BSI is the main bus terminal in downtown Reykjavik that serves as a start and end point for many tours and adventures in Iceland. Most airport transfer services between Keflavik International Airport and Reykjavik arrive and depart from BSI.
BSI stands for "Bifreifastod Islands," or the Automobile Station of Iceland. Built in 1965, the BSI Bus Terminal is the main travel hub in Reykjavik and a gateway to exploring Iceland from the capital. It's located in the city center and connects travelers to destinations across the country, including the Golden Circle and the famous Blue Lagoon.
BSI is a common starting point for quick airport transfers to Keflavik Airport or more extended bus tours around the countryside. It provides key amenities and services for travelers, including luggage storage, an ATM, and a few dining options.
Most travelers stop by the BSI Bus Terminal at some point during their visit to Iceland. If you're planning a trip, you'll likely visit it as well, so read on for everything you need to know and what to expect from the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik.
Key Things to Know About BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik
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BSI is a primary terminal for buses, airport transfers, and tours in Reykjavik, with food options, luggage lockers, and ATMs.
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Flybus service from BSI provides direct connections to and from Keflavik Airport.
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Many guided tours and day trips to various destinations across Iceland depart from the BSI Bus Terminal.
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BSI is just a short walk from Reykjavik’s city center, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the capital.
BSI Bus Terminal Address and Getting There
The BSI Bus Terminal is just next to the main downtown area of Reykjavik
The BSI Bus Terminal address is Vatnsmyrarvegur 10, a 15-minute walk from the Tjornin Pond in downtown Reykjavik. It's located next to an N1 gas station and the National University Hospital of Iceland.
You can easily reach the BSI Bus Station by taxi or taking one of the Reykjavik city buses. Exit at the bus stop called "BSI."
If you're driving, onsite parking is available for your rental car. If you're staying close to the city center and prefer walking, you can reach the BSI in 10-25 minutes, depending on the location of your accommodations in Reykjavik.
The most convenient way to reach BSI from Keflavik Airport is by booking a cheap airport transfer.
BSI Bus Station Services
Photo from BSÍ umferðamiðstöðin veitingar
The BSI Bus Terminal is a two-story building with a white exterior and a big red BSI logo above the entrance. The parking area for buses and cars is at the front. As one of the primary access points for travelers, the BSI terminal offers several services and amenities.
BSI Reykjavik Luggage Lockers
A luggage locker service in the BSI Terminal is indispensable for travelers passing through Reykjavik. Here, you can safely store your luggage for 24 hours or more and explore the city or join a tour without having to carry your belongings.
The locker service is a great option for daytrippers. Some of the most popular day tours from Reykjavik depart from the BSI.
Terminal luggage lockers cost between 4 USD and 30 USD, depending on your luggage size and the storage time.
Reykjavik Bus Terminal Food Options
Reykjavik Food Terminal is a casual, affordable restaurant in BSI with opening hours between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM Its home-style food and rotating weekly menu make it a great option for travelers with most dietary preferences. The restaurant also collaborates with the in-terminal pizza joint Sbarro to offer slices of New York-style pizza to its patrons.
The standout dish of Reykjavik Food Terminal is "Svidakjammi," boiled sheep's head, served with mashed potatoes and turnips. It's not on the menu but can be requested as an off-menu item. This Icelandic dish is peculiar but has a cult following, so be sure to try it if you're feeling adventurous.
For a quick snack, a bottle of water, or soda, there are vending machines available at the BSI.
Transfers Between Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik
Photo from Affordable Airport Transfer from Reykjavik Bus Terminal to Keflavik Airport
An airport bus transfer is a good alternative to picking up a rental car from Keflavik Airport and the easiest way to cover the 45-minute drive between Keflavik and the capital.
Many transfers offer drop-off at popular hotels in the Capital Region. The main bus will either stop at your hotel along the way, or you will board a smaller bus upon arrival at BSI and go to your hotel from there.
For transfers back to the airport, you can catch the bus at the BSI Terminal or order a transfer with pick-up from your hotel. Some transfer routes switch buses at the Reykjavik Terminal at Skogarhlid 10, a 20-minute walk from the BSI Terminal.
We recommended these popular airport transfer options:
Day Trips and Guided Tours from BSI Reykjavik
Photo from One-Way Bus Transfer from the Blue Lagoon to Reykjavik
BSI is a convenient pick-up and drop-off point for day tours. Blue Lagoon tours are especially in high demand as it’s one of the most famous attractions in Iceland:
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Blue Lagoon round-trip transfer with Comfort Ticket admission
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Transfer between Keflavik airport and Reykjavik with a stop at Blue Lagoon
You can also embark on longer adventures from BSI. Here are a few options among many guided tours departing from the Reykjavik bus terminal:
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This South Coast day tour brings you all the way to the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
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The 8-hour Golden Circle tour explores Iceland's most famous travel route, stopping at the popular Fridheimar Tomato Farm.
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An affordable northern lights bus tour takes you to see the magnificent aurora borealis in winter.
Things to Do Near BSI Bus Terminal
The BSI Bus Terminal is located near some of Reykjavik’s top attractions. The terminal is a short walk from Laugavegur Street, a must-visit for shopping, dining, and experiencing Reykjavik’s atmosphere. The iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church and Tjornin, a scenic city pond perfect for an afternoon stroll, are nearby.
The National Museum of Iceland offers a comprehensive look at Iceland’s history, from Viking-age relics to modern-day artifacts. Perlan is home to the Wonders of Iceland exhibition, a family-friendly interactive experience of Icelandic nature that includes an indoor ice cave. Both attractions are about a 20-minute walk from BSI.
If you're short on time but still want to tour Reykjavik's landmarks, book a ticket for the Reykjavik hop-on hop-off bus that stops at the BSI Bus Terminal.
Accommodations Near BSI Bus Terminal
For travelers looking to stay near the BSI Bus Terminal, Reykjavik offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Most hotels in the central downtown area are within a 20-30-minute walk from the station.
Here are the three closest hotels to the BSI Bus Terminal:
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The beautiful 4-star Hotel Holt is just a 10-minute walk away, providing easy access to BSI for those planning day trips and bus tours around Iceland.
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Eric the Red Guesthouse is a welcoming and cozy retreat in the heart of the city, with BSI easily accessible.
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Located just across the street from BSI, Travel Inn Guesthouse is another convenient option.
BSI Bus Terminal FAQs
Need to know more about BSI Bus Terminal on your trip to Reykjavik? Here are the top frequently asked questions.
What is the history of the BSI Terminal?
The BSI origins trace back to the 1930s. It has always served as an important hub for bus tours, transfers, and taxi services. BSI was also a go-to late-night spot for food in Reykjavik, especially after a night of partying, since it was one of the few places open late in the city.
Are there taxis available at the BSI Bus Terminal?
Taxis are readily available at the BSI Bus Terminal. You can find them waiting outside the terminal, making it convenient to reach your next destination in Reykjavik.
How far is the BSI Bus Terminal from Reykjavik's city center?
The BSI Bus Terminal is approximately 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) from Laugavegur, one of Reykjavik's main streets, and about 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) from the Old Harbor.
Can I book tours directly at the BSI Bus Terminal?
The BSI Bus Terminal serves as a departure and arrival point for various tours, including the Hop On-Hop Off Reykjavik sightseeing bus, airport transfers, and public buses connecting the city, suburbs, and rural areas. Service desks are available on-site, but we recommend booking all tours and transfers online ahead of time to ensure availability.
Does the BSI Bus Terminal offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes, the BSI Bus Terminal provides free Wi-Fi access to travelers, allowing them to stay connected while at the terminal.
Is the BSI Bus Terminal accessible for travelers with disabilities?
The BSI Bus Terminal is designed to accommodate travelers with disabilities, offering accessible facilities and a comfortable experience for all visitors.
What are the operating hours of the BSI Bus Terminal?
The BSI Bus Terminal building is open from 3 AM to 12 AM, however, the service desk and the restaurant have their own opening hours.
What is the best seat on the Flybus?
For the best views on the way from Keflavik to Reykjavik, choose the right window seat to admire lava fields and mountains in the distance, or sit on the left for lava fields and views of the ocean.
Make Your Way Around Iceland from BSI Bus Terminal
BSI Bus Terminal is Reykjavik’s main transport hub, connecting you to adventures across Iceland with easy transfers, convenient amenities, and a touch of local flavor. The BSI Terminal offers a central location to head out on a day tour, go to the airport, or explore Reykjavik.
Eager to explore more of Reykjavik? Learn about top Reykjavik attractions and things to do, or plan an exciting itinerary of activities near Reykjavik.
