Layover in Iceland: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

Layover in Iceland: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

Paulette Hall Paulette Hall
Paulette Hall
(Updated: )
4 min read
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Layover in Iceland? Here's what you need to know for 2025:
  • KEF (Keflavik International Airport) is the only international airport in Iceland. It's the main hub for North America-Europe flights, offering easy connections, clean terminals, and quick access to Iceland's most iconic sites.
  • Many airlines, including Icelandair and PLAY, offer free stopovers or ?stayovers? for up to 7?10 days on transatlantic tickets. You can turn a layover into a quick Iceland vacation at no extra flight cost.
  • Short layover? Enjoy KEF's local food, duty free shopping, and free Wi-Fi. Luggage lockers are available for storage: see locker info.
  • Long layover? Head to the Blue Lagoon, explore the Reykjanes Peninsula, or even take a quick Reykjavik city tour. Shuttle buses, car rentals, and private tours are available right at KEF.
  • No visa required for most travelers from US, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, and many other countries. Iceland is in the Schengen Zone.
  • Pro tip: Book Blue Lagoon tickets, tours, and transport in advance for the best prices and availability. Always allow at least 2 hours for check-in and security before your next flight.

Why stop over in Iceland?
Iceland is perfectly positioned between North America and Europe, making it the #1 spot for travelers looking to maximize a transatlantic trip.

Whether you're flying Icelandair, PLAY, or another major airline, you can often add a stopover in Iceland for up to 7 days at no extra cost.

This means you can soak in geothermal hot springs, chase waterfalls, or see Reykjavik's nightlife; all on the same ticket.

Direct flights are common, but savvy travelers know:
A layover in Iceland can be the highlight of your journey. Here's how to book it, what to expect at KEF airport, and all the best ways to turn a layover into an Icelandic adventure.

How to Book a Stopover in Iceland

1. Icelandair Stopover

Icelandair Stopover Banner

  • Book any transatlantic flight with Icelandair and add up to 7 days in Iceland, free.
  • Choose your stopover dates while booking. No extra airfare.
  • Icelandair offers custom itineraries (24, 48, or 72 hours) in partnership with top Icelandic guides, so you'll never run out of things to do.
  • Sample highlights:
    • 24 hours: Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, ?Iceland in miniature.?
    • 48 hours: See the Golden Circle and the Highlands.
    • 72 hours: Waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches on the South Coast.
  • Book direct: Icelandair Stopover

2. PLAY Airlines Stayover

  • PLAY offers a STAYover option: extend your Iceland stop for up to 10 days at no extra charge.
  • You choose which leg (to or from Europe/North America), or both.
  • Accommodation is not included, but you get full flexibility to explore.

Do You Need a Visa for a Layover in Iceland?

Iceland is in the Schengen Area.

  • Most travelers (US, Canada, EU/EEA, UK, Australia, NZ, Japan, Korea, and more) do NOT need a visa for a short layover.
  • You can enter Iceland and the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days out of every 180.
  • Always check official requirements for your passport before you travel.

Layover Ideas: What to Do at KEF Airport and Beyond

Short Layover (2-4 hours)

  • Enjoy local food and coffee at the airport (hot dogs, pizza, pastries).
  • Shop duty free for Icelandic candy or gifts.
  • Relax in the Saga Lounge (if eligible).
  • Store your luggage in KEF's secure lockers if you want to roam.
  • Use the free airport Wi-Fi.

Medium Layover (4-8 hours)

  • Take a shuttle or taxi to the Blue Lagoon (20 min from KEF, pre-booking required).
  • Quick drive to the Reykjanes Peninsula: visit Gunnuhver Hot Springs, Reykjanesviti lighthouse, or the Bridge Between Continents.
  • Tour local museums (Viking World, Icelandic Museum of Rock & Roll).

Long Layover (8-24 hours)

  • Head to Reykjavik (45 min by bus, shuttle, or taxi). Explore the city, visit Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall.
  • Join a Golden Circle tour or rent a car and do your own route (Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall).
  • Try local food, join a whale-watching trip, or soak in another geothermal pool.

How to Get Around

  • Airport Shuttle Buses: Flybus, Airport Direct, and others run regularly to Reykjavik and Blue Lagoon.
  • Public Transit: Strætó bus 55 connects KEF to Reykjavik (cheapest, but less frequent).
  • Taxi: Reliable, fastest, but most expensive.
  • Car Rental: Pick up right at KEF Arrivals. Book ahead for best rates.

Pro Traveler Tips

  • Book Blue Lagoon and popular tours ahead of time, they often sell out, especially in summer.
  • Use airport lockers for luggage if you want to explore (see locker details here).
  • Arrive at KEF 2?3 hours before your flight for security and passport control, especially during peak hours.
  • Don't forget your camera, even a short layover in Iceland is full of stunning sights.

Want more local advice?

Reach out to the Northbound Help Center for real, friendly Iceland tips.