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KEF Layover Ideas Keflavik Airport Layover Guide

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Keflavik Airport

Whether you're stuck in a long layover or simply have some extra time before your flight, Keflavik Airport offers a variety of activities to make your wait more enjoyable. Here are the top 5 layover ideas that you can do within 12 hours.

1. Explore the Airport's Shopping and Dining Options

Keflavik Airport boasts a plethora of shopping and dining options. You can browse through duty-free shops, local boutiques, and international brand stores for a last-minute gift or souvenir. If you're feeling hungry, there are numerous restaurants and cafes offering a range of cuisines, from traditional Icelandic dishes to fast food favorites.

2. Visit the Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll

Just a short distance from the airport is the Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll. This museum celebrates Iceland's rich music history, featuring exhibits on famous Icelandic musicians and bands, including Björk and Sigur Rós. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture without straying too far from the airport.

3. Relax at the Blue Lagoon

If you have a few hours to spare, take a shuttle bus to the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland's most famous attractions. This geothermal spa, located in a lava field, is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate before your flight. Remember to book your tickets in advance, as the spa can get quite busy.

4. Take a Stroll in Reykjanesbær

Reykjanesbær, a charming town located near the airport, is worth a visit if you have a long layover. You can take a leisurely stroll around the town, visit local shops, enjoy a meal at a cozy café, or simply take in the beautiful Icelandic scenery.

5. Visit the Viking World Museum

Another great place to visit near Keflavik Airport is the Viking World Museum. This museum offers an insight into the Viking Age through various exhibits, including a replica of a Viking ship. It's a must-visit for history buffs and those interested in learning more about Iceland's Viking heritage.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through KEF Airport:

  • Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
  • If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of KEF's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
  • If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
  • Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
  • Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Keflavik airport's internet (free!)
  • For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near KEF to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
  • Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you find yourself with a layover of 12 to 48 hours at Keflavik Airport, consider venturing a bit further to explore some of Iceland's incredible nearby attractions. Here are some recommendations that are within reasonable proximity to the airport.

1. Discover Reykjavik's Vibrant City Life

Take a short drive to Reykjavik, Iceland's capital, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture. You can visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, explore the old harbor, and enjoy the city's bustling nightlife. Don't forget to try some local Icelandic cuisine in one of the city's many restaurants.

2. Explore the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route in southern Iceland. It includes three stunning locations: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Although it's a bit of a drive from the airport, the breathtaking scenery makes it worth the trip.

3. Visit the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

If you have enough time, consider a trip to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Known as "Iceland in miniature," this area showcases all the types of landscapes that Iceland has to offer, from lava fields and glaciers to waterfalls and black sand beaches.

4. Take a Whale Watching Tour

For an unforgettable experience, join a whale watching tour. These tours, which depart from Reykjavik's old harbor, offer the chance to see a variety of whale species, as well as dolphins and seabirds. Remember to dress warmly, as it can get quite chilly out at sea.

5. Explore the South Coast

The South Coast of Iceland is home to some of the country's most beautiful natural attractions, including the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the black sand beach at Reynisfjara, and the stunning Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. It's a longer trip, but if you have the time, it's definitely worth it.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

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