Iceland’s Reykjavik-Keflavik Airport is a stunning example of Scandinavian interior design, even amid the chaos that is a transportation hub. There are many delicious places to have a snack. You’ll find tall windows at every step, ideal for enjoying the ever-changing weather. In addition, there is a large selection of Scandinavian sweets in duty-free shops.
Here’s everything you need to know about 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
- Departure 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 is anything you take away from this article, let Reykjavik-Keflavik airport not be located in Reykjavik. It is actually about a 40 minute drive from the capital city. This is something to keep in mind when planning your first day in the country, especially if you are renting a car.
Another thing to keep in mind is that landing and taking off from Reykjavik-Keflavik airport can be quite bumpy. Given the country’s erratic weather patterns, the air around the airport can be quite windy. Don’t let that scare you off, though: the pilots in and out of this airport are masters running the runway. If turbulence tends to scare you, keep this in mind.
Terminals
There is only one terminal at the airport, which makes navigating space even easier (meaning less chance of getting lost and missing your flight). Leifur Eiríksson Air Terminal has restrooms and you can use the free tram service at the terminal.
Parking at Reykjavik-Keflavik Airport
When it comes to airports, there isn’t a lot of stress when it comes to parking and getting around Reykjavik-Keflavik. There is a long-term parking lot and you can buy your parking ticket online before you arrive. If you go this route, you will be charged 1750 ISK (about $ 14) per day.
There is also short term parking if you are picking up or dropping off someone. The first 15 minutes are free and the first hour after that will cost you ISK 500 (about $ 4). Every hour after that it will cost you 750 ISK (about $ 6).
Travel directions
Getting to the airport is easy – once you are out of the hustle and bustle of the city, you are just a short drive from the highway. There really isn’t much industry around the airport, which means that traffic is rare and the roads are relatively well-maintained. The airport is located about 50 km from Reykjavik. If you are in the city of Keflavik, you are less than two miles away.
Public transport, taxis and car rentals
Taxis in Iceland are incredibly expensive. If you can, avoid calling a taxi and renting a car or taking a bus. Flybus is a popular option for locals and you can catch it from the station in Reykjavik. Flybus buses depart 45 minutes after each arrival, making it a relatively easy option for travelers. It is also preferable given its location right in Reykjavik. Other bus services have stations slightly outside Reykjavik city limits, so hotel transfer is necessary.
There are also tour buses that will pick you up at the airport and take you to Blue Lagoon, which is just a few minutes away.
Renting a car is by far the easiest way to get where you need to go and there are many options at the airport. If you rent a car, you will need to take a shuttle bus from outside the airport (follow the signs for baggage claim and then for car rental service) to your respective rental agency.
Where to eat and drink
Bergsson Mathus is a popular breakfast spot in Reykjavik and they opened an outpost at the airport. If you’re looking for a solid meal, head there. Other than that, there are a number of Joe & the Juice stops, if a smoothie or quick snack suits your needs. Ginger is a health food stop located on the first floor near check-in and arrivals.
On the second floor, you will find two restaurants: Mathus (mentioned above) and Nord. There is also a small food hall for snacks and drinks.
Where to buy
You will find a duty free shop on all levels of the airport. There you can buy local skincare (I recommend Sóley), sweets, alcohol, wool blankets, handicrafts, and all kinds of souvenirs. In fact, if you’re looking for a hack, buy alcohol at the duty-free store when you arrive if you plan to drink during your visit. Cocktails are notoriously expensive in Iceland and even locals will visit the airport to find cheaper libations.
Penninn Eymundsson is a second floor bookstore worth reading. And if you are looking for crafts, head to Rammagerðin.
How to spend your scale
There’s a lot of shopping to do at the airport, but if you find yourself with more than a few hours, think: just over six, rent a car for the afternoon and head out to explore the nearby Reykjanes Peninsula. Here you can see the two tectonic plates up close. If you need to relax, head to the nearby Blue Lagoon.
Many stopovers in Iceland span at least one night; It is, after all, what put Iceland and its national airline on the tourist map. It’s easy (and free) to book a trip that includes a layover in Iceland if you fly Icelandair. Add a multi-day stopover to your travel plans so you can make the most of your visit.
Wifi and charging stations
Good news: there is free and fast Wi-Fi located throughout the airport. There are also many outlets located around the doors and restaurants.
