Who are we?

In 1994 the husband and wife team, Kristófer and Svanfríður, decided to take a punt and open a little guesthouse in the center of Reykjavik. Over 25 years later, we have grown into one apartment hotel and eight hotels with restaurants, spa and meeting room facilities. Not bad, right? 

Grandad Oliver was a live-in porter at the guesthouse Flókagata and in 1994 the owner, Kristín, offered him the chance to buy it.  Oliver asked his son, Kristófer and his wife Svanfríður, if they were interested in the property and so, the rest is history. 

Even after 25 years we are still a family run business and over the years we have grown to include children, grandchildren and of course our extended Center Hotels family.  The idea of respect and community are at the heart of everything we do. 

All of our hotels are located slap bang in the epicenter of Reykjavík's vibrant and creative community, making them a great base for all that the city has to offer. We are run by Icelanders and Iceland lovers and enthusiasts, so we are able to give our guests that come to stay with us a truly authentic Icelandic experience.

What’s the difference between a good hotel and the kind of place you’re still talking about ten years later?

We’ve had some time to think about that question. More than twenty five years to be precise. When the family bought a small guesthouse back in ’94, we were all launched into the hotel business. Three generations later and here we are managing eight hotels and one aparthotel that are covering every part of central Reykjavík. We’ve been through volcanic eruptions and national economic collapse, but we’re still smiling. So, what’s the big secret?

It’s our hotels

Like different members of a family, each of our hotels has its own personality, and they’re all precious to us. From simple comforts to modern facilities with spas, and gyms and restaurants, we’ve got the perfect place for everyone.

It’s the location                

Our hotels are spread throughout the heart of the city. Convenience is an understatement.

It’s our people

Ask anyone who’s stayed with us what they think, and people is the first word you’ll hear. It’s that smile when you check in. That wine recommendation while you eat. The inescapable feeling that behind every greeting is someone who genuinely cares.

Because we’re family

We’re proud to be the only 100% family owned hotel chain in Iceland. That sense of family extends to the people that work with us and to the welcome we create.

Because we’re local

We don’t know if we mentioned this but we come from Iceland. If you want to experience real Reykjavík, why not stay like a local?