A layover in Reykjavik offers a rare opportunity to experience Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, geothermal wonders, and vibrant capital city – all without the cost of an extra flight. Thanks to Icelandair’s free stopover program allowing up to 7 days in Iceland at no additional airfare, your Reykjavik airport layover can transform from a waiting period into an unforgettable mini-adventure. Whether you have just a few hours or a full day between flights, this guide covers everything you need to know about maximizing your time at RKV and in Iceland’s captivating capital.
Before You Leave the Airport
- Visa Requirements: Check IATA Travel Centre for your nationality’s specific visa requirements for Iceland. Many travelers from the US, Canada, EU, and other countries can enter visa-free for short stays.
- Language: Icelandic is the official language, but English is widely spoken throughout Reykjavik and at the airport.
- Transit Time Warning: Keflavík Airport (KEF) is located approximately 50 kilometers from Reykjavik city center – not RKV, which primarily handles domestic flights. If your international layover is at KEF, budget at least 6-7 hours total to leave the airport (1 hour for immigration, 45-60 minutes transit each way, 2-3 hours return buffer, plus exploration time).
- Currency: Iceland uses the Icelandic króna (ISK). Use ATMs for the best exchange rates – avoid currency exchange counters at the airport where rates are significantly worse.
Airport Amenities at a Glance
Understanding what’s available during your Reykjavik layover helps you plan whether to stay at the airport or venture into the city. Here’s what RKV and Keflavík Airport (KEF, the main international hub) offer:
| Amenity | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Luggage Storage | ✓ Yes | Luggage storage or locker facilities are available for temporary baggage storage. For city exploration, consider Bounce or Stasher ($5-10/bag/day). |
| Free WiFi | ✓ Yes | Free WiFi is available throughout the airport terminal. Download offline maps before your layover as backup. |
| Charging Stations | ✓ Yes | Device charging stations are available throughout the terminal. |
| Water Refill Stations | ✓ Yes | Water bottle refill stations are available. Bring an empty bottle through security to stay hydrated. |
| Lounges | ✓ Yes | The Saga Lounge (Icelandair’s departure lounge) is available at Keflavík Airport. Check if your Priority Pass membership includes access. |
| Sleep Pods | ✓ Likely | Sleep pods or nap pod facilities are likely available, though details are unconfirmed. Check the airport’s official website for current options. |
| Showers | ✓ Yes | Shower facilities are available for passenger use – ideal for freshening up during longer layovers. |
| Children’s Play Areas | ✓ Yes | Designated play areas for children are provided in the terminal. |
| Nursing Rooms | ✓ Yes | Dedicated nursing and breastfeeding rooms are available with changing tables and bottle warmers. |
| Pharmacy/Medical Clinic | ✓ Yes | Pharmacy and medical clinic services are available on-site. |
| Currency Exchange | ✓ Yes | Prosegur Change branch is located in the arrivals hall at Keflavík Airport. Use ATMs instead for better rates. |
| Sensory Rooms | ✗ No | Not currently available. |
| Free City Tours | ✗ No | No organized free city tour program, but Icelandair’s stopover program makes extended stays easy. |
Getting from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavik City Center
Most international travelers experiencing a Reykjavik airport layover will arrive at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located about 50 kilometers from downtown Reykjavik. Here are your transit options:
| Method | Duration | Cost | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flybus | 45-60 minutes | ~3,500-4,500 ISK (~$25-32 USD) | Most popular option. Book tickets in advance online for best rates. Direct service to BSÍ Bus Terminal and hotels. |
| Airport Direct | 45-60 minutes | ~3,500-4,500 ISK (~$25-32 USD) | Similar to Flybus. Book in advance for guaranteed seats during peak times. |
| Strætó (Public Bus) | 60-75 minutes | ~2,000 ISK (~$14 USD) | Budget option with regular service. Slower but significantly cheaper than coach services. |
| Taxi/Rideshare | 40-50 minutes | ~18,000-22,000 ISK (~$130-160 USD) | Fastest and most convenient, but expensive. Best for groups splitting the cost. |
| Rental Car | 40-50 minutes driving | Varies by rental company | Only worthwhile for extended stopovers (24+ hours) or if exploring beyond Reykjavik. |
Important: Always factor in immigration and security time when calculating if you can leave the airport. For international flights, budget at least 2.5-3 hours before your departure time to return to the airport, clear security, and reach your gate.
What to Do at Keflavík Airport During Your Layover
If you’re staying at the airport during your Reykjavik layover, here’s how to make the most of your time:
Relax in the Saga Lounge
The Saga Lounge is Icelandair’s departure lounge at Keflavík Airport, offering comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages, WiFi, and a quieter environment away from the main terminal. Access is available for business class passengers, Saga Club members, and travelers with Priority Pass or other lounge membership programs. Check your credit card benefits – many premium cards include complimentary lounge access.
Dining Options
Meal costs at airport dining options generally range from moderate to moderately expensive, typical for airport pricing (expect to pay 2-3x city prices). If you’re planning to leave the airport, save money by eating in Reykjavik instead. For those staying at the airport, check the official Keflavík Airport website for current restaurant and café listings.
Freshen Up
Shower facilities are available for passenger use – perfect for long-haul travelers wanting to refresh before continuing their journey. Pack a small “layover bag” inside your carry-on with a change of clothes, basic toiletries, and personal care items for easy access.
Rest and Sleep
Sleep pods or nap pod facilities are likely available, though specific details should be confirmed on the airport’s official website. For overnight layovers, SleepingInAirports.net provides reviews and tips for the best spots to rest at KEF.
Stay Connected and Charged
Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations are distributed across the airport. Download offline entertainment and maps before your layover as backup, since airport WiFi can sometimes be slow or time-limited during peak hours.
What to Do in Reykjavik During a Layover
Iceland’s capital offers extraordinary experiences even during a short visit. Here’s what you can realistically accomplish based on your available time:
4-6 Hours (Quick City Taste)
- Hallgrímskirkja Church: Reykjavik’s iconic landmark with panoramic city views from the tower. Located in the city center, it’s easily accessible and takes about 30-45 minutes to visit.
- Laugavegur Shopping Street: The main shopping street lined with boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. Perfect for a quick stroll and souvenir shopping.
- Harpa Concert Hall: Stunning modern architecture on the waterfront. Free to enter the lobby and admire the glass facade.
- Old Harbor Area: Scenic waterfront with restaurants, museums, and whale watching tour departures (if you have more time).
6-10 Hours (Blue Lagoon or City Deep Dive)
- Blue Lagoon: Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa is located between the airport and Reykjavik (about 20 minutes from KEF). Book tickets well in advance as it often sells out. Budget 3-4 hours total including transit and bathing time. This is the most popular activity for Icelandair stopover passengers.
- Perlan Museum: Interactive exhibits about Iceland’s nature, including a real ice cave and planetarium. Allow 2-3 hours.
- National Museum of Iceland: Comprehensive overview of Icelandic history and culture. Plan for 1.5-2 hours.
- Food Tour: Sample Icelandic specialties like lamb soup, hot dogs from Bæjarins Beztu, and skyr at local eateries.
10+ Hours (Extended Exploration)
- Golden Circle Tour: Half-day or full-day tour covering Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Many tour operators offer packages designed specifically for layover travelers.
- South Coast Adventure: Visit black sand beaches, waterfalls (Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss), and dramatic coastal scenery.
- Northern Lights (Winter): If your layover is during winter months (September-April) and conditions are right, take an evening Northern Lights tour.
- Reykjavik Food Scene: Enjoy a proper Icelandic meal at restaurants like Fiskmarkaðurinn (Fish Market) or Grillmarkaðurinn (Grill Market).
Pro Tip: Icelandair’s free stopover program allows up to 7 days in Iceland at no extra flight cost. If you have flexibility in your travel plans, consider extending your layover to truly experience Iceland’s natural wonders. Groups can split costs on accommodation, making an extended stopover even more affordable.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s what to expect for costs during your Reykjavik airport layover:
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Airport to City (Flybus/Airport Direct, round-trip) | $50-64 |
| Airport to City (Strætó public bus, round-trip) | $28 |
| Luggage Storage (per bag, full day) | $5-10 |
| Casual Meal (city center) | $15-25 |
| Sit-down Restaurant Meal | $35-60 |
| Airport Meal | $20-40 |
| Blue Lagoon Entry (Comfort package) | $75-100 |
| Museum Entry (average) | $15-25 |
| Golden Circle Tour | $60-120 |
| Lounge Day Pass (if not included) | $40-60 |
Budget Layover (staying at airport): $0-20 (snacks, water)
Mid-Range Layover (quick city visit): $80-150 (transport, meal, one attraction)
Splurge Layover (Blue Lagoon or tour): $200-350 (transport, Blue Lagoon or tour, meals)
Layover Tips by Traveler Type
For Families
- Take advantage of Icelandair’s free stopover program allowing up to 7 days in Iceland at no extra flight cost – perfect for families wanting to explore without additional airfare.
- Pack a ‘layover bag’ inside your carry-on with snacks, entertainment, change of clothes, and basic toiletries – accessible without unpacking everything.
- Download offline maps and translation apps before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable, especially when traveling with kids who need constant entertainment.
- Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps kids manage jet lag and saves money on overpriced airport beverages.
- The airport has designated play areas for children and dedicated nursing rooms with changing tables and bottle warmers – locate these early if traveling with young children.
- For city exploration, use luggage storage services like Bounce or Stasher ($5-10/bag/day) rather than dragging bags around Reykjavik.
- The Blue Lagoon is family-friendly and a highlight for kids, but book well in advance and allow 3-4 hours total including transit time.
For Solo Travelers
- Icelandair’s free stopover allows up to 7 days in Iceland – the Blue Lagoon is a popular solo layover activity and easy to do independently.
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing – essential for navigating Reykjavik without data.
- Keep your most valuable items (passport, phone, wallet) in a cross-body bag or hidden money belt when exploring the city.
- Bounce and Stasher partner with local businesses near airports for luggage storage – typically $5-8/bag/day, making it easy to explore hands-free.
- Consider getting an eSIM before traveling (Airalo, Holafly) – instant data without hunting for WiFi or buying local SIMs.
- Use a Wise or Revolut card for the best exchange rates – zero markup in most countries, far better than airport currency exchange.
- Share your location with a trusted contact when exploring Reykjavik solo, especially if venturing beyond the main tourist areas.
- Solo travelers can take advantage of voluntary bumping – airlines often offer $200-800+ in compensation, and it’s easier to rebook one person.
For Groups
- Icelandair’s free stopover allows up to 7 days – groups can split costs on accommodation in Iceland, making extended stays affordable.
- Add 15-30 minutes ‘group tax’ to all time estimates – groups move slower through immigration, security, and transit than solo travelers.
- Designate a ‘group leader’ before the layover who manages timing, headcount, and communication – essential for staying coordinated.
- Use WhatsApp or a group chat for real-time coordination – share departure gate and boarding time as a pinned message so everyone stays informed.
- Bounce and Stasher offer multi-bag discounts – book all group luggage together for the best rate when storing bags for city exploration.
- For groups, budget 2.5-3 hours before international departure when returning to the airport – more time needed for larger groups to check in and clear security.
- Food courts work better than sit-down restaurants for groups – everyone can choose what they want and eat at their own pace.
- Use Splitwise to automatically calculate who owes what – essential for groups sharing transport, food, and activities in Reykjavik.
- Taxi or rideshare becomes more economical when split among 3-4 people compared to individual bus tickets.
Insider Tips for Keflavík Airport
- Book Blue Lagoon in Advance: The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most popular attraction and often sells out weeks in advance, especially during summer and holiday periods. If this is on your layover wishlist, book your time slot as soon as you confirm your flights.
- Use ATMs, Not Exchange Counters: Currency exchange services are available at the Prosegur Change branch in the arrivals hall, but rates are significantly worse than ATMs. Withdraw króna from an ATM or use a Wise/Revolut card for purchases.
- Pre-Book Airport Transfers: Flybus and Airport Direct coach services run frequently between Keflavík and Reykjavik, but booking tickets in advance online saves money and guarantees seats during peak travel times.
- Check Your Credit Card Benefits: Many premium credit cards include Priority Pass lounge access, travel insurance, and other perks that can enhance your layover experience. The Saga Lounge accepts Priority Pass.
- Time Your Layover for Daylight: Iceland’s daylight hours vary dramatically by season. In summer (May-August), you’ll have nearly 24 hours of daylight. In winter (November-February), daylight is limited to 4-5 hours. Plan your city exploration accordingly.
- Don’t Confuse RKV and KEF: Reykjavik Airport (RKV) primarily handles domestic flights and is located in the city. Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is the main international hub 50km away. Confirm which airport your layover is at before planning.
Other Iceland Layover Guides
- Layover in Akureyri (AEY)
- Layover in Egilsstadir (EGS)
- Layover in Isafjordur (IFJ)
- Layover in Vopnafjörður (VPN)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth leaving Reykjavik airport during a layover?
Yes, if you have at least 6-7 hours total layover time. The journey between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavik city center takes 45-60 minutes each way via Flybus or Airport Direct coach services. Factor in 1 hour for immigration upon arrival, 2-3 hours to return and clear security before your next flight, and you’ll need a minimum of 6 hours to make a quick city visit worthwhile. For 8+ hours, you can comfortably visit the Blue Lagoon or explore Reykjavik’s main attractions. Icelandair’s free stopover program allows up to 7 days in Iceland at no extra flight cost, making extended layovers particularly attractive.
How do I get from Reykjavik airport to the city center?
Bus services operate between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavik city center, located approximately 50 kilometers away. Flybus and Airport Direct run coach/bus services with tickets recommended to be booked in advance (approximately $25-32 USD one-way, 45-60 minutes). Strætó also provides regular public transport bus services at a lower cost (approximately $14 USD, 60-75 minutes). Taxis cost approximately $130-160 USD one-way but are fastest (40-50 minutes). For groups of 3-4 people, splitting a taxi can be more economical than individual bus tickets.
What can I do at Reykjavik airport during a layover?
Keflavík Airport offers several amenities for layover passengers. The Saga Lounge (Icelandair’s departure lounge) provides comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages, and WiFi. Shower facilities are available for freshening up, and sleep pods or nap pod facilities are likely available for rest. The airport has children’s play areas, nursing rooms with changing tables and bottle warmers, charging stations, water refill stations, and free WiFi throughout the terminal. Dining options range from moderate to moderately expensive. Luggage storage or locker facilities are available if you want to explore without your bags.
How long of a layover do I need to leave Reykjavik airport?
You need a minimum of 6-7 hours total layover time to leave Keflavík Airport and visit Reykjavik city center. This accounts for: 1 hour for immigration and baggage claim, 45-60 minutes transit to the city, 1-2 hours for a quick visit, 45-60 minutes return transit, and 2-3 hours to check in and clear security before your next international flight. For a more relaxed experience or to visit the Blue Lagoon, aim for 8-10 hours. Always factor in immigration and security time – for international flights, budget at least 2.5-3 hours before departure to return to the airport.
Are there lounges at Reykjavik airport?
Yes, the Saga Lounge is Icelandair’s departure lounge at Keflavík Airport. Access is available for business class passengers, Saga Club members, and travelers with Priority Pass or other lounge membership programs. Many premium credit cards include complimentary Priority Pass membership. The lounge offers comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages, WiFi, and a quieter environment away from the main terminal. Check your credit card benefits before your trip to see if lounge access is included.
Is there luggage storage at Reykjavik airport?
Yes, luggage storage or locker facilities are available at Keflavík Airport for temporary baggage storage. For city exploration, you can also use services like Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero, which partner with local businesses near airports for luggage storage – typically $5-10 per bag per day, often cheaper than airport lockers. This allows you to explore Reykjavik or visit the Blue Lagoon hands-free during your layover.
What is there to eat at Reykjavik airport?
Meal costs at Keflavík Airport dining options generally range from moderate to moderately expensive, typical for airport pricing (expect to pay 2-3 times city prices). The airport has various restaurants, cafés, and quick-service options. For current listings and specific restaurant names, check the official Keflavík Airport website. If you’re planning to leave the airport and visit Reykjavik, you’ll save money by eating in the city instead, where you can try authentic Icelandic cuisine at better prices.
Plan Your Layover
Use the Yopki Layover Calculator above to see exactly how much time you have and what you can do with it. Whether you’re visiting the Blue Lagoon, exploring Reykjavik’s city center, or relaxing at the airport, make the most of your Icelandic layover.