Family-owned boutique hotel known for its impressive art collection featuring over 400 original Icelandic artworks. Traditional elegance combined with modern comfort, exceptional restaurant, and central location. Personalized service and cultural atmosphere.
Hotel Holt sits at Bergstaðastræti 37 in the 101 postal district, on a tree-lined residential street in one of central Reykjavik's most pleasant quarters. The location is about 500 metres from the base of Hallgrímskirkja, within ten minutes' walk of Laugavegur's boutiques and galleries, and close to the Skólavörðustígur craft and arts strip. The Tjörn city pond and the National Gallery are a short walk downhill, and the old harbour is approximately 1.5 km north — all accessible without any public transport.
Founded in 1965 by Þorvaldur Guðmundsson and his wife Ingibjörg, Hotel Holt is one of Iceland's longest-established independent hotels and is renowned throughout the country for housing what is widely regarded as Iceland's largest private art collection. Over 400 original works by the most celebrated figures in Icelandic art history — including Jón Stefánsson, Ásgrímur Jónsson, Kjarval, and Júlíana Sveinsdóttir — are displayed throughout the hotel's public areas and guest rooms, transforming corridors and lounges into de facto gallery spaces.
The 42 guest rooms are classically and elegantly furnished with period furniture, quality carpeting, and traditional decor that harmonises with the artworks on display. Many rooms offer direct views of Hallgrímskirkja rising above the roofline. The intimate scale of the property ensures a quiet, private atmosphere quite unlike the buzzing energy of Reykjavik's newer design hotels.
Dining at Hotel Holt centres on an acclaimed restaurant that has been a Reykjavik culinary institution for decades, with a wine list and menu that lean toward refined traditional Icelandic ingredients — lamb, wild-caught seafood, skyr-based desserts — interpreted through a contemporary lens. The bar is a popular evening destination for both hotel guests and Reykjavik residents who come for the art and the atmosphere.
Service is personal and attentive in the tradition of long-established family-run independent hotels, with the concierge team well-placed to assist with tours, theatre tickets, and restaurant reservations throughout the city.
Amenities
- fine dining restaurant
- bar
- art gallery
- room service
- city center
- family-owned
Location
Bergstaðastræti 37, 101 Reykjavík
64.1443, -21.9214 View on map
Highlights
- Iceland's largest private art collection — over 400 original works by Icelandic masters displayed throughout the hotel
- Family-owned boutique hotel established in 1965, with 42 classically appointed rooms in 101 Reykjavik
- Central location 500 m from Hallgrímskirkja and 10 minutes' walk to Laugavegur
- Acclaimed in-house restaurant and bar serving refined Icelandic cuisine and fine wines
- Many rooms offer views of Hallgrímskirkja's iconic spire
Tips for visiting
- Spend time exploring the artwork displayed throughout the hotel's corridors and public rooms — the collection is a museum-quality experience included in the stay.
- Reserve a table at the Hotel Holt restaurant early in a visit; it is popular with both hotel guests and local diners.
- Ask front desk staff for a guide to the art collection — many staff members can speak to the history and significance of specific works.
- Rooms facing Hallgrímskirkja offer striking views at sunset and during the midnight sun season — request one specifically at booking.
Accessibility
Hotel Holt is a historic building with some access limitations; a lift is available for floor-to-floor movement, but older structural features may present challenges for guests with significant mobility requirements. Contact the hotel directly to discuss room options on accessible floors.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the art collection at Hotel Holt?
Hotel Holt houses over 400 original works by Icelandic artists, including paintings by Jón Stefánsson, Kjarval, Ásgrímur Jónsson, and other major figures in Icelandic art history. The collection spans the public areas, restaurant, bar, and many guest rooms.
Is Hotel Holt family-owned?
Yes. Hotel Holt was founded in 1965 by Þorvaldur Guðmundsson and has remained in family hands, contributing to its distinctive personal service and strong cultural identity.
Does Hotel Holt have a restaurant?
Yes. The in-house restaurant is one of Reykjavik's most established dining venues, known for refined Icelandic cuisine, an extensive wine list, and an intimate art-filled setting.
Is Hotel Holt suitable for business travellers?
The hotel's quiet, elegant atmosphere, central location, and personalised service make it well-suited to business travellers and those seeking a culturally immersive experience.