Review: The Reykjavik EDITION Hotel (Iceland)

Luxury Travel Expert

6 months ago

Wednesday newsletters always feature a hotel or flight review.

I recently enjoyed my first cruise holiday—a fabulous trip around Iceland and the Faroe Islands aboard the Seabourn Venture, the world’s most luxurious expedition cruise ship. You can read my trip reports here:

Review: The Reykjavik EDITION (today)
Review: Seabourn Venture
Review: Ultra-luxury cruise around Iceland

Review of The Reykjavik EDITION Hotel (Iceland)

Hotel website: The Reykjavik EDITION
Location: Google maps
Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso

Located on the scenic Old Harbour and just steps from the striking glass facade of Harpa Concert Hall, The Reykjavik EDITION is Iceland’s most stylish and luxurious city hotel. Designed by hospitality visionary Ian Schrager in partnership with Marriott International, this sleek five-star property masterfully blends cosmopolitan sophistication with subtle Icelandic character. The 253 rooms and suites feature warm oak floors, locally sourced volcanic stone, Icelandic wool blankets, and panoramic views of Mount Esja, Faxaflói Bay, or the city skyline. Amenities include a world-class spa with a hammam and hydrotherapy pool, a vibrant rooftop bar with panoramic views, and multiple dining venues—most notably Tides, the signature restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason, showcasing seasonal Nordic cuisine. With its unbeatable location, discreet service, and effortlessly chic atmosphere, The Reykjavik EDITION is the ideal base for exploring Reykjavik’s art, food, and nightlife.

The Reykjavik EDITION features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Iceland.

Have you ever stayed at The Reykjavik EDITION Hotel? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube video):

Pros & things I like
Cons & things to know
My verdict
Tips for future guests & save money
Best time to visit
How to get there
Photos

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

Perched on the harborside, against city and mountains views, The Reykjavik EDITION enjoys the best location in town. The hotel is situated right next to Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center, one of Reykjavik’s most celebrated landmarks. Harpa’s striking multicolored glass façade, designed by the renowned Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson, adds a dynamic splash of artistry to the harborfront and hosts a vibrant program of concerts, cultural events, and international conferences year-round. Staying here means you’re just steps away from Reykjavik’s cultural pulse. In addition, The Edition Reykjavik is just minutes from Laugavegur, the city’s main shopping street. This lively thoroughfare is home to a variety of upscale boutiques, charming cafes, and innovative restaurants, offering a perfect blend of local Icelandic crafts and international brands. Whether you want to explore Reykjavik’s rich cultural scene, indulge in luxury shopping, or savor its renowned culinary delights, everything is conveniently close by. This unbeatable location makes The Edition Reykjavik an ideal base for immersing yourself in the city’s unique atmosphere while enjoying quick access to natural wonders beyond the urban core.

Designed in partnership with local architecture firm, T.ark and New York-based studio, Roman and Williams with guidance of ISC (Ian Schrager Company) design, The Reykjavik EDITION subtly captures the spirit of Reykjavik. From the outside, The Reykjavik EDITION is a bold and striking addition to Reykjavik’s downtown neighborhood. Its ebony façade is crafted from shou sugi ban timber, a centuries-old Japanese technique where wood is charred to achieve a deep black finish, evoking the raw, volcanic lava fields that define Iceland’s dramatic landscape. Complementing the charred timber, blackened steel window frames add a rugged yet refined edge, reinforcing the hotel’s connection to Iceland’s natural elements. The building’s simple, clean lines are carefully angled to maximize views of the lively harbor and city beyond. Its double-entrance lobby is accessible both from the pedestrian-friendly Harpa plaza and the harbor side, creating a grand sense of arrival. The harbor entrance, reminiscent of The Times Square EDITION, features a stunning canopy illuminated by 12,210 glass LED nodes, offering guests a modern and theatrical welcome that blends art and technology seamlessly.

The Reykjavik EDITION blends minimalist design with warm, welcoming touches. Light oak wood paneling, textured wool fabrics, and stone accents evoke Iceland’s volcanic landscape, creating a natural yet refined atmosphere. Thoughtful lighting enhances the ambiance, highlighting the elegance of the interiors while local artwork and handcrafted furnishings infuse each space with authentic Icelandic character. The lobby is where this design vision truly shines. Basalt stone—volcanic rock native to Iceland—features prominently on the floor, laid out in an intricate pattern inspired by Icelandic geometry. At the heart of the lobby, a central open-flame fireplace creates a cozy gathering spot surrounded by intimate seating arrangements. Custom furniture includes Jean-Michel Frank-inspired armchairs upholstered in white shearling and black velvet chairs influenced by Pierre Jeanneret, adding layers of texture and comfort. Warm, indirect lighting bathes the space in a soft glow, illuminating key fixtures like the bar and reception desk. Christian Liaigre white bronze floor lamps contribute to an atmosphere reminiscent of a delicate jewelry box, elevating the entire space with subtle elegance.

Just inside the lobby entrance of The Reykjavik EDITION, ISC collaborated with local artisans to craft a striking totem sculpture made from stacked, columnar basalt slate sourced from southern Iceland. Nearly four meters (13 feet) tall, this impressive piece draws inspiration from traditional Icelandic cairns—rock landmarks that guide travelers across the countryside. Dramatically illuminated by a mix of electric and candlelight, the totem sits atop a basalt bench draped with plush black sheepskins, damask, and silk pillows, creating a cozy and stylish gathering spot at the heart of the lobby. Adjacent to the totem is a striking digital installation inspired by the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights. ISC has expertly video-mapped this natural wonder, presenting an immersive, three-dimensional display of green and purple waves that dance across the space. This captivating artwork brings the magic of Iceland’s night sky indoors, evoking the same awe and emotion—but in the warm, intimate setting of the lobby’s fireplace area. It’s a lovely design touch that the hotel likes to call “Northern Lights on Demand.”

The Reykjavik EDITION’s 253 spacious guestrooms and suites are thoughtfully designed, with beds positioned to face expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Some rooms, located on the building’s outer side, offer lovely views of the harbor or the iconic Harpa Concert Hall, while others overlook the serene hotel courtyard, providing a peaceful urban oasis. Some rooms include private outdoor terraces that offer direct access to fresh air and views of the surrounding cityscape. True to the EDITION brand’s signature style, the interiors blend modern luxury with subtle local touches. A soothing palette of ash wood and pale grey oak forms a warm foundation, accented by a striking feature wall of formwork concrete. Italian custom-made furniture, copper bed light sconces, and plush faux fur rugs add layers of texture and comfort. Unique artwork and accessories from Icelandic artisans bring an authentic local flair—such as colorful wool throws by Ístex, delicate ceramics by Guðbjörg Káradóttir, and exclusive landscape art from renowned photographers Pall Stefansson and Ragnar Axelsson. Bathrooms continue the elegant simplicity with monochrome tones, featuring custom-made white ceramic tiles crafted in Italy, white marble vanities, and matte black fixtures.

During my stat at The Reykjavik EDITION, I was upgraded to a lovely deluxe suite on the hotel’s first floor. The expansive and sophisticated retreat featured a separate living room (perfect for relaxing or entertaining) and a spacious bedroom with its own cozy sitting corner (creating a serene space to unwind). The two-room bathroom elevated the luxury experience with a thoughtfully designed layout that included a dry area with two wash basins and a separate wet area, complete with a large rain shower and a deep soaking bath. Complimentary bespoke Le Labo toiletries, infused with EDITION’s exclusive scent, were provided and added a final touch of luxury. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the living area and the bedroom provided great views of the iconic Harpa Concert Hall, while blackout curtains ensure complete privacy whenever desired. Modern technology, including smart lighting, USB charging ports, and high-speed Wi-Fi, ensured both comfort and convenience. Every detail in the suite blended modern elegance with subtle Icelandic influences, ensuring a stylish and restful stay.

The hotel’s signature restaurant, Tides, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason of Dill fame, is a destination in itself. Located on the ground floor with an outdoor terrace and its own waterfront entrance, Tides presents a sophisticated yet inviting dining experience. The interiors blend industrial concrete columns with warm oiled ash wood, punctuated by a dramatic bronze and alabaster chandelier by French artist Eric Schmitt. Large floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the space in natural light by day and create an intimate glow by night. The menu celebrates Iceland’s bounty with modern twists on traditional cooking methods. Expect dishes like salads topped with fried oyster mushrooms, Arctic char stuffed with lemon and dill butter, baked Atlantic cod, and slow-grilled lamb shoulder with mint and pickled apples. Dessert specialties include the decadent carrot cake with buttermilk ice cream and sea buckthorn jam. Tides also offers a fresh, healthy breakfast spread with juices, pastries, skyr (Icelandic yogurt), and an à la carte menu. For casual bites, the adjacent bakery and café serve fresh coffee, crowberry scones, and sourdough or rye bread sandwiches, perfect for takeaway or relaxed dining.

The Reykjavik EDITION features two bars offering distinct experiences and settings.
- Located within the lobby area, Tölt is named after the unique fifth gait characteristic of Icelandic horses. The bar is designed as a secluded space with three intimate nooks, each furnished with colorful custom rugs inspired by traditional Icelandic geometric patterns, teak tambour walls, burnt orange banquettes, and pony hair poufs arranged around a central fireplace. The area is finished with walnut ceiling panels and flooring, complemented by a custom walnut chandelier. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide views of the nearby Harpa Concert Hall. Behind the green marble-topped bar, backlit aged bronze shelves offer ambient lighting. The cocktail menu focuses on Icelandic culture, featuring drinks made with local spirits.
- The Roof Bar is situated on the hotel’s 7th floor and provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, the harbor, and Reykjavik’s historic old town. The space includes floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a large wrap-around rooftop terrace equipped with seating and a fire pit. The interior features all-black finishes designed to emphasize the views. The space can be divided by a glass door to accommodate private events. The food menu offers comfort dishes such as grilled flatbreads, toasted sandwiches, and fresh salads, designed to complement the drinks while enjoying the scenic surroundings.

The Reykjavik EDITION’s facilities elevate the guest experience with a small wellness and fitness center, located on the hotel’s lower ground floor. The tranquil and intimate spa serves as a sanctuary for relaxation, featuring a traditional hammam inspired by ancient cleansing rituals, along with three treatment rooms, a steam room, sauna, and a hydrotherapy plunge pool. The spa menu includes deep tissue massages, rejuvenating facials, and body scrubs infused with natural Icelandic ingredients such as lava clay and Arctic berries. A central lounge with a spa bar complements the experience, serving fresh, healthy options like post-workout Viking shakes, champagnes, moss vodka infusions, and snacks like volcano bread with black lava salt—perfect to enjoy alongside the geothermal water splash pool. Right next to the spa is the hotel’s state-of-the-art fitness center, a room which is equipped with cardio machines, free weights, and dedicated spaces for stretching and yoga.

The Reykjavik EDITION Hotel is managed by EDITION Hotels, a luxury lifestyle brand developed by visionary hotelier Ian Schrager—co-founder of Studio 54 and widely regarded as a pioneer of the boutique hotel movement. Created in collaboration with Marriott International, EDITION was launched in 2010 to redefine luxury hospitality by blending the intimacy and individuality of a boutique hotel with the consistency and global reach of a major hotel group. Each EDITION property is uniquely designed to reflect the spirit of its location, while embodying the brand’s signature ethos: sophisticated minimalism, refined comfort, and a strong sense of place. With a focus on custom design, curated art and lighting, warm natural materials, and atmospheric social spaces, EDITION hotels are known for creating timeless environments that are both luxurious and inviting. The brand has expanded to some of the world’s most dynamic destinations, including New York, London, Miami Beach, Tokyo, Barcelona, and Dubai. The Reykjavik EDITION perfectly exemplifies this philosophy, combining contemporary Icelandic influences with Schrager’s unmistakable design sensibility.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

The Reykjavik EDITION is priced at the very top of Reykjavik’s hotel market, with nightly rates that can easily exceed $750 USD during high season. While this might feel excessive at first glance, it’s important to note that Iceland as a destination is known for its high cost of living and tourism. In that context, the room rates are relatively in line with the country’s broader luxury offerings. However, travelers who are used to five-star hotels in major global cities may find the overall value—considering room size, amenities, and service—feels more boutique than ultra-luxury. Booking during shoulder seasons or using loyalty points can help improve the value proposition.

The Reykjavik EDITION’s spa is elegantly designed and provides a relaxing environment, but it’s worth noting that the spa facilities are quite compact. With just one thermal plunge pool, a small sauna, and a steam room, it doesn’t offer the scale of wellness amenities found at some international five-star properties. The spa does not have a pool on-site for hotel guests and there are no expansive relaxation areas. That said, what’s available is well maintained and intentionally minimalist, fitting with the EDITION brand’s aesthetic. For guests seeking a brief unwind after a long day of sightseeing, it’s more than adequate—but travelers looking for a destination spa experience may be left wanting more.

While the rooms at The Reykjavik EDITION are well-appointed, some guests may find the entry-level room categories smaller than expected for a luxury hotel. Storage space is limited, and functional features like proper work desks, luggage racks, or additional seating are not always included unless booking into higher-tier suites. However, guests who opt for upgraded room types often report a noticeably more comfortable and spacious experience, with added amenities that better align with five-star expectations. For those planning a longer stay or traveling as a couple, it may be worth considering a suite or deluxe category to fully enjoy the property’s premium offerings.

The hotel’s interior design is visually impressive, with high-end materials and a modern Nordic look that photographs beautifully. However, some travelers may find that the design of The Reykjavik EDITION occasionally prioritizes aesthetics over practicality. Examples include ultra-low beds, curtains in place of closet doors, and mood lighting that, while atmospheric, can feel too dim for tasks like reading or unpacking. That said, many guests appreciate the unique character and stylish ambiance the design brings—especially those seeking a boutique, design-forward experience. Ultimately, comfort is subjective, and travelers who enjoy a contemporary, editorial-style setting are likely to feel right at home.

A destination fee—currently 7,000 ISK—is added to the bill, which includes access to the spa (normally around $30 USD), a welcome drink, and a dining credit that can be used for lunch or dinner, essentially offsetting the fee itself. While some guests may find this charge unexpected, especially at a property that already commands premium nightly rates, others appreciate the added value and flexibility it provides. For travelers who plan to take advantage of the included amenities, the fee can be a convenient way to enhance their stay without additional out-of-pocket costs. Clearer communication at booking and check-in could help ensure it feels more like a benefit than a surprise.

MY VERDICT

Location: 9/10
Design: 8/10
Pool: N/A
Rooms: 8/10
Food: 8/10
Breakfast: 8/10
Spa: 8/10
Service: 8/10
Wow factor: 8/10
Value for money: 8/10
Overall experience: very good – 8/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking The Reykjavik EDITION Hotel through Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out and $100 USD food & beverage credit).

Save money: read here my tips for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel like The Reykjavik EDITION Hotel (and/or receive many free perks).

Save money: Marriott Bonvoy elite members are well treated here, with – among other benefits – free WiFi, a room upgrade (when available), early check-in or late check-out (when available), and complementary breakfast (for top tier members). Read here my review of Marriott Bonvoy.

Save money: book your room with an additional 25% off making use of a Best Rate Guarantee.

Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Reykjavík depends on what you want to experience. For mild weather and long daylight, late May to early September is ideal, with temperatures averaging 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) and nearly 24 hours of daylight in June. This season is perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. If you want to see the northern lights, visit between October and March, when nights are long and temperatures range from –1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F). Winter offers snowy landscapes and cozy atmospheres but shorter daylight hours. Shoulder seasons in April, May, and September provide fewer crowds, moderate temperatures, and a chance to catch the aurora with temperatures between 3°C and 11°C (37°F to 52°F).

HOW TO GET THERE

The Reykjavik EDITION is located at Austurbakki 2, in the heart of downtown Reykjavík, right next to the Harpa Concert Hall and the Old Harbor. The easiest way to reach the hotel from Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is by airport shuttle, such as Flybus or Airport Direct, which takes about 45 to 60 minutes and offers hotel drop-off service. Taxis are also available directly outside the airport and provide a faster, more private option, though they are significantly more expensive, with fares typically ranging from 20,000 to 25,000 ISK (around $140 to $180 USD). For travelers planning to explore beyond the city, renting a car at the airport is a convenient option, and the hotel offers valet parking. The drive from the airport to the hotel takes about 45 minutes via Route 41.