6 Best Hotels in City Center East, Reykjavík

The Ion City Hotel is the urban counterpart to the original Ion Hotel, near Þingvellir National Park, and the vibe here is certainly luxurious, with a focus on local designers and art throughout. The rooms are comfortably appointed, with pops of color, and the suites are equipped with private saunas for an extra bit of pampering in the hearth of Reykjavík. Popular local restaurant Sumac occupies the first floor.

At this five-story hotel designed by owner Ingibjörg Pálmadóttir, contemporary works by renowned local artists adorn the walls (the hotel also hosts exhibitions), and large, open-plan rooms are well appointed, with big, comfortable beds, American oak floors, and (in some) freestanding baths. The restaurant--bar serves killer cocktails beneath a dramatic glass ceiling. The cozy lounge and library area boasts leather sofas and an open fireplace. Massages can be arranged in your room, and in the basement you'll find a sauna, Jacuzzi, and small plunge pool.

At this lovely hotel along Laugavegur, guest rooms are decorated in a typical Scandinavian-chic style, with a combination of rich, earthy tones contrasted with fresh, crisp whites and the occasional splash of vibrant color. There’s a tidy collection of amenities, including a hot tub and a gym. The atmosphere is thoroughly social in the comfortable lobby area, where a confectionery sells exquisite Icelandic chocolates and the aptly named Barber Bar serves cold beer with your haircut.

Sleek and cozy, the rooms at Hótel VON feel like a boutique hotel experience while still maintaining a touch of hominess. On-site restaurant BON is open for breakfast, and then returns in the late afternoon with a menu of French fare and an exhaustive wine list.

The rooms at Miðgarður are minimalist and basic, but the service is truly excellent. There's also a spa and a restaurant on-site, but the best part is an outdoor hot tub in the garden, which is free for guests to use. The once traffic-heavy intersection on which the hotel sits is in the midst of being revitalized into a bright and open pedestrian space that is sure to add to the hotel's tranquillity.

With a number of self-catering apartments in the center of town, this place is for those who prefer to cook their own meals and would like some extra space. All apartments have access to a Jacuzzi, and there's a sauna available, too. The very friendly staff can assist you in planning the rest of your trip. There are also individual rooms you can book.