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Iceland's primary international gateway, Keflavik International Airport (KEF), is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, approximately 31 miles (50 kilometres) from downtown Reykjavik. The airport is easily accessible by road, with the main route being Reykjanesbraut. It takes approximately 45 minutes to drive from KEF Airport to Reykjavik, passing through the municipalities of Hafnarfjordur and Kopavogur. The airport is also easily accessible by various other transportation options, including the Flybus service, rental cars, taxis, and rideshare services. KEF Airport has one terminal and operates on a zone system, making it simple for travellers to navigate. The airport offers a wide range of amenities and facilities to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of terminals | 1 |
| Number of concourses | 2 |
| Ease of navigation | Easy to navigate, compact, and simple |
| Transportation options | Airport Direct Economy service, rental cars, taxis, rideshares, Flybus service |
| Parking options | Short-term and long-term parking lots, handicapped parking, off-airport parking |
| Check-in process | Self-service check-in kiosks are available 24 hours a day in the terminal's departure hall |
| Gate information | Gate details can be found on screens throughout the terminal, on boarding passes, and in the Icelandair app |
| Shopping and dining options | Duty-free, Elko, Rammagerðin, Kormákur & Skjöldur, and more |
| Accessibility | Accessible facilities and services for travellers with disabilities |
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What You'll Learn
Keflavik Airport's terminal, gates, and concourses
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is the largest airport in Iceland, located on the Reykjanes peninsula approximately 40 kilometres from Reykjavik City Centre. The airport has one terminal, Leif Erikson Air Terminal, which is divided into the North and South Buildings. The terminal has two levels: the first is the Check-in and Arrivals area, and the second houses security, Departures, and the children's play area.
The North Building was the original structure, while the South Building was added later to accommodate Schengen Agreement regulations. This setup means that all passenger facilities are centralised under one roof, simplifying navigation for travellers. The terminal features several duty-free shops located in both the departure and arrival areas, easily accessible as you move through the airport. For moving between gates, especially those added in the 2016 expansion, walking is straightforward due to the compact nature of the terminal.
Flights to and from the US, UK, Ireland, and Canada go through D gates, located on level 1. Flights to and from Europe (except the UK and Ireland) go through gates A or C, located on level 2. Walking from the gates in zones A or C to those in zone D takes approximately 20 minutes. Gate details can be found on screens throughout the terminal, on your boarding pass, and in the Icelandair app. Gates are usually published 70–90 minutes before departure.
Inside the concourses, you will find a variety of shops, restaurants, and services. The North concourse has a duty-free store, a coffee shop, and a convenience store. The South concourse has a restaurant, a bar, and a souvenir shop. There are also ATMs, currency exchange booths, and a pharmacy located throughout both concourses.
Keflavík Airport offers a range of amenities and facilities to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience. The airport is easily accessible by road, with the main route being Reykjanesbraut. It takes approximately 45 minutes to drive from KEF Airport to Reykjavik, and there are several parking options available.
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Transport options to and from the airport
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is located on the Reykjanes peninsula, approximately 40-50 kilometres from Reykjavík City Centre. The airport is easily accessible by road, with the main route being Reykjanesbraut. It takes approximately 45 minutes to drive from KEF Airport to Reykjavík.
There are several transport options for getting to and from the airport:
Flybus
The Flybus service offers trips between Reykjavík and the airport. Buses are located right outside the terminal building. The Flybus departs from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík (BSÍ Bus Terminal) 40 minutes after each plane lands and even more frequently during rush hours. The journey takes around 35 to 45 minutes. Tickets can be booked in advance.
Airport Direct
Airport Direct offers fixed-schedule transfers between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík Terminal. The driver will meet you inside the Keflavík Airport arrivals hall at a time of your choosing and drive you straight to your accommodation anywhere in the Reykjavík capital area. This service is popular with families, couples, and business travellers.
Rental Cars
Many car rental agencies have offices at Keflavík International, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis and rideshare services are readily available outside the terminal for quick and direct transportation to your destination.
Blue Lagoon Transfers
If you're travelling to or from the Blue Lagoon, fixed-schedule transfers are available to and from Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavík City.
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Parking options at the airport
Parking options at Keflavík International Airport (KEF)
Keflavík International Airport, also known as KEF Airport or Reykjavík–Keflavík Airport, is the largest airport in Iceland, located on the Reykjanes peninsula approximately 40 kilometres from Reykjavík City Centre. The airport has several parking options, both short-term and long-term.
Short-term parking
For short-term parking, you must contact the airport with a photo of your disability parking permit and your vehicle's license plate number. Once your booking has been made, a confirmation will be sent to your email address. This will include the booking number and receipt. Isavia will then reserve a parking space for the time and area that has been booked.
Long-term parking
For long-term parking, you can use the airport's Autopay system. This requires downloading the app and completing the onboarding process. With an Autopay profile, you can drive in and out of the car park without needing to worry about paper tickets or queues. Bookings can be made up to two hours before your arrival time, and you can amend your vehicle details up to two hours before your booking commences. It is recommended that you select your check-in and check-out three hours before and after your scheduled departure and arrival times to avoid additional fees for a longer stay.
Alternative parking options
There are also several alternative parking options available near the airport, including secure outdoor car parks with shuttle bus transfers and meet-and-greet services. These can be booked through websites such as ParkVia, which allow you to compare prices, availability, and distance from the terminal.
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Check-in, security, and customs procedures
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is the largest airport in Iceland, located on the Reykjanes peninsula approximately 40 kilometres from Reykjavik City Centre. The airport is easily accessible by road, with the main route being Reykjanesbraut. It takes approximately 45 minutes to drive from the airport to Reykjavik.
To ensure a smooth check-in process, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5 to 3 hours before your scheduled departure time. Most airlines provide online check-in services, allowing you to check in and receive your boarding pass in advance. Self-service check-in kiosks are also available in the terminal's departure hall, which is open 24 hours a day. It is important to prepare your booking confirmations and passport(s) in advance to expedite the check-in process.
Security screening is an essential part of the airport experience, and all passengers must go through it to ensure their safety. Passengers are advised to familiarise themselves with baggage restrictions and pack accordingly. Liquids should be within the allowed limits and placed in a separate, transparent bag for easy screening.
The airport has one terminal and operates on a zone system, making it simple for travellers to navigate. Flights to and from the US, UK, Ireland, and Canada go through the D gates on level 1, while flights to and from Europe (except the UK and Ireland) go through gates A or C on level 2. It takes approximately 20 minutes to walk between these zones. All flights to North America, Ireland, and the UK depart from the D gates and require passport control. It is recommended to go through D gate passport control as soon as possible to avoid delays.
If you are transferring between Icelandair flights, baggage will be checked through to your final destination if your flights are in the same booking. However, if you have a stopover in Iceland or are travelling onwards via Reykjavík Airport, you will need to collect any checked baggage. Gate information can be found on screens throughout the terminal, on your boarding pass, and in the Icelandair app.
Keflavík International Airport is Iceland's primary international gateway, and customs regulations should be kept in mind when travelling through. Iceland has strict regulations regarding alcohol, tobacco, and food imports. A popular pit stop at the airport is the tax refund desk, so it is recommended to arrive early if you intend to claim tax back.
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Attractions near the airport
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, approximately 40-50 kilometres from Iceland's capital, Reykjavík. The airport is easily accessible by road, and it takes about 45 minutes to drive to the city centre.
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa located just a 20-minute drive from the airport. It is one of the most popular destinations in the country and was named one of the 'wonders of the world' by National Geographic. The spa's mineral-rich waters, derived from geothermal seawater, offer a unique wellness experience with temperatures ranging from 37 to 40 °C. It is recommended to pre-book your tickets to the Blue Lagoon in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
Kleifarvatn Lake
Kleifarvatn is a stunning lake located a short distance from Keilir, a cone-shaped mountain on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Surrounded by dramatic mountains, Kleifarvatn is known for its crystal-clear waters and is the third largest lake in southern Iceland. It is a great place to take a stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Viking World Museum
The Viking World Museum is located just 8 kilometres from the airport. The museum showcases the history of Vikings in Iceland, with a replica of a Viking ship as its centrepiece. The exhibitions cover Viking history, culture, and their epic voyages, while also offering stunning sea views.
Stekkjarkot
Stekkjarkot, a preserved turf house located 3.9 kilometres from the airport, offers a glimpse into traditional Icelandic life in the 19th century. Visitors can explore the grass-covered roofs and simple yet sturdy construction, characteristic of Icelandic architecture during that era.
Reykjanesviti Lighthouse
Reykjanesviti, Iceland's oldest lighthouse, is a 30.2-kilometre drive from the airport. Established in 1878, it stands as a testament to Iceland's maritime history. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the rugged coastline, where waves crash against the rocky shore.
Keflavík International Airport is generally easy to navigate, with a single terminal and a zone system for flights. However, it is important to arrive early and familiarise yourself with baggage restrictions, security screening, and gate information to ensure a smooth travel experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Keflavik Airport is designed to ensure a smooth and convenient start to your journey. The airport operates on a zone system, making it simple for travellers to navigate. It has one terminal and two concourses, North and South, which can be walked between in a few minutes.
Keflavik Airport offers a range of parking options, including short-term and long-term parking lots located close to the terminal building. There is also a free cell-phone waiting area for those waiting to pick up passengers. For those requiring handicapped parking, there are designated spots available in all parking lots and garages, located close to the terminal.
There are various transportation options available to and from the airport, including rental cars, taxis, rideshares, and airport transfers such as the Flybus service. The airport is also easily accessible by road, with the main route being Reykjanesbraut.
Keflavik Airport offers a wide range of amenities and facilities to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience. This includes dining and shopping options, as well as essential services such as baggage drop-off, check-in counters, and security checkpoints. The airport also has a tax refund desk, which can be a popular pit stop for travellers.
Keflavik Airport is located approximately 40-50 kilometres from Reykjavik City Centre. It is important to note that it is a separate airport from Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV), which is used primarily for domestic flights. When travelling within Iceland, be sure to check which airport you need to fly into or out of.
