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About KEF
Keflavik International Airport is Iceland's primary international airport and the main gateway to the country. Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula about 50 km southwest of Reykjavik, the airport serves as a major transatlantic hub for Icelandair, connecting North America and Europe with convenient stopover options in Iceland. Despite its relatively small size, Keflavik handles nearly 8 million passengers annually and offers a unique arrival experience with views of Iceland's dramatic volcanic landscape. The airport features Icelandic design and duty-free shopping famous for its competitive prices.
Hub For
Terminals
Leifur Eiriksson Terminal
The main and only terminal at Keflavik, named after the Norse explorer Leif Erikson. The terminal was expanded in 2021 with a new arrivals hall and additional gates. Features Icelandic design elements and one of Europe's best duty-free shops.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at KEF
Icelandair
Leifur Eiriksson Terminal Hub
PLAY
Leifur Eiriksson Terminal Hub
Air Canada
Air Greenland
Air Transat
airBaltic
Alaska Airlines
Atlantic Airways
Showing 8 of 28 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Flybus and Airport Direct shuttle buses run to Reykjavik BSI bus terminal in 45 minutes. Taxis are very expensive. Car rental is popular for exploring Iceland's Ring Road. No rail connection.
Taxi
$150-180
45-50 min to city center
Public Transport
$28
45-50 min to city center
Parking at KEF
P1 Short Stay
P2 Long Stay
P3 Economy
Airport Lounges
Saga Lounge
Leifur Eiriksson Terminal
Iceland's premier airport lounge offering panoramic views of the volcanic landscape, hot Icelandic food, local craft beers, Brennivu00edn, and showers. Relaxation pods available for resting. One of the best lounges in Northern Europe.
Aurora Lounge
Leifur Eiriksson Terminal
Comfortable lounge near the departure gates with Icelandic snacks, beverages, and views of the runway. A quieter alternative to the terminal seating areas.
Where to Stay
Nearby Hotels
Base Hotel by Keflavik Airport
3 minutes by shuttle from terminal
Modern hotel very close to the airport. Clean Scandinavian design rooms. Free shuttle service. Bar and light meals available.
Hotel Keflavik
5 minutes by shuttle from airport
Comfortable hotel in the town of Keflavik with free airport shuttle. Features Northern Lights wake-up service in winter. Day rooms available. Restaurant serves Icelandic cuisine.
Food & Dining
Joe and the Juice
Healthy/Juice Bar
Leifur Eiriksson Terminal (Airside)
Scandinavian juice and coffee chain serving fresh-pressed juices, gourmet sandwiches, and specialty coffee. Popular with health-conscious travelers.
05:00-22:00
Cafe Baula
Icelandic/International
Leifur Eiriksson Terminal (Airside)
Icelandic-themed cafe offering local specialties including lamb soup, skyr, and open-faced sandwiches alongside international options. Try the Icelandic hot dog.
06:00-Last departure
Grey Fox
American/Bar
Leifur Eiriksson Terminal (Airside)
Full-service restaurant and bar with burgers, steaks, and an extensive craft beer selection including Icelandic microbrews. Good for a sit-down meal before long-haul flights.
08:00-Last departure
Car Rental
Blue Car Rental
Car rental center adjacent to terminal
Popular Icelandic car rental. A 4WD is essential for F-roads (highland tracks). Standard cars are fine for the Ring Road in summer.
Lotus Car Rental
Car rental center adjacent to terminal
Competitive rates for Iceland. Insurance options are important here - gravel protection and sand/ash protection are recommended.
Europcar
Car rental center adjacent to terminal
International chain with good fleet. Note: Icelandic roads can be unpaved and weather changes rapidly. Check road.is before driving.
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
Keflavik Duty-Free Shopping
Keflavik's duty-free shop is legendary - significantly cheaper than Reykjavik shops, especially for alcohol, cosmetics, and Icelandic wool products. Stock up on arrival or departure.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Reykjanes Peninsula Lava Fields
Rent a car for a few hours and explore the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark near the airport. See steaming geothermal areas, lava fields, and the Bridge Between Continents. Allow 2+ hours.
Visit the Blue Lagoon
The iconic Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is just 20 minutes from the airport. Perfect for a layover. Entry from $75. Book well in advance as it sells out. Luggage storage available on site.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●●○
- Power Outlets: Type F (Schuko)
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: $10-15/day
- Showers: Free (in Saga Lounge)
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
Money & Currency
- Currency: Icelandic Krona (ISK)
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Iceland. Service charges are included in prices.
Smoking Areas
No indoor smoking areas. Outdoor area outside terminal.
Insider Tips
The duty-free shop at Keflavik is famous for alcohol and cosmetics at prices significantly cheaper than in Reykjavik. Buy on arrival to save. The Flybus to Reykjavik can be booked with hotel dropoff. Iceland is almost entirely cashless - cards accepted everywhere. The Blue Lagoon is located between the airport and Reykjavik.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, ATMs, exceptional duty-free shopping, restaurants and cafes, VIP lounge, car rental desks, pharmacy, left luggage, tourist information, baby care room, prayer room