Roberta Aguirre
If you're wondering what to do around Reykjavik Airport, you may be referring to Keflavik International Airport, the largest airport in Iceland and the only international passenger airport in the country. Located in the town of Keflavik, the airport is approximately 45 minutes away from the capital, Reykjavik, by car or bus. While the airport itself has limited entertainment options, the surrounding region offers a plethora of attractions. For those with a long layover or a rental car, popular destinations include the Blue Lagoon, the Giantess Cave, the Reykjanes Art Museum, the Reykjanes Maritime Center, and the Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance from Reykjavik | 45 minutes drive |
| Transport options | Car, shuttle, bus |
| Attractions | Blue Lagoon, Giantess Cave, Viking World Museum, Whale-watching tours, Golden Circle, Reykjanes Art Museum, Reykjanes Maritime Centre, Waterworld |
| Shopping | Fashion, outdoor wear, Blue Lagoon skincare, bookstores, optical studio, Icelandic Design and Handicraft gift store |
| Food and drink | Large food hall, restaurants, coffee shops, Kökulist Bakery |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Visit the Blue Lagoon
If you're flying into or out of Reykjavik Airport, a visit to the Blue Lagoon is a must. This geothermal spa is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland, and it's conveniently located just 20 minutes from the airport. Here's everything you need to know about planning your visit to the Blue Lagoon:
Getting There
The Blue Lagoon is easily accessible from the airport by bus or taxi. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, consider taking the bus. Two bus operators, Destination Blue Lagoon and Reykjavik Excursions, offer direct transfers from the airport to the Blue Lagoon. The trip takes about 50 minutes, and you can purchase tickets from the driver or at the orange Airport Direct Shuttle booth outside the baggage claim area. However, it's recommended to book your tickets in advance as they can sell out. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, which is a faster but more expensive option.
When to Go
The Blue Lagoon is open year-round, so you can visit anytime. However, it's important to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season (June-August). The Blue Lagoon can be very busy, and tickets often sell out. If you're visiting during the winter months, you can enjoy the contrast of the warm waters against the snowy landscape.
What to Expect
The Blue Lagoon is a unique geothermal spa experience. The water is rich in minerals like silica and blue-green algae, which are known for their skin-nourishing properties. You can relax in the soothing waters, which are maintained at a comfortable temperature of 37-39°C (98-102°F). The lagoon also features a sauna, steam room, and in-water massage services. There's also a restaurant and bar where you can enjoy refreshments with a view of the lagoon.
Enhancing Your Experience
To make the most of your visit, consider upgrading to a premium package, which includes extras like bathrobes, slippers, and skin care products. You can also book spa treatments, such as massages and facial treatments, in advance. If you plan to visit other attractions in the area, look into combo tickets or tours that include the Blue Lagoon and other nearby sites, such as volcanoes and waterfalls.
Practical Information
Don't forget to bring a bathing suit and a towel, or you can rent or purchase them at the lagoon. It's also recommended to bring waterproof footwear, as the ground can be uneven. The Blue Lagoon has shower facilities, changing rooms, and lockers for your convenience.
Lufthansa's Brussels Airport Hub: Which Terminal?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Explore the town of Keflavik
Keflavik, a quaint town located near the airport, is a gateway to Iceland's wonders. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unique vibe, it offers a blend of tradition and modernity. Here are some must-do experiences to uncover the charms of this captivating town:
Stroll through the serene Keflavik Harbour, just 2.1 km (1.3 mi) from the city centre. This picturesque harbour, with its docking boats and postcard-perfect scenery, provides a peaceful escape.
Discover the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa nestled in a lava field only 13 km (8 mi) from the airport. This iconic attraction, known for its healing mineral-rich waters, offers a soothing wellness experience in its warm, blue waters, maintained at 37-40 °C (98-104 °F). Be sure to book your tickets in advance as they tend to sell out.
Explore the town's rich cultural legacy in its museums, such as the Icelandic Museum of Rock' n' Roll, celebrating the town's vibrant music culture, and Viking World, a modern museum showcasing a full-size replica Viking ship, VR Viking history, and informative exhibits.
Adventurers seeking natural wonders can visit Kleifarvatn Lake, the largest lake on the Reykjanes peninsula and the third largest in southern Iceland. Located 49.2 km (30.6 mi) from Keflavik, this unique volcanic landscape offers a peaceful stroll along its beach and breathtaking views.
For a deeper dive into Iceland's volcanic origins, drive 27.3 km (16.9 mi) to discover the Gunnuhver Geothermal Area, alive with bubbling mud pools, hissing steam vents, and vibrant mineral-rich hot springs, showcasing nature's raw power.
National Airport: Washington's Virginia Gateway
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Go whale-watching
If you're looking for adventure, consider going whale-watching while you're in Reykjavik. The Icelandic capital is one of the best places in the world to spot these majestic creatures. Minke whales, humpback whales, and white-beaked dolphins are commonly sighted, along with harbour porpoises.
Whale-watching tours usually depart from the Old Harbour in Reykjavik, with some tours also available from Ólafsvík and Hólmavík. The tours last between 2.5 and 3.5 hours, and the boats rarely travel more than 15km from the harbour. The best time to go whale-watching is during spring and summer due to the weather and migration patterns, but tours are available year-round. In fact, winter tours are less crowded and offer a unique opportunity to combine whale-watching with viewing the Northern Lights.
If you want to increase your chances of spotting whales, consider taking a North Iceland whale-watching tour, which has a 98% success rate of whale sightings. The Dalvik whale-watching tour is another great option, as it takes you to Eyjafjörður Fjord, home to a giant puffin population, while also offering high chances of seeing humpback whales.
To make the most of your time in Iceland, consider renting a car at Keflavik International Airport. This will give you the freedom to explore beyond the city and visit other nearby attractions, such as the Blue Lagoon, natural wonders, and cultural and historical sites.
Shanghai's Airport: A Gateway to China's Prosperity
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Visit the Giantess Cave
If you're looking for something unique to do near Reykjavik Airport, consider a visit to the Giantess Cave, also known as The Giantess in the Mountain or The Giganta in the Cave. This attraction is located in Keflavik, just a few minutes' drive from the airport.
The Giantess Cave is a small, indoor cave that houses a troll treehouse, complete with giant-sized versions of everyday items such as chairs and a toothbrush for Giganta, the troll. It is a fun and unique spot to visit, especially if you are travelling with young children. The cave is also surrounded by a picturesque harbour with fishing boats.
To get to the Giantess Cave, you can rent a car at the airport, which is recommended if you want to explore other nearby attractions as well. There are several car rental companies located at the airport, and renting a car upon arrival can be more affordable and provide more options than renting one in Reykjavik. Alternatively, you can take a bus or shuttle from the airport to Keflavik and walk to the cave, which is about 7-10 minutes from the town centre.
If you have time before your flight, you can also explore other attractions in Keflavik, such as the Duushús Museum, the Keflavik Maritime Centre, and the History Museum of Reykjanesbaer. For a unique dining experience, try the Rain restaurant, which serves traditional Icelandic cuisine and offers beautiful views of the water.
Maui's Airport Options: A Traveler's Guide to Hawaii's Island
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Check out the Reykjanes Art Museum
If you're looking for something to do around Reykjavik Airport, why not check out the Reykjanes Art Museum? Located in Keflavik, the Reykjanes Art Museum is a great place to spend half an hour or so, especially if you're looking to experience art and culture in the area.
The museum features a variety of exhibits that are sure to surprise and delight. One of the highlights is the kinetic sculpture made from ping pong balls, which is both visually striking and interactive. In addition, the voice-activated collage projection offers a unique and immersive experience. The building itself is also worth noting, with some visitors expressing a preference for its architecture over the exhibits within.
The museum is easily accessible from the airport, which is about a 45-minute drive away. Keflavik International Airport is the largest airport in Iceland, with over 9 million passengers passing through in 2018. It is well-equipped, offering a range of shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Car rentals are also available at the airport, providing the freedom to explore the local area at your own pace.
In addition to the Reykjanes Art Museum, there are several other cultural attractions in the area. These include the Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll, the Viking World Museum, and the Blue Lagoon. With so much to offer, the Reykjanes Peninsula is a great destination for those seeking adventure and unique experiences. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an art enthusiast, there's something for everyone in this vibrant region.
Sky Harbor: A Large Airport Hub?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Reykjavik Airport is located in the town of Keflavik, which is a 45-minute drive from the capital, Reykjavik. Here are some fun things to do near the airport:
- Visit the Blue Lagoon, a popular spot for tourists to visit during a stopover in Iceland.
- Explore the town of Keflavik, which has a strong fishing industry and is home to local favourite Kökulist Bakery.
- Check out the Reykjanes Art Museum, which showcases the work of local residents and other Icelanders, themed around life on the island.
There are a few ways to get to Reykjavik from the airport. You can rent a car at the airport, take a bus or coach, or book a shuttle transfer. The drive from the airport to Reykjavik is approximately 45 minutes.
If you have a long layover, you can visit some museums near the airport, such as the Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll or Viking World. You can also explore the airport's duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes.
