotel

Located inside a historic building in the middle of downtown Reykjavik, Kvosin Hotel is a charismatic boutique property with fantastic apartment suites. It’s a hotel that hits all the boxes for an extended stay in Reykjavik: a blend of urban and Nordic style, helpful staff, and a fantastic central location. The typical Icelandic building is over 100 years old, a grand old place in keeping with its note-worthy neighbors such as the Icelandic Parliament, City Hall, and the old cathedral.

Inside, Kvosin is another story altogether, taking inspiration from a more modern-day Reykjavik. The renovated interiors are updated and modish, providing a comfortable home base from which to explore the capital. Ducking outside the hotel, within minutes you can be sipping on a local craft beer, catching a live gig, or enjoying a leisurely stroll around the city’s central pond, Tjörnin. Stumbling home after experiencing Reykjavik’s feisty nightlife, you’ll find the rooms welcoming and fashionable, with swanky leather chairs, sleek kitchenettes, and handsome desks for journaling.