Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is Iceland’s main international airport and the starting point for most travelers visiting the country.
If you’re flying to Iceland, it’s useful to know where Keflavík Airport is, how to get from the airport to Reykjavík, how Keflavík Airport car rental works, and what you should know before starting your Iceland road trip.
Here’s everything travelers need to know about Keflavík International Airport, including transportation, rental car pick-up, nearby attractions, driving tips, and frequently asked questions.
Where is keflavík international airport?
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland, approximately 50 km from Reykjavík.
The drive from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík normally takes around 45–50 minutes, depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
It’s important not to confuse Keflavík International Airport with Reykjavík Airport (RKV). KEF handles most international flights to and from Iceland, while Reykjavík Airport mainly serves domestic flights.
How to get from Keflavik International Airport to Reykjavik?
Travelers have several options for getting from Keflavík International Airport to Reykjavík, including public buses, airport coaches, taxis, and rental cars.
| Transport | Approx. travel time | Best for |
| Rental car | 45-50 minutes | Travelers planning an Iceland road trip |
| Airport coach | 45-60+ minutes | Travelers staying mainly |
| Public bus | 1.5+ hours | Budget travelers with flexible schedules |
| Taxi | Around 45-50 minutes | Direct private transportation |
By Public Bus
Public buses connect Keflavík Airport with Reykjavík. This can be one of the cheapest transportation options, but the journey takes longer because of the route and stops along the way.
Travelers should allow approximately 1.5 hours or more for the journey.
By Airport Coach
Dedicated airport buses operate between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík.
The journey generally takes around 45–60 minutes, although total travel time can be longer depending on the bus schedule and where you need to go after arriving in Reykjavík.
By Taxi
Taxis provide direct transportation between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík and generally take around 45–50 minutes.
However, taxis can be one of the more expensive ways to travel between KEF and the capital.
By Rental Car
For travelers planning to explore Iceland beyond Reykjavík, renting a car at Keflavík Airport is a convenient way to start a road trip.
Instead of arranging transportation into Reykjavík and renting a car later, you can collect your rental car near the airport and start your journey from Keflavík.
How to Pick Up Your Firefly Rental Car at Keflavík Airport
If you’ve booked a Firefly Iceland rental car at Keflavík Airport, you will need to take the Car Rental Shuttle from the airport terminal to the car rental area.
Firefly rental cars are not picked up inside the Keflavík Airport arrivals hall.
After collecting your luggage and leaving the arrivals area, make your way to the Car Rental Shuttle.
Take the shuttle to the car rental area, where you can check in with Firefly and collect your rental car.
The Firefly Keflavík location is: Flugvellir 11, 230 Keflavík, Iceland
Watch Our Keflavík Airport Pick-Up Video
Not sure where to go after arriving?
You can watch our Keflavík Airport rental car pick-up video on Firefly Iceland’s social media channels. The video shows travelers how to get from the airport to the shuttle and continue to the Firefly rental location.
We recommend watching or saving the video before your flight so you know where to go when you arrive.
Why Rent a Car at Keflavík Airport?
If you’re planning an Iceland road trip, choosing an Iceland airport car rental allows you to start exploring shortly after you land.
Rather than traveling into Reykjavík first and collecting a rental car later, you can pick up your car near KEF and drive directly to your first destination.
Having your own rental car also gives you more flexibility to:
- Travel between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík
- Explore the Reykjanes Peninsula
- Visit the Golden Circle and South Coast
- Carry your luggage with you
- Plan stops around your own itinerary
- Explore destinations outside Reykjavík
- Return your car near Keflavík Airport before your flight home
Firefly Iceland specializes in cheap car rental in Iceland, with affordable options for travelers who want to explore Iceland by car.
Tips for Arriving at Keflavík International Airport
There are a few useful things travelers should know before arriving at KEF.
Food and Shopping at Keflavík Airport Travelers should keep in mind that the arrivals area has fewer food and shopping options than the departure area.
If you’re arriving late or planning to drive directly from the airport, it can be helpful to plan where you’ll stop for food along your route.
Check Your Flight Information
Travelers can check current arrivals, departures, and flight information on the official Keflavík International Airport website.
Know Where to Pick Up Your Rental Car
If you’re renting a car with Firefly Iceland, remember that you need to take the Car Rental Shuttle from Keflavík Airport to the car rental area.
You can also watch our Keflavík Airport car rental pick-up video on Firefly Iceland’s social media channels before your trip to see how to get from the airport to the shuttle and Firefly rental location.
What Can You Visit Near Keflavík Airport?
Keflavík Airport is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, so travelers don’t necessarily need to drive straight to Reykjavík after collecting their rental car.
The peninsula is home to geothermal landscapes, coastal scenery, lighthouses, small towns, and the Blue Lagoon.
This makes Reykjanes a good addition to the beginning or end of an Iceland road trip
Is the Blue Lagoon Near Keflavík Airport?
Yes. The Blue Lagoon is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula and can easily be added to a trip between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík.
The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa known for its milky-blue water and geothermal surroundings.
Travelers planning to visit should book ahead and check the latest opening and access information before driving there.
Are There Geothermal Pools in Reykjavík?
Yes. Reykjavík has several public geothermal swimming pools that are popular with both locals and travelers.
Public swimming pools are found throughout Iceland and are generally an affordable way to experience Icelandic swimming and hot-pool culture.
Travelers looking for a geothermal spa experience in the Reykjavík area can also visit Sky Lagoon, an oceanfront geothermal spa overlooking the North Atlantic.
Tips for Renting a Car in Iceland
If you’re planning to rent a car in Iceland, it’s a good idea to book ahead, particularly during the busy summer travel season.
There are also a few important things travelers should consider when choosing and driving an Iceland rental car.
Choose the Right Rental Car for Your Route
The best rental car depends on where you’re going, when you’re visiting, how much luggage you have, and the roads included in your itinerary.
A small rental car can be suitable for many popular paved routes, while travelers planning more adventurous routes may prefer a 4×4.
If your itinerary includes Iceland’s F-roads, a suitable 4×4 vehicle is mandatory. F-roads are generally only accessible during the summer months once they have officially opened.
Check the Weather Before Driving
Icelandic weather can change quickly, so travelers should always check the latest weather and road conditions before driving.
This is particularly important during autumn, winter, and spring when snow, ice, strong winds, and rapidly changing weather can affect driving conditions. Never Drive Off-Road
Off-road driving is illegal in Iceland and can cause permanent damage to the country’s fragile landscape.
Always stay on marked roads and designated tracks.
Take Extra Care During Winter
Winter driving in Iceland can involve snow, ice, strong winds, and limited daylight.
Allow additional travel time, drive according to the conditions, and be prepared to change your plans if road or weather conditions become unsafe.
FAQ About Keflavík Airport and Car Rental in Iceland?
- What is the main international airport in Iceland?
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is Iceland’s main international airport. Most 50 km from Reykjavík.
- Is Keflavík Airport in Reykjavík?
No. Keflavík International Airport is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, approximately 50 km from Reykjavík.
- How far is Keflavík Airport from Reykjavík?
Keflavík Airport is approximately 50 km from Reykjavík. Driving between the airport and Reykjavík normally takes around 45-50 minutes, depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
- How do I get from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík?
Travelers can get from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík by rental car, airport coach, public bus, or taxi. Travelers planning an Iceland road trip may find renting a car convenient because they can begin exploring directly from the airport area.
- How do I pick up a Firefly rental car at Keflavík Airport?
Travelers can get from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík by rental car, airport coach, public bus, or taxi. Travelers planning an Iceland road trip may find renting a car convenient because they can begin exploring directly from the airport area.
- Is Firefly car rental at Keflavík Airport?
Firefly Iceland’s Keflavík location is at Flugvellir 11, 230 Keflavík, Iceland..
- Do I need a 4×4 rental car in Iceland?
Not for every trip. Many popular Iceland attractions can be reached on paved roads with a regular rental car. However, if you plan to drive on Iceland’s F-roads, a suitable 4×4 vehicle is required.
- Can I drive from Keflavík Airport to the Blue Lagoon?
Yes. The Blue Lagoon is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula and can be reached by car from Keflavík Airport. Travelers should check current road conditions and access information before visiting.
- What should I check before driving in Iceland?
Before driving, travelers should check the latest weather forecast and road conditions, particularly during winter or periods of strong wind, snow, or ice.
Start Your Iceland Road Trip From Keflavík Airport
For most international travelers, Keflavík International Airport is the starting point for an Iceland road trip. Reykjavík is around 45–50 minutes away by car, while the Reykjanes Peninsula and many other popular destinations can be reached directly from the airport area.
If you’re looking for an affordable Keflavík Airport car rental, book your rental car with Firefly Iceland before your trip.
When you arrive at KEF, collect your luggage and take the Car Rental Shuttle to the Firefly rental location. Before traveling, you can also watch our Keflavík Airport pick-up video on Firefly Iceland’s social media channels so you know where to go when you land.
Pick up your rental car, check the latest road and weather conditions, and start exploring Iceland at your own pace.
