Iceland's Reykjavik-Keflavik Airport Guide

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Keflavík International Airport

Address

Iceland

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Phone +354 425 6000

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Iceland's Reykjavik-Keflavik Airport is a stunning example of Scandinavian interior design, even among the chaos that is a transportation hub. There are plenty of delicious spots to grab a snack. You'll find tall windows at every turn, which are great for taking in the ever-changing weather. Plus, there's a great selection of Scandinavian candy at the duty-free shops.

Ahead, you'll find everything you need to know about the Reykjavik-Keflavik Airport, from where to eat to how to get there.

Reykjavik-Keflavik Airport Code, Location, and Flight Information

• Airport code: KEF
• Location: Keflavíkurflugvöllur, 235 Keflavík, Iceland
• Website: https://www.isavia.is/en/keflavik-airport
• Arrival Information: https://www.isavia.is/en/keflavik-airport/flight-schedule/arrivals
• Departures Information: https://www.isavia.is/en/keflavik-airport/flight-schedule/departures
• Map: https://www.isavia.is/en/keflavik-airport/before-flying/services-and-facilities/maps
• Phone Number: +354 424 4000

Know Before You Go

If there's one thing you take away from this article, let it be that the Reykjavik-Keflavik Airport is not located in Reykjavik. It's actually about a 40-minute drive from the capital city. This is something to keep in mind when you're planning your first day in the country, especially if you're renting a car.

Another thing to note is that the landing and take-off from Reykjavik-Keflavik Airport can get quite bumpy. Given the country's erratic weather patterns, the air around the airport can be quite windy. Don't let it scare you, though — the pilots coming in and out of this airport are masters are handling the runway. If turbulence does tend to freak you out, keep this in mind.

Terminals

There's only one terminal at the airport, which makes navigating the space even easier (aka less chance of getting lost and missing your flight). The Leifur Eiríksson Air Terminal has toilets and you can use the free trolley service in the terminal.

Reykjavik-Keflavik Airport Parking

When it comes to airports, there isn't a lot of stress when it comes to parking and getting around Reykjavik-Keflavik. There is one long-term parking lot and you can purchase your parking ticket online before you arrive. If you go this route, you'll be charged 1750 ISK (around $14) per day.

There is also short-term parking if you're picking someone up or dropping them off. The first 15 minutes are free and the first hour after that will cost you 500 ISK (around $4). Every hour after that will run you 750 ISK (around $6).

Driving Directions

Getting to the airport is easy — once you're out of the hustle of the city, it's a quick highway drive away. There really isn't a lot of industry around the airport, meaning traffic is rare and the roads are relatively well maintained. The airport is located about 31 miles from Reykjavik. If you're in the town of Keflavik, you're less than two miles away.

Public Transportation, Taxis, and Car Rental

Taxis in Iceland are incredibly expensive. If you can, avoid calling a cab and rent a car or take a bus. Flybus is a popular option for locals and you can catch it from the station in Reykjavik. Flybus buses leave 45 minutes after each arrival, making it a relatively easy option for travelers. It's also preferable given its location right in Reykjavik. Other bus services have stations slightly outside of the Reykjavik city limits, making it necessary for a hotel shuttle.

There are also tour buses that will pick you up at the airport and bring you to the Blue Lagoon, which is a few minutes away.

Renting a car is by far the easiest way to get where you have to go and there are plenty of options at the airport. If you do rent a car, you'll have to catch a shuttle bus from right outside the airport (follow the signs for baggage claim and then for car rental shuttles) to your respective rental agency.

Where to Eat and Drink

Bergsson Mathus is a popular breakfast spot in Reykjavik and they opened an outpost in the airport. If you're looking for a solid meal, head that way. Aside from that, there are a number of Joe & the Juice stops, if a smoothie or a quick snack fits your needs. Ginger is a health food stop located on the first floor near check-in and arrivals.

On the second floor, you'll find two restaurants: Mathus (mentioned above) and Nord. There's also a small food hall for snacks and drinks.

Where to Shop

You'll find a duty free shop on every level of the airport. There you can buy local skincare (I recommend Sóley), sweets, alcohol, wool blankets, crafts, and all kinds of other souvenirs. In fact, if you're looking for a hack, buy your alcohol at the duty free store when you arrive if you plan on drinking during your visit. Cocktails are notoriously expensive in Iceland and even the locals will visit the airport to find cheaper libations.

Penninn Eymundsson is a bookstore on the second floor that's worth a perusal. And if you're looking for handicrafts, head to Rammagerðin.

How to Spend Your Layover

There's plenty of shopping to be done in the airport, but if you find yourself with more than a few hours — think: anything more than six — rent a car for the afternoon and head out to explore the nearby Reykjanes Peninsula. Here, you can get an up-close-and-personal look at the two tectonic plates. If you're in need of some relaxation, head to the nearby Blue Lagoon.

Many layovers in Iceland actually span at least one overnight; it is, after all, the thing that put Iceland and its national airline on the tourist map. It's easy to book a trip (and free) that includes a layover in Iceland if you're flying Icelandair. Add a multi-day layover into your travel plans so you can make the most of your visit.

Wifi and Charging Stations

Good news: There's free and fast Wi-Fi located across the airport. There are also plenty of outlets located around the gates and restaurants.