Airports in Iceland: International And Domestic Airports (KEF vs RKV)

Iceland has a lot of airfields for its population size, mainly because communities are spread out and weather can slow road travel. You may also see different “airport counts,” since some sources include only certified airports while others also count small landing sites. For most visitors, the practical takeaway is simple: only a few airports serve the trips people actually take. Our seasoned travel experts explain them below.

• Flying internationally to Iceland? Most international flights arrive at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), Iceland’s main international gateway. 

• Connecting to a domestic flight? Domestic routes usually depart from Reykjavík Airport (RKV) (the city airport), not KEF. 

• KEF to Reykjavík drive time: Roughly 45–60 minutes (about 50 km / 31 miles) via Route 41, depending on traffic and weather. 

• Easiest airport transfer: Scheduled airport coach shuttles (such as Flybus) run frequent connections between KEF and Reykjavík. 

• Cheapest transfer: The public bus Strætó Route 55 is budget-friendly, but it sn’t synced to every arrival—check schedules before you commit. 

• Most useful domestic airports: Akureyri (AEY) for North Iceland and Egilsstaðir (EGS) for East Iceland connections.

Major airports in Iceland that travelers actually use.

International airports in Iceland handle flights to and from abroad. Domestic airports link Reykjavík with regions across the country—useful in a place where driving can take most of the day and weather can make road travel unpredictable.  

That same geography is why Iceland has many smaller airfields serving remote communities. Some are certified passenger airports, while others are mainly used for local access and services. 

Official airport counts also vary depending on whether you include only certified airports or registered landing sites as well. For Iceland’s public-service definitions, see Iceland.is—Airports in Iceland.

These six airports cover most travel routes in Iceland. You’ll see where each one is located, what it’s used for, and when flying can genuinely save you time—especially if you’re traveling in winter or heading far from Reykjavík.

Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is Iceland’s primary international gateway. Most travelers arrive here, then continue on to Reykjavík or head straight out on the road for the rest of their trip.  

After landing, KEF is compact and easy to navigate. According to the airport’s services overview, everything is in one main terminal, with arrivals, baggage claim, car rentals, food, coffee, and duty-free close together.  

Airline-wise, you’ll see Iceland’s home carrier Icelandair plus a rotating mix of international carriers such as Lufthansa, British Airways, Delta, and United depending on the season. 

Many travelers also spend their first night in the coastal town of Keflavík, just minutes from the airport—especially with late arrivals or early departures.

Keflavík Airport is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, roughly a 45–60-minute drive to Reykjavík in normal weather and traffic conditions. Most travelers proceed to the capital after landing, with transfer choices depending on arrival time and preferred travel type.  

Quick facts: 

• Distance from Reykjavík: ~49–52 km / ~45–60 min (conditions vary). 

• Transport options: shuttle bus/coach, taxi/private transfer, rental car, public bus.  

• Typical flow: international arrival at KEF, then transfers to Reykjavík or onward travel.

This is the #1 airport mix-up in Iceland—so let’s make it simple. KEF is the international airport, while RKV is Reykjavík’s city airport for domestic flights.

Rule of thumb: If you’re flying into Iceland from another country, plan on KEF. If you’re flying within Iceland, use RKV.

You’ve got a few reliable ways to get from KEF to Reykjavík: airport coaches, taxi/private transfer, or a rental car. The right choice depends on your budget, how much flexibility you want, and whether you’re starting a road trip straight away. If you prefer a pre-booked option, book airport transfers in Iceland before arrival.

For many first-time visitors, a shared airport coach is the simplest way to get from KEF to Reykjavík. It’s straightforward, runs year-round, and means no driving or navigation after a flight. You land, collect your bags, and head to the coach stop.

How it works:

• Where to find buses at KEF: Coaches depart from stops right outside the terminal—follow the airport signs

• Departure timing: Services run frequently and are coordinated with arrivals

• Typical wait time: Flybus departures are commonly scheduled 40 minutes after flight arrival (so you have time for baggage/customs)

• Where you arrive in Reykjavík: the main drop-off is BSÍ Bus Terminal

• Hotel connections: The coach drops you at BSÍ, then a smaller shuttle takes you to the nearest bus stop to your hotel

You can pre-book the Flybus airport transfer online for guaranteed seating.

Which operator should you choose? Here’s a quick decision guide:

Flybus (common choice):

• Best for: Travelers who want a widely used, easy-to-follow setup with frequent departures.

• Drop-off: BSÍ Bus Terminal, with optional hotel connections.

Airport Direct / Airport Express (alternative):

• Best for: Travelers who want a more direct-feeling service with fewer stops (when available).

• Good if: Your accommodation lines up well with their main stops or route.

If you’re comparing pickup points, schedules, and what fits your arrival time, it’s helpful to map out your plan to and from Keflavík Airport before you lock anything in.

This is the cheapest transfer from KEF, but also slower and not timed to every arrival. Strætó Route 55 is a regular public bus service with a fixed timetable traveling between the Keflavík area and Reykjavík—not a dedicated airport shuttle. 

Where to catch it: 

• At KEF: Follow the signs outside the terminal to the public bus stop area (look for the blue bus sign). 

• Tickets and payment: Check Strætó’s ticket options before you travel. Payment methods and fares can vary by route, ticket type, and age group. 

Important notes: 

• Route 55 is a regular public bus, so it isn’t designed around arrival waves. 

• Late-night and very early flights can be tricky, because the schedule may not line up with your arrival or departure time, so always check the bus schedule. 

• Expect a longer, less direct trip than a coach. Depending on where you’re staying in Reykjavík, you may need an extra connection or a walk from your final stop. 

Check before you go: 

• Official timetable to/from KEF Airport 

• A quick guide to how public transport in Iceland works

A taxi or private transfer is the fastest, most direct way to travel from the airport to the city—but usually the most expensive. If you’re checking Keflavík to Reykjavík taxi price details, expect the total to vary by time, day, vehicle size, and demand.  

Best for: 

• Late-night or early-morning arrivals 

• Travelers with lots of luggage 

• Families with kids or small groups 

• Door-to-door drop-off (especially outside central Reykjavík) 

What to expect: 

• Taxi: Pick up at the terminal taxi rank and pay per ride  

• Private transfer: Pre-booked pickup. The driver meets you at the parking area or at arrivals inside the airport. Prices are usually fixed, based on your booking. 

• Travel time: Around 45–60 minutes in normal conditions. 

Price range guidance: 

A taxi from Keflavík to Reykjavík typically costs more than a bus transfer. For a benchmark, one of Iceland’s taxi companies (Hreyfill) lists fixed airport-transfer prices starting at 22 500 ISK for 1–4 passengers. Note that prices still vary by time, day, vehicle, and demand, so always confirm before your journey.

Renting a car is ideal if you’re self-driving—especially if you’re heading beyond Reykjavík. It gives you the most freedom from the moment you land, with no need to match a transfer timetable. 

Best for: 

• Ring Road itineraries 

• Day trips from Reykjavík (Golden Circle, South Coast, etc.) 

• Travelers arriving outside common shuttle hours 

• Anyone who wants full control of the pace and stops 

How it works: 

• Pick up at KEF: Major rental companies have desks in or near the terminal. You’ll either collect your car on-site or take a short shuttle to a nearby rental lot (Kefairport—Car rental) 

• Drive to Reykjavík: Take Route 41 toward Reykjavík—the drive is about 45 minutes, but weather and traffic can add time 

• Parking note: Downtown parking can be limited and regulated, so check your accommodation’s parking situation before you arrive 

Before you rent, it’s worth reading up on driving rules in Iceland and what to expect in different seasons. If you’re choosing providers, compare options using our car rental in Iceland guide. Planning a longer loop? Self-drive tours in Iceland contain ready-made itineraries you can follow without building the route from scratch.

A Blue Lagoon stopover can work well on arrival or departure day. It’s a simple way to fit in a relaxing soak without setting aside a separate day—especially if you’re already passing through the Reykjanes Peninsula. In peak season, it’s smart to book early. 

Best for: 

• Travelers who want to use arrival or departure day efficiently 

• Short trips where you don’t want the lagoon to take a full day 

• Anyone with luggage who prefers a direct plan (no extra city connections) 

How it works: 

• Route option A: KEF → Blue Lagoon → Reykjavík (classic arrival-day reset) 

• Route option B: Reykjavík → Blue Lagoon → KEF (a calm send-off before your flight) 

Luggage note: Rules vary by operator and vehicle type. Don’t assume luggage is included—check the transfer details before you book. 

Planning notes: 

• Timing: build in extra time for flight delays, baggage claim, and your timed Blue Lagoon entry slot 

• Booking: secure both your Blue Lagoon entry and transfer early if your travel dates are fixed 

• Route matching: Start with the available Blue Lagoon transfer options, then choose the one that lines up best with your flight and entry time.

Domestic flights in Iceland can be a smart shortcut to places like the Westfjords, North Iceland, and East Iceland. They’re especially useful when you’re short on time, or when the weather makes road trips slower and harder to plan around. 

When it makes sense to fly: 

• You’re short on time and want to avoid an all-day drive 

• You’re traveling in winter or during poor road conditions 

• You’re heading to the Westfjords or East Iceland and want to “skip ahead” 

• You want a quick connection to a regional base like Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, or Ísafjörður 

How domestic routes typically work: 

Most domestic flights depart from Reykjavík Airport (RKV), which is located in the city. Many routes run as direct connections from Reykjavík to regional airports, with RKV acting as the main hub when you’re building a domestic flight plan. 

Here’s a rough estimate of the time you can save compared to driving from Reykjavík:

Important note: Times are approximate and vary by weather, road conditions, and flight schedules.

These are the main airports in Iceland you’ll use when flying domestically. They’re handy for quick hops out of Reykjavík and for reaching regional bases without spending a full day on the road. 

Domestic schedules can change by season and day of the week. It’s worth checking the latest timetables when you’re planning connections.

Reykjavík Airport (RKV) is the city’s airport used mainly for domestic routes. Located in Reykjavík (near downtown), it’s a convenient starting point for quick domestic connections. 

Best for: 

• Connecting to North Iceland via Akureyri (AEY) 

• Flying to East Iceland via Egilsstaðir (EGS) 

• Reaching the Westfjords via Ísafjörður (IFJ) 

• Shortening long drives when you’re tight on time 

Practical notes: 

• Domestic check-in is usually straightforward, but always follow your airline’s guidance. 

• Getting there is easy from central Reykjavík by taxi or city bus. 

• Build in a little buffer in winter, when the weather may affect schedules. 

If you’re flying internationally into Iceland, you’ll usually arrive at KEF first. RKV is mainly for domestic connections once you’re already in the country.

Akureyri Airport (AEY) is the main gateway for North Iceland and one of Iceland’s key domestic hubs. It sits just outside Akureyri, the largest town in the north, which makes it a practical starting point for day trips and longer drives through the region. 

Best for: 

• North Iceland trips, especially short breaks and winter travel 

• Ring Road itineraries where you want to reduce driving time in the north 

• Adding a quick domestic flight to a north-based route 

• Using Akureyri as a base for waterfalls, fjords, coastal drives, and whale watching 

Practical notes: 

• Flight time from Reykjavík is usually under an hour, while driving can take most of the day. 

• Most scheduled domestic flights route through Reykjavík Airport (RKV). 

• Frequencies can change by season and weekday, so check the latest timetable close to departure. 

Akureyri trip tip: 

If you’re using Akureyri as a base, start by mapping your route through the North East or the North West of Iceland. You can also pair a quick flight with a whale watching tour if you want to add a high-impact experience without extra driving.

Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS) is the main gateway to East Iceland and a big time-saver if you want to avoid a long cross-country drive from Reykjavík. 

The airport is located near Egilsstaðir, a convenient base for exploring East Iceland’s quieter towns, fjords, and waterfalls. 

Best for: 

• Shortening a Ring Road itinerary by “skipping ahead” to the east 

• Travelers who prefer flying over long winter drives 

• Using Egilsstaðir as a base for day trips into the Eastfjords 

Practical notes: 

• Most scheduled domestic flights operate via Reykjavík Airport (RKV). 

• Flight time from Reykjavík is often around an hour, but it varies by route and conditions—always check your booking details. 

• Service frequency can vary by day and season, so confirm the schedule close to travel. 

If you’re looking for things to do in East Iceland, start there and our Arctic team will help shape your days around what fits your pace.

Ísafjörður Airport (IFJ) is the Westfjords’ main scheduled airport for passenger flights. It can save you significant travel time compared to driving from Reykjavík, especially if you’re working with a short trip. 

The airport is near the town of Ísafjörður—a remote region where road travel from Reykjavík is often around 6 hours (longer in winter or if road conditions are slow). 

Best for: 

• Westfjords trips when you want to reduce time on the road 

• Short itineraries (2–4 days) focused on the Westfjords 

• Shoulder-season or winter visits, where you’d rather fly than commit to long drives 

Practical notes: 

• Most scheduled domestic flights connect via Reykjavík Airport (RKV).  

• Weather can affect flights more often in remote areas, so build in buffer time—especially in winter.  

• This is a small regional airport with the essentials. If you need supplies, plan to pick them up once you’re in town.

Vestmannaeyjar Airport (VEY) is the flight gateway to the Westman Islands, and it can be the quickest way to get there compared to traveling by road and ferry. 

You’ll land right on Heimaey (the main Westman Island), so you arrive already on the islands rather than transferring again after landing on the mainland. 

Best for: 

• Day trips or short stays in the Westman Islands when you want to minimize travel time 

• Travelers on a tight schedule (or limited daylight) 

• Visits when ferry timing doesn’t fit your day 

Practical notes: 

• Flights are weather-dependent, so build in flexibility—especially outside summer. 

• Flight times are usually short, but always check the latest timetable and your booking details. 

• This is a small regional airport with the essentials. Plan to pick up meals and supplies once you’re on the island. 

Once you’re there, a guide to the Westman Islands makes it easier to decide what to prioritize with the time you have.

Iceland has airfields and airports across the country. Still, most travelers only use a few key hubs for domestic connections. Use the quick notes below to match your route to the most practical airport for your plans—without having to study the whole airport map.

Map of Iceland showing major airports by region.

This is the main arrival and connection zone for most trips. KEF handles international flights, while RKV is the usual starting point for domestic routes. Choose flights if you’re connecting beyond Reykjavík. If you’re staying in the capital area, a rental car (or local transport) is often the simplest way to get around.

Akureyri (AEY) is the key airport for North Iceland and a major time-saver on shorter trips. Flying is especially useful in winter, when road conditions can slow the drive. If you’re traveling the Ring Road at a relaxed pace, driving north by car can be part of the experience.

Egilsstaðir (EGS) is the main airport for East Iceland and a practical shortcut compared to driving across the country. Consider flying if you’re short on time or traveling in winter. Driving makes more sense if East Iceland is one section of a longer Ring Road loop.

This is where flying can save the most time. Ísafjörður (IFJ) is the Westfjords’ main scheduled airport for passenger flights. Vestmannaeyjar (VEY) can also be a handy option when ferry timing doesn’t fit your day. If you’ve built in extra time, a slower road trip (and ferry where needed) still works well in these regions.

Most international flights to Iceland arrive through Keflavík International Airport (KEF), and the airline mix depends heavily on the time of year. 

Airlines and routes change seasonally because carriers shift capacity between summer and winter schedules, adjust for demand, and rotate aircraft across their networks. The most reliable snapshot of who’s currently operating into Iceland is the airlines flying to KEF list. 

Last checked in February 2026.

Most domestic flights run through Reykjavík Airport (RKV), connecting Reykjavík to key regional airports like Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and Ísafjörður. Iceland’s domestic network is small, so you’ll usually be choosing between a few core operators rather than a long list. 

In practice, domestic flights in Iceland usually come down to: 

• Icelandair 

• Norlandair

• Eagle Air 

If you’re comparing carriers and want a quick overview of who flies what (and when), this breakdown of airlines to fly to Iceland makes the key differences much easier to understand.

A few common carriers you may see on routes to Iceland include: 

North America 

• Icelandair 

• Delta Air Lines 

• United Airlines 

Europe 

• Lufthansa  

• SAS  

• Finnair 

UK 

• British Airways 

• easyJet 

• TUI 

Since routes and seasonal schedules shift throughout the year, the most reliable snapshot is KEF’s destinations list.

Direct routes to Iceland vary by departure city and season, with the widest selection usually in summer. KEF serves many cities in Europe and North America, but routes can come and go during the year. To confirm what’s currently operating, use KEF’s destinations list mentioned above.

Flight prices to Iceland shift based on season, demand, route, and whether you’re flying direct or connecting. Fares can move quickly, so it helps to compare a few date options and set price alerts before you book. 

If you’re choosing travel dates first, our guide to the best time to visit Iceland can help match the season to the kind of trip you want.

Flight times vary by departure city—here are typical nonstop ranges to KEF: 

• Europe: ~2.5–4.5 hours (for example, UK routes are often around 3 hours, while central Europe can be closer to 3–4+ hours).  

• North America: ~5–8 hours (East Coast routes typically last around 5–6 hours, while flights from farther west may take longer).  

Practical tips for longer flights: 

• Overnight arrival? Plan a lighter first day and expect some jet lag. 

• Pack layers in your carry-on. Cabins can run cool, and Iceland’s weather can feel cold and windy when you step outside. 

• Arrive-rested strategy: Drink water, eat a proper meal, and don’t overbook your first afternoon.

The cheapest flights usually come from two things: flexible dates and tracking prices over time. 

Tactical tips: 

• Compare fares across a few search tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak. 

• Set price alerts so you can watch a route for a week or two before booking. 

• Stay flexible with dates—midweek departures are often cheaper than Friday or Sunday. 

• Consider shoulder seasons (spring and fall), when demand tends to be lower than in summer and major holiday periods. 

• Compare nonstop vs one-stop flights—connections can be cheaper, but cost you time.

Prices vary by route and season, so it’s better to track your specific dates than rely on a single “perfect” booking window. 

Guidelines: 

• Start tracking earlier for peak periods like summer and winter holidays, when seats tend to sell faster. 

• If direct fares look high, check connecting options on the same dates. 

• If your schedule can move, test midweek departures—sometimes shifting by a day is enough to lower the price. 

• In peak season, book when the price looks reasonable for your route, instead of holding out for a deal.

If you’re flying in Iceland (internationally or domestically), plan for two things: fast-changing weather and tight connections. A few simple habits will keep your trip running smoothly: 

• Build in breathing room: Leave extra time between flights, airport transfers, and any “must-do” plans on arrival day. 

• Keep layers, chargers, and any essential medication with you—delays happen, and weather can ruffle schedules. 

• Keep domestic flights realistic: Smaller airports run efficiently, but regional routes can be more weather-sensitive. If you’re flying to a remote area, have a backup plan. 

• Don’t overload day one: If you land late, keep your first night simple—or stay near the airport—so you’re not sprinting straight into a full itinerary. 

• Book early in peak season: Summer and holiday travel fills up faster, so it helps to lock in flights and transfers sooner rather than later.

Most international flights arrive at Keflavík International Airport (KEF). Reykjavík Airport (RKV) is mainly for domestic flights, with a small number of regional international routes. If your itinerary just says “Reykjavík,” check the airport code before you plan transfers.

Reykjavík Airport (RKV) is the closest because it’s inside the city. KEF is on the Reykjanes Peninsula, so you’ll need a drive or transfer into town. “Closest” matters most if you’re catching a domestic flight or trying to time a tight connection. If you’re arriving internationally, you’ll typically be using KEF anyway.

No, these are two different airports. KEF is Iceland’s main international airport. RKV is Reykjavík’s city airport and is used mainly for domestic routes, with limited regional international services.

Usually, no—most international arrivals are into KEF. RKV has limited international service, mainly short regional routes rather than long-haul flights. If you see RKV listed on an “international” itinerary, it’s often part of a regional connection.

KEF is about 49 km (30.5 miles) from Reykjavík. In normal conditions, the drive is usually 45–60 minutes. Weather and winter road conditions can add time, so build in buffer if you have a timed booking or tour pickup. If you land late, consider staying near KEF to keep the first night easy.

Most travelers choose an airport coach, a taxi/private transfer, or a rental car.  Coaches are straightforward for first-timers and don’t require driving after a flight. Taxis are the most direct door-to-door option, but usually cost more. If you’re starting a road trip right away, picking up a car at KEF can be the easiest option.

Yes, booking ahead is usually the safest move—especially in peak season and around holidays. Pre-booking also helps if you’re coordinating hotel check-in or a domestic connection. In quieter periods, you’ll often still find options on arrival, but you may have fewer choices. If you land late, booking early is strongly recommended.

Usually, the Strætó public bus (Route 55) is the cheapest option. It’s typically slower and less frequent than airport coaches, and it isn’t designed around every flight arrival. If you choose it, check the Route 55 timetable before you travel.

Yes—many travelers do KEF → Blue Lagoon → Reykjavík, or reverse it on departure day. The key is choosing an entry time that leaves margin for delays, baggage claim, and transfer time. If you’re traveling with luggage, confirm your transfer’s luggage policy before you book. Booking the entry slot and transport in advance makes the day smoother.

Yes—domestic flights connect Reykjavík with regional airports like Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, Ísafjörður, and Vestmannaeyjar. They’re most useful when you’re short on time, traveling in winter, or heading to regions with long drive times.  Most domestic routes operate through Reykjavík Airport (RKV) rather than KEF.  For official airport categories, see Airports in Iceland.

Most domestic flights depart from RKV, not KEF. KEF is mainly for international arrivals and departures. If you have a domestic ticket, check the airport code carefully before you travel. This is one of the easiest mix-ups to make on a busy travel day. 

They can be, especially for the Westfjords and East Iceland, or for short winter itineraries. Flying can save hours of driving and reduce long travel days in the middle of your trip. Driving is often the better choice if you want flexibility for stops and slow-scenic pacing on the Ring Road. The best option depends on your route, season, and time budget.