Nestled amidst the vibrant energy of downtown Reykjavik, the Hilton Parliament exudes a captivating blend of modern luxury and historic charm. Situated just steps from the iconic Alþingi, Iceland’s parliament building, this Curio Collection by Hilton gem effortlessly integrates contemporary elegance with nods to the city’s rich heritage. Step inside and be greeted by a sophisticated ambiance, where sleek design seamlessly intertwines with Icelandic-inspired touches. This creates a haven for discerning travelers seeking an unforgettable Reykjavik experience.
From the moment you step through the doors, you’ll be transported to a world of refined comfort and captivating charm. But let’s not keep you waiting any longer! Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into our stay at the Hilton Parliament and unveil all the reasons why it should be your next Reykjavik haven.
Booking
For my stay at the Hilton Parliament, I chose the King Classic Room at $237.54 per night. While this was pricier than the Hilton Nordica, the downtown location justified the difference. The Parliament offers various rates, including breakfast inclusions, dinner packages, and flexible cancellation options.
Booking late in our South Coast trip allowed for a smoother process. With complimentary breakfast for Hilton Gold/Diamond members, we secured the most cost-effective three-night stay. To maximize value, I paid with my Amex Hilton Surpass card, earning 12x points and a 7.2% return.
Hilton Parliament Location
Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Reykjavik, the Hilton Parliament offers a captivating blend of convenience and cultural immersion. Step outside your door and find yourself amidst a tapestry of local experiences. Indulge in the legendary hotdogs of Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, just a short stroll away, or delve into the culinary delights of Foodcellar, renowned for its fresh, seasonal fare.
Within a stone’s throw, the iconic Rainbow Street beckons with its colorful houses and a treasure trove of independent shops. Browse for unique souvenirs, handcrafted Icelandic gifts, and locally designed apparel, all while soaking in the city’s artistic charm. History buffs can embark on a journey through time at the Settlement Museum, mere steps from the hotel, while the awe-inspiring Hallgrimskirkja church stands tall, offering panoramic city views from its observation deck. With its central location, the Hilton Parliament became our gateway to exploring the best of Reykjavik, its cultural gems, and culinary scene, all within easy walking distance.
Check-in
Upon arrival at the Hilton Parliament, a friendly staff member greeted me with a smile at the check-in counter. After exchanging pleasantries, the gentleman efficiently handled the check-in, requesting my passport and credit card. To my surprise, he not only offered warm thanks for our Hilton Diamond status but also informed us of a delightful upgrade! We were being moved from the King Classic room to a luxurious King Junior Suite – a significant upgrade from the $237.54 nightly rate to a stunning $598.94! This unexpected generosity instantly set a positive tone for our stay, leaving us excited and grateful. He also provided helpful information about the spa hours and breakfast location before sending us off to our upgraded haven. The genuine hospitality and pleasant surprise made for a truly memorable check-in experience.
Hilton Parliament Junior Suite
Room 321 greeted us with spacious luxury, nestled at the end of the 3rd floor hallway. Stepping inside, a vast bathroom adorned with floor-to-ceiling white marble tiles unfolded before us. Turning the corner, we were instantly captivated by the breathtaking floor-to-ceiling windows that wrapped around the entire corner of the room, flooding the space with natural light.
Modern sophistication permeated the suite, evident in the 55-inch HDTV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and an espresso machine perfect for morning rituals. A lounge chair with an ottoman invited relaxation, while a dedicated desk offered a convenient workspace. We were particularly impressed by the generously sized bathroom, boasting a refreshing rainfall showerhead in the large walk-in shower, heated tile floors for added comfort, and a double sink vanity with ample space for our belongings. This luxurious haven promised a truly comfortable and memorable stay.
Food and Beverage
Our mornings began at Hjá Jóni, the hotel’s on-site restaurant conveniently located just off the check-in desk. As Hilton Diamond members, breakfast was included, and the buffet truly impressed. From a variety of meats and cheeses to freshly baked bread and jams, the spread was extensive and delicious. Another island offered cereals, yogurts, fruits, and even made-to-order items like omelets, Eggs Benedict, and avocado toast. An espresso machine, fresh juices, and a chilled bottle of champagne for mimosas rounded out the impressive selection.
While we didn’t utilize the bar during our stay, we did discover the Executive Lounge on the last day. Surprisingly, the front desk didn’t mention it at check-in, potentially leading us to miss out on a Happy Hour. Regardless, the space itself was inviting, featuring plenty of seating, a cozy fireplace, and a terrace overlooking the city (a perfect summer spot!). While locked during our visit, we found fresh fruit, granola bars, and tea available.
Amenities
While I’m not a gym aficionado, the Iceland Parliament Hotel’s fitness center impressed even this occasional treadmill user. Its spacious layout, multiple flat-screens, and interactive equipment offered a motivating workout environment. Open 24/7 and complimentary for all guests, it boasted a variety of machines, free weights, and exercise balls. But the true highlight for me was the Parliament Spa.
This haven of relaxation, accessible to Diamond and Gold members or through a $39.86 day pass, stole my heart. Open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, it featured a luxurious soaking pool with plush robes and towels, inviting lounging areas with unique themes, and even an option to enjoy drinks while unwinding. The dry sauna, steam room, and cool mist room offered further options for de-stressing. While my packed exploration schedule prevented me from indulging fully, the spa’s allure was undeniable, guaranteeing a dedicated day on my return visit.
Overall Impression Of Hilton Parliament
Our three-night stay at the Hilton Parliament was an immersion in Reykjavik’s vibrant heart, punctuated by moments of pure luxury. The exquisite room, with its high-end touches, transformed relaxation into an effortless art. Each evening concluded with a calming drink in the lounge chair, gazing out of the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the central square.
The hotel’s prime location made exploring downtown a breeze. We could easily spend an hour or two shopping, then return to unload our souvenir bags before a leisurely walk to dinner. The breakfast buffet, featuring made-to-order delights and endless mimosas, fueled our vacation days with delicious anticipation.
But the true star of the show was the sophisticated Parliament Spa. Its promise of relaxation cemented our decision to return to Reykjavik and experience its rejuvenating embrace.
Have you ever stayed at the Hilton Curio Parliament? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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