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.

• 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.

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 counts vary by definition, since Iceland distinguishes certified airports from registered landing sites (see the official classification on island.is).

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. Everything is in one main terminal, with arrivals, baggage claim, car rentals, food, coffee, and duty-free close together (see KEF's full services directory).  

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 sits on the Reykjanes Peninsula, roughly a 45–60-minute drive from 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. You can see the exact location of Keflavík International Airport on Google Maps.

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, choose 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 (Reykjavík's central bus station)

• 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?

The two main coach services from KEF both reach Reykjavík in a similar time but differ in stops and drop-off points.

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: The Strætó stop is on the departure side of the terminal, near a street called Kjóavellir. It's not at the main entrance where coaches pick up, so check the location before you land.

• Tickets and fares: Adults pay 2,400 ISK (roughly $17). Children 11 and under ride free. You can pay by card or cash on board; no pre-booking needed (fares as of early 2026, see Strætó's Route 55 page).

Important notes:

• Route 55 runs on a fixed timetable, not synced to flight arrivals. Late-night and very early flights may not have a convenient connection, so check the schedule before you commit. 

• 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: 

• Route 55 timetable (Strætó official schedule)

• 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, Hreyfill lists private airport transfers from 22.500 ISK, roughly $180, plus a small taxi rank fee, for 1 to 4 passengers (see their airport transfer options). Prices 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 (see the full list of car rental companies at KEF). 

• 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 (arrival-day reset, about 20 minutes from the airport to the lagoon) 

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

Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours at the lagoon, so plan your entry slot and transfer times around that window.

Luggage note: Blue Lagoon offers luggage storage on-site, but transfer operators vary on whether bags travel with you. Check your transfer's luggage policy before you book. 

Planning notes: 

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

• Booking: Blue Lagoon entry is booked separately from the transfer. Make sure you have both confirmed before travel day. 

• 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 the Westfjords, North Iceland, and East Iceland, especially when you're working with a tight schedule or traveling in winter. 

When it makes sense to fly: 

• You want to avoid an all-day drive to reach a single region 

• You're traveling between October and April, when mountain passes may close without notice 

• 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), the city airport, not from KEF where international flights land. RKV acts as the main hub, with direct connections to regional airports across the country. 

Domestic one-way fares typically range from $80 to $250 depending on route, season, and how far ahead you book.

Each airport below serves a different region. The right one depends on where you're headed and how much driving you want to avoid. Routes and frequencies shift by season, so check timetables close to your travel dates.

Reykjavík Airport (RKV) sits near downtown Reykjavík, close enough to walk from the city center. Two airlines currently operate scheduled domestic flights from here: Icelandair (serving direct flights to Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, Ísafjörður, and Vestmannaeyjar) and Norlandair (serving smaller regional routes). 

Best for: 

• North Iceland trips via Akureyri (AEY), with multiple daily flights on most days 

• East Iceland via Egilsstaðir (EGS), cutting a 9 to 10 hour drive to about an hour 

• Westfjords access via Ísafjörður (IFJ), one of the routes where flying makes the biggest difference 

• Winter itineraries where road closures could disrupt your schedule 

Practical notes: 

• The terminal is small. Check-in and boarding are quick, but arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before departure. 

• Getting there: walkable from downtown, or a short taxi or city bus ride. Paid parking is available on-site.

• Winter weather can delay or cancel flights on short notice. Build in buffer if you have onward plans the same day.

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: 

• Short North Iceland breaks where you'd rather spend time exploring than driving 4 to 5 hours each way from Reykjavík

• Ring Road itineraries where you fly one leg and drive the other, saving a full day on the road

• Winter trips, when the highland roads are closed and northern conditions make the drive longer 

• Using Akureyri as a base for Mývatn, Goðafoss, Húsavík whale watching, and the Tröllaskagi coast

Practical notes: 

• AEY is one of the busiest domestic airports, with multiple flights per day on most routes. 

• The airport is small, with no jet bridges or lengthy walks. You'll be out the door within minutes of landing. 

• Check seasonal schedules: winter has fewer daily frequencies, and weather delays are more common. 

Akureyri trip tip: 

Pair a domestic flight with a whale watching tour from Akureyri for a high-impact day without extra driving. For full route ideas, browse North East Iceland tours or North West Iceland tours to see what's available from Akureyri as a base.

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 

• Winter trips when east-bound roads are slower and daylight is limited 

• Using Egilsstaðir as a base for the Eastfjords, Borgarfjörður Eystri, and Lagarfljót lake 

Practical notes: 

• EGS is a small terminal with minimal facilities. Pick up supplies in Egilsstaðir town rather than at the airport. 

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

• Fewer daily flights than the Akureyri route, so book early and have a backup plan if weather cancels your flight. 

If you're planning time in the region, our guide to things to do in East Iceland covers what's worth prioritizing.

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, the largest settlement in the Westfjords. Road travel from Reykjavík takes around 6 hours, longer in winter or poor conditions. 

Best for: 

• Weekend or short Westfjords trips (2 to 4 days) where every hour of driving counts

• Winter visits, when Westfjords roads are among the most weather-sensitive in Iceland

• One-way fly/drive combos where you fly in and drive out (or the reverse) to see more of the route

Practical notes: 

• IFJ is known for one of Iceland's more dramatic airport approaches, a steep descent between mountains into the fjord.

• Delays and cancellations from wind or low visibility are more common here than at other domestic airports.  

• The terminal has no food or shops. Ísafjörður town is a short drive away for anything you need.

If you're planning a Westfjords trip, browse available Westfjords tours to see what works from Ísafjörður as a base.

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), skipping the drive to Landeyjahöfn harbor and the 35-minute ferry crossing. 

Best for: 

• Day trips or short stays where the ferry schedule doesn't align with your plans

• Summer puffin season visits when you want maximum time on the island 

• Shoulder-season or winter trips, when ferry crossings can be canceled due to weather and seas

Practical notes: 

• VEY has some of the highest weather-related cancellation rates of any domestic airport in Iceland. Always have a ferry backup plan, especially outside of summer. 

• Flight time from RKV is very short (around 20 to 25 minutes), but the schedule is limited. 

• 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, our 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, without studying every airfield in the country.

Airports are concentrated along Iceland's coast, with the largest gaps in the uninhabited interior highlands.

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. If you're staying in the capital area, a rental car or local transport is all you need.

Akureyri (AEY) is the key airport for the north and a major time-saver, especially in winter when the drive can stretch well beyond 5 hours. Drive if you're taking the Ring Road at a relaxed pace and want to stop along the way.

Egilsstaðir (EGS) is a practical shortcut compared to driving across the country, cutting a 9 to 10 hour trip to about an hour in the air. Drive if East Iceland is one section of a full Ring Road route and you'd rather enjoy the stops along the way.

This is where flying saves the most time. Ísafjörður (IFJ) cuts a 6-hour drive to 45 minutes. Vestmannaeyjar (VEY) skips the ferry when schedules do not align. If you've built in extra days, a slower road trip (and ferry where needed) still works well.

Most international flights to Iceland arrive through Keflavík International Airport (KEF), and the airline mix shifts by season. For the most current list, see the airlines flying to KEF page.

Domestic Airlines in Iceland

Most domestic flights run through Reykjavík Airport (RKV), connecting Reykjavík to key regional airports like Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and Ísafjörður. In practice, you're choosing between two operators: Icelandair and Norlandair.

For a fuller comparison of who flies what and when, see our guide to airlines flying to Iceland.

International Airlines Flying to Iceland

Common carriers on routes to Iceland include: 

North America: Icelandair, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines 

Europe: Lufthansa, SAS and Finnair 

UK: British Airways, easyJet and TUI 

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

The widest selection of nonstop routes runs from roughly May through October, when carriers add seasonal service. Year-round nonstop options are more limited and mostly depart from major hubs like London, Copenhagen, Boston, and New York. If your city doesn't have a direct route, connecting through one of these hubs is usually the shortest path to KEF.

Fares to Iceland are lowest in shoulder season (April to May and September to October) and highest in peak summer and over winter holidays. If you're flexible on dates, midweek departures tend to run cheaper than weekends. Set price alerts on a route and watch for a week or two before committing.

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. Typical nonstop ranges to KEF: 

• Europe: roughly 2.5 to 4.5 hours (UK around 3 hours, central Europe closer to 4)  

• North America: roughly 5 to 8 hours (East Coast 5 to 6 hours, West Coast longer)

Most North American flights arrive at KEF early in the morning, while European flights tend to land midday to afternoon. If you're arriving on an overnight flight, keep your first day light and avoid booking tours or long drives until you've had time to settle in.

Pack a few layers in your carry-on too (see our guide to what to wear in Iceland for specifics). Iceland's weather can feel cold and windy the moment you step outside the terminal, even in summer.

Compare fares across Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak. Each surfaces different deals depending on the route. Set a price alert on your preferred dates and watch for a week or two before booking.

If direct fares look high, check one-stop options through hubs like London, Copenhagen, or Boston, which can drop the price significantly at the cost of a few extra hours. In peak season, book when the fare looks reasonable for your route rather than holding out for a bigger drop.

For broader budgeting beyond flights, see our guide to traveling in Iceland on a budget.

One thing worth repeating: weather affects domestic flights more than most visitors expect, especially on Westfjords and Vestmannaeyjar routes. If your itinerary depends on a regional connection, have a Plan B (a flexible booking, an extra night, or a driving alternative) in case a flight is delayed or canceled.

Keep essential medication, chargers, and a change of layers in your carry-on rather than checked luggage. If anything gets rerouted, you'll still have what matters.

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 to Blue Lagoon to 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.

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.