Hotel Holt—The Art Hotel, Reykjavík

Enjoy a peaceful stay in one of Reykjavík's most well-known historic hotels located in the center of downtown. This family-run property dates back to 1965 and is known for its cozy atmosphere and culture, thanks to its display of works by some of Iceland's most famous artists. Walk to Tjörnin Lake in just five minutes to experience some nature in the middle of the city, or head to the shopping street of Laugevegur in the same amount of time. This prime location puts you within a 10-15 minute walk of most of Reykjavík's sites, including Hallgrímskirkja Church and the National Art Gallery.

Hotel Holt feels like a time capsule: Its ground floor is landmark-protected, and its 42 rooms are old-fashioned with vintage furniture, leather pieces, and wood paneling. All rooms feature interesting artwork, and all Deluxe Rooms and Suites include coffee machines that feel like art objects in and of themselves. If you want to enjoy a cup of coffee overlooking Reykjavík, book one of the four Junior Suites with a balcony. Suites can include a sofa bed to accommodate an extra person. Junior suites without balconies include a bathtub as well, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring Iceland.

The family that owns Hotel Holt has the largest private art collection in Iceland, much of which is on display throughout the ground floor. Reception offers daily tours of the main collection, which includes pieces by Kjarval, Jón Stefánsson, and Ásmundur Sveinsson. The hotel library and bar are the epitome of coziness, with stacked wall-to-ceiling wooden bookcases and leather armchairs where you can curl up for hours. The restaurant offers classic Icelandic food with options for vegetarians as well.