Best Hotels Near Keflavik Airport

Best Hotels Near Keflavik Airport

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Colorful rooftops in Keflavik with Esjan and Reykjavik in the backgroundWhen exploring the unique beauty of Iceland, your accommodation plays a crucial role in maximizing your experience. Staying in a hotel near Keflavik Airport is a practical way to enjoy ease and comfort while staying close to natural and cultural attractions!

Keflavik International Airport is Iceland's primary gateway for international travel. Hotels in Iceland are varied, and you can find many options in the area by Keflavik Airport that cater to every traveler's needs, preferences, and budgets.

Staying in accommodation near Keflavik Airport eliminates the stress of rush hour transfers and early morning departures, providing a great option for those on a quick stopover or aiming to maximize their first or last days exploring Iceland.

You can also find great accommodation in Keflavik and the nearby Njardvik and Hafnir. These three towns are known together as the municipality of Reykjanesbaer, and there you'll find various cultural attractions, shops, restaurants, and cafés. There are also multiple must-see attractions close by, like the world-renowned Blue Lagoon and Reykjanes Geopark.

If you pick up a rental car from Keflavik Airport, you can stay in other towns on the Reykjanes peninsula. Look for accommodation in Grindavik to stay closer to natural attractions and the Blue Lagoon, or choose from hotels in Reykjavik to get to know the capital of Iceland.

With the perfect blend of comfort and proximity to popular sights, choosing to stay near Keflavik Airport is a convenient way to amplify your Iceland adventure. Read on to discover the 9 best hotels near Keflavik Airport.

Top 9 Hotels Near Keflavik International Airport

Keflavik International Airport, also known as Leifsstöð, is the biggest and only international airport in Iceland

There are many great options for places to stay near Keflavik Airport. Whether you're on a quick layover, an early flight, or embarking on a full Icelandic excursion, these establishments offer the perfect starting point. From budget-friendly or mid-range hotels to luxury experiences, these 9 top hotels near Keflavik Airport are sure to provide a memorable stay for your journey in Iceland.

9. Hotel Keilir

The outside of Hotel Keilir in Keflavik close to Keflavik International Airport lit up in pink and blue in the dark night

Photo from Hotel Keilir.

When looking for accommodation that is conveniently close to Keflavik Airport, Hotel Keilir is a good option. It's located on the main street of the town of Keflavik, so you'll be within walking distance of restaurants, pubs, shops, and cultural attractions while only being about a 10-minute drive from the airport. It's also close to the Waterworld swimming pool of Keflavik, that's especially fun for children.

Choose different room types to suit your needs and enjoy room service before or after a long flight. Around 580 guests have given their stay an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars.

8. ABC Hotel

ABC hotel building in KeflavikThe ABC Hotel is located in the Asbru district next to Keflavik Airport, where a large US naval base was located until 2006, and has an average rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars by over 170 guests. It's just a 7-minute drive from the airport. You can choose from double, triple, and family-style rooms for up to four people that all have a comfortable and modern style, making this a good choice for your stay.

7. Hotel Grasteinn

Building of Hotel GrasteinnThe Hotel Grasteinn offers comfortable rooms in a friendly environment and is just a 10-minute drive from Keflavik Airport. The hotel has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 190 guests. It's located close to shops, restaurants, and other services in central Keflavik and offers a nice breakfast buffet. You can also enjoy the bar, lounge, and terrace during your stay.

6. Hotel Duus

Entrence to Hotel Duus in KeflavikThe small Hotel Duus is nestled in the heart of Keflavik and offers a blend of comfort and convenience. It has great views over a charming marina, and it takes just 10 minutes to drive from the hotel to the airport. Just a short walk from the hotel, you will find Hafnargata street, the main shopping street of the town. Next to the hotel, you can visit the Duus Museum to learn more about the town's nautical history as well as enjoy art exhibitions from local artists.

Hotel Duus offers a free breakfast for guests, and there's a nice on-site restaurant. Over 190 visitors have given their stay an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

5. Eldey Airport Hotel

The building of the Eldey Airport Hotel in KeflavikThe Eldey Airport Hotel is just a 10-minute drive from Keflavik Airport, and with over 350 reviews, it has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars. Located in the Asbru district, the hotel has a 24-hour reception and a tour desk where you can organize local trips.

The hotel offers a homey environment where you can relax during a layover or as part of a longer trip to Iceland. Enjoy their complimentary breakfast and their on-site bar, and make sure to try the infrared sauna and outdoor hot tub!

4. Diamond Suites at Hotel Keflavik

The entrance to Hotel Keflavik and the Diamond Suites

Photo from the Diamond Suites.

If you want to indulge in luxury during your trip, choose to stay in the Diamond Suites on the top floor of Hotel Keflavik. The suites are the only 5-star hotel in Keflavik with amenities like luxurious bathrooms, an exclusive hot tub, entertainment and music systems, coffee machines, and a complimentary minibar. 

A private transfer is available for guests to and from Keflavik Airport; just make sure to book it ahead of time. You'll also have access to a private chef who can prepare custom meals to truly make the most of your stay! Over 20 guests have given their experience an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars.

3. Hotel Keflavik

Building of Hotel Keflavik with a sunset in the backgroundEnjoy a stay at the four-star Hotel Keflavik, nestled in the heart of the town with just a 10-minute drive to Keflavik Airport. The hotel offers many great amenities and services, like room service, a currency exchange, a minibar, and a safe available in rooms.

Additionally, guests have access to a gym, spa, and sauna, and there is an on-site restaurant as well. Over 710 guests have given their experience an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, so this hotel is an especially comfortable option for your stay in Iceland.

2. Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik

Building of the Courtyard by Marriott in KeflavikThe Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik is the closest hotel on this list to Keflavik Airport and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by over 430 guests. It takes just 5 minutes to drive between locations, and you can enjoy optimal comfort during your stay. This four-star hotel has a fully-equipped gym and on-site restaurant and can host large meetings, weddings, and other events.

1. Konvin Hotel

Building of the Konvin hotel in KeflavikThe Konvin Hotel is a popular accommodation option a 10-minute drive from Keflavik Airport, in the reformed old US naval air base known as Asbru. This affordable hotel has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from over 1,500 guests and offers stylish modern rooms for up to 4 people. What makes them especially great is that they offer free luggage storage and a free airport shuttle upon request, making it perfect for your last day or for a layover in Iceland.

Other Accommodations Near Keflavik Airport

People looking at northern lights in Iceland in Asbru near Keflavik airport with reflection in the water

The area around Keflavik Airport offers a variety of accommodation types beyond standard hotels. Whether you're traveling alone or with a group, there are many great options providing welcoming comfort and homely charm.

  • Guesthouses can be a budget-friendly choice, offering a warm and welcoming experience. A great option near Keflavik Airport is the Blue Viking Guesthouse, which over 130 guests have given an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. You could also stay at the KEF Guesthouse, as it's only a 7-minute drive to the airport. Over 350 visitors have rated their experience an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars.
  • Cottages offer a more private and cozy experience when staying in Iceland. The best cottages in the vicinity of Keflavik Airport are the Harbour Cottages in Grindavik, which have a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 190 reviews. They're a 20-minute drive away from the airport and feature a view of the town harbor, and they're also only a 10-minute drive from the Blue Lagoon, a perfect way to enhance your relaxing stay!

Whatever accommodation experience you're looking for, the area around Keflavik Airport has you covered. You can find a range of options that provide easy access to the airport, and no matter where you choose to stay, you'll enjoy an Icelandic experience that marries convenience with comfort.

Airport Shuttle to and from Reykjavik

Hallgrimskirkja with Reykjavik in the background during sunsetReykjavik is only a 45-minute drive from Keflavik Airport, so you can also find many convenient accommodation options in the capital for your first or last night in Iceland. This especially applies to those who have a rental car in Reykjavik, as you may need to return it somewhere in the city. Keep in mind that many car rentals also offer you to return your car at the airport if requested.

You'll be able to enjoy what the city has to offer, visit iconic landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja and the Harpa Concert Hall, and immerse yourself in local history at the best museums in Reykjavik. If you want to get to know the local cuisine, you can also visit the best restaurants in Reykjavik as you wander through the city's colorful streets.

Skolavordustigur raunbow street on a sunny day in Reykjavik with the icelandic flac on bannerWhen you're ready to leave, you can take an airport shuttle for a hassle-free journey. These shuttle services generally offer pick-up from either your hotel or a convenient location within Reykjavik. You'll be able to unwind during the trip and be sure of a timely arrival for your flight. There are also different transfer experiences to choose from depending on your needs and preferences; just make sure to book in a timely manner.

The most popular shuttle option is the Flybus transfer, as there is a bus departing to Reykjavik from the airport 30 minutes after every flight. You can also easily book a Flybus transfer from hotels in Reykjavik for the end of your trip. If you want a more comfortable journey, you can also book a private transfer to Keflavik Airport.

Another option is taking the city bus, as line nr. 55 runs between Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik. You can check the timetable on the city bus website. Keep in mind that you will have to pay an additional fee to the general bus ticket price, and make sure to account for extra time in case of delays or other issues.



What to Do Near Keflavik Airport

Stafnes lighthouse at Sudurnes, on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland close to Keflavik Airport

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Diego Delso.

The surrounding area of Keflavik Airport has many attractions and is worth taking the time to explore. From natural wonders along the other-worldly Reykjanes peninsula to cultural experiences in the heart of Keflavik, you can make the most of your first and last day in Iceland and turn your stopover into an exciting mini-adventure.



Spend a day in Keflavik

The marina or small boat harbor in Keflavik on a sunny day

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Chmee2/Valtameri.

Staying near Keflavik Airport makes it easy to explore the town of Keflavik, especially as many hotels are located there. There are interesting cultural attractions that can make for a memorable afternoon in Iceland. You can visit the Viking World Museum to learn about the history of Vikings in Iceland. Its highlight is a life-size replica of a Viking ship based on the Norwegian Gokstad ship!

Another great place to check out is the Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll, where you can get to know a part of the country's musical history and learn about some of Iceland's best-known bands. You can also visit the Duus Museum, which offers exhibitions about the history and nature of the area and also hosts many events. If you want something quirky and kid-friendly, you can go visit the troll giantess that lives in a cave by the marina (read more about it in the article below).

If you're planning a relaxing day exploring Keflavik, we recommend enhancing your itinerary with a trip to the nearby Blue Lagoon. Soaking in the spa's famous blue waters is a great end to a day of exploring and will be a memorable highlight of your visit to Iceland.



Relax in the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is a great place to relax and enjoy natural silica masks for better skinStaying in a hotel near Keflavik International Airport offers a convenient gateway to the famous Blue Lagoon. Just a 15-minute drive away from Keflavik and 45 minutes from Reykjavik, this iconic geothermal spa nestled in a lava field provides a perfect place for relaxation. Bathe in its warm, turquoise, mineral-rich waters, known for their skincare benefits, amid beautiful natural surroundings.

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland, so we recommend that you book your trip well ahead of time. You can buy your Blue Lagoon tickets online when planning your adventure. You can even book a transfer from the Blue Lagoon to Keflavik Airport for optimal convenience!



Explore the Reykjanes Peninsula

Man standin on a kliff overlooking Seltun geothermal area and Kleifarvatn lake

Staying near Keflavik International Airport provides a prime location for exploring the Reykjanes peninsula. A UNESCO Global Geopark, Reykjanes has many geological wonders that are a must-see on any trip to Iceland.

Visit the Bridge Between Continents, which straddles the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. Venture out to the dramatic coastline to find the Gunnuhver hot spring, which is said to be haunted, and the surrounding geothermal area. Just nearby, you'll discover Reykjanesviti, one of the oldest lighthouses in Iceland, located close to the dramatic Hafnarberg sea cliffs.

Don't forget to explore the mystical Kleifarvatn, the largest lake on the peninsula, which, according to legend, is home to a mythical water creature. Nearby, you'll find Seltun, a colorful geothermal area with bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles. You can also hike up a part of the mountainside for a great view of Lake Kleifarvatn!

We recommend checking out the Safe Travel website for information and notifications about weather and road conditions before heading out. For longer trips, it's also a good idea to submit a travel plan, as it can help rescue services locate you in case of an emergency.

If you're exploring the area in late fall, winter, or early spring, then you may be able to see the aurora borealis! The Reykjanes peninsula has some of the best locations to see the northern lights near Reykjavik because of low light pollution. If conditions are good when you visit during this time, make sure to keep your eyes on the night sky.

See the Reykjanes Volcanic Eruption Sites

Sundhnukagigar is the second 2023 volcanic eruption in Iceland

From the start of the Sundhnukagigar volcano eruption in December 2023.

Staying in a hotel near Keflavik Airport places you within 10 miles (16 kilometers) of the sites of regular volcanic eruptions that have been occurring since 2021. This is a safe distance from Keflavik. When activity is dormant, you have the unique opportunity to hike to the area and see brand-new lava fields and volcanic craters.

As activity is always changing and developing, make sure to check the SafeTravel website for information about conditions and safety before attempting to enter the area. Always respect the safety closures.

If the area is open for hikers, it's recommended to join a guided hiking tour to the volcano site. Make sure to wear proper hiking boots with ankle support and wear warm layered clothing. Also, bring food and water with you, as the hike can take a while, and you may be staying a long time on-site.  If you want to explore but the area is closed off, the only way to see the fiery aftermath of the eruptions is with this volcano helicopter tour from Reykjavik.



FAQ's About Hotels Near Keflavik Airport

The cozy marina in Keflavik with a boat and a hotel in background during sunsetHere are answers to the most frequently asked questions about hotels near Keflavik Airport.

Do hotels in Reykjavik offer an airport shuttle to Keflavik Airport?

Generally, hotels in Reykjavik do not offer a shuttle service to Keflavik Airport. You can, however, order a shuttle service with pickup from your hotel or from a convenient location within the Capital Region.

Can I get an airport shuttle from my hotel in Keflavik?

Many hotels in Keflavik and the surrounding area offer shuttle services to Keflavik Airport for guests. Some hotels offer a free shuttle, though others may charge for the service. Make sure to check for these amenities when booking your hotel near Keflavik Airport. You can also book a private shuttle to the airport if it's not available at your hotel.

Can I store my luggage at my hotel near Keflavik Airport?

Some hotels advertise luggage storage as one of their amenities. If the service is not advertised, it's not unlikely that they'll be able to keep it for you anyway for a short time. Make sure to check with your hotel when planning your itinerary. If you can't store your luggage at your hotel, you can use the luggage lockers at Keflavik Airport for a small fee. Lockers are also available at select locations in Reykjavik.

The road to Keflavik, Reykjanesvegur, with Mt. Esja and the greater Reykjavik area in the background

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Hansueli Krapf.

How much is a taxi between Reykjavik and Keflavik Airport?

You can expect to pay somewhere between 110 and 180 USD (16.000-25.000 ISK) for a taxi ride between Keflavik Airport and central Reykjavik. The price depends on which taxi service you choose, the number of passengers, and whether the ride is during the day or night. Rates may also be higher during public holidays, so make sure to ask your driver about prices at the start of the journey. You can find information about taxi services at Keflavik Airport on the airport's website.

What is the closest town to Keflavik Airport?

As the name implies, Keflavik Airport is next to the town of Keflavik, with just a 10-minute drive between locations. Keflavik is part of Reykjanesbaer, which is the name for three unified towns clustered together in the area. The other two towns are Njardvik and Hafnir. It's common to use the names Keflavik and Reykjanesbaer interchangeably to refer to the unified town.

How far is Keflavik Airport from Reykjavik?

The drive between central Reykjavik and Keflavik Airport takes around 45 minutes. There is one direct road between locations known as Reykjanesbraut, making it easy to navigate.

Summary of the Best Hotels Near Keflavik Airport

Holmbergsviti lighthouse just outside Keflavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula near Keflavik Airport

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Diego Delso.

Staying in a hotel near Keflavik Airport provides convenience and comfort for travelers. With a range of options from luxury to budget-friendly, these accommodations cater to various needs. Proximity to the airport facilitates stress-free transit, especially for early morning or late-night flights. Many of these hotels also offer airport shuttle services, easing travel worries.

Beyond practicality, staying in a hotel near Keflavik Airport offers a gateway to the Reykjanes peninsula's many attractions, like the Blue Lagoon and Reykjanes Geopark. So book your hotel room near Keflavik Airport now and make the most of your visit to Iceland!

How would you spend a day in Iceland? What attractions would you explore on the Reykjanes peninsula? Are there any suggestions we missed? Tell us about it in the comments below!

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