Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik: Best Transfer Options & Tips

Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is Iceland’s main international gateway, located about 50 km southwest of Reykjavík. For most travelers arriving in Iceland, Keflavik marks the beginning of their Icelandic adventure. As the country’s capital and tourism hub, Reykjavík is where most accommodations, tours, and cultural attractions are based. Navigating the transfer from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavík efficiently and comfortably is essential for a stress-free start. Nordic DMC Iceland, a trusted travel expert, provides insights into the best transportation options, costs, and essential tips for travelers heading to Reykjavik.

As soon as your plane touches down at Keflavik International Airport, your Icelandic adventure begins. But before you immerse yourself in the landscapes of volcanoes, waterfalls, and northern lights, there’s one essential step: getting from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik.

This comprehensive guide from Nordic DMC Iceland will help you navigate the best transfer options, costs, travel times, and insider tips for a smooth journey to the capital. The transfer from Keflavik airport to Reykjavik takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic and weather.

Best Transfer Options from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik

Whether you’re a solo traveler, family, or group, there are various transfer methods that suit different budgets and preferences. For maximum comfort, privacy, and efficiency, private transfers are ideal. Nordic DMC Iceland offers Keflavik airport to Reykjavik door-to-door service in premium vehicles with professional English-speaking drivers.

Why Choose Private Transfers?

• No waiting for other passengers
  
• Direct service to your hotel or accommodation
  
• Option for luxury upgrades (SUVs, minibuses)
• Great for early morning or late-night flights
• Direct drop-off at your Reykjavik hotel.

Why Choose Nordic DMC Iceland for Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik Transfers?

At Nordic DMC Iceland, we understand how important a comfortable and seamless arrival is. Our goal is to provide peace of mind from the minute you land in Iceland. That’s why we offer:

• Professional Drivers: English-speaking, punctual, courteous
  
• Flight Monitoring: We track your flight for delays or early arrivals
  
• Hotel-to-Hotel Transfers: Including Airbnbs and guesthouses
  
• 24/7 Support: Reach our team anytime before or during your journey

Tips for Traveling from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik

• Currency: Iceland uses the Icelandic Króna (ISK), but credit cards are widely accepted
• Book in advance during peak seasons (June–August & December).
  
• Weather: Always check weather conditions before traveling, especially in winter
  
• Airport Wi-Fi: Free and fast Wi-Fi is available throughout Keflavik Airport

Recommended Stops Between Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik

Your journey in Iceland begins the moment you land at Keflavik International Airport. While Reykjavik is just 45–50 minutes away, turning your airport transfer into a scenic experience is a brilliant way to maximize your time in Iceland. Whether you’re arriving early in the day or have a few hours before hotel check-in, As part of its tailored tourism experiences, Nordic DMC Iceland offers custom-designed transfer routes that include iconic stops like the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast to Vík.

Blue Lagoon – Iceland’s Most Iconic Geothermal Spa

Distance from KEF: 20 minutes

Distance to Reykjavik: 45 minutes

The Blue Lagoon is the perfect first stop after a long flight. Nestled in a lava field in the Reykjanes Peninsula, this world-famous geothermal spa offers steamy, mineral-rich waters that help ease jet lag and revive tired travelers.

Why Visit:

• Soak in healing waters with temperatures around 37–40°C
  
• Rejuvenate with silica mud masks and spa treatments
  
• Enjoy a cocktail from the in-water bar
  

Travel Tip:

• Pre-booking is required; Nordic DMC Iceland can secure your slot and arrange luggage storage while you bathe.
  
• Great for both daytime and evening arrivals (the lagoon stays open late!)
  
• Nordic Transfer Option: Book a private airport transfer with Blue Lagoon stopover, including pickup from the airport and drop-off at your Reykjavik hotel.

Golden Circle – Iceland’s Most Famous Touring Route

Distance from KEF: 1 hour 30 min to Thingvellir (first stop)

Route Back to Reykjavik: 1–2 hours depending on stops

Key Stops:

Thingvellir National Park

• UNESCO World Heritage Site
  
• Stand between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates
  
• Historical site of Iceland’s first parliament
  

Geysir Geothermal Area

• Watch Strokkur geyser erupt every 5–10 minutes
  
• See bubbling mud pools and fumaroles
  

Gullfoss Waterfall

• One of Iceland’s most powerful and picturesque waterfalls
  
• Winter and summer views are equally spectacular
  

Travel Tip:

• Ideal for first-timers and photography lovers
  
• Best explored on a guided transfer, especially if you have luggage
  
• Nordic Transfer Option: Customize your airport arrival or departure with a Golden Circle tour, including stops, photo breaks, and flexible drop-offs in Reykjavik or elsewhere.

South Coast to Vík – Glaciers, Waterfalls & Black Sand Beaches

Distance from KEF to Vík: ~3 hours

Route to Reykjavik from Vík: ~2.5 hours

The South Coast of Iceland is a stretch of cinematic beauty and adventure. If you have a day to spare after arriving—or are planning a scenic transfer for the next morning—this route is unforgettable.

Key Highlights:

Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss Waterfalls

• Walk behind Seljalandsfoss for a rare perspective
  
• Climb the stairs beside Skógafoss for panoramic views
  

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

• Known for its basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves
  
• Nearby Reynisdrangar sea stacks add to the mystique
  

Sólheimajökull Glacier

• Easily accessible glacier for short hikes and ice walks
  

Travel Tip:

• Ideal for those staying more than 3–5 days in Iceland
  
• Great as part of a longer scenic detour to Reykjavik or onward journey
  
• Nordic Transfer Option: Choose a luxury transfer from KEF to Reykjavik via the South Coast, stopping at top highlights with an experienced local guide and comfortable transport for small groups or families.

FAQ: Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik Transfers

Q: Can I book my transfer in advance?
A: Yes. It’s highly recommended, especially during peak seasons (June–August and December).

Q: Is Uber or Lyft available in Iceland?
A: No. Iceland does not have ridesharing apps. Private transfers and taxis are the alternatives.

Q: Are transfers safe at night?
A: Absolutely. Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, and our drivers are available 24/7.

Getting from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you prefer the ease of a private transfer, the affordability of a shuttle, or the freedom of a rental car, there’s an option for every traveler. At Nordic DMC Iceland, we specialize in making your journey seamless and stress-free. Nordic DMC Iceland ensures a smooth transition from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik so you can start exploring Iceland’s wonders without delay. We go beyond basic airport pickups. At Nordic DMC Iceland, your transfer becomes a curated experience, tailored to your arrival time, travel style, and interests.

Whether you’re landing in the morning or have an evening flight, let Nordic DMC Iceland turn your arrival into an authentic Icelandic experience.