Getting from Reykjavik to Keflavik

Iceland’s only international airport is located in the southwest corner of the country, just outside the town of Keflavik. It’s about 45 minutes by car from Reykjavik, but unfortunately there is no public transportation between the city and the airport. There are a few rental car agencies located in the the terminal and (and you’ll find plenty of parking at the airport) but unless you’re renting  a car, you’re left with two options for getting into the Reykjavik from Keflavik.

The most expensive option is taking  a taxi, which will run you about 10,000 ISK, or $85 US. Unless you are traveling with several other people, it’s not a very economical option.

The other option is the Flybus which departs about 30-40 minutes after every arrival at Keflavik (though it has been known to be significantly delayed) and runs from the city back to the airport on a set schedule. One way tickets cost 1950 ISK (about $15) or 3,500 round trip per person, so spring for the round trip if you know you’ll be taking the bus both ways. The bus picks up at hotels around the city (for an extra fee) or at the Reykjavik bus terminal, which is about a 10 minute walk from the city center. There’s no need to buy a ticket online in advance; just buy one when you arrive at the airport.

If you have plans to visit the Blue Lagoon, you can combine your trip to or from the airport with a trip to the Blue Lagoon. In summer, the FlyBus will take you from the airport to the Blue Lagoon, and then from the Blue Lagoon to the city, but if you plan on visiting in winter, you may need to take a cab to the Blue Lagoon and then the bus from there to Reykjavik  (service from the airport to the Blue Lagoon doesn’t operate at all times in winter). There is luggage storage at the Blue Lagoon an combined tickets with admission to the Blue Lagoon cost 6,300 ISK. Towel and locker rental are extra.

Photo by Ulrich Latzenhofer