Layover in Reykjavík (KEF)
Keflavík International (KEF). Here's how much of a layover you can really use, and what fits in it.
About Reykjavík
Reykjavík is the capital of and largest city in Iceland and with an urban area population of around 233,000 (2019), it is the home to two-thirds of Iceland's population. It is the centre of culture and life of the Icelandic people, and is one of the focal points of tourism in Iceland. The city is spread out, and has sprawling suburbs. The city centre, however, is a very small area characterised by eclectic and colourful houses, with good shopping, dining and drinking. Reykjavik has the distinction of being the world's northernmost capital city of a UN member state, though its winters are surprisingly mild for a city of its latitude.
From Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA.
How much time can you use?
After getting off the plane, immigration for international arrivals, the trip into town and back, and security.
| Layover | Domestic arrival | International arrival |
|---|---|---|
| 4 hours | Stay at the airport | Stay at the airport |
| 6 hours | About 2h 50m in the city | About 1h 35m in the city |
| 8 hours | About 4h 50m in the city | About 3h 35m in the city |
| 12 hours | About 8h 50m in the city | About 7h 35m in the city |
Getting into Reykjavík
About 50m each way by Airport bus to Reykjavík, roughly 37 km (23 mi).
Worth seeing near the center
- Blue Lagoon
- Bakery breakfast
- Hallgrímskirkja
- Harbor and Harpa walk
- Sky Lagoon
- Icelandic soup and fish
- Golden Circle day tour
Questions
Can I leave the airport on a layover in Reykjavík?
On a domestic connection, you need roughly 5 hours or more to get into Reykjavík and back with time to enjoy it. If you're arriving internationally and must clear immigration, plan on about 6 hours or more.
How do I get from KEF to central Reykjavík?
Allow about 50m each way by Airport bus to Reykjavík; the center is about 37 km (23 mi) from the airport.
How early should I head back to KEF?
Be back through security about 1h 15m before a domestic departure and 2h before an international one, plus the ride back.
Build a plan for your exact flight
Guide data from OurAirports, © OpenStreetMap contributors and Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA). Times are estimates for planning; check transit schedules and airline rules before you leave the airport.