How to Get from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík
Keflavík International Airport Travel Guide
💡 Transport options, hotel recommendations, and practical travel tips for first-time visitors to Iceland
Arriving at Keflavík International Airport is the starting point for most trips to Iceland.
This guide explains the best ways to get from the airport to Reykjavík, helps you choose where to stay, and highlights what travelers should know before heading into the city.
⚠️ Avoid overpriced taxis, confusing shuttle stops, and last-minute surprises after landing in Iceland.
Transport options from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík
There are several ways to travel from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík. Each option suits a different type of traveler, budget, and schedule.
For many travelers, the first decision after landing in Iceland is also the most expensive one.
💡 Quick comparison: KEF Airport → Reykjavik
• Shuttle bus: from ~4,000 ISK per person
(+ possible taxi after drop-off)
• Taxi: often 22,000–30,000 ISK
(price varies by company, time, traffic, vehicle size)
• Private transfer: fixed price
door-to-door, no surprises
Travelers who prefer clear pricing and a smooth arrival often choose to book private transfers in advance.
🚗 Check fixed-price airport transfers → airporttransfers.is
Best areas and hotels to stay in Reykjavík
Choosing the right area to stay in Reykjavík can make your trip more comfortable and reduce travel time.
Popular areas to stay:
-
101 Reykjavík – city center, restaurants, nightlife
-
Grandi / Harbor Area – modern area near the waterfront
-
Laugavegur Area – shopping and easy access to attractions
-
Old Harbor – tours, whale watching, walkable locations
👉 Check hotels & apartments in Reykjavík
What Travelers Should Know Before Arrival
-
Weather can change quickly and may affect travel times
-
Late-night arrivals have fewer transport options
-
Many apartments require self check-in
-
Having mobile internet after landing is very helpful for navigation and communication
-
Taxi prices from Keflavík Airport can vary significantly depending on time of day, traffic, vehicle size, and travel conditions
-
Larger taxis required for groups or extra luggage have higher base fares
-
Some accommodation providers or front desks may suggest transport options that are convenient for them, not necessarily the best value for travelers.
-
Booking airport transport in advance reduces stress after a long flight
For these reasons, many travelers choose to book airport transfers in advance for a smooth arrival in Iceland.
Common mistakes first-time visitors make at Keflavík Airport
3 bullet points:
-
Assuming all taxis have similar prices⚠️
-
Booking return transport at the last minute through third parties⚠️
-
Not checking whether luggage or group size affects the final fare⚠️
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to the most common questions travelers ask when arriving at Keflavík Airport and traveling to Reykjavík.
How far is Keflavík Airport from Reykjavík?
Keflavík International Airport is located about 50 kilometers from Reykjavík. The drive usually takes around 45–50 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
What are the main transport options from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík?
Travelers can choose between shuttle buses, taxis, and private airport transfers. Each option differs in price, comfort, flexibility, and how close it delivers passengers to their accommodation.
Is it better to book airport transport in advance?
Yes. Booking transport in advance is recommended, especially for late-night or early-morning arrivals. It helps avoid waiting times, uncertainty, and limited availability after landing.
Do shuttle buses go directly to hotels and apartments?
Shuttle buses operate on fixed routes and usually stop at central drop-off points or selected hotels. They do not always go directly to apartments or private accommodations, which may require a short walk with luggage or an additional taxi ride. Prices usually start from around 4,000 ISK per person and increase depending on luggage, time of day, and final drop-off location.
Are taxis expensive from Keflavík Airport?
Taxi prices can vary significantly depending on the company, time of day, traffic conditions, night or weekend rates, and public holidays. The final cost is often unknown until the journey ends, which is why some travelers prefer transport options with fixed pricing.
How much can a taxi from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík cost?
Taxi fares from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, time of day, and travel dates.
Under normal conditions, taxi prices often start around 22,000 ISK, but during peak hours, weekends, public holidays, or in case of heavy traffic, the final cost may increase to 25,000–26,000 ISK or more.
Because taxi fares are usually metered, the total price is not always known in advance, which is why some travelers prefer fixed-price transport options booked ahead of time.
Are larger taxis more expensive from Keflavík Airport?
Yes. Taxi fares are typically higher for larger vehicles, especially when traveling with more than four passengers or with a significant amount of luggage.
When a standard car is not sufficient and a larger taxi or van is required, higher base rates usually apply. In such cases, taxi prices often start from around 26,500 ISK and can increase well beyond 30,000 ISK, depending on traffic conditions, time of day, weekends, public holidays, or delays along the route.
Because pricing for larger taxis is also metered, the final cost may vary and is not always known in advance, particularly if congestion or longer travel times occur.
For groups and travelers with luggage, many people choose fixed-price transport options booked in advance to avoid uncertainty and higher vehicle-based taxi rates.
Do private airport transfers have fixed prices?
Yes. Private airport transfers typically offer fixed prices agreed in advance, making travel costs predictable and eliminating surprises after arrival.
Do airport transfer drivers track flight delays?
Yes. Professional airport transfer services usually monitor flight arrivals and adjust pickup times automatically if flights are delayed.
Is public transport available late at night?
Public transport options are limited during late-night hours. Shuttle buses run less frequently, and waiting times can be longer compared to daytime arrivals.
Where do private transfer drivers meet passengers at Keflavík Airport?
Private transfer drivers usually meet passengers inside the arrivals hall or at a designated pickup point and provide clear pickup instructions before arrival.
Why do many travelers choose private transfers over taxis or shuttles?
Because the total cost is known in advance, pickup is guaranteed, and there are no surprises related to traffic, luggage, group size, or timing.
Is it safe to travel from Keflavík Airport in winter?
Yes, but winter weather in Iceland can be unpredictable. Using experienced local drivers and properly equipped vehicles is recommended during winter months.
Can I book airport transport online with a standard checkout?
Yes. Travelers who prefer a regular online booking process with secure payment and instant confirmation can book airport transport through AirportTransfers.is, which offers a full checkout experience and fixed prices.