The Reykjavik EDITION in Iceland [In-Depth Marriott Hotel Review]

I have a minor love affair with Iceland. While I have yet to explore everything there is to see and do, I keep returning to add to my experiences.

Iceland is easy to travel to with reasonably priced and frequent flights. Unfortunately, however, things become much more expensive once you arrive, especially hotel rooms.

While I’ve stayed at nearly a dozen Icelandic hotels, The Reykjavik EDITION has been at the top of my list of places yet to visit in the capital city. During previous visits, I watched the hotel being built. Completed in 2021, the hotel is a Marriott-branded luxury hotel and quite pricey (at least for my budget).

Since life is short and I rarely regret my bolder travel decisions, it seemed the appropriate time to reach deep into my wallet and book a 2-night stay.

Even with my decision to splurge, to justify staying again, it would need to be in the off-peak season to keep costs lower. Here’s how it all played out.

Booking

As with any expensive hotel stay, I try to employ a few tactics to keep costs lower. I’ll attempt to use free night certificates I may have accumulated, redeem hotel loyalty points, or take advantage of any hotel statement credits I might have access to.

The nights I wanted to book at The Reykjavik EDITION were over $500 each night for this April 2024 stay. In the summer, rates for the hotel are closer to $800 per night. I booked the first night of my stay via AmexTravel.com to use the $200 annual Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR) credit available with The Platinum Card^® from American Express. I booked 1 night at the FHR rate of $461 and received a $200 prepaid hotel statement credit.

In addition to the statement credit, FHR offers several valuable benefits during the stay. (I’ll let you know how those benefits were delivered shortly.)

I booked the second night using Marriott Bonvoy points earned from my Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card. The cash rate for that night was over $500, or I could use 62,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. We value Marriott Bonvoy points at 0.7 cents each, the equivalent of $434 worth of points for booking the second night — which I decided to do.

Alternatively, I could have waited for my annual Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card’s free night certificate, redeemable for up to 85,000 points, and used it to cover my second night. I’ll save that certificate for a more expensive hotel.

Location

The Reykjavik EDITION is located in Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, about an hour away from Keflavik International Airport (KEF), the main airport on the island.

The Reykjavik EDITION is located on Reykjavik Harbor. Conveniently located bus stops are established throughout the city allowing transport and tour companies to pick up/drop off visitors near the downtown hotels. There is a stop located within a block of The Reykjavik EDITION.

Transport and Arrival

Fortunately, it’s easy to find transport to the city and the hotel. I have previously used both the FlyBus (several times) and the Airport Direct bus service. Each company has excellent service and free Wi-Fi onboard.

On this trip, I purchased Airport Direct tickets on arrival at KEF airport for about $35 one-way and hopped on one of the waiting buses outside the airport. I took the bus to the main station and then was transported by minibus to bus stop #5 in front of the hotel.

Checking In

Approaching the hotel from the bus stop, I immediately saw the entrance.

On the opposite side of the hotel was the vehicle drop-off. Both entries led to the hotel lobby.

Many flights from North America arrive early in the morning. Checking in before the scheduled hotel check-in time of 3 p.m. can often be challenging. Fortunately, having booked via FHR, I checked in at noon, a guaranteed benefit when available.

The lobby immediately felt comfortable and cozy.

This area of the lobby included a unique stone structure and seating with sheepskin. Sheepskin was found in nearly every space throughout the hotel. I was told that it was specially sheered and dyed for use at many EDITION properties.

Elite Benefits

Cristina checked me in and did a great job describing the hotel offerings and explaining all my benefits.

I am fortunate to have Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elite status, which was recognized at check-in. I was able to combine my FHR benefits with my elite benefits. The FHR rules specifically allow guests with Marriott Bonvoy Elite status to enjoy the benefits of both programs during their stay.

In addition to the verbal overview, I received a written confirmation of benefits, which included early check-in and late checkout, a room upgrade (when available), daily breakfast for 2, and a $100 experience credit.

The hotel charges a destination fee of around $40. The destination fee includes access to the spa (normally $30), a welcome drink, and a $40 lunch or dinner credit. It was explained that the intent of the fee is for guests to experience hotel amenities.

In addition to the destination fee’s $40 dining credit, I had the $100 FHR credit to use during my stay.

Amenities

The hotel is loaded with high-end amenities. Here are some of the facilities I found at the hotel.

The Spa at The Reykjavik EDITION

The spa is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. by appointment and the destination fee includes access to the spa facilities.

One highlight of the spa area was the spa bar. I was able to grab a healthy refreshment while relaxing.

Services at the spa included massages, body wraps/scrubs, and facials. Included were a hammam/steam room, plunge pool, and sauna.

The Gym

The gym can be utilized 24/7 and was fully outfitted with the latest equipment.

Use of the gym is complimentary for all hotel guests. While the area is quite dark, it had everything needed for a good workout. Cardiovascular equipment, exercise bikes, elliptical machines, and strength equipment were all provided.

In addition, there was an area with free weights, treadmills, and a rowing machine.

A nice cold towel and ice-cold water made for a refreshing end to a workout.

Meetings and Events

The hotel has 4 meeting spaces, of which 3 can be combined into 1 large meeting space. Up to 300 guests can be accommodated in the largest space.

The hotel can provide all the supporting services and equipment for any event, including weddings.

Parking

Valet parking is available for hotel guests for approximately $46 per day. There are also several public parking facilities within walking distance. Parking rates vary by zone and day of the week but the hotel is located where parking is at a premium. Expect to pay around $1.50 per hour.

Hot Tip:

Learn more about parking in Reykjavik, including details on parking zones, car parks, and how to pay.

Pet Policy

Pets are not allowed at the hotel. Service animals are welcome.

The Room — Corner Suite

The hotel has 226 modern rooms, 26 suites, and a penthouse. I originally booked the Guest King room type. I wasn’t upgraded to the penthouse but, according to the front desk associate, I was given the second-best level room in the hotel — the Corner Suite.

The approach to my room #518 was quite understated, but I was optimistic the room would not disappoint.

Entry

When a dining room is the first space you see, you know the room will be special. The front desk had informed me that the room was a corner room, so I had high expectations.

The room was gorgeous with more space than I would ever utilize.

Dining Area

While I certainly wouldn’t use the dining area, you never know when I might meet 7 interesting people to invite to my room.

Living Area

Since the room was a corner room, the views from the living area were lovely.

When I arrived, it was cloudy, windy, and sleeting. As time went on, the skies cleared. That’s when I appreciated all the wonderful places to sit and look at the surrounding landscape.

The chaise lounge was so comfortable it could be used as an extra bed. Notice that that comfy Iceland wool is abundant.

There were 3 TVs in the suite. I enjoyed 35 channels, of which many were English-speaking. I also had the ability to sync the monitor with my phone or other device.

A console in the living space held the minibar and coffee station.

When opened, a full minibar with snacks and drink choices was available for purchase.

A nice Nespresso machine with a selection of coffee, teas, and condiments came in handy when waking up early.

In-Room Internet

I was very pleased with the internet speed throughout the hotel, especially in the room.

The View

These pictures don’t do the view justice as the mountains were much closer than they appeared. That’s the “Harpa” event venue next door, the harbor, and the mountain landscape.

With floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, I had direct views of the entire harbor.

Bedroom

Like the living area, the bedroom had floor-to-ceiling windows. I didn’t close the blinds at night as I could see the mountains until very late.

My king bed was heavenly and the wool throw was nice for cuddling in the bedroom chair.

The bedroom seating, unfortunately, became my work area. It was the only area with easy access to an electrical outlet. The dining area was a good backup.

Nightstands are not discussed much, but they’re important. This nightstand had a Bluetooth speaker, pottery to hold my water at night, and the standard electrical outlets, personal light, and master switches.

On the opposite side of the bed, the nightstand had a phone, electrical outlet, USB-A ports, switches, a personal light, a pencil/paper, and a room service menu.

The bedroom closet had all the standard elements, including robes, laundry bags, slippers, and a luggage rack. It also included a clothing steamer and clothes brush.

There were 2 closets in the space, with the first located near the front entrance to the room. It was the same as the previously mentioned closet but contained just hangers and a luggage rack.

The room safe was also in this closet and hidden by a door. There were 2 handy storage drawers.

Bathroom

I certainly had enough bathroom space as the room included a full bath and a half bath. The full bath had 3 separate rooms: one for the vanity area, one for the shower/bathtub, and an additional room for the toilet.

Shower amenities were EDITION-branded but made by Le Labo (a perfumery in Paris and New York). The products had a mesmerizing aroma.

Additional amenities included the standard dental packets, shoe mitt, shower cap, and shave kit.

Don’t even ask how I took this image of the bathtub/shower area. I just thought it was unique enough to try and share a bird’s-eye view of the entire space.

An additional room, separate from the vanity and shower room, held the toilet. Three private areas plus another half bath would make life easier for a family.

Food and Beverage

I had so many food and beverage credits that it almost became difficult to use them all. In total, I had $180 for 1 person over 2 days.

Here’s an overview of all the places to dine or have drinks at the hotel.

TIDES Restaurant

Breakfast, which was included in my stay, was served at the TIDES Restaurant between 7 and 11 a.m. I could select the buffet or order à la carte off the menu, up to a maximum of 6,000 Icelandic króna (approximately $42).

I scoped out the breakfast buffet before deciding between it and ordering off the menu.

First up was the bread station. I could select from several varieties of pastries, muffins, homemade artisan bread, and commercially-made loaf-style bread. A toaster, plus butter and jams, were also provided.

I could use 1 of the 2 self-service coffee machines to make a brew.

A selection of juices, teas, and water was also available. Juices included orange, apple, and cranberry. Prosecco was also a nice alcoholic option.

Hot items on the buffet included hard-boiled eggs, hash browns, baked beans, bacon, mushrooms, scrambled eggs, and porridge.

The cereal and yogurt section offered varied items, including chia pudding, muesli, dry cereal, toppings, and Icelandic skyr.

As expected in the North Atlantic, a nice spread of salmon was offered. A cheese selection and sliced luncheon meats, typical of a European breakfast, rounded out this section.

A nice green salad is a healthy way to start the day and the buffet had all the ingredients.

I am more of a vegetable than a fruit person, but one has to appreciate having fresh fruit on an island in the North Atlantic.

At the end of the buffet were warm waffles, traditional Icelandic pastries, and pancakes.

Although the buffet was well stocked, I ordered from the menu. The poached eggs were more than enough to eat.

Dinner is served in the restaurant from 5:30 to 10 p.m. Because I enjoyed the benefit of having $100 in onsite FHR credits, I had a lovely dinner at TIDES restaurant.

The TIDES Bar is located in the center of the restaurant and has a separate menu for those wanting a lighter fare.

I ordered the cod, which was very good. I’m not crazy about a sweet glaze on anything, and while the menu omitted this detail, it was still pretty good. Dinner with a glass of wine was about $70.

This salty caramel, roasted banana, brownie chunk dessert was incredible.

The second night I ordered the Arctic char. It is one of my favorite cold water fish dishes and was delicious. A beetroot puree and local brie were a wonderful compliment.

TIDES Cafe

The TIDES Cafe, separate from the TIDES Restaurant, was available for a light breakfast, snack, or lunch. It was open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

TIDES Cafe is a bakery and mostly serves bread items such as pastries and sandwiches. The cafe also sold a large selection of beverages.

The cafe was cozy and compact, but you could sit, cuddle with a sheepskin, and savor a beverage.

TIDES Counter

A private dining area seating up to 8 individuals is available for a special experience. The TIDES chefs will prepare a 12-course meal paired with locally sourced ingredients. A unique wine pairing is included with each course. The experience is currently priced at about $230 per person. Reservations are required.

The ROOF

Interestingly, The Reykjavik EDITION has the only rooftop bar in Reykjavik! The ROOF bar’s rarity makes it popular with hotel guests and locals. I couldn’t wait to check it out.

The bar was open 6 to 11 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday, and from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. It is closed on Monday and Tuesday.

The view up there was amazing. With the long days, you could see the snow-covered mountains, even in the evening.

Lobby Bar

The Lobby Bar was a great place to enjoy a cocktail, burger, tuna tacos, or specialty flatbread. The best experience, however, was speaking with strangers and people watching.

And this is where I needed to claim my included welcome drink.

TÖLT

Not everyone can enter TÖLT, a private speakeasy bar. If you’re a VIP or a lucky Marriott Bonvoy Elite, you may receive an invitation with a secret password. Yes, I did receive an invitation! It was vinyl night and there was a DJ rockin’. The bartender was proud of his special homemade pickled onions perfected for a unique Gibson cocktail.

The space is “open” from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. but only on Fridays and Saturdays, and only if you can score an invitation.

The space is also used for private and hotel-sponsored events.

Sunset

Previously, Sunset was a nightclub. The space is now closed to the public but available to book for private events.

Room Service

Room service is available from 7 a.m. until midnight.

Service

Service is where the hotel shines. Yes, the views are amazing, the location is prime, and the facilities are some of the best.

Because I won’t always score that corner suite, I want to know I can receive value in other ways. A decent room would be expected here, but great service elevates the stay.

Cristina at the front desk was delightful and helpful. Magdalena helped me tremendously and was responsible for my speakeasy invitation. Guito, the chef, was both talented and cordial. And my server, Gordon, took the time to make my meal feel special, even during a busy Friday night.

I was only at the hotel for 2 nights but it was a lovely stay and a fine experience.

Surrounding Area

The Reykjavik EDITION is perfectly located for exploring Reykjavik. Here are some of the sites I’ve enjoyed during my visit to the area.

Harpa Concert Hall — The Harpa is the city’s iconic cultural venue, conveniently located adjacent to the hotel. Its striking architecture makes the building a focal point of the city and a destination for music festivals, symphonies, art exhibits, performances, and concerts.

Laugavegur Street — I could never be bored on Laugavegur Street. With its funky vibe, hip shops, bars, street art, and museums, there’s always something to do. This main shopping street is a convenient 10-minute walk from the hotel.

The Best Hotdog in the World? — Iceland’s take on the best hotdog you’ll ever eat is just a few blocks from the hotel. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur had served up the best food value in town since 1937. Order your dog with everything to experience it the way it was intended.

Happy Hour — Alcohol in Iceland is expensive. It’s not unusual to find $25 cocktails. The best way to save on alcohol is to pick up a supply at KEF airport duty-free before leaving (use this guide for pricing). The second best way is to secure alcohol from a licensed outlet like Vínbúðin. There are only 2 in the city centre, with one just a few blocks from The Reykjavik EDITION. The third way is to take advantage of the plentiful happy hours offered at neighborhood bars around the hotel and on Laugavegur Street.

Tour Groups— I have booked several Iceland day tours while staying at Reykjavik hotels. Tour companies will pick you up at the hotel or the nearest bus stop, typically not more than a couple blocks away. I’ve done the Golden Circle a few times, the South Shore tour, the Puffin boat, and more. The marina area where you can join puffin and whale excursions is just a few blocks from the hotel. I have used several tour companies and all were great.

Hallgrimskirkja Church — Within walking distance of the hotel sits the largest church in Iceland. During your visit, you can climb the stairs to the top of the tower for a grand view of Reykjavik. The structure contains the largest concert organ in the country and is built in a modern expressionist style both on the interior and exterior.

This is just a fraction of what there is to do in Reykjavik. For more information on additional activities, here’s a quick list to get you started.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavik EDITION Hotel is one of the nicest hotels in Iceland. Your experience may not be as grand as mine, but the hotel is worth considering if you have FHR benefits with the Amex Platinum card.

Marriott Bonvoy Elite members are also treated well at the hotel. I personally wouldn’t pay $800 a night to stay, but good value may be found during the shoulder seasons with FHR benefits or by using Marriott Bonvoy points or free night certificates.

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and your journey includes a stay in the capital city, you’ll want to check out our in-depth reviews for other Reykjavik and airport hotel properties:

• 101 Hotel Reykjavik, a Member of Design Hotels
• Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre
• Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik Keflavik Airport
• Iceland Parliament Hotel Curio Collection by Hilton
• Hilton Nordica Reykjavik
• Kvosin Hotel
• Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel Curio Collection by Hilton
• Sand Hotel by Mr. & Mrs. Smith