Planning a trip to Iceland? One of the first things you'll need to figure out is how to get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik city center. Don't worry – this guide breaks down all your options in simple terms so you can choose what works best for you.
Understanding Reykjavik's Airports
Before we start, here's something important: Iceland has two airports near Reykjavik, and they're different.
Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is where international flights land. It's about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Reykjavik city center – that's roughly a 45-minute drive. This is the airport most tourists use.
Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) is much smaller and sits just 2 kilometers from downtown. It only handles flights within Iceland and some routes to Greenland and the Faroe Islands.
This guide focuses on getting from Keflavik Airport (the international one) to the city.
Option 1: Airport Shuttle Bus (Best Value)
Airport shuttle buses are the most popular choice for travelers. They're comfortable, reliable, and much cheaper than taxis.
Main Shuttle Services:
- Flybus – The most well-known option
- Gray Line Airport Express – Another reliable company
- Airport Direct – A third good choice
How It Works: The shuttle picks you up right outside the airport terminal. Buses leave about 35-45 minutes after each flight arrives, so you won't wait long. The ride to downtown Reykjavik takes about 45 minutes.
Two Service Types:
- Bus Terminal Drop-off: The bus takes you to BSÍ Bus Terminal in central Reykjavik. From there, you can grab a taxi or walk to your hotel. This is the cheaper option.
- Hotel Drop-off (Flybus+): For a small extra fee, you can get dropped off near your hotel. At the BSÍ terminal, you switch to a smaller minibus that takes you closer to where you're staying. This adds about 30 minutes but saves you the hassle of finding your hotel on your own.
Cost: Prices vary, but expect to pay around $25-35 per person for the basic service. Hotel drop-off costs a bit more.
Pros:
- Good value for money
- Reliable and comfortable
- Timed with flight arrivals
- Easy to book online ahead of time
Cons:
- Not as fast as a private transfer
- You might need to wait for other passengers
- Hotel drop-off means switching buses
Booking Tip: Buy your ticket online before you travel. It's usually cheaper than buying at the airport, and you'll have one less thing to worry about when you land.
Option 2: Public Bus (Cheapest Option)
If you're on a tight budget, the public bus is your friend.
- Bus Number: Route 55 runs between Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik.
- Cost: Around 2,400 ISK (about $18-20 per person)
- Travel Time: About 90 minutes – longer than other options because it makes several stops along the way.
Payment: You can pay on the bus with a card or cash, but drivers can't give change, so bring exact cash if paying that way.
Pros:
- Cheapest option available
- Good if you're not in a hurry
Cons:
- Takes much longer (90 minutes vs. 45 minutes)
- Not ideal if you have lots of luggage
- Less frequent than airport shuttles
- Can be crowded during busy times
Option 3: Private Transfer (Most Convenient)
Want to go straight to your hotel with no stops? Book a private transfer.
How It Works: A driver meets you at the airport with a sign with your name on it. They help with your luggage and drive you directly to your hotel or accommodation.
Cost: Starts around €156 ($170) for 1-3 passengers. The more people in your group, the better value it becomes.
Travel Time: About 45 minutes, same as the shuttle, but no waiting around.
Pros:
- Fastest and most convenient
- No waiting for other passengers
- Direct to your door
- Good value for groups of 3-4 people
- Driver can answer questions about Iceland
Cons:
- Most expensive option for solo travelers or couples
- Need to book in advance
When to Choose This: Perfect if you're traveling with family, arriving late at night, or just want the easiest possible start to your trip.
Option 4: Taxi (Available But Expensive)
Taxis are available 24/7 outside the terminal, but they're pricey.
Cost: Expect to pay around €150-250 ($170-270) for the ride to Reykjavik. Yes, really! Iceland is expensive, and taxi rates from the airport are high because of the distance.
Pros:
- No booking needed
- Available anytime
- Direct to your destination
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Might have to wait during busy times
- Not much cheaper than a pre-booked private transfer
Tip: If you need a taxi-like service, book a private transfer instead. It's usually cheaper and you won't have to wait in line.
Option 5: Rental Car (For Exploring Iceland)
Planning to explore Iceland's incredible landscapes? Renting a car at the airport makes sense.
How It Works: Several car rental companies have desks at Keflavik Airport. You can book online before you arrive or rent on the spot (though pre-booking usually gets better prices).
Cost: Varies widely depending on the car and season, but expect to pay at least $50-100 per day.
Pros:
- Freedom to explore Iceland at your own pace
- Can visit places not accessible by bus
- Good value if you're planning road trips
- Can drop off in the city if you only need it for part of your trip
Cons:
- Parking in Reykjavik can be tricky and costs money
- Driving in Iceland requires confidence, especially in winter
- Most expensive upfront option
- You're responsible for the car
Winter Driving Note: If you're visiting in winter, Icelandic roads can be challenging. Make sure you're comfortable driving in snow and ice, and always rent a car with good insurance.
What I Recommend
Here's my honest advice based on different travel situations:
- For Solo Travelers or Couples: Take the Flybus or Gray Line shuttle. It's the sweet spot between cost and convenience. The basic terminal drop-off is fine if you're comfortable finding your hotel, or add the hotel service for extra ease.
- For Families or Groups of 3+: Book a private transfer. When you split the cost among several people, it's not much more than the shuttle, and it's way more convenient with kids and luggage.
- For Budget Travelers: Take the public bus (Route 55). Yes, it's slower, but you'll save money that you can spend on other parts of your Iceland adventure.
- For People Renting a Car Anyway: Pick up your rental at the airport and drive yourself. Just make sure you understand Icelandic driving rules first.
- For Late-Night Arrivals: Either book a private transfer or check if shuttles run with your flight time. Some late flights mean long waits for buses.
Why This Matters
Getting your airport transfer right sets the tone for your entire Iceland trip. When you know exactly how you're getting to your hotel, you can relax and start enjoying your adventure from the moment you land.
Iceland is an amazing place to visit, with incredible waterfalls, geysers, glaciers, and the magical Northern Lights. Don't let confusion about airport transport stress you out – now you know all your options and can pick what works best for your budget and travel style.
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