Elegant Art Deco hotel dating from 1930, located on Austurvöllur Square in the heart of downtown Reykjavik. Combines historic charm with modern luxury, featuring beautifully appointed rooms, gourmet dining, and impeccable service. Walking distance to all major attractions and nightlife.
Hotel Borg by Keahotels stands at Pósthússtræti 11, directly facing Austurvöllur Square — the civic heart of Reykjavík, flanked by the Althing (Icelandic Parliament) building and Dómkirkjan cathedral. Opened in 1930, Hotel Borg is Iceland's oldest luxury hotel, and its Art Deco architecture is among the country's most significant examples of early twentieth-century design. The building's elegant facade and interior detailing — geometric ceiling motifs, polished marble surfaces, dark timber panelling, and brass fittings — have been carefully preserved through successive renovations while being updated with contemporary comforts that meet current five-star expectations.
The hotel offers 99 rooms and suites across multiple categories. Standard rooms are generously proportioned by Reykjavík standards, furnished in a palette of deep greens, brass, and ivory that references the original Art Deco aesthetic. Junior Suites and the signature Borg Suite add substantial living space, with some configurations offering private terraces overlooking the square. All rooms feature Molton Brown amenities, Egyptian cotton bedding, and a pillow menu.
The restaurant Silfur serves an Icelandic-Nordic tasting menu that has earned recognition in the city's dining scene, drawing on seasonal ingredients including langoustine, skyr, wild herbs, and locally caught fish. The Art Deco bar is a Reykjavík institution in its own right — its classic cocktail programme and historically significant interior have attracted heads of state, authors, and artists since the hotel opened, and it remains one of the city's most atmospheric places to drink.
Spa treatment rooms on the lower level offer massages and facials; there is no on-site pool, but the concierge arranges access to nearby thermal facilities. Concierge services cover bespoke tour arrangements, private transfers, and reservations at top Reykjavík restaurants. The Austurvöllur location puts guests five minutes from Tjörnin lake and the National Museum of Iceland, and ten minutes from Harpa Concert Hall and the Old Harbour.
Amenities
- restaurant
- bar
- spa treatments
- room service
- historic building
- central location
Location
Pósthússtræti 11, 101 Reykjavík
64.1470, -21.9396 View on map
Highlights
- Iceland's first luxury hotel, opened 1930 — one of the finest Art Deco buildings in Reykjavík, facing the Icelandic Parliament
- Prime Austurvöllur Square address, within five minutes' walk of Tjörnin, the National Museum, and Laugavegur shopping
- Silfur restaurant serving Icelandic-Nordic tasting menus with premium seasonal local ingredients
- Iconic Art Deco bar — a historic Reykjavík meeting point for political and cultural figures since 1930
- 99 individually styled rooms and suites preserving original geometric details alongside modern luxury amenities
Tips for visiting
- Request a room facing Austurvöllur Square for views of the Parliament building and the lively square below — upper floors are quieter
- The Borg Bar fills quickly on weekend evenings; reserve a table or plan to arrive before 19:00 to secure seating
- Silfur restaurant bookings should be made two to three days ahead during peak summer season
- The hotel breakfast is considered among Reykjavík's better offerings — the dining room's Art Deco setting adds considerable value to the experience
- Virtually all central Reykjavík landmarks are walkable from Hotel Borg; hiring a car is unnecessary for guests focused on the city
Accessibility
Hotel Borg's historic 1930 building has undergone accessibility upgrades including a lift serving all floor levels and a step-free entrance from Pósthússtræti. Wheelchair-accessible rooms are available, and the Art Deco lobby and Silfur restaurant are reachable without steps. Guests with specific mobility requirements should contact the hotel before booking to confirm suitable room options.
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Frequently asked questions
When was Hotel Borg built and is it historically protected?
Hotel Borg opened in 1930 and is Iceland's oldest luxury hotel. Its Art Deco facade and key interior spaces are historically protected, ensuring the original architectural character is preserved. Renovation projects have modernised room amenities while retaining the building's defining design features.
Does Hotel Borg have a spa or pool?
The hotel offers in-house massage and facial treatment services in dedicated treatment rooms on the lower level. There is no on-site swimming pool; however, the concierge can arrange access to nearby geothermal pools including Sundhöll Reykjavíkur, approximately a 10-minute walk away.
Is Hotel Borg walking distance from Hallgrímskirkja church?
Yes. Hallgrímskirkja is approximately 15 minutes' walk uphill from the hotel through Reykjavík's old-town streets. The route passes through the charming residential neighbourhood of Skólavörðuholt and offers rooftop views toward the harbour and Mount Esja.
What is the Silfur restaurant known for?
Silfur serves an Icelandic-Nordic tasting menu focused on seasonal local ingredients — including Arctic char, langoustine, skyr, and foraged herbs. The kitchen emphasises premium Icelandic produce and changes its menu in response to seasonal availability. Advance reservation is recommended.