Originally Posted by
eefor jfp
Not really. It was a fifteen minute walk to the center which we only did two days. The other two days we did excursions, so pickup was actually easier because it was at the hotel vs. some bus stop downtown, allowing you to wait comfortably in the lobby (if you rent a car, the Nordica has free parking).
The biggest limitation was dinner. There are a number of strip mall-type restaurants near the Nordica (Vietnamese, pizza, Mexican, sandwiches, burger, Chinese) but the nicer places and the fun bars are not around here. Even at the end of April, it was cold and windy so walking wasn't great but it was bearable.
The Curio Diplomat is within easy walking distance to all the action. Originally the grand home of a wealthy merchant, it's an elegant, immaculate hotel rich in character, and in my experience gives very generous upgrades to Diamond members. As a welcome gift I've received boxes of handmade local chocolates, worth at least $20. Breakfast is good for Iceland. (good quality, limited selection). Fridge stocked with complementary water, juice, and soda.
I parked nearby in a "P2" zone using the easypark app for around $10/day.
Reykjavik's famed Icelandic hot dog stand was visible from my balcony, amongst the historic buildings, to give you an idea of the area.
I'm averse to hot weather, but come nowhere near to needing AC in May in Iceland. It'll be a surprise if you see 60°f before the last week of May.