Keflavik International Airport Travel Guide

Book your flights to Iceland now and start planning your adventure! Learn more about Keflavik International Airport (KEF) airport, including its location, nearby attractions, airlines that operate there, and what to expect upon arrival.

Keflavik International Airport (KEF), locally known as Keflavikurflugvollur, is Iceland's largest airport, handling nearly 7 million passengers annually. Located about 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik, it serves as the main gateway for international travelers.

Reaching Reykjavik from the airport is easy, with several transportation options available. Travelers can take airport shuttles, private transfers, or rent a car for flexibility. The journey takes around 45 minutes by car or bus. 

For convenience, check out airport transfers and Keflavik rental cars to plan your trip.

The single-terminal airport operates year-round with flights to over 90 destinations and is managed by Isavia, Iceland’s national aviation authority. Continue reading to discover everything you need to know about Keflavik Airport and book your flights to Iceland now.

Key Takeaways: Planning Your Arrival and Departure in Iceland

• Flights to Iceland: View flights to Iceland.

Airport Transfers:

• If you've already booked your flights, find the cheapest and fastest Flybus ride from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik city.

• Returning to the airport from downtown Reykjavik? Check out this Flybus ticket for transport from hotels in Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport.

Accommodation Options:

• Find accommodations near Keflavik Airport — perfect for your first or last night in Iceland or a comfortable layover.

• Reykjavik is just a 45-minute drive away, and you can easily take a rental car or a transfer to hotels in Reykjavik.

Rental Cars and Sightseeing:

• Car rentals: Find the cheapest car rentals from Keflavik Airport.

• Self-drive and tours:

  • Enjoy self-drive tours in Iceland.

  • Explore Iceland via day tours or guided multi-day tours.

  • Explore Reykjanes peninsula tours near the airport.

Where Is Keflavik Airport?

Keflavik International Airport is located at the tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland. It serves as the country's main international gateway and is well-connected to the capital by major roads and transportation services.

The primary route between Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik is Reykjanesbraut (Route 41), a well-maintained highway that passes through the municipalities of Hafnarfjordur and Kopavogur before reaching the city center. 

Travelers can reach downtown Reykjavik in about 45 minutes by rental car, airport shuttle, or private transfer. Airport transfers and Keflavik rental cars are convenient options for making the journey smooth and hassle-free.

For those with extra time, a popular stop along the way is the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal spas. Located just 14 miles (23 kilometers) from the airport, it’s a great way to relax after a long flight or before departure. 

Many airport transfer services offer packages that include a visit to the Blue Lagoon, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

Flights and Airlines Operating in Keflavik International Airport

Keflavik Airport provides daily, weekly, and seasonal international flights to over 98 cities and countries in Europe and North America. These are a combination of both nonstop and connecting flights. According to flight statistics, Copenhagen, London-Gatwick, Amsterdam, and Paris are the busiest routes connected to Keflavik.

With its expansion over the years, the Icelandic airport added more locations, including Tel Aviv, Alicante, Prague, Nice, and Barcelona. It regularly adds new travel routes as Iceland’s popularity and tourism industry skyrocket.

A total of 28 international airlines fly millions of passengers at Keflavik Airport yearly, the leading ones being Icelandair and budget airline Play. Icelandair is the national carrier of Iceland, while Play is a low-cost air carrier founded in 2019. 

About Keflavik International Airport

Keflavik International Airport (KEF), locally known as Keflavíkurflugvöllur, is the biggest airport in Iceland. Almost seven million passengers arrive here annually. It serves as the gateway and the central hub of transportation for international travelers in Iceland.

The single-terminal Icelandic airport is open all year round to over 90 destinations and is operated by Isavia, a government enterprise for the Nordic country’s aviation industry.

Where is Keflavik Airport?

Keflavik International Airport is located at the tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula, the country’s southwesternmost region. The distance between Keflavik Airport and downtown Reykjavik is 31 miles (50 kilometers), and it takes about 45 minutes to drive.

The main road to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport is called Reykjanesbraut. Before reaching Reykjavik, you will drive through Hafnarfjordur and Kopavogur, two small municipalities south of Reykjavik.

Is Keflavik Airport the Same as Reykjavik Airport?

Although it serves the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik, Keflavik Airport (KEF) is different from Reykjavik Airport (RKV). While the former lies in the town of Keflavik, the latter is located in Reykjavik city.

In addition, Keflavik Airport caters to international flights from territories outside Iceland, while Reykjavik Airport only handles domestic and private aviation, plus Greenland and Faroe Islands. In particular, the domestic airport services flights to Akureyri, Egilsstadir, Husavik, Grimsey, and more local town airports in Iceland.

Flights and Airlines Operating in Keflavik International Airport

Keflavik Airport provides daily, weekly, and seasonal international flights to over 90 cities and countries in Europe and North America. These are a combination of both nonstop and connecting flights. According to flight statistics, Copenhagen, London-Gatwick, Amsterdam, and Paris are the busiest routes connected to Keflavik.

With its expansion over the years, the Icelandic airport added more locations to the mix, including Tel Aviv, Alicante, Prague, Nice, and Barcelona. New travel routes are regularly added as Iceland’s popularity and tourism industry skyrocket.

A total of 28 international airlines provide aviation services to millions of passengers at Keflavik Airport yearly. The leading airlines that fly here are the prestigious Icelandair and budget airline Play. Icelandair is the national carrier of Iceland, while Play is a new low-cost air carrier founded in 2019.  

Keflavik Airport Amenities and Facilities

Although relatively small, KEF Airport is modern and offers the same facilities you’ll find at large airports worldwide, only on a smaller scale. 

The airport has restaurants, bars, cafes, convenience stores, banks, a smoking area, duty-free shopping, and a VIP Lounge.

The airport, with a total area of 10 square miles (25 square kilometers), has a single terminal divided into two buildings. 

The main building features the arrivals and departures hall, customs, currency exchange and tax refund, car rentals, bus ticket terminal, and a wide selection of shops and restaurants.

The south building houses the border control facilities and additional stores.

As you go around the airport, whether for business or pleasure, you can access its free and unlimited Wi-Fi. Families with small children can also use the airport’s dedicated play area and strollers.

Keflavik Airport Arrivals Hall

The arrivals hall is one of the largest sections of Keflavik Airport, located on the first floor or ground level. Upon arrival, you can use the airport’s free Wi-Fi and the ATMs available in the hall or baggage claim area.

Duty-free stores, a practical way to save when visiting Iceland, are also available in the arrivals area before the gates. Considering alcohol's price and lack of availability in Iceland, it’s the best place to buy your preferred drink for the trip.

Otherwise, you’ll have to locate specialized government-operated alcohol shops, which have limited opening hours, are sparse in remote regions, and have high taxes and duties.

You will also find money exchange services and a convenience store where you can buy a local SIM card. However, if you have a SIM card from anywhere in the EU/EEA, it will work in Iceland as it does at home.

Keflavik Airport Lounge Area

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, photo by Antony-22. 

Icelandair, the national carrier of Iceland, manages the VIP Lounge of KEF Airport called Icelandair Saga Lounge.

Inside the Icelandair Saga Lounge are comfortable sofas, recliners, and a dining area with food, tables, and chairs. The lounge’s Nordic design features a fireplace and large windows that provide a panoramic view of the tarmac and the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Other facilities of the VIP Lounge include shower rooms with toiletries and a kids’ play area.

Apart from Saga members, Icelandair Saga Lounge accepts non-Business or First Class passengers at a cost. The facility also welcomes passengers from other airlines who hold a high loyalty status.

Lost and Found

You can report lost luggage and items at the airport’s Lost and Found area, open from 8 AM to 4 PM. If you lose your luggage at KEF Airport or on any Icelandair and Play flight, you can also report or claim from the Securitas website.

Special Assistance

Assistance will also be provided for persons with disabilities or reduced mobility. You only have to notify your aircraft operator or travel agency at least 48 hours before the flight departure time about the need for assistance.

Arrivals and Departures at Keflavik International Airport

Like any airport worldwide, arriving early at Keflavik Airport is recommended if you want to beat the queue. You can arrive at the airport two to three hours before your departure.

Check-in at Keflavik Airport

Passengers can check in at the terminal’s departure hall on Level 1 of the main building. You can do online and self-check-in to make the process smoother and faster. Most airlines that operate with Keflavik Airport allow online check-in through their websites and apps.

Meanwhile, there are over 60 kiosks available for self-check-in at the airport. You just need to prepare your passport and booking number for the process.

Photo from Flickr, Creative Commons, by Jeff Hitchcock. No edits made.

Passport Control at Keflavik Airport

Travelers within the Schengen Area don’t have to present their passports at the border control. However, you'll still want to bring your passport so you have a document proving your identity upon request. 

Even if you're traveling within Schengen, you need to show an official ID, such as a national ID card or driver’s license, when checking in for your flight, though bringing your passport is always recommended.

On the other hand, foreign nationals not from the EU, EEA, and EFTA member states must present a valid travel document issued in the last 10 years.

Customs at Keflavik Airport

Icelandic customs at KEF Airport allow travelers to bring duty-free imports such as clothing and food, provided they are for personal use and consumption. Items like personal luggage and traveling gear must be suitable for the length of stay and purpose of the visit to Iceland.

Meanwhile, travelers can import food products and items not exceeding 22 pounds (10 kilograms) and ISK 25,000 (180 USD). However, dairy and meat products not from the EEA are prohibited.

For more information, you can visit Iceland Revenue and Customs.

Shops at Keflavik Airport

Besides the four Duty-Free stores in the arrivals and departures areas, Keflavik International Airport boasts 60,000 tax-free products in 14 different sectors. You can pay cash or credit cards while shopping in these stores.

66 North

66 North, locally known as 66 Nordur, is an iconic shop for outdoor clothing. You can buy weatherproof jackets, pants, and weather accessories like hats from the Icelandic store.

Blue Lagoon Skincare

The famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa sells renowned skincare products at Blue Lagoon Skincare. Return home with mud masks and serums that share the skincare benefits of the lagoon's blue waters through silica, algae, and minerals.

Elko

Are you looking for a new pair of headphones to use in Iceland? Stop by the Elko electronics store’s selection of mobile phones, gadgets, video games, and other gadget accessories from different international brands.

Epal

Epal is a popular designer store in Iceland that sells high-quality local and Scandinavian decor and furniture. It's a great place for beautiful souvenirs that will elevate your home.

Eyesland

This cleverly named store Eyesland has eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses available from renowned manufacturers.

Photo from Fríhöfnin

Keflavik Airport Duty-Free

Keflavik Airport has three Duty Free shops, just after security for departing travelers and just before the baggage claim for arriving passengers. It's a great place to pick up Icelandic candy, skincare, makeup, and other local items. It's also the cheapest place to buy alcohol in Iceland.

Icemart

Icemart is the place to go if you're looking for popular souvenirs, gift items, travel-related products, and snacks for the flight. It also sells woolen socks and puffing keyrings.

Kormakur and Skjoldur

Kormakur and Skjoldur's main items are formal suits, outdoor clothing, and knitwear made of tweed woolen fabric. The clothing shop also carries other well-known brands, like Barbour and Hansen.

Knitting is an Icelandic tradition, making knitwear a fantastic souvenir, especially the iconic Lopapeysa sweater.

Penninn Eymundsson

Penninn Eymundsson is the place to visit for travelers who want to get the latest book releases and magazine editions in several languages. Souvenirs and travel equipment are also available in the store.

Rammagerdin

As one of the oldest gift shops in Iceland, Rammagerdin is an excellent place to shop for high-quality souvenirs and handicrafts. Woolen sweaters, jewelry, scented candles, and ceramics are the most common items to see here.

Hurra

Hurra is a trendy Icelandic clothing store offering a curated selection of apparel, footwear, and accessories from well-known international and Icelandic brands. It's a great place to find stylish, high-quality fashion pieces before your flight.

Cafes and Restaurants at Keflavik Airport

For travelers strapped for time, dining at the cafes, convenience stores, and restaurants at Keflavik International Airport is ideal. These food places offer many options, from Icelandic dishes to ready meals.

Bakad

The cafe Bakad offers bread, buns and pizzas, healthy juices, salads, and freshly brewed coffee from Te & Kaffi. It's a convenient place to wait for a cup of coffee with two locations: before and after security checks. 

They also offer a self-service for drinks and sandwiches outside their opening hours.

10-11 Convenience Store

10-11 is a convenience store in the arrivals hall at Keflavik Airport that can be accessed by both departing and arriving travelers. They have food items, from ready meals to bottled drinks and chips. You can also find hygiene products in 10-11.

Baejarins Bestu

Baejarins Beztu, which operates the world's most famous hot dog stand in Reykjavik, also has locations at the airport. Get Iceland's world-famous hot dog and soda when arriving or departing from Iceland. 

They have three locations: one after security, another behind the border control, and a third inside the 10-11 in the arrivals hall.

Jomfruin

Jomfruin is a popular restaurant in Reykjavik, which also has a location at Keflavik Airport, just past the security. They offer a range of smorrebrod and other Scandinavian delicacies. Classic Nordic-style hot dishes and a breakfast menu are available.

Hja Hollu

Hja Hollu is a popular restaurant in Keflavik Airport, located after the airport security. It serves wood-fired oven pizzas and options like fresh salad and fruit smoothies.

Loksins Cafe & Bar

If you’re looking for a bar with a good ambiance before hopping on your flight back home, Loksins Cafe & Bar is the place to go. Icelandic beer and Brennivin are must-tries in this local bar, which has a breakfast menu and items like sandwiches. It's located after the security section.

Photo from Loksins Café & Bar

Sbarro

The international pizza chain Sbarro offers freshly baked New York pizzas, pasta dishes, and breakfast. You'll find it after the security checks and behind the border control.

Keflavik Diner

The Keflavik Diner, located after the border control, pays homage to the history of Keflavik, which was the location of an American military base between 1951 and 2006. You can get classic diner meals with an Icelandic twist.

Photo from KEF Airport. The Adalstraeti Food Market.

La Trattoria

La Trattoria is an Italian restaurant offering high-quality dishes. The owner is renowned chef Hrefna Sætran, who also opened the famous Fish Market and Grillmarket restaurants in Reykjavik. 

You can count on delicious Italian dishes with fresh ingredients, perfect for a relaxed meal before takeoff. You’ll find it in the Adalstraeti Food Market past the security checks.

Yuzu

Yuzu is one of the most popular fast-food places in Iceland, serving delicious burgers inspired by Asian flavors. It has multiple locations in food halls in Reykjavik and is a great option for a tasty meal. 

Located in the Adalstraeti Food Market, it also offers a special breakfast menu if you have an early flight.

Zocalo

If you're craving delicious Mexican flavors, Zocalo is the way to go. Enjoy burritos, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, and bowls, or try their breakfast menu if you're traveling early. 

It also offers plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. You'll find it in the Adalstraeti Food Market in the main shopping area after airport security.

Elda

Elda is a convenient dining option at Keflavik Airport that offers a selection of hot and cold dishes. The menu features a mix of classic comfort foods and Icelandic-inspired dishes, ensuring there's something for everyone. 

Located in the departures area, Elda is an ideal spot for those wanting a relaxed yet efficient dining experience. Focusing on quality ingredients and fast service, it's a great choice for travelers who want to enjoy a delicious meal without long wait times.

Transportation at Keflavik Airport

Traveling to and from Keflavik International Airport is relatively easy, even for first-timers in Iceland. Public and private transport is available just outside the airport’s main building.

Car Rentals in Keflavik Airport

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Ray Swi-hymn. No edits made.

Your first option to travel from Keflavik to Reykjavik is to rent a car. You can choose from the four car rentals at Keflavik Airport, operated by Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz. 

Renting a car in Iceland is ideal for travelers who want more privacy and mobility. Just make sure to bring your valid driver’s license, book in advance, and check the service desk hours of the car service you chose.

Coaches and Buses at Keflavik Airport

Another convenient and fast option for transport at KEF Airport is a coach or bus service. This option is popular for travelers who want to arrive at their hotel in Reykjavik with only a few stops along the way.

You can find the buses just outside the terminal exit. Assistance and information desks are available to help you buy tickets or check-in.

You may book online in advance for a more seamless traveling experience. For example, this premium airport direct transfer from Keflavik to Reykjavik or this express airport bus transfer from Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport will conveniently take you between these two locations.

Public Bus Transportation at Keflavik Airport

If you want a cheaper yet still efficient transfer, you can take the Straeto public bus, which operates on scheduled routes. Just look for the Bus 55 sign outside the airport’s main building. 

It will take you to the BSI bus terminal in Reykjavik, from where you can then use public transportation around Reykjavik.

Taxi Services at Keflavik Airport

Your last option is to take a taxi to and from Reykjavik and KEF Airport. Although they are available 24 hours a day, they can be expensive, ranging from 17,376 to 25,021 ISK (125 to 180 USD), so ask the driver about the price before riding one.

Parking at Keflavik Airport

Short-term and long-term parking are available in the car parks of Keflavik Airport. Parking is free for pick-up and drop-off for parking not exceeding 15 minutes.

P1 for short-term parking is just 98 feet (30 meters) from the main building, while long-term parking in the P3 area costs 1,750 ISK (12.59 USD) a day.

Where to Stay Near Keflavik Airport

Photo from Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik Keflavik Airport

Most travelers to the land of fire and ice arrive at KEF Airport and go straight to Reykjavik or other top attractions in Iceland. However, you may choose to walk a different path and stay in the town of Keflavik for a quick rest before starting your sightseeing tour in Iceland. 

Also, some flights at the airport land late at night or depart early in the morning, so you may not want to do the 32-mile (52-kilometer) drive right away. If this is the case, there is a wide selection of top hotels near Keflavik Airport that you may consider.

Courtyard by Marriott

Courtyard by Marriott is the closest major hotel to Keflavik International Airport, just less than a mile (1.3 kilometers) away. The four-star hotel boasts state-of-the-art rooms and facilities for travelers searching for a luxurious stay in Iceland.

Each room has a private bathroom, flat-screen television, and free Wi-Fi. Guests will also have access to the hotel’s restaurant, fully equipped gym, and shared lounge area.

Hotel Berg by Keflavik Airport

Another hotel close to Keflavik International Airport is Hotel Berg, a four-star boutique hotel with a heated pool on its rooftop overlooking the coastline. The accommodation and airport are 2.8 miles (4 kilometers) apart.

Guests at Hotel Berg can choose from double and twin rooms. Its excellent amenities include free Wi-Fi and an on-site restaurant serving traditional Icelandic cuisine.

Guesthouse Keflavik

Travelers looking for a more affordable stay without compromising quality will find staying at Guesthouse Keflavik a good deal. The guest house is 2.7 miles (4.4 kilometers) from the airport.

Apart from its comfortable rooms, this guesthouse in Keflavik is near town amenities like supermarkets, restaurants, and the coastal walkway.

Other accommodations in Keflavik include Airport Hotel Aurora Star and Hotel Duus. 

​Attractions Near Keflavik Airport

Upon arrival at the Keflavik International Airport, don’t miss the chance to visit nearby attractions. After all, the area is home to some of the most beautiful attractions and the best things to do in Iceland.

Blue Lagoon from Keflavik Airport

Outside Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most visited tourist spot. The world-famous geothermal spa is the best place to experience a geothermal bath because of its mineral-rich and milky blue waters.

You can take a bus from Keflavik Airport to the Blue Lagoon or book a roundtrip transfer from Reykjavik to the Blue Lagoon. Both options include a Comfort admission ticket.

For an upgraded experience, you can also enjoy a premium entrance to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik. While staying at the Blue Lagoon, you can access its restaurants, spas, sauna rooms, in-water bars, and more. 

The Blue Lagoon is 14 miles (23 kilometers) from the airport along the route to Reykjavik. Planning to join guided tours once you arrive in Iceland? Consider these Blue Lagoon tours.

Other Attractions on the Reykjanes Peninsula

Beyond the Blue Lagoon, the Reykjanes Peninsula offers stunning volcanic landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and geothermal areas. A few must-see attractions near Keflavik Airport include:

• Bridge Between Continents: A symbolic bridge spanning the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

• Gunnuhver Geothermal Field: A powerful geothermal area with bubbling mud pools and steaming vents.

• Reykjanesviti Lighthouse and Valahnukamol Cliffs: A scenic coastal spot with dramatic waves and a stunning lighthouse.

Exploring these sites is easy with self-drive tours, which allow you to experience Iceland’s natural beauty at your own pace.

Vacation Packages to Explore Iceland

If you're looking for a hassle-free way to explore Iceland, consider booking vacation packages that include accommodations, car rentals, and guided tours. 

Many packages start in Reykjavik and include stops at must-see locations such as the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

By planning your trip around these attractions and travel options, you can make the most of your time in Iceland, whether you’re arriving, departing, or staying for an extended adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most common questions about Keflavik International Airport.

Is Keflavik Airport the Same as Reykjavik Airport?

Although both airports serve Iceland's capital city of Reykjavik, Keflavik Airport (KEF) is located in the town of Keflavik.

Keflavik Airport also caters to international flights from territories outside Iceland, while Reykjavik Airport only handles domestic and private ones, plus flights to Greenland and the Faroe Islands. 

In particular, the domestic airport services flights to Akureyri, Egilsstadir, Husavik, Grimsey, and more local town airports in Iceland.

Is One-Hour Layover Enough Time in Keflavik?

Because of passport control and security, a one-hour layover at Keflavik International Airport usually isn't enough for international connections. 

A minimum of 90 minutes to two hours is ideal for smooth transfers.

Is Keflavik Airport Affected by Volcanoes?

While Iceland is a volcanic island, eruptions have not disrupted operations at Keflavik International Airport. The Sundhnukagigar eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, about 12 miles (20 kilometers) from the airport, have not impacted air travel. 

The airport remains fully operational with safety measures in place to ensure smooth travel for passengers.

How Far Is Keflavik From Reykjavik Airport?

Keflavik International Airport is 31 miles (50 kilometers) from Reykjavik’s city center. The drive takes about 45 minutes via Route 41.

Is There Free Wi-Fi at Keflavik Airport?

Yes, Keflavik Airport offers free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to stay connected while waiting for their flights.

Can I Sleep at Keflavik Airport?

While Keflavik Airport is open 24/7, it has limited seating and no designated sleeping areas. For comfort, many travelers book a nearby hotel for overnight stays.

What Is the History of Keflavik International Airport?

Keflavik International Airport was originally built by U.S. forces during World War II for military use due to Iceland’s strategic location. After a controversial NATO defense agreement in 1951, the U.S. reclaimed the site, leading to decades of development.

In 1987, the Leifur Eriksson Terminal opened, marking the airport’s full transition to civilian use, and it now serves as Iceland’s main international gateway.

Exploring Iceland Starts at Keflavik International Airport

Keflavik International Airport is the gateway to Iceland, offering travelers easy access to the country's incredible landscapes and attractions. 

Whether you're heading to tours in Reykjavik, enjoying a self-drive tour across Iceland, or setting off on adventure tours, Keflavik is the perfect starting point. 

Visitors can rent a car at Keflavik Airport for a flexible journey or book day tours from Reykjavik to explore the stunning landscapes. 

Continue your travels with South Coast tours, Golden Circle tours, and beyond. No matter your plans, Keflavik Airport makes traveling in Iceland smooth and accessible.

What are your travel plans after arriving in Iceland? Are you planning to rent a car, join a tour, or explore Reykjavik first? Let us know in the comments below.

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