Sapphic Travel Review: Center Hotels Plaza Iceland

• Property: Center Hotels Plaza 
• Location: Downtown next to Hjólabrettapallar, Reykjavík, Iceland
• Hags’ Rating: 5 stars

In December 2023, we took our second trip to Iceland (our first during winter) with the sole purpose of relaxing, practicing some self-care, and eating some great food. We spent our little cozy four-day getaway staying at Center Hotels Plaza. Initially, we chose it for price, but we ended up being pleasantly surprised by just how amazing it was. In fact, I’d say it’s a 3-star hotel with a 5-star experience for us!

Where to Stay in Iceland: Center Hotels Plaza Review

Location 

It would be hard to find a hotel with a better spot in Reykjavik. Situated in downtown, Center Hotels Plaza is across the street from the oldest square in the city, Ingólfstorg Square, and only a few blocks from the coastline, with easy access to multiple museums and the Harpa Concert Hall. A quick walk or bus ride in the other direction will also get you to Rainbow Street and Hverfisgata. The location also ensures easy drop-off access for anyone using the various bus transport services that operate from the airport. 

Service Quality

The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful upon check-in. They were also quick to keep all the food filled during breakfast. I think there could be more guidance in the breakfast area, as it did feel a bit unorganized and like everyone was having to fend for themselves to find seating. Just someone to direct people where to sit and keep the line organized would be enough to overcome any difficulties. (It’s been two years since we were there, so this may already be the case.)

Room Quality 

The rooms at Center Plaza Hotels Iceland were much nicer than I anticipated. While compact, the floor-to-ceiling window gave the impression of a much larger space with a great view overlooking the square. The bed was comfortable and soft with plump pillows.

The bathroom was a tight fit, and we got hit with some egg-smell while showering, thanks to the sulfur in the water, but that’s pretty standard across the island. Additionally, the noise did travel a bit from the hallways to the room, but there was never enough noise from other guests that it disturbed us. 

Amenities 

With 3-star hotels, amenities can be in a bit of a gray area, with the offerings varying wildly between properties. At Center Hotels Plaza Iceland, they’ve opted to push into a higher category of onsite features for their customers. Along with complimentary breakfast, there’s a bar downstairs in the lobby with drinks and snacks available to order and enjoy in a very aesthetic lounging area – happy hour discounts are from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily. There is also baggage storage available, which is useful if you plan on exploring on your checkout day. 

In the room, there’s a kettle with complimentary instant coffee and a mini fridge. Unfortunately, there isn’t a microwave in the room, so there’s no way to heat up or cook any food. Additionally, the bathroom is equipped with all the standard shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel in refillable pump bottles. 

Dining

The onsite breakfast was one of the main reasons we chose the Center Hotels Plaza, as it’s incredibly convenient (and affordable) to know where you’re going to eat before setting off for the day. The buffet was pretty delicious with a wide variety of food options, including all the breakfast staples, like eggs and sausage, as well as fruits and cereals. There were also juices and coffee available. 

The biggest challenge was finding a spot to sit. We were lucky, as it was much easier for us to get a table as a two-some while other larger groups struggled and had to wait in the hallway until enough space opened up. 

One morning, we ended up at a four-person table and shared it with another American couple. Even as an introvert known for her morning grumpiness, I sincerely enjoyed the conversation and even got some tips about seeing the Northern Lights based on their experiences. That’s not something I would’ve had the opportunity to experience if we dined out or ordered breakfast in. 

Value for Money

In Iceland, you pay for location. While Center Hotels Plaza offers one of the best locations in the city, its price stays on the lower end of mid-range hotels in Reykjavík, especially considering breakfast is also included. It’s worth every penny in my opinion! We plan to stay here again next time we’re in the city. 

What You Need to Know About Center Hotels Plaza Iceland

If you’re busing from the airport to Reykjavík, it’s fairly easy to get near the hotel. Bus shuttle stop 3 is just about 2 blocks away, and the area is nice to walk through, even at night. Stop 1 is also feasible on foot. Or, if you’re taking the city bus, stop Lækjartorg A is nearby as well.

When it comes to breakfast, there will be a crowd. Try to get breakfast early to skip the rush and avoid waiting for a table. When we stayed, it was pretty full each day by 8:30 a.m. 

Staying at Center Hotels Plaza as a Lesbian

On the Center Hotels brand website, they outline equality as a main mission of their company for both employees and guests. As with most hotels in Reykjavik, they’re an incredibly welcoming and inclusive business, and we didn’t experience any weirdness or awkwardness checking in as a same-sex couple. I think it’s a spot that lesbian, sapphic, and queer travelers can expect to be comfortable and safe when visiting the city.

Have you stayed at the Center Hotels Plaza in Iceland? Did your experience match ours? Let us know by dropping a dm or comment on social! We’d love to hear from you.