Lois Larson
Iceland's Reykjavik-Keflavik International Airport has been rated as one of the worst airports for sleeping in. While the airport is clean, well-run, and modern, there are rules against sleeping there, and security guards have been known to wake travellers up. However, some travellers have reported sleeping at the airport without being disturbed by staff. If you're planning on staying overnight at the airport, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables. There are also hotels near the airport that you can consider.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is it possible to stay overnight? | Technically, sleeping in the airport is not allowed, and security guards may wake you up. However, staff will generally not disturb passengers who choose to sleep in the airport. |
| Safety | Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. However, it's important to take precautions against theft, such as keeping valuables out of plain sight. |
| Comfort | The airport is cold and brightly lit, so it is recommended to bring a sleeping bag, blankets, and a sleeping mask. The seats are not designed for sleeping, as you can only sit upright. |
| Amenities | There are benches to lie down on, especially by the C gates and in some cafes. Lockers are available. Food outlets only operate during flight times. |
| Nearby hotels | There is a hotel about 100 metres from the terminal, and a few other options within a ten-minute drive. Some hotels offer a free shuttle service. |
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What You'll Learn
- Sleeping arrangements: benches, cafes, airport lounges, or nearby hotels
- Safety: Reykjavik is safe, but take precautions against theft
- Traveller experiences: mixed reviews, from comfortable to uncomfortable
- Airport rules: no official sleeping policy, but security may wake you
- Alternative options: sightseeing, bus to Reykjavik, or a hotel for privacy
Sleeping arrangements: benches, cafes, airport lounges, or nearby hotels
Sleeping arrangements
Sleeping in any airport is less than ideal, and Reykjavik-Keflavik International Airport is no exception. The airport is small, open 24 hours, clean, well-run, and modern. However, there are rules against sleeping there, and security guards have been known to wake people up by saying the airport is "not a hotel". The terminal is also cold and brightly lit, with seating that is not conducive to sleeping.
Benches
If you do choose to stay overnight in the airport, there are plenty of benches to lie down on, especially by the C gates.
Cafes
There is a cafe called Kaffitar in the check-in area, located on the ground level next to the up escalator leading to the departure/security area. There are tables and chairs, and it is open 24 hours.
Airport Lounges
Depending on your flight and class of travel, you may have access to the airport VIP lounge, although it is closed at night.
Nearby Hotels
There is a hotel about 100 metres from the terminal, and a few other hotel options within a ten-minute drive from the airport. A few hotels offer a free shuttle. There are also several hotels/B&Bs in Keflavik that provide free pick-up and drop-off services, internet, and breakfast.
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Safety: Reykjavik is safe, but take precautions against theft
Iceland is considered one of the safest countries in the world, and Reykjavik is known to have low crime rates. The city centre is well-lit and busy, even late into the night. The Icelandic police are helpful and approachable, and the residents are usually warm, friendly, and comfortable with English. Instances of street harassment are very low and rare, and residents generally welcome outsiders, are polite, and respect boundaries.
However, like anywhere else in the world, it is always important to stay aware of your surroundings. Reykjavik is generally safe, but occasional pickpocketing or theft can occur, especially in more crowded areas or events. Always stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings. Normal safety precautions apply, such as avoiding deserted areas at night and keeping an eye on valuables, but overall, security incidents are extremely rare. Women who feel threatened will find that staff at bars, restaurants, etc., and the vast majority of the general public, can be relied on to make an uncomfortable situation safer.
If you are driving in Iceland, there are some extra precautions you should take. The roads are often icy, even in summer, and some are made of gravel or are very uneven. The roads are also narrow and old, with quite a few blind turns and hills. It is forbidden to drive off-road in Iceland, and you should always keep your headlights on, no matter the season. The weather is unpredictable and ever-changing, so check the Icelandic Met Office and the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration before making a journey, and follow any government recommendations.
If you are staying at the airport overnight, there are some additional safety precautions to consider. Sleeping in any airport can include a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone. It is important to know where the security office is located and to look for video cameras where you plan to sleep. If you are travelling alone, stay near other travellers or close to security to deter potential thieves and hide your valuables. While airport staff generally don't disturb passengers who choose to sleep inside, they will wake everyone up around 4:00 am.
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Traveller experiences: mixed reviews, from comfortable to uncomfortable
Traveller experiences at the Reykjavik airport vary, with some reporting comfortable stays and others describing their experience as less than ideal.
Some travellers have reported feeling comfortable at the airport, noting that it is clean, well-run, and modern. The airport offers standard amenities, including eateries, shops, and a 24-hour general store. Additionally, there are informal spots with recliner chairs near the windows where travellers can rest.
However, other travellers have shared less positive experiences, particularly regarding the airport's policy on sleeping. Signs are posted to warn against sleeping in the airport, and while some travellers report being left alone, others complain about being rudely awakened by security guards who tell them that the airport is "not a hotel." This inconsistent enforcement of the rules can make it challenging for travellers to get a good night's rest.
For those seeking a more comfortable option, there are hotels located within a short distance from the airport. The Aurora Hotel is the closest, followed by the Courtyard by Marriott, Hotel Asbru, and Start Hostel. These hotels can provide a more restful experience, especially for travellers with early morning departures or long layovers.
Additionally, travellers can consider visiting the nearby Keflavik town, which offers a wider selection of restaurants and shops, as well as a scenic trail along the water. This option provides a change of scenery and potentially more comfort compared to spending the night at the airport.
Overall, while it is possible to spend the night at Reykjavik airport, traveller experiences vary. For a more comfortable and restful stay, considering nearby accommodation options or visiting the town of Keflavik might be preferable.
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Airport rules: no official sleeping policy, but security may wake you
While there is no official policy on sleeping overnight at Reykjavik Keflavik Airport, security guards may wake you up. The airport is small and open 24 hours a day. Although it's not advisable to stay overnight (there are even warning signs inside the terminal), airport staff generally won't disturb passengers who choose to sleep there. However, security guards have been known to wake people up around 4 am, rudely telling them that the airport is "not a hotel".
Sleeping in any airport can be risky, especially when travelling alone, so it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables. It's a good idea to know where the security office is and look for video cameras where you plan to sleep. You can also ask security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night. If you're travelling alone, it's recommended that you stay near other travellers or close to security to deter potential thieves.
The airport is cold and brightly lit, so it's advisable to have a sleeping bag, blankets, and a sleeping mask. There are plenty of benches to lie down on, especially by the C gates and in some cafes. Food outlets only operate during flight times, and the seats are configured so you can only sleep sitting up.
If you'd prefer more comfort, there are hotels nearby, including one about 100 metres from the terminal, with a few offering free shuttles.
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Alternative options: sightseeing, bus to Reykjavik, or a hotel for privacy
If you're considering staying overnight at Reykjavik Keflavik Airport, it's important to note that while it is possible, it may not be the most comfortable option. The airport is small, open 24 hours, and generally quiet at night, but it can be cold and brightly lit. While airport staff may not disturb sleeping passengers, they do wake everyone up around 4:00 am.
Sightseeing
If you have a long layover, you might want to explore the city of Reykjavik, which is about an hour's drive from the airport. You can take the Flybus or a taxi to get there. In Reykjavik, you can visit geothermal spas, cultural spots, and various landmarks. If you're pressed for time, the Blue Lagoon is a great option, as it's located between the airport and the city. You can book a ticket and a round-trip bus ticket in advance.
Bus to Reykjavik
If you're looking to spend the night in a hotel in Reykjavik, you can take the Flybus, which leaves 35-40 minutes after each flight's arrival. However, it's important to check the terminal screens or talk to customer service for the exact departure times.
Hotel for Privacy
If you prefer privacy, a shower, and a comfortable sleep, there are several hotel options available near the airport. The closest is the Airport Hotel Aurora, which is a three-minute walk from the terminal. Other options include the Courtyard Reykjavik Keflavik Airport, Park Inn by Radisson Reykjavik Keflavik Airport, and Hotel Keflavik, which can arrange transfers for a fee. Hotel Berg is another choice, as it offers a free airport drop-off. These hotels may or may not have airport shuttles, so it's best to check their websites.
While staying at the airport overnight is an option, these alternative choices can provide a more enjoyable and relaxing experience during your layover in Reykjavik.
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Frequently asked questions
While it is generally discouraged, it is possible to stay overnight at Reykjavik Keflavik Airport. The airport is open 24 hours a day, and while there are signs stating that passengers are not allowed to sleep in the airport, staff do not usually enforce this. However, security guards may wake you up around 4:00 am. It is important to take precautions for your safety and the security of your valuables.
The airport is cold and brightly lit, so it is recommended to bring a sleeping bag, blankets, and a sleeping mask. There are benches to lie down on, especially by the C gates and in some cafes. Depending on your flight and class of travel, you may also be able to access the airport VIP lounge, but it is closed at night.
There are several hotels near the airport, including the Airport Hotel Aurora, which is a three-minute walk from the terminal. There are also some hotel options within a ten-minute drive from the airport, and some offer a free shuttle service.
