Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Siglufjordur gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from SIJ to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by Walk / Taxi, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of SIJ:
- Can you legally enter Iceland? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Walk / Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the ISK. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting from SIJ to Siglufjordur
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walk / Taxi | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Walk / Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What to Budget for Your Siglufjordur Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Siglufjordur might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$13 USD
- A meal: ~$26 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$49 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Siglufjordur, two standouts are:
- The Herring Era Museum (SÃldarminjasafnið) — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
- Walk along Siglufjörður Harbor — It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SIJ, you can spend time at Panoramic Views from Siglufjörður Terminal or try Observing Regional Aircraft Operations. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Hannes Boy (Hannesarholt) and Torgið Pizza og Pasta are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Siglufjordur.
- At the airport: Siglufjörður Airport Snack Corner and SIJ Terminal Coffee & Tea Station will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Storing Your Luggage at Siglufjörður Airport
Luggage storage options at SIJ can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Siglufjordur for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at SIJ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Siglufjordur or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at SIJ.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Siglufjordur genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.