Reykjavik's most historic hotel, built in 1930 in art deco style, faces the Austurvöllur parliament square. This grand dame has hosted heads of state and celebrities for nearly a century, with its elegant rooms, famous Borg Bar, and unbeatable city-center location.
Hotel Borg is Reykjavik's most storied hotel and one of the oldest continuously operating hotels in Iceland. Built in 1930 and located at Pósthússtræti 11 on the edge of Austurvöllur — the historic public square in front of Iceland's parliament building, Alþingishúsið — the hotel has been at the centre of the Capital Region's civic and cultural life for nearly a century. The building's art deco architecture, with its distinctive facade and elegant proportions, stands as a landmark of early twentieth-century Icelandic design. The interior preserves much of its original grandeur: high ceilings, period detailing, and a sense of occasion that newer hotels rarely replicate. The hotel has hosted heads of state, international dignitaries, artists, and celebrities throughout its history, and retains an atmosphere of refined formality softened by the warmth of Icelandic hospitality. The 99 rooms and suites are classically furnished with marble bathrooms, premium bed linens, and carefully selected art. Room categories range from Classic and Superior rooms to Junior Suites and the signature Borg Suite, which overlooks the parliament square. Dining centres on the Hotel Borg Restaurant, which serves modern Icelandic cuisine with an emphasis on quality seasonal produce, and the celebrated Borg Bar — long regarded as one of Reykjavik's most atmospheric cocktail venues, drawing both guests and locals for its extensive wine list and well-crafted drinks menu. The hotel's spa and sauna facilities provide a compact but well-appointed retreat. Hotel Borg's location on Austurvöllur places it within minutes on foot of Austurstræti and Laugavegur, the National Theatre of Iceland, and many of the city's principal museums and galleries. The Harpa Concert Hall and the Old Harbour are a short walk north. The concierge team can arrange tours and car hire; Keflavík International Airport is approximately 45 minutes away by road. Business travellers benefit from meeting and conference facilities within the hotel.
Amenities
- restaurant
- bar
- wifi
- room service
- concierge
- historic building
- sauna
Location
Pósthússtræti 11, 101 Reykjavik
64.1470, -21.9396 View on map
Highlights
- Reykjavik's oldest operating luxury hotel, built in 1930 in art deco style on the historic Austurvöllur parliamentary square.
- 99 classically furnished rooms and suites with marble bathrooms and original period detailing.
- The celebrated Borg Bar, one of Reykjavik's most atmospheric cocktail venues, is a city institution.
- Gallery restaurant serves modern Icelandic cuisine using fresh seasonal produce in an elegant formal setting.
- Prime location on Austurvöllur facing Iceland's parliament building, Alþingishúsið, in the heart of the Capital Region.
Tips for visiting
- Book the Borg Bar early on Friday and Saturday evenings — it draws both hotel guests and Reykjavik locals and fills quickly.
- Ask about the hotel's history at check-in — staff can share stories of notable past guests including heads of state and international artists.
- The hotel is within a two-minute walk of several of Reykjavik's most acclaimed restaurants and the National Theatre.
- The Borg Suite on the upper floors offers exceptional views over Austurvöllur square and the parliament building.
- Keflavík International Airport is approximately 45 minutes away; the Flybus shuttle stops at several nearby hotels.
Accessibility
Hotel Borg is a historic 1930 building with lift access to upper floors. The hotel has been partially adapted for accessibility, but the historic structure may present some limitations. Wheelchair users and guests with mobility requirements should contact the hotel in advance to discuss room options and access.
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Frequently asked questions
When was Hotel Borg built and what is its architectural style?
Hotel Borg was built in 1930 and designed in art deco style. It is considered Iceland's first luxury hotel and has operated continuously for nearly a century, making it one of the Capital Region's most historically significant buildings.
How many rooms does Hotel Borg have?
The hotel has 99 rooms and suites, ranging from Classic and Superior rooms to Junior Suites and the signature Borg Suite with views over Austurvöllur square.
Does Hotel Borg have spa facilities?
Yes, the hotel has a sauna and spa facilities on site, alongside a fitness room, providing a compact but well-appointed wellness option.
What dining is available at Hotel Borg?
The hotel's restaurant serves modern Icelandic cuisine in a formal setting, and the Borg Bar is one of Reykjavik's best-known cocktail venues, open to both hotel guests and the public.