Quick Overview
Keflavik International Airport (KEF) - 2025 Traveler’s Quick Guide
- KEF is Iceland’s main international airport, 40 km from Reykjavik. Don’t mix it up with the domestic airport (RKV).
- All international flights arrive/depart from KEF. Always check your ticket and rental car pick-up spot.
- New in 2025: Terminal expansions, more food and shopping, faster security, and extra seating areas.
- Getting to Reykjavik: Choose between rental car pick-up, Flybus/Airport Direct (runs for every flight), or taxi (~18,000 ISK to downtown).
- Parking: Comfort, Short-Term, Long-Term, and Premium parking available. First 15-30 minutes often free.
- Food & Shops: Great local eats (hot dogs, pizza, fresh coffee), Duty Free, and Icelandic brands like 66 North and Blue Lagoon.
- Layover ideas: Blue Lagoon, Gunnuhver hot springs, Bridge Between Continents, or local museums - all within 25 minutes.
- Travel tip: Arrive at KEF at least 2.5 hours before your flight in summer. Claim VAT refunds early if needed.
- Everything’s in one terminal - but it can be busy, so plan ahead.
Book your car early, check your airport code, and plan a quick Blue Lagoon stop if you have extra time.
Need honest advice? We’re here to help!
Keflavik Airport (KEF) vs Reykjavik Airport (RKV)
Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is Iceland’s main gateway, about 40 km (25 miles) southwest of Reykjavik city center, out on the Reykjanes peninsula.
Don’t mix up the airports:
- Keflavik Airport (KEF): Main international airport for Iceland.
- Reykjavik Airport (RKV): Small, in-town airport for domestic flights plus a few to Greenland/Faroe Islands.
Most travelers fly into KEF, even though tickets often say “Reykjavik (KEF).” Double-check your airport code, especially when booking your car rental at Keflavik Airport. Every summer, we see people show up in the wrong spot — a headache you can easily avoid.
Reykjavik Airport (RKV): Only for flights within Iceland (e.g., Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, Ísafjörður) and a couple of short-haul routes to the Faroe Islands and Greenland.
KEF Airport: Fast Facts & History
- Built by the US military during WWII, handed to Iceland after the war.
- Modern terminal opened in 1987; major upgrades in 2001, 2008, 2016, and ongoing expansion planned through 2026.
- Handles 9+ million passengers yearly, even though Iceland’s population is just 400,000.
- Only one terminal — easy to navigate, but can get busy, especially in summer.
For real-time flight info, check Flightradar24’s KEF page.
Main Airlines at KEF in 2025
- Icelandair: The flag carrier, flying year-round to Europe and North America.
- PLAY Airlines: Iceland’s new low-cost airline, flying mostly to European cities.
- (Wow Air is gone — since 2019.)
Shops, Food & Lounges at KEF Airport
KEF is compact but has enough to keep you occupied, fed, and caffeinated.
Restaurants & Bars (2025 List)
- La Trattoria: Italian dishes, wine bar.
- Yuzu: Burgers with an Asian twist.
- Bakað: Baked goods, coffee.
- Elda: Icelandic fast food.
- Sbarro: NYC-style pizza.
- Loksins Café: Pastries, coffee, warm meals.
- Zócalo: Mexican-inspired burritos.
- Jómfrúin: Danish open-faced sandwiches.
- Bæjarins Beztu: The original Icelandic hot dogs.
- Hjá Höllu: Fresh salads, sandwiches, pizza.
Full KEF restaurant list here.
Shops (Tax-Free & Icelandic Brands)
- Duty Free: Best place to buy alcohol or candy (much cheaper than city shops).
- 66 North, Blue Lagoon Skincare, Kormákur & Skjöldur: Iconic Icelandic brands.
- Books, souvenirs, electronics: Penninn Eymundsson, Elko, Rammagerðin, Icemart, Epal.
Lounges
- Icelandair Saga Lounge: Only lounge at KEF. Nice buffet, showers, panoramic views, family area.
Getting from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik
Distance: 45–50 minutes by car (50 km/30 miles).
1. Car Rental at Keflavik Airport
- Most agencies meet you at Arrivals or run a free shuttle to their nearby office.
- Book your KEF airport car rental early, especially June–August.
- Read your voucher — some Reykjavik-based companies will provide a transfer or bus ticket (e.g., Flybus to BSÍ terminal).
2. Airport Transfers / Buses
- Most popular: Flybus, Airport Direct, Gray Line.
- 24/7 schedules, hotel drop-off, free Wi-Fi.
- 2025 Taxi cost: ~18,000 ISK (€120–135 / $130–145 USD), so buses are far cheaper.
3. Keflavik Airport Parking (2025 Update)
Keflavik International Airport (KEF) offers several parking options to suit different needs. Here’s what to expect in 2025:
P1 - Comfort Parking
- Location: Right outside the departure hall
- Best for: Short stays, quick pickups or drop-offs
- Rates:
- First 15 minutes: Free
- First hour: 790 ISK
- Each additional hour: 990 ISK
- Full day: 7,900 ISK
- Booking: Advance booking available
P2 - Short-Term Parking
- Location: Near the arrivals hall
- Best for: Picking up passengers
- Rates:
- First 30 minutes: Free
- First hour: 690 ISK
- Each additional hour: 890 ISK
- Full day: 7,200 ISK
- Booking: Advance booking not available
P3 - Long-Term Parking
- Location: About 300 meters from the terminal
- Best for: Longer trips, budget parking
- Rates:
- First 15 minutes: Free
- Full day: 2,490 ISK
- Additional day after 8 days: 1,950 ISK
- Additional day after 16 days: 1,790 ISK
- Booking: Advance booking recommended
How to Pay
- AutoPay: Register your car and payment card at autopay.io for automatic payments
- Parka App: Pay using the Parka app
- On-site Machines: Pay at the machines inside the terminal
- Online: You can pay within 48 hours of leaving the lot to avoid a 1,490 ISK service fee
Parking Tips
- Plan ahead: Spaces can fill quickly during busy times, book early if possible
- Arrive early: Give yourself at least 2.5 hours before your flight, especially if you plan to claim a VAT refund
- Drop-off lane: Drop-off Short-term parking is suitable if you need to pick up or drop off a traveller. The first 15 minutes every 24 hours are free.
For full details or to book your spot, check the official KEF Airport parking page.
4. Returning Your Rental Car
- Usually three options: airport drop, agency drop-off with shuttle to airport, or return in Reykjavik and bus back to KEF.
- Leave extra time: KEF is busy, especially in peak season. Arrive at least 2.5 hours before your flight if returning a car.
What’s Near Keflavik Airport? (Best Stops, 2025)
KEF is remote but convenient: Late/early flights? There are good food options, hotels, and Icelandic sights nearby.
Grocery Stores
Restaurants
Hotels
Things To Do Near KEF Airport
- Blue Lagoon: 20-min drive, book in advance, one of Iceland’s best-known spots.
- Gunnuhver Geothermal Area: Bubbling mud, unique landscape, 25 min from KEF.
- Bridge Between Continents: Walk from Europe to North America in 2 seconds.
- Krýsuvík, Keilir mountain: Hike or sightsee if you have time.
- Reykjanesviti lighthouse & beach: Dramatic views, often missed by tourists.
- Icelandic Museum of Rock & Roll, Viking World: Fun for a short layover, both close to KEF.
- Water World: Big local pool, good for families.
Layovers at KEF: What to Do
Got a layover at Keflavik Airport? Here’s how to make the most of your time, whether you have two hours or half a day.
Short Layovers (2-4 hours)
- Grab food or coffee: KEF has solid options, from Icelandic hot dogs (Bæjarins Beztu) to pizza, pastries, or a sit-down meal at La Trattoria.
- Shop duty free: Stock up on Icelandic chocolate, snacks, or gifts before your next flight.
- Relax in the Saga Lounge: (If you have access) Enjoy free food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and showers.
- Explore the airport: Check out the new East Wing for more seating and better views.
- Connect to Wi-Fi: Free and fast throughout the terminal.
Longer Layovers (4-8 hours)
If you have at least 5 hours between flights, consider a quick trip outside the airport.
- Blue Lagoon: Pre-book a soak at Blue Lagoon - just 20 minutes by taxi or shuttle from KEF. Luggage storage is available at the airport.
- Reykjanes Peninsula:
- Gunnuhver Hot Springs: Bubbling mud and steam vents, about 25 minutes away.
- Bridge Between Continents: Walk from Europe to North America - unique photo op!
- Reykjanesviti Lighthouse: Iceland’s oldest lighthouse and dramatic coastline.
- Local Museums:
- Viking World - Viking ship museum, 10 minutes from KEF.
- Icelandic Museum of Rock & Roll - Iceland’s music history, right in Keflavik town.
Tip: For any trip outside the airport, allow at least 2 hours to get back through security and to your gate.
Extra Tips
- Luggage storage: KEF offers secure lockers for your bags. See full info and pricing here: KEF Luggage Lockers
- Book tours: Some layover tours pick you up right at the airport and guarantee you’ll get back on time.
- Stay local: Relax in a cozy café, browse Icelandic design shops, or just enjoy the free Wi-Fi.
Frequently Asked Questions (2025)
How big is KEF Airport?
KEF covers 25 km² (9.6 sq miles) - Iceland’s biggest airport by far.
How many runways?
Two: 02/20 (3,050m) and 11/29 (3,060m), both CAT II, 24-hour operations.
How many terminals?
One, but with ongoing expansions, so it gets bigger every year.
How early should I arrive?
2.5-3 hours before an international flight in summer. Security and check-in can get busy, especially if you’re claiming tax refunds.
Can I rent a car at KEF after hours?
Yes. Most agencies offer 24/7 pick-up and drop-off, but always check your rental confirmation for details.
Where do I pay for parking?
Pay at the parking kiosks with card (Visa/Mastercard), or online in advance.
Takeaway
Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is where nearly all travelers to Iceland start and finish their trip.
It’s easy to get to Reykjavik by car or bus, and there’s plenty to do nearby - from a quick swim in the Blue Lagoon to late-night pizza in town.
Book your car rental early for best rates, always check your airport code, and plan ahead if you need parking or airport transfers.
Any more questions or need personal advice? Just ask - we're here to help you get the most out of your trip!
