Our Blog RSS

Get to Know Reykjavik with Julio!

Blog Julio
16/09/2024 15:09

Meet Julio, one of our amazing hotel managers at Center Hotels!

Originally from Mexico, Julio moved to Iceland at 18, where he earned a bachelor’s in Tourism and a master’s in Marketing. After a hiatus abroad as a flight attendant, Julio returned to Iceland and joined the Center Hotels team, where he's been a valued member ever since.

Fun fact: Julio is an award-winning swimmer, excelling in butterfly and freestyle. His love for Iceland’s vibrant culture and his passion for exploring Reykjavik make him the perfect guide for your adventure in the city.

Here are Julio’s top picks for what to do and see while in Reykjavik:

SKÝ Lounge & Bar – Sip Drinks with Stunning Views of the City and Sea!

Julio’s first pick is SKÝ Bar, and while he might be a little biased—it’s located in the hotel he manages, Center Hotels Arnarhvoll—you won’t be disappointed. Perched on the 8th floor, SKÝ offers breathtaking views of the harbor and the mountains reflected in Faxaflói Bay. The views will blow you away before you even take your seat!

With Happy Hour every day from 4-6 pm and a Late Happy Hour from 8-11 pm, SKÝ is the perfect spot to unwind at any time. The bar sits in a historic building that once housed the Vélstjóraskóli (Engineer’s School), designed by famed architect Guðjón Samúelsson in 1933. It has been part of Center Hotels since 2008 and is now one of Reykjavik’s top destinations for great cocktails and unbeatable views. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, make sure to drop by and take it all in!

Skólavörðustígur – Explore Unique Icelandic Design and Cool Coffee Spots!

The second pick is Skólavörðustígur, often called "Rainbow Street" thanks to its colorful entrance, begins at Laugavegur and leads up to the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church. Along this vibrant street, you’ll discover an array of shops, restaurants, bars, galleries, and specialty stores, making it a hub for creativity and culture.

The street ends at Skólavörðuholt hill, the highest point in the city, where you can enjoy panoramic views and visit landmarks like the statue of Leif Eiriksson. Events like Reykjavik Pride, Culture Night, and the Reykjavik Arts Festival bring extra energy to this lively area. Don’t miss out on local favorites like The Viking souvenir shop or Smekkleysa record store. Whether you’re shopping, enjoying street art, or simply strolling up to Hallgrímskirkja, Skólavörðustígur is a must-visit while in Reykjavik.

Sundhöll Reykjavíkur – Swim in Reykjavik’s Historic Indoor Pool!

The third pick, being a swimmer, is Sundhöll Reykjavíkur, the city’s oldest indoor swimming pool, designed by Guðjón Samúelsson (who also designed Hallgrímskirkja and Arnarhvoll), opened in 1937. Its minimalist, almost Art Deco exterior, combined with the unique arches inside, make this pool a historical and architectural gem.

Originally a hub for teaching swimming and public bathing, Sundhöllin underwent renovations in 2017, adding an outdoor pool and improving accessibility. Visitors can enjoy both indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, saunas, a cold tub, and even a diving board. With full wheelchair access, Sundhöllin is a welcoming spot for everyone to experience. Locals and visitors alike love this pool for a relaxing dip in its geothermal waters and steeped in Reykjavik’s rich history.

Whether you're enjoying a drink with a view, exploring Reykjavik’s creative streets, or taking a dip in a historic pool, Julio’s picks offer a perfect introduction to the city’s charm. Get ready to discover Reykjavik like a local!

Chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland
Northern lights, that elusive magical moment in the sky that many feared or revered in the past as either an omen of bad things to come or as a sign the ancestors were watching over us. Perched on the edge of the Arctic Circle, Iceland offers a front-row seat to one of nature's most breathtaking performances.
Things to Do in Reykjavik in September
September in Reykjavik brings a mix of festivals, live performances, and cultural events. From international film screenings and music festivals to comedy nights and variety shows, the city is alive with activity. As the nights grow longer, there’s even a chance to catch the northern lights, making September an ideal time to explore Reykjavik, Iceland.
8 Great Restaurants to Try in Reykjavík
Reykjavík may be small in size, but its food scene is bursting with flavor. From modern twists on Icelandic classics to bold international fusion, the city is full of restaurants that surprise and delight. Whether you’re craving sushi, tacos, comfort food, or fine dining, this guide to eight great spots will help you eat your way through the capital, all just steps away from CenterHotels
Culture Night Events in Reykjavík
Join the city-wide celebration on August 23rd with a full day of music, food, art, and fireworks. From the Reykjavík Marathon and brunch beats at Jörgensen to jazz at Grandi and rooftop views at SKÝ Lounge, we’ve got your perfect Culture Night itinerary.
Verslunarmannahelgi or Merchant Weekend 2025
Verslunarmannahelgi, or Merchants’ Weekend, is Iceland’s biggest summer holiday. Held the first weekend of August, it’s packed with music festivals, camping, fireworks, and family fun across the country—from Reykjavík to the Westman Islands and Akureyri. Whether you’re up for live music or a peaceful nature getaway, this long weekend offers something for everyone.