Hotel Leifur Eiriksson

This charming boutique hotel offers a memorable stay, primarily distinguished by its signature feature: a direct, commanding view of the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, placing guests at the heart of Reykjavik. Its welcoming atmosphere, coupled with a consistently praised location, attentive staff, and clean accommodations, makes it an ideal choice. The hotel is particularly well-suited for sightseers, solo travelers, and couples seeking a central base from which to explore the city on foot or via organized tours. For those with a rental car, utilizing the readily available free parking near the church is a practical tip, though availability can vary. Guests should also be aware that some rooms are located in an annex building without an elevator, which might influence room preference for those with mobility concerns.

Facilities & Amenities
A frequently noted aspect of the hotel is the absence of an elevator, which means guests will need to carry their luggage up and down stairs, particularly if assigned to higher floors or the annex building. However, many guests find this adds to the hotel's charm and character, and staff are often available to assist with bags. A significant convenience highlighted by numerous reviews is the provision of complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate available 24/7 in the lobby and bar area, which is especially appreciated after a day of exploring in the cold. The hotel also offers reliable Wi-Fi throughout the property, ensuring guests can stay connected, and secure luggage storage is available for early arrivals or late departures.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally commend the hotel for its consistent cleanliness throughout the rooms and common areas. Most guests find the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, and the blackout blinds are highly effective, which is particularly useful during Iceland's long daylight hours. However, feedback on room comfort is mixed regarding size; many rooms are described as small or tiny, with cramped bathrooms and showers that can lead to wet floors due to their design. Some rooms feature low ceilings or slanted roofs, requiring guests to be mindful of their head space. The hot water often carries a sulfur smell, a natural characteristic of Iceland's geothermal water, which some guests find off-putting. While some note occasional noise from the street or corridors, many still report a quiet environment conducive to relaxation.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast consistently receives positive feedback from guests, often described as a great way to start the day. It typically features a continental buffet with a good variety of options, including various cereals, fresh breads, assorted cheeses, fruits, eggs, and meats. Many guests particularly enjoy the traditional Icelandic skyr, and some appreciate the availability of vegan options. Most find the food fresh and tasty, providing sufficient sustenance. However, some guests describe the breakfast as basic or sparse, noting a limited selection of hot items beyond toast, suggesting it caters more to a quick, functional meal rather than an elaborate spread.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a major highlight, positioned directly opposite the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, which serves as an excellent and easily recognizable landmark for guests navigating the city. This prime spot offers exceptional walkable access to downtown Reykjavik, including the vibrant Rainbow Street, a plethora of restaurants, diverse shops, and various attractions. Furthermore, the hotel's proximity to bus stop #8 is highly convenient, as it serves as a key pickup point for both airport transfers and numerous excursions, making it ideal for travelers relying on public transport or tour services. While free parking is available nearby in the church lot, guests should be aware that finding an open spot can sometimes be challenging due to high demand.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their professionalism and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. Specific examples of excellent service include quick check-in processes, efficient luggage storage solutions, and valuable assistance with local advice, such as recommendations for restaurants or organizing taxi services and tours. Many guests particularly appreciate the staff's thoughtful gesture of preparing take-away breakfasts for those with early morning departures, demonstrating their commitment to guest convenience and satisfaction.

Additional Information
As the hotel is housed within an older building, it possesses a unique charm, but this also means there is no elevator on the premises. Guests should be prepared to use stairs, which can be a consideration for those with heavy luggage or mobility challenges. Some rooms are situated in a separate annex building located across the street from the main hotel, and this building also lacks an elevator. The hotel maintains a 24-hour reception, ensuring that staff are always available to assist guests with any needs or inquiries at any time of day or night, providing a continuous sense of support and security.