Marina Residence

With an ideal location on the city's waterfront, these chic residences offer a private apartment experience with full-service amenities. Note: There is currently construction next to the hotel, which blocks the views from the rooms and can be noisy.

• The evening cocktail hours, where guests congregate for complimentary drinks and appetizers
• The sweeping views of the harbor
• The impeccable design that blends modern Icelandic elegance with quirky touches

Located on the harbor of Reykjavik, these seven luxury apartments bring a new level of personal attention and hipster chic to the city. Connected to a three-star hotel called The Marina, the two private houses, with views of the shipyard and the North Sea, have been turned into an oasis for those looking for comfort and privacy. Guests check in at the sister property next door and have access to its front desk and concierge staff while staying at the Marina Residence, which includes a large ground-floor kitchen and sitting area where guests can gather for breakfast or drinks around a central fireplace. Upstairs, the apartments range from 440 square feet to one jumbo apartment (at over 800 square feet), the Adaljborg, which includes a loft bedroom perfect for kids.

The décor in each apartment mixes a vintage vibe (Oriental carpets, needlepoint upholstery and oil paintings) with a modern edge that evokes a Brooklyn chic. The quirky layouts—one bedroom is tucked behind a wall for a ship cabin effect—add to the hipster appeal, as do the convenient touches like small kitchen areas and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. While the apartments offer the privacy of a true residence, the sister hotel next door allows guests access to a gym, in-room dining and such services as babysitting. There is also a charming coffee shop right next door called the Kaffislippur, so guests can tap into the neighborhood buzz if they want to leave their oasis.

For travelers willing to sacrifice round-the-clock service in favor of privacy and stylish apartment-style accommodations, the Marina Residence is a great option on Reykjavik's waterfront.