Best Things To Do in Iceland During a Layover or Stopover

Turn your flight connection into an adventure with a layover and stopover in Iceland. Instead of waiting at the airport, step outside to explore geothermal pools, black sand beaches, and volcanic coastlines before your next flight.

Iceland sits between North America and Europe, which makes it one of the most convenient transatlantic stops. Many travelers join layover and stopover tours to see the country’s top attractions during their flight connection.

Private tours are ideal for travelers who want a flexible schedule. If you have more time, you can base yourself in the capital and join day tours to nearby regions. Those who prefer full independence can go on road trips and follow self-drive tours to explore Iceland at their own pace.

This guide will help you plan your Iceland layover or Iceland stopover with simple itineraries and clear tips for making the most of your time before your next flight. Read on to see how even a few hours in Iceland can become an unforgettable part of your trip.

Key Takeaways

• Iceland is a perfect destination for short layovers or multi-day stopovers between North America and Europe.

• Popular areas to explore during a layover in Iceland include the Reykjanes Peninsula, Reykjavik, and the Blue Lagoon.

• Booking private transfers and tours is one of the most efficient ways to maximize an Iceland layover.

• The Icelandair Stopover Program lets travelers stay in Iceland for up to seven days at no extra cost.

• Iceland stopovers allow travelers to explore farther into the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and the Snaefellsness Peninsula.

• Driving car rentals and joining guided tours are among the best options to explore on an Iceland stopover.

Difference Between a Layover and a Stopover

A layover and a stopover both describe breaks between connecting flights, but they are not the same. The main difference is the length of time you spend in your connecting city and how you use that time.

A layover is a short connection that usually lasts under 24 hours for international flights. Travelers normally stay inside the airport or only explore nearby areas before boarding the next flight.

A stopover is a longer stay that lasts more than 24 hours. It turns your connection into a short trip where you can explore the destination before continuing your journey. Airlines such as Icelandair often allow travelers to add a stopover in Iceland without increasing airfare.

Top Regions To Explore on an Iceland Layover or Stopover

Iceland offers many places to explore during a short connection or multi-day stopover. Close to Keflavik International Airport (KEF), you can visit the volcanic coastlines of the Reykjanes Peninsula or the city of Reykjavik.

Meanwhile, the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula give you a deeper look at Iceland’s nature and culture. Each region is easy to reach by car or guided tour, so you can enjoy the country even with limited time.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is Iceland’s capital and cultural center. It is a great choice for both a layover and a stopover because it offers a mix of city life, culture, and easy access to nature. Its compact size and variety of attractions suit travelers who have only a few hours or several days to explore.

Reykjavik is about 30 miles (50 kilometers) northeast of Keflavik Airport, roughly a 45-minute drive. Airport transfers run frequently between KEF and the capital. Public transport is reliable within the city, but many attractions outside Reykjavik are best reached by car.

Reykjavik is also a good base for day trips. It offers a wide selection of guided tours to popular destinations such as the Golden Circle, South Coast, Snaefellsness Peninsula, and Reykjanes Peninsula.

Most travelers spend one or two days in Reykjavik before continuing to other regions. In an Iceland stopover itinerary, Reykjavik works best at the beginning of your trip for arrival and sightseeing or at the end as a relaxing final stop.

Main Attractions and Activities in Reykjavik

• Hallgrimskirkja Church: An iconic church with a viewing tower overlooking the city.

• Harpa Concert Hall: A glass landmark on the harbor known for its architecture and live performances.

• Sun Voyager Sculpture: A steel sculpture shaped like a Viking ship with views of Mount Esja.

• Laugavegur Street: The city’s main shopping street, lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.

• Whales of Iceland Exhibition: A Whales of Iceland ticket grants access to a family-friendly exhibit featuring life-sized whale models and interactive ocean displays.

Top activities include joining a whale-watching tour in Faxafloi Bay, visiting the capital’s top museums, booking one of Reykjavik's walking tours, and relaxing in local swimming pools.

Reykjanes Peninsula

The Reykjanes Peninsula is the first region most travelers see when arriving in Iceland. It is home to Keflavik Airport and the world-famous Blue Lagoon. The area also features lava fields, geothermal landscapes, and dramatic coastal cliffs.

The Reykjanes Peninsula is about 30 miles (50 kilometers) southwest of Reykjavik, which makes it one of the easiest regions to visit during an Iceland layover or stopover. It also offers easy access to the main roads leading to the Golden Circle and the South Coast.

Public buses connect to some towns, but they are not suitable for sightseeing. Renting a car or joining Reykjanes tours is the best way to explore. In an Iceland stopover itinerary, it works best at the beginning or end of your trip. Most travelers spend half a day to one full day exploring the area. 

Main Attractions and Activities in Reykjanes Peninsula

• Blue Lagoon: One of Iceland’s top geothermal spas surrounded by lava fields, popular for its warm, mineral-rich water.

• Bridge Between Continents: A footbridge that crosses the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

• Gunnuhver Hot Springs: A steaming geothermal field with mud pools and fumaroles.

• Reykjanesviti Lighthouse: Iceland’s oldest lighthouse, located on the tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula

• Viking World Museum: A Viking World Museum ticket allows you to explore a full-scale Viking ship replica and Norse history exhibits.

Top activities include a visit to the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing soak, an ATV drive in the lava fields, a Super Jeep ride to eruption sites, and a tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route. It is a good choice for a stopover because it offers some of the country’s most famous natural landmarks within a short drive from the capital. Most travelers spend one day exploring the region.

The Golden Circle begins about 25 miles (40 kilometers) east of Reykjavik, and is roughly 75 miles (120 kilometers) from Keflavik Airport. Renting a car or joining Golden Circle tours is the best way to explore. Public buses only connect to some areas, and schedules are limited.

The route is an ideal choice for short trips and is often the first region visitors explore after arriving in Iceland. In an Iceland stopover itinerary, it works best near the start of your trip before heading to other regions such as the South Coast or Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Main Attractions and Activities in the Golden Circle

• Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see the rift between two tectonic plates and visit the Silfra Fissure.

• Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the Strokkur Geyser, which erupts every few minutes.

• Gullfoss Waterfall: A powerful waterfall that drops into a rugged canyon.

• Kerid Crater: Entry to Kerid Crater allows you to view the lake with the red and green slopes.

Top outdoor activities include snorkeling at Silfra, horseback riding in Fludir, and snowmobiling from Gullfoss.

South Coast

The South Coast is one of Iceland’s most scenic regions. It is best suited for a stopover, since the main attractions are spread across long distances and require several hours of driving. Schedules for public buses are limited, so renting a car or joining South Coast tours is the best way to explore.

The South Coast is about 90 miles (145 kilometers) east of Reykjavik. It’s roughly 110 miles (177 kilometers) from Keflavik Airport. In an Iceland stopover itinerary, the South Coast works best in the middle or later part of your trip, after you’ve seen Reykjavik and the Golden Circle.

Most travelers spend two to three days exploring the South Coast to allow time for both driving and sightseeing. A 1-day trip is possible if you only visit the western part, but staying at Vik accommodations or near Skaftafell Nature Reserve allows you to explore more.

Main Attractions and Activities in the South Coast

• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s top waterfalls that you can walk behind.

• Skogafoss Waterfall: One of the largest and most iconic waterfalls in Iceland.

• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Famous for its basalt columns and sea stacks.

• Solheimajokull Glacier: One of the most accessible glaciers in Iceland and among the top glacier hiking spots in the country.

• Katla Ice Cave: A natural ice cave beneath Katla Volcano, known for its deep blue ice and volcanic ash layers.

• Vik: A small coastal village with shops, restaurants, and a beautiful church view.

• Skaftafell Nature Reserve: Part of Vatnajokull National Park, known for glacier views and hiking trails.

• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: A stunning lagoon filled with floating icebergs from Breidamerkurjokull Glacier.

• Diamond Beach: A black sand beach near Jokulsarlon where clear ice fragments shimmer along the shore.

Outdoor activities include glacier hiking and ice climbing in Solheimajokull, kayaking on a glacier lagoon, and taking a glacier boat tour. You can also fly over Vatnajokull National Park, visit the Katla Ice Cave, go horseback riding on a black sand beach, and explore the rough terrain on an ATV.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it showcases many of the country’s landscapes in one area. It is best suited for a stopover, as the region is about a two-hour drive from Reykjavik and includes several attractions that are spread across the peninsula.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is about 90 miles (145 kilometers) northwest of Reykjavik and roughly 130 miles (210 kilometers) from Keflavik Airport.  Public buses reach some towns, but schedules are limited. Renting a car or joining Snaefellsnes tours is the best way to visit the main attractions.

Most travelers spend one or two days exploring the area. In an Iceland stopover itinerary, it works well in the later part of your trip after visiting the Golden Circle and the South Coast. Staying in hotels at Stykkisholmur, Grundarfjordur, or Hellnar gives easy access to the main sites.

Main Attractions and Activities in Snaefellsnes Peninsula

• Mount Kirkjufell: A cone-shaped mountain near Grundarfjordur, often featured in photo tours of Iceland.

• Snaefellsjokull National Park: Home to a glacier-capped volcano and lava fields that inspired Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth.”

• Vatnshellir Cave: A lava tube inside Snaefellsjokull National Park with ancient underground volcanic passages.

• Arnarstapi Village: A coastal village with cliffs, sea arches, and hiking trails.

• Djupalonssandur Beach: A black pebble beach with shipwreck remains and ocean views.

• Budir Hamlet: A scenic spot known for its black church set against golden grasslands and lava fields.

• Olafsvik: A small fishing town with a scenic harbor, local restaurants, and access to whale watching tours.

Activities include kayaking under Mt. Kirkjufell, exploring Vatnshellir Cave, whale watching from Olafsvik, horse riding on the beach, and joining a guided tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

What To Do During a Short Layover in Iceland (Under 24 Hours)

A short layover in Iceland can still be a memorable part of your trip if you plan your time well. Most international travelers connect through Keflavik Airport, which is close to hot springs, lava fields, and the capital city, Reykjavik.

These suggested itineraries are planned with realistic timing in mind. Each option allows enough time for airport arrival, departure, and transfers so you can enjoy your Iceland layover comfortably without feeling rushed.

Travel tip: Make sure to arrive at Keflavik Airport at least two hours before your departure to allow for check-in, security, and boarding.

Short Iceland Half-Day Layover: 2 to 7 Hours

If your Iceland layover is under seven hours, the best option is to stay inside Keflavik Airport. Traveling to nearby attractions leaves too little time to enjoy the visit once you consider airport procedures and transfers.

Staying inside the terminal allows you to relax and still experience a bit of Icelandic culture before your next flight:

• Try an Icelandic hot dog: Visit the Baejarins Beztu Pylsur Stand inside the airport for Iceland’s most famous hot dog. Order it “eina med ollu” (with everything) for the classic version topped with crispy onions, raw onions, ketchup, mustard, and remoulade.

• Shop and explore local design: KEF features several Icelandic brands worth browsing while you wait. Visit Blue Lagoon Skincare for products made with geothermal minerals, 66°North for high-quality outdoor clothing, and Rammagerdin for handcrafted home goods.

• Relax and explore Icelandic art: KEF displays several Icelandic art installations. The most recognizable pieces include Jet Nest (Thotuhreidur) near the terminal entrance, Rainbow (Regnbogi) in the departures area, and Yearning for Flight (Flugthra) near the gates.

• Attend airport events: KEF sometimes hosts live music and cultural performances during major events such as Iceland Airwaves. For example, on November 5, 2025, KUSK & Óviti and Máni Orrason performed in the Departures Hall.

If you really want to leave the airport, you can squeeze in a short visit to Keflavik, which is only about a 10-minute drive from the terminal. Your time will be very limited, but there are several things you can do in Keflavik before your flight.

Blue Lagoon Layover: 8 to 10 Hours

The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa and one of the easiest places to visit during a long layover. Booking your Blue Lagoon ticket in advance is essential, as same-day availability can be limited. 

Located about 20 minutes from Keflavik International Airport, it fits well into a total layover of 8 to 10 hours. Make sure to arrange your transfer from Keflavik Airport to the Blue Lagoon and your transfer from the Blue Lagoon to Keflavik Airport ahead of time for a smooth and stress-free visit.

The spa is open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM. During summer (June 1 to August 20), it opens at 7 AM and closes at midnight, which makes it a great choice for afternoon or evening layovers in Iceland.

Morning or Afternoon Iceland Layover: 9 to 11 Hours

If your layover in Iceland lasts most of the day, the Reykjanes Peninsula and Blue Lagoon are the most convenient areas to explore. Because public transport is limited, the best way to experience this region is by picking up a rental car in Keflavik Airport or booking a private guided Reykjanes tour.

There’s a 4-hour Reykjanes tour or a 5-hour Reykjanes tour that can fit comfortably into a long layover schedule. These tours typically include airport pickup and drop-off. Then, you’ll visit highlights such as the Blue Lagoon, Bridge Between Continents, and Gunnuhver Hot Springs.

Morning Reykjavik Layover for Sightseeing: 10 to 12 Hours

A long layover is the perfect opportunity to visit Reykjavik and get a taste of Iceland’s culture. The capital is easy with an airport transfer from Keflavik Airport or a private transfer to Reykjavik, depending on your preference.

Sightseeing in Reykjavik can be comfortably done on foot since attractions are close together. You can easily visit the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as Hallgrimskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager Sculpture along the waterfront.

You can also choose from a variety of short tours that fit within a layover schedule. Here are a few options to provide a little more depth on your city exploration:

• Walking Tour of Reykjavik's History & Culture

• Folklore Walking Tour of Reykjavik

• Viking Walking Tour of Reykjavik

• Reykjavik Food Walk Tour

• Reykjavik Beer & Schnapps Walking Tour

When it’s time to return, book your airport transfer from Reykjavik or a private transfer to Keflavik Airport to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey back for your flight.

Full-Day Iceland Layover: 12 to 16 Hours

A full day in Iceland allows you to explore both the Reykjanes Peninsula and Reykjavik at a comfortable pace. With an early arrival and evening or night departure, you can experience Iceland’s culture and geothermal landscapes in one trip.

The easiest way to do this on your own is with car rentals picked up directly from Keflavik Airport. After picking up your car, drive about 45 minutes to Reykjavik.

Here’s how to make the most of your day:

• Spend the morning exploring the city’s top sights along the waterfront.

• Take time to enjoy a coffee at Te & Kaffi or have lunch at the local favorite Prikid Cafe.

• In the afternoon, drive toward the Reykjanes Peninsula and visit Gunnuhver Hot Springs, the Bridge Between Continents, and Reykjanesviti Lighthouse for quick photo stops.

• End your day at the Blue Lagoon, relaxing in the warm, mineral-rich water before your flight.

• Return to Keflavik Airport, allowing enough time for car drop-off and check-in before departure.

Overnight Iceland Layover

If your next flight departs the following morning, staying overnight near Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is the most comfortable option. Hotels in this area are convenient for overnight layovers, with short travel times and easy airport transfers.

• Airport Hotel Aurora: Located just minutes from KEF, this modern hotel offers clean rooms, friendly service, and quick access to the airport.

• Hotel Jazz: A cozy boutique hotel with comfortable rooms and a free airport shuttle, ideal for travelers catching early flights.

• Hotel Berg: A stylish option overlooking the harbor, featuring modern design, an airport shuttle, and a small outdoor pool for relaxing before or after your flight.

• Park Inn by Radisson: A full-service hotel with a restaurant and fitness center, perfect for travelers who want more amenities during their stay.

• Konvin Hotel: A simple, budget-friendly choice with clean rooms and an easy self-check-in process, located near KEF.

Discover Iceland With the Icelandair Stopover Program

The Icelandair Stopover Program lets travelers flying between North America and Europe add a few days in Iceland at no extra airfare. When booking your flight, you can select “Stopover in Iceland” and choose how many days you’d like to stay before continuing to your destination.

Most Icelandair fares allow stopovers of up to seven nights, while Flex fares (Economy Flex and Saga Premium Flex) let you stay for up to 21 nights. Stopovers of up to seven nights can be booked directly online, and longer ones can be arranged by contacting the Icelandair service center.

1-Day Stopover in Iceland

A one-day stopover in Iceland gives you just enough time to experience the country’s highlights without rushing. Travelers can choose to explore independently with a rental car or join a guided day tour that handles transportation and itinerary.

Reykjavik Overnight Stopover Itinerary

This 1-day Iceland stopover itinerary combines Reykjavik’s creative culture, shopping, and dining scene with a relaxing stop at the Blue Lagoon. After landing at Keflavik Airport, take your transfer to Reykjavik with a stop at the Blue Lagoon along the way.

Once in the capital, you can visit Reykjavik’s top museums and landmarks. Walk along Laugavegur Street to browse Icelandic souvenirs at local shops like 66°North, Nomad Gift Shop, and Rammagerdin Souvenir Store.

Enjoy coffee at Reykjavik Rost and a meal at Monkeys Food & Wine or 22 Bar, both known for great food and local atmosphere. In the evening, experience Reykjavik’s nightlife in one of the city’s lively pubs or music venues in the streets Hverfisgata or Austurstraeti.

During winter, you can end your day with a northern lights tour from Reykjavik for a chance to see the aurora before returning to your hotel. When choosing from Reykjavik accommodations, look for options located in the Downtown Area for easy access to restaurants and nightlife.

1-Day Iceland Stopover With a Day Tour

If you have a full day in Iceland, one of the most convenient ways to explore is by joining a day tour that starts from the BSI Bus Terminal. After landing at Keflavik Airport, take an airport transfer to BSI.

The terminal serves as the main departure point for guided excursions, which makes it an ideal starting point for a 1-day Iceland stopover itinerary. Here are some of the most recommended tours:

• Hvammsvik Hot Spring Tour

• Lava Caving Tour in Raufarholshellir

• Golden Circle Afternoon Tour

• Combo Tour of Fagradalsfjall Volcano and Sky Lagoon

• Sightseeing Bus Tour of the South Coast

• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tour and Boat Ride

• Full-Day Snaefellsnes National Park Tour

• Landmannalaugar Super Jeep Tour With Hot Spring Bathing

Golden Circle Stopover Road Trip Itinerary

A one-day stopover is enough to explore the Golden Circle. With an early arrival, you can start your road trip immediately and return to Reykjavik in the evening. Pick up your rental car at Keflavik Airport and take Route 41 toward Reykjavik.

From the capital, follow Route 36 east to reach Thingvellir National Park. The park covers a large rift valley, where you can walk along the Almannagja Trail or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra Fissure.

Continue on Route 365 and then Route 37 to reach the Geysir Geothermal Area. Just 10 minutes farther along Route 35 lies Gullfoss Waterfall. For lunch, stop at Fridheimar Greenhouse, located along the same route. Before heading back, take a short detour to Kerid Crater via Route 35.

Return to Reykjavik along Route 35 and Route 1, arriving in time for dinner at Apotek Kitchen + Bar or Fjallkonan Restaurant, some of the best restaurants in Reykjavik. Stay overnight in the city before your next flight.

What To Do on a Multi-Day Iceland Stopover Itinerary

If your Iceland stopover lasts several days, you’ll have time to see more than the capital and the Blue Lagoon. Multi-day itineraries let you travel farther and experience the country’s diverse regions.

You can take day trips from Reykjavik, take prearranged tours and packages, or plan your own self-drive trip. Each option offers a different way to explore Iceland, depending on how independent or structured you want your journey to be.

Go on a Multi-Day Iceland Stopover Road Trip

If you have more than a day in Iceland, a self-drive road trip is the best way to experience the country at your own pace. With extra time, you can go beyond Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon to see the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Each of the itineraries below offers a balanced mix of driving and sightseeing, designed to fit different stopover lengths ranging from two to seven days.

2-Day Stopover in Iceland Itinerary

• Day 1: Sightsee in Reykjavik, visiting museums, cafes, and geothermal pools.

• Day 2: Drive the Golden Circle to see Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall before returning to Reykjavik.

3-Day Stopover in Iceland Itinerary

• Day 1: Explore Reykjavik and the Golden Circle.

• Day 2: Drive the South Coast, stopping at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Skogafoss Waterfall, and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.

• Day 3: Visit the town of Vik or Skaftafell Nature Reserve, then drive back to Reykjavik.

4-Day Stopover in Iceland Itinerary

• Day 1: Visit Reykjavik and enjoy a city walk.

• Day 2: Spend the day on the Golden Circle and relax at the Secret Lagoon.

• Day 3: Drive the South Coast to the town of Vik, stopping at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfalls.

• Day 4: Visit Reynisfjara Beach and return to Reykjavik for an evening at the Blue Lagoon.

5-Day Stopover in Iceland Itinerary

• Day 1: Explore Reykjavik and the Reykjanes Peninsula.

• Day 2: Drive the Golden Circle, visiting Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

• Day 3: Continue to the South Coast, stopping at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Skogafoss Waterfall, and Reynisfjara Beach.

• Day 4: Visit Skaftafell Nature Reserve or Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

• Day 5: Return to Reykjavik, stopping at the Blue Lagoon before departure.

6-Day Stopover  in Iceland Itinerary

• Day 1: Spend the day exploring Reykjavik.

• Day 2: Visit the Golden Circle.

• Day 3–4: Explore the South Coast, staying overnight near the town of Vik or Skaftafell Nature Reserve.

• Day 5: Drive to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to see Mount Kirkjufell, Arnarstapi Village, and Budir Hamlet.

• Day 6: Return to Reykjavik and relax before your flight.

7-Day Stopover in Iceland Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive and explore the Reykjanes Peninsula, including the Blue Lagoon.

• Day 2: Sightsee in Reykjavik.

• Day 3: Drive the Golden Circle.

• Day 4–5: Continue along the South Coast to the town of Vik, Skaftafell Nature Reserve, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

• Day 6: Visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, exploring Mount Kirkjufell, Arnarstapi Village, and Djupalonssandur Beach.

• Day 7: Return to Reykjavik for final sightseeing or shopping before departure.

Take Self-Drive Tours in Iceland

If you want the freedom of a road trip without planning every detail yourself, self-drive tours are the perfect choice. These tours combine the flexibility of independent travel with the convenience of prearranged accommodations, rental car, and detailed route plans.

Each self-drive package includes essentials like GPS guidance, hotel bookings, and 24-hour local support. The routes are carefully planned to balance driving time with sightseeing, giving you opportunities to explore at your own pace.

Base Yourself in Reykjavik and Go on Day Trips

For a short Iceland stopover, staying in Reykjavik is one of the most convenient ways to explore the country. The city has a wide selection of day trips from Reykjavik that cover many of Iceland’s most famous attractions.

If you’re a traveler who wants a stress-free Iceland stopover, day trips from Reykjavik are more practical than driving around the country. You don’t have to worry about hotel changes, luggage transfers, or long drives between remote towns.

Join Multi-Day Tours in Iceland

Multi-day tours are organized itineraries that include transport, accommodations, and a fixed schedule led by a professional guide. They are best for travelers who want a structured experience and are comfortable following a set plan.

You join a small or large group, travel on a specific route, and visit preselected sites each day. Meals, lodging, and entry tickets are often included.

Utilize Customizable Vacation Packages in Iceland

If you prefer control over your activities, Iceland vacation packages are a more flexible option. These packages combine accommodation and transportation, but the activities are adjustable. You decide how long to stay at each location and which attractions to prioritize.

Vacation packages suit independent travelers who want the convenience of pre-booked logistics without a fixed group itinerary. This approach works well for travelers who want a personal Iceland experience without starting travel planning from scratch.

FAQs About Layovers and Stopovers in Iceland

Planning a flight connection in Iceland gives you the chance to see some of the country’s highlights between flights. Below are the answers to the most common questions travelers ask about a layover or stopover in Iceland.

Is the Iceland stopover worth it?

Absolutely. From scenic drives to geothermal spas, there is plenty to see and enjoy in Iceland, even with a short stay. An Iceland stopover lets you experience natural wonders like the Blue Lagoon or Golden Circle without booking a separate trip.

Can you visit Reykjavik during a layover?

Yes, if your layover is 10 hours or longer, you can visit Reykjavik. Shuttle buses and private transfers connect the airport and the city throughout the day. Always allow at least two hours for the return trip and airport check-in.

Can I leave the airport during a stopover in Iceland?

Yes, you can leave the airport freely during a stopover. The airport’s location makes it easy to reach nearby attractions such as the Blue Lagoon or the Reykjanes Peninsula.

How much time do I need for the airport transfer?

The drive between Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik takes about 45 minutes each way. Shuttle buses operate frequently, and private transfers are available day and night. Always plan extra time for traffic, especially in winter.

What’s the cost of visiting the Blue Lagoon during a stopover?

Entrance to the Blue Lagoon typically starts around 11,000 to 15,500 ISK (about 79 to 102 USD), depending on the package and time of day. Towels and drinks can be added for an extra fee. It’s best to reserve your time slot in advance since the lagoon often sells out.

Do I need to book tours in advance for a short stopover?

Yes, booking in advance is recommended. Tours that leave from Keflavik Airport or Reykjavik can fill quickly, especially in summer. If you prefer a flexible schedule, renting a car is a good option for short visits.

Does Icelandair still offer a free stopover?

Yes. The Icelandair Stopover Program allows travelers to spend up to seven days in Iceland at no additional airfare cost when flying between Europe and North America.

Do I need a visa for a stopover in Iceland?

If you are a U.S. citizen or from a Schengen Area country, you can visit Iceland without a visa for up to 90 days. Travelers from other countries should check their visa requirements before booking flights.

What’s the best time of year for a stopover in Iceland?

Iceland is a year-round destination. Summer offers long daylight hours and mild weather, while winter is perfect for seeing the northern lights and visiting geothermal spas. Spring and autumn have fewer crowds and colorful scenery.

Is a stopover worth it with young children or toddlers?

Yes, traveling to Iceland with kids is safe and rewarding. Many attractions, such as the Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park, and Thingvellir National Park, are suitable for young children.

What should I pack for a short stop in Iceland?

When planning what to wear in Iceland, pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes. Even short visits can involve wind, rain, or sudden temperature changes. If you plan to visit hot springs or geothermal pools, bring a swimsuit and flip-flops.

Make Every Hour Count on Your Iceland Layover and Stopover

Iceland is one of the few places where a flight connection can feel like an adventure. A short Iceland layover is perfect for visiting the Blue Lagoon. At the same time, a longer Iceland stopover gives you time to travel farther and see famous regions such as the Golden Circle and the South Coast.

Iceland’s small size, accessible roads, and convenient airport transfers make it easy to explore even with limited time. You can enjoy waterfalls, hot springs, and volcanic scenery, or spend a relaxing day discovering Reykjavik’s culture and coastal views.

Next time your route passes through Iceland, extend your trip and turn a simple connection into something unforgettable. An Iceland stopover adds adventure and discovery to your travels and shows how much you can experience in just a few hours or days.

What would you do during an Iceland stopover? Would you soak in the Blue Lagoon, visit Reykjavik, or explore the South Coast? Share your ideas and travel tips in the comments below to help other travelers plan their perfect Iceland stopover.