If you’re arriving in Iceland at Keflavik International Airport, you’ll probably want to know the best way to get to Reykjavik, the capital city. Luckily, there are several good options for getting from the Keflavik airport to Reykjavik.
In this article, we’ll tell you all about the very best way to get there and also share various transfer options. Plus you will also get an idea of the step by step process to get to the city and then to your hotel.
The best way to get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik
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The best way to get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik is by taking the Flybus. This is a bus transfer that will allow you to easily get to the capital city of Iceland, with or without a stop at the iconic Blue Lagoon.
The Flybus leaves the airport every 30 minutes and takes about 45 minutes to an hour to get to Reykjavik.
You can also take a taxi or drive, but the Flybus is the most convenient option.
You can book a transfer here: From Keflavik airport to Reykjavik
Getting to Iceland: Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik
You must be wondering why we are talking about Keflavik Airport and not Reykjavik Airport.
So, the main international airport in Iceland is located in Keflavik. It is located about 45 minute drive away from the capital city.
This airport is the hub of Icelandair, and this is where you will find other carriers such as British Airways, among others.
The Reykjavik domestic airport is located a 3-5 minute drive from the city center. This airport is VERY small.
I have flown from Reykjavik airport to Akureyri and back, and it services flights for passengers and cargo to the north, Greenland, and other parts of Iceland. Read our 5 day Iceland itinerary
Because the Reykjavik domestic airport is small, you will be arriving at the Keflavik International Airport from North America, Asia, and beyond.
As we shared, the bus transfer is the most convenient option to get there, so we will break down the further steps and options for you below
Taking the bus from Keflavik to Reykjavik: Step by Step Process
There are different bus companies that provide a shared bus transfer. The most reliable and popular one is the FlyBus, operated by Reykjavik Excursions. Each time we have traveled to Iceland, we have used them.
Other options available are,
Why take the FlyBus
Taking the Flybus is the best way to get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik for several reasons.
First, it’s convenient – the Flybus leaves the airport every 30 minutes, so you don’t have to worry about waiting time, or trying to catch a specific train (in fact there are no trains available from the airport to Reykjavik).
Plus the buses are designed for airport transfers, so you can conveniently carry your luggage and group!
Second, it’s reasonably fast – the trip from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik only takes about 45 minutes (to get to the main bus terminal in Reykjavik).
And finally, it’s affordable – the cost of a ticket on the Flybus is very reasonable.
If you’re looking for the best way to get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik, taking the Flybus is your best bet.
Which FlyBus option to choose to get to your hotel?
When you book a Flybus transfer, you have the option to choose between
- Keflavik airport to BSI bus terminal
- Keflavik airport to hotels
If you choose the latter, the ticket prices go up, but it is worth it. Here is why,
BSI Bus terminal is the main bus station in the country. Almost all buses and tours depart or end here at the terminal.
Although it is located in the main downtown area, you will have to walk 15 to 20 minutes to get to your centrally located hotel, like accommodation on the Main Street – Laugavegur, or in and around the tallest church of Iceland – Hallgrímskirkja.
Or you can pay for a bus ride transfer to the nearest drop off point for your hotel. This is what we recommend if you have luggage or are traveling in a group.
Good to know: BSI bus terminal to hotels/centre is 6 minute drive, or 15-20 minute walk.
To guarantee a seat on the bus, we recommend booking your ticket in advance
Flybus booking and taking the bus ride after arrival
We recommend booking a Flybus transfer online, and then as soon as you land you can show your ticket to get on the bus.
When you book a ticket for a transfer from the Keflavik airport to Reykjavik, it is valid for one day.
So if your flight is delayed or if you wish to freshen up, and grab a drink from Joe and the Juice, it’s all good. You will find a ride!
The exit (way out of the airport) gate is clearly marked at the Keflavik airport.
Once out, you will see a huge parking lot with buses (of all sizes) and cars. Exit the gates, and take the stairs down.
Flybus buses are easily recognizable with the yellow sign. Have your ticket ready on your phone (no paper copies are necessary).
You will find a bus operator, who you can confirm the ticket with you and then ride the bus.
As mentioned, buses have enough room for luggage inside the vehicle (similar to airport buses where you can keep your bags).
And then enjoy the ride for 45- 50 minutes.
Flybus journey: From the BSI bus terminal to your hotel
In 45 to 50 minutes, Flybus will arrive at the BSI bus terminal. Depending on your ticket, you may disembark here.
Or follow instructions to get to another minibus – to be transferred to your hotel.
Most hotels in Reykjavik’s main center are located in a banned area for the tour buses, therefore you will be asked to get into a mini van or mini bus.
Depending on the location of your hotel, you will be given a colored ticket. Like in the photo below, you can see a – pink zone ticket. My hotel was located near the Hallgrímskirkja, and so I was given this ticket. (Details about hotels and our Iceland itinerary 8 days here)
In the mini bus or van, your luggage is stored at the back of the vehicle by the bus operator.
Extra tip: If you are taking day tours from Reykjavik as we did, remember that tour buses will ask you to arrive at a certain Bus Stop, located near your hotel. This will be the nearest bus stop, and it will be a 2-4 minute walk to your accommodation. You can type Bus Stop # into Google Maps or ask the hotel reception for directions.
Taking the Keflavik to Blue Lagoon to Reykjavik (and vice versa)
Here is the third bus transfer option from the Keflavik airport to Reykjavik, but this time with a stop in Blue Lagoon.
We have taken both trips to Keflavik > Blue Lagoon > Reykjavik hotel, and also in reverse.
But traveling from the airport to Blue Lagoon is definitely more relaxing and gives you more time in the warm waters.
Firstly, when you arrive at the Keflavik airport, most likely it will be morning hours (after a flight from North America).
Most visitors won’t have any tours or any timed activities on this day, which makes it perfect for a stop at the Blue Lagoon.
When you travel to Blue Lagoon from Keflavik, you will have a set schedule to choose from (anywhere from 5 to 7 buses in a day). You will have to confirm and book the time slot that works for you.
You also have to book a ticket to the Blue Lagoon separately.
I have booked a Comfort Package (which is the basic ticket), and it is more than enough to soak in the waters, and get your mud mask, with shared changing facilities.
Book the Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket with Drink, Towel, and Mud Mask
- So select and book an entry ticket at the Blue Lagoon first
- And then book the transfer from Keflavik airport to (Blue Lagoon and) Reykjavik
In case your flight is delayed, no worries. Blue Lagoon has an hour window to redeem your ticket. A bus ride to Blue Lagoon from the Keflavik Airport is 15-20 minutes, one way.
You will find restaurants, and a luggage storage room to store your bags (800 ISK fee) at the Blue Lagoon.
Once at the Blue Lagoon, you can stay there as long as you like.
The return to Reykjavik will be on a schedule as well, but it is flexible as you can take the ride when you are done at the Blue Lagoon.
Return trips will have 2-3 departure options to choose from.
About Reykjavik > Blue Lagoon > Keflavik Airport
I have taken this transfer in reverse when traveling alone. I will admit when you have a flight to catch (+ luggage to check in or traveling with a group), it is a little tricky cause you don’t want to miss your flight.
I booked the transfer with Flyblus to Blue Lagoon and opted for the earliest bus ride from Reykjavik. There were 5-7 times to choose from.
I had 2 hours at the lagoon including check-in, changing, etc.
However, the Blue Lagoon to the airport pick-up options were limited. There were only 3 options, so I chose the one that worked best for my schedule and my flight.
And…I compared and called other bus companies to confirm their pick-ups, and they were all the same….they were the exact timetable. So, didn’t have many options to choose from!
Although I didn’t feel rushed as I was alone on this transfer, I am glad when Salil and I traveled to Iceland for the first time, we head to the Blue Lagoon upon arrival, and it was great. We relaxed and also hang out at the cafe. Here is our very first 3 day Iceland itinerary
Booking the Flybus was definitely a good idea for all of our trips to Iceland.
When we got down at the Blue Lagoon, I did let the bus operator know when I needed a bus back, and I had someone there waiting for me for my pick up.
I was the only one on that bus – which says a lot – they will operate regardless of rain, snow, or shine. Or one or 10 travelers!
Other options for getting from the airport to Reykjavik
Other than the Flybus transfer, there are several options for getting from the airport to Reykjavik.
Shared mini van transfer to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
A shared transfer in a minibus is also a safe and reliable airport transfer between KEF Airport and your accommodation in Reykjavik.
Just like the Flybus, you can choose from a roundtrip or a one-way transfer service.
Once you book this transfer, you will meet your driver at the airport arrival hall and they will provide a door to door drop-off or pickup to and from all hotels in Reykjavik.
This is perfect,
- If you have a large group and want some privacy
- Want to minimize extra stops along the way. The shared minibusses only stop at a maximum of 3 mini bus stops
A shared minivan transfer will be almost twice the cost of a one-way bus transfer by Flybus.
Book: You can book a shared mini bus transfer here or here
Taxis and private airport transfer options to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
You can also take a taxi from the airport, or pre-book one, often labeled as a private transfer.
When you book a private transfer, you will meet your driver at the gate who will take you directly to your accommodation without the need for additional stops along the way, unless requested by you.
The transfer is done in a private air-conditioned vehicle, whether you are traveling to or from the airport (with luggage).
This is perfect,
- As you can head straight to your hotel from Reykjavik without a stop at the BSI terminal or anywhere else
- This is also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, which is great if you don’t wish to adhere to any timetables
This is an expensive option though, but costs can be split when traveling in groups (like a group of 3 or 4).
Options: Private transfer for 4 | Private transfer for 3 passengers
Strætó – Public bus – Route 55
Public transportation also offers services from the Keflavik airport to Reykjavik – Bus 55. You can take a look at the schedule here
Driving yourself from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik – Car rental in Iceland
If you are renting a car in Iceland, most likely you will be picking up your rental car from the airport.
You will surely have the most flexibility by driving to the Blue Lagoon or Reykjavik yourself.
If you’re renting a car, it’s also a good idea to get an Icelandic SIM card so you can use GPS. Driving in Iceland can be challenging, so we only recommend it if you’re confident in your driving skills.
Others
Hitch-hiking or sharing a ride (in a car) is possible, but we have never done that to validate the process!
It is always better to book a transfer yourself – bus or private – whichever works for your schedule and budget.
KEF Airport to Reykjavik City: FAQ
The cheapest and most convenient way to get to Reykjavik from the Keflavik airport is a bus transfer. One way tickets cost as low as $20 USD.
Taxis are an option, but they can be quite expensive. You can expect to pay anywhere from $175 to $200 USD.
We recommend booking a Flybus ticket to the BSI bus terminal in Reykjavik.
From the bus terminal hire a taxi to get to the Reykjavik domestic airport. It will be about $15 to $20 USD.
I took a cab from Reykjavik Main Street to the Domestic airport, and it was $15 USD.
If you wish to walk, it will be 10+ minutes or so.
Round trips are $60+ USD per person. Children between the age of 6-12 years pay 50% of the fare. Children under 6 are free.
It takes around 45 minutes to get to Reykjavik from KEF.
Final thought: The best way to get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
So yeah, the best way to get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik is by taking the Flybus. The Flybus leaves the airport every 30 minutes and takes about 45 minutes to get to Reykjavik.
Other options for getting from the airport to Reykjavik include taking a taxi or driving yourself. Taxis with be expensive though.
No matter how you choose to get from the airport to Reykjavik, you’ll be able to enjoy all that this amazing city has to offer.
Book: Keflavik airport to Reykjavik transfer here
Read more of our Iceland travel guides