A long layover in Husavik is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at HúsavÃk Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside HZK
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at HZK:
First, verify that you can enter Iceland — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 40 minutes into Husavik, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Husavik
If you head into Husavik, here are two things worth checking out:
HúsavÃk Whale Museum is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
HúsavÃkurkirkja (HúsavÃk Church) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at HZK, check out HúsavÃk Airport Scenic Views or HúsavÃk Airport Waiting Area Relaxation to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Gamli Baukur and Naustið HúsavÃk are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Husavik.
- At the airport: HúsavÃk Airport Snack & Coffee Point and HúsavÃk Airport Vending Machines will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
The Best Way Into Husavik from HZK
The most straightforward way into Husavik is the local transport, which takes about 40 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 60 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Husavik layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Husavik.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at HZK aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Husavik itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at HZK should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Iceland and you’re good to go.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at HZK, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Husavik with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Husavik may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.