Reykjavik Airport (RKV) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Reykjavík Airport quick facts

Reykjavík Airport (RKV) is the primary domestic air hub for Iceland's capital, serving as the gateway to the country's breathtaking northern regions and remote Westfjords. Owned and operated by the state enterprise Isavia, this compact yet essential airport handles all domestic flights within Iceland along with select international charters to Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Situated a remarkably short distance from downtown Reykjavík, it offers unparalleled convenience for travelers connecting to Akureyri, Ísafjörður, Egilsstaðir, and other domestic destinations.

Reykjavík Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Reykjavík Airport features a straightforward layout with two distinct passenger terminals positioned adjacent to each other along the apron. The design is linear and compact, making navigation effortless even for first-time visitors. Both terminals are ground-level structures with no complex multi-level arrangements, reflecting the airport's efficient domestic-focused operations.

The terminals are not connected post-security, as each operates independently with its own check-in, security, and boarding areas. Walking between the two terminals takes approximately two minutes, as they sit merely 200 feet apart along the same service road. No courtesy shuttle is needed for inter-terminal transfers. Passengers simply walk along the covered walkway or the well-marked pedestrian path connecting the buildings. Moving walkways are not available due to the short distances involved.

For connecting flights between different airlines, passengers must exit the terminal, walk between buildings, and re-clear security. Allow at least 45 minutes for domestic-to-domestic connections, though most itineraries through Reykjavík Airport involve ongoing travel rather than tight connections.

Navigating Reykjavík Airport Terminals

Main Domestic Terminal (Icelandair Terminal)

This terminal handles the bulk of passenger traffic at Reykjavík Airport. Icelandair domestic flights, Atlantic Airways charter services, and select private charters all operate from this building. The Icelandair check-in area occupies the center of the terminal with dedicated desks for domestic routes to Akureyri, Ísafjörður, and Egilsstaðir. Inside the secure area, passengers find a comfortable lounge space with complimentary coffee, tea, and Icelandic snacks. The terminal also houses the airport's primary cafeteria offering sandwiches, pastries, and hot beverages from early morning until final departure. A small retail kiosk sells Icelandic souvenirs, snacks, and travel essentials. Recent renovations have modernized the waiting area with additional seating, charging ports, and improved lighting that showcases views of the runway and nearby Perlan museum.

Eagle Air Terminal

Operating as the exclusive domain of Eagle Air, this smaller standalone terminal serves passengers traveling to Bíldudalur, Gjögur, Húsavík, Höfn, and Vestmannaeyjar. The terminal features a compact check-in desk and a modest waiting lounge with seating for approximately 30 passengers. While amenities are limited compared to the main terminal, Eagle Air provides complimentary hot beverages and water for waiting passengers. There is a small vending machine for snacks, and restrooms are located within the terminal. The intimate size of this building creates a uniquely personal travel experience where passengers often chat directly with pilots before boarding. Eagle Air operates smaller aircraft suited for the short runways of remote Icelandic airstrips, and boarding typically occurs via a short outdoor walk to the parked aircraft.

Transportation to and from Reykjavík Airport

Getting between Reykjavík Airport and the city center is remarkably simple thanks to the airport's location just 2 kilometers from downtown Reykjavík. Multiple transport options accommodate every budget and travel style, from public buses to rental cars that unlock Iceland's Ring Road adventures.

Getting to and from Reykjavík Airport by Car

Driving to Reykjavík Airport is straightforward, though travelers should note that morning rush hour can slow traffic on Hringbraut and Miklabraut between 8:00 AM and 9:30 AM. The airport entrance sits directly on Flugvallarvegur, accessible via Nauthólsvegur or Hringbraut from the city center. Parking at the terminal costs approximately $1.50 per hour or around $8.00 per 24-hour period. The parking lot adjacent to the main terminal provides short-term and long-term spaces, with payment accepted at automated machines using credit cards or coins. No economy parking lot or shuttle service exists due to the modest scale of the facility.

Several private parking operators near the airport offer covered parking and valet services for extended trips, though most travelers parking at Reykjavík Airport are catching short domestic flights. No park-and-fly packages are available at nearby hotels, as the city center accommodations are within walking distance or a five-minute taxi ride. The lot directly in front of the terminal serves as the cell phone waiting area—drivers can wait briefly for arriving passengers at no charge. Curbside drop-off is permitted right at the terminal entrance, though vehicles may not be left unattended, and the maximum waiting time is 10 minutes before security requests that drivers move.

Getting to and from Reykjavík Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Iceland does not currently have Uber, Lyft, or other international rideshare platforms operating in the country. Instead, traditional taxi services and the local ride-hailing app Hreyfill provide reliable transportation from Reykjavík Airport. Taxis queue directly outside both terminal exits, with no designated rideshare pickup zone required. Hreyfill taxis can be hailed via the app or by calling +354 588 5522, with vehicles dispatched within minutes to the airport. A taxi trip to central Reykjavík takes approximately 10 minutes and costs between $15 and $20, depending on the exact destination. All taxis accept credit cards and cash, with most drivers speaking fluent English and offering local recommendations during the short journey.

Getting to and from Reykjavík Airport by Public Transportation

Reykjavík's public bus system, Strætó, operates two bus routes serving Reykjavík Airport. This is the most economical option for reaching the city center, though travelers with heavy luggage should note that buses can become crowded during peak hours. The bus stops are located directly outside each terminal building.

Bus Route 15 stops at the Main Domestic Terminal and connects to the city center, Hlemmur Square, and other key destinations. Bus Route 19 serves the Eagle Air Terminal and runs through the same central corridor. Both routes offer transfers to the BSI bus terminal, which serves as Reykjavík's central transportation hub for long-distance coaches including Flybus connections to Keflavík International Airport.

To reach the city center, board either bus and ride for approximately 5-8 minutes depending on traffic. Disembark at Hlemmur or Lækjartorg for the main shopping streets, restaurants, and hotels. Alternatively, the BSI bus terminal is a 15-minute walk from the airport and offers luggage storage facilities open 24 hours.

Key Amenities at Reykjavík Airport

ATMs

Two ATMs are available at Reykjavík Airport, with one located in the main terminal near the check-in area and another near the cafeteria. Both machines dispense Icelandic króna and accept major international debit and credit cards. Most vendors throughout the airport also accept credit cards, and contactless payments are universally supported.

Lost and Found

Lost items at Reykjavík Airport are managed by the Isavia airport operations office. The lost and found desk is located within the main terminal building. Passengers can inquire in person during operating hours or contact the airport by phone at +354 424 4000. For items left on aircraft, passengers should contact their airline directly. Lost and found inquiries can also be sent via email to [email protected].

Luggage Services

Baggage carts are available free of charge in both terminal parking areas and near the check-in counters. There are no luggage storage or wrapping services at Reykjavík Airport. Travelers needing luggage storage should use the BSI bus terminal facility, located a 15-minute walk away, which offers secure lockers and staffed luggage storage around the clock.

Pets

Travelers flying with pets should contact their airline well in advance, as space in the aircraft cabin and cargo hold is limited on the smaller aircraft serving domestic routes. There are no designated indoor pet relief areas inside the terminals, but ample grassy areas adjacent to the parking lot provide space for pets to relieve themselves before or after flights. Iceland has strict regulations regarding animal importation, so international arrivals with pets must comply with quarantine and documentation requirements.

Showers

Showers are not available to general passengers at Reykjavík Airport. The Icelandair lounge does not include shower facilities. Travelers seeking shower access should consider facilities at the BSI bus terminal or at nearby hotels in central Reykjavík.

Currency Exchange

No dedicated currency exchange bureau operates at Reykjavík Airport. Passengers arriving on international flights can use the ATMs to withdraw Icelandic króna. Currency exchange services are widely available at banks and currency exchange offices in downtown Reykjavík, just a five-minute taxi ride away. Given Iceland's nearly cashless society, many travelers find that their credit and debit cards suffice for all transactions without needing cash.

Smoking Area

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside both terminals at Reykjavík Airport. Designated smoking areas are located outside the main terminal entrance, clearly marked with signage and equipped with ashtrays. Passengers should smoke before clearing security, as re-entry to the terminal after the security checkpoint is not permitted without a boarding pass.

Terminal Building Features

The terminals at Reykjavík Airport are modest in scale but functional and well-maintained. Both buildings feature accessibility enhancements including elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms. The main terminal's waiting area offers comfortable seating with charging stations for electronic devices, while large windows provide views of aircraft operations and the surrounding Reykjavík landscape. The airport's compact size means that all gates are within a one-minute walk from the security checkpoint, eliminating the need for long treks through endless corridors.

WiFi

Complimentary WiFi is available throughout both terminals at Reykjavík Airport. To connect, select the network labeled "Isavia-Free-WiFi" or "RKV-Free-WiFi" and accept the terms of service through the splash page. No password is required, and the connection speed is generally sufficient for browsing, email, and video calls. Charging stations with both standard European power outlets and USB ports are positioned near seating areas in the main terminal waiting lounge.

Other Amenities

An information desk in the main terminal assists passengers with flight inquiries, transportation arrangements, and general travel advice. Staff members speak both Icelandic and English and can provide printed bus schedules and city maps. Medical services are not available on-site, but the National University Hospital of Iceland is located just 2 kilometers away in central Reykjavík. No chapel or prayer room exists within the airport, though Reykjavík's main cathedral and other places of worship are easily accessible downtown.

Airport Lounges at Reykjavík Airport

Lounge options at Reykjavík Airport are limited compared to major international hubs, but comfortable waiting areas and a dedicated Icelandair lounge provide pleasant spaces for passengers before domestic flights.

Airline Lounges at Reykjavík Airport

Icelandair Domestic Lounge

The Icelandair Domestic Lounge is located inside the Main Domestic Terminal, past the security checkpoint near the boarding gates. This intimate lounge offers complimentary coffee, tea, water, and light Icelandic snacks including kleinur (traditional twisted donuts), skyr, and flatbread with smoked lamb. The space seats approximately 40 passengers in a modern Scandinavian-designed interior with wood accents, warm lighting, and views of the tarmac. Power outlets and USB ports are available at every seat. The lounge is open for all Icelandair domestic departures and closes 30 minutes after the final flight of the day.

Access is complimentary for Icelandair Saga Class passengers and Icelandair Saga Gold and Silver frequent flyer members traveling on domestic itineraries. Economy class passengers may purchase day passes at the check-in counter for approximately $30, subject to space availability. The lounge does not feature showers, outdoor terraces, or full meal service, but the quality coffee and peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile upgrade for travelers seeking quiet before their flight.

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

Reykjavík Airport does not currently host any credit card-branded lounges such as American Express Centurion Lounge or Capital One Lounge. Passengers relying on credit card lounge benefits for domestic travel through Reykjavík Airport should note that their lounge membership likely provides no value at this facility.

Priority Pass Lounges at Reykjavík Airport

Priority Pass does not offer lounge access, alternative experiences, or restaurant credits at Reykjavík Airport. The small scale and domestic focus of the airport mean that third-party lounge programs have not established a presence here. Travelers with Priority Pass memberships will not find any benefit usable at this airport and should plan accordingly.

Other Airports in the Region

Keflavík International Airport (KEF)

Keflavík International Airport is Iceland's primary gateway for international flights, located approximately 50 kilometers southwest of Reykjavík, about a 45-minute drive from the city center. This is the airport that virtually all travelers from North America, Europe, and Asia use when visiting Iceland. KEF offers extensive amenities including a large duty-free shopping area, multiple lounges, and car rental facilities from all major international brands. The airport connects to Reykjavík via the Flybus service and private transfers. For travelers planning to explore Iceland beyond Reykjavík, KEF provides the widest selection of rental cars, including 4x4 vehicles essential for F-road travel in the highlands.

Akureyri Airport (AEY)

Akureyri Airport serves northern Iceland from a location approximately 390 kilometers from Reykjavík, about a five-hour drive or a 45-minute domestic flight from Reykjavík Airport. This airport is the best option for travelers heading directly to the Lake Mývatn area, Goðafoss waterfall, or Húsavík whale watching excursions. The compact terminal handles domestic flights from Reykjavík Airport and some seasonal international flights. For visitors planning to split their Iceland trip between the south and north, flying into Reykjavík and then catching a domestic connection from Reykjavík Airport to Akureyri saves an entire day of driving.

Reykjavík Airport Overview

Reykjavík Airport traces its origins to the early days of Icelandic aviation, when the flat terrain near the city center provided an ideal location for aircraft operations. Officially named Reykjavíkurflugvöllur in Icelandic, the airport is often called Reykjavík City Airport or Reykjavík Domestic Airport in English to distinguish it from Keflavík International Airport. Situated merely 2 kilometers from downtown Reykjavík, the airport occupies a scenic location adjacent to the Perlan museum and the Öskjuhlíð hill, with views of the Faxaflói Bay on clear days.

The airport functions exclusively as a civilian facility, with two runways handling domestic flights and limited international charters. Annual passenger traffic reaches approximately 400,000 travelers, making it a vital transportation link for Iceland's remote communities. The airport serves as the main hub for Eagle Air and the domestic hub for Icelandair, operating two terminals that together offer a streamlined travel experience focused on efficiency and convenience.

Reykjavík Airport Postal Code

The full mailing address for Reykjavík Airport is Reykjavík Domestic Airport, 102 Reykjavík, Iceland. The postal code 102 designates the Vesturbær district of Reykjavík, confirming the airport's central urban location within the capital region.

Duty Free and Shopping at Reykjavík Airport

Duty-free shopping at Reykjavík Airport is extremely limited compared to Keflavík International Airport. Since the vast majority of flights are domestic, duty-free allowances do not apply to most passengers. There is a small kiosk in the main terminal selling Icelandic souvenirs, local chocolates, wool products, and travel accessories at standard retail prices. A café within the main terminal serves coffee, sandwiches, pastries, and light meals from early morning through the last departure of the day. The Eagle Air Terminal has a vending machine for snacks and drinks, but no full-service café or retail outlet.

Travelers seeking Icelandic duty-free items should shop at Keflavík International Airport upon arrival or departure from Iceland. The KEF duty-free store offers extensive selections of Icelandic wool sweaters (lopapeysa), Brennivín schnapps, Icelandic sea salt, Blue Lagoon skincare products, and Omnom chocolate. For souvenirs, the city center shops along Laugavegur offer better prices and selection than airport kiosks, particularly for hand-knitted woolens and local artisan crafts.

Security Wait Times Reykjavík Airport

Security screening at Reykjavík Airport operates with remarkable efficiency thanks to the modest passenger volumes. On normal travel days, passengers clear security in under 5 minutes. Even during peak periods, wait times rarely exceed 10 minutes. Peak travel times coincide with morning flights between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and late afternoon departures between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Summer months bring increased passenger numbers, particularly June through August, but the security process remains smooth throughout the year.

TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR are United States programs with no presence at Icelandic airports. Standard security protocols apply, including liquid restrictions and removal of laptops from bags. Arriving 45 minutes before a domestic flight is sufficient, though 60 minutes is recommended during summer peak season.

Reykjavík Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

Passenger drop-off at Reykjavík Airport takes place directly outside the terminal entrance doors, with a clearly marked curbside zone that accommodates both private vehicles and taxis. Drivers may stop for up to 10 minutes to unload passengers and luggage, after which security personnel may ask vehicles to relocate to the parking lot. The arrivals pick-up zone mirrors the departures area, as both terminals have a single entrance-level access road. There is no dedicated kiss-and-fly zone, but the short-term parking lot located immediately adjacent to the terminal serves the same purpose at a cost of approximately $1.50 per hour.

A cell phone waiting lot is not formally designated, but drivers waiting for arriving passengers can park briefly in the main lot without charge if the wait is under 15 minutes. Commercial vehicles, including taxis and private transfer services, have designated queuing spaces immediately outside the terminal. Tour buses and larger group vehicles should coordinate with the airport operations office for designated parking.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Reykjavík Airport

Icelandair operates as the dominant carrier at Reykjavík Airport, running daily domestic flights to Akureyri in the north, Ísafjörður in the Westfjords, and Egilsstaðir in the east. Flight frequency is highest to Akureyri, with up to five daily departures in summer. The Akureyri route remains the most popular domestic connection, with a flight time of approximately 45 minutes. Eagle Air serves more remote destinations including Bíldudalur, Gjögur, Húsavík, Höfn, and Vestmannaeyjar, operating smaller aircraft capable of landing on short gravel runways.

Atlantic Airways offers seasonal charter flights to the Faroe Islands, and occasional flights to Kulusuk in Greenland operate on a charter basis. There are no scheduled international commercial flights from Reykjavík Airport, as all major international service departs from Keflavík International Airport. Private charter and general aviation flights also operate from the airport throughout the year.

Seasonal demand peaks during summer months when additional frequencies are added to domestic routes, and Eagle Air extends its schedule to serve hiking and nature tourism destinations. Winter schedules are reduced but maintain essential connectivity for residents of remote communities.

Getting to and from Reykjavík Airport

Reykjavík Airport's location just two kilometers from the city center makes it one of the most conveniently positioned airports in Europe. Multiple transport options connect the airport to downtown hotels, attractions, and onward travel hubs.

Car Rental at Reykjavík Airport

Car rental counters for several companies are located in the main terminal building, serving travelers who want the freedom to explore Iceland independently. Hertz operates a dedicated desk at the airport with hours from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekends. Europcar, Avis, Budget, and local Icelandic companies also maintain a presence at or near the airport. Popular vehicle types include compact economy cars for city driving, mid-size sedans for Ring Road tours, and robust 4x4 SUVs essential for highland F-road exploration. Rental counters are positioned near baggage claim in the main terminal.

Advance booking is essential, especially during the summer season when demand far exceeds supply. Booking a rental car before arriving allows travelers to secure the best rates and ensures vehicle availability. A valid driver's license using the Roman alphabet is required—travelers with licenses in other scripts must obtain an international driver's permit. The minimum rental age is typically 20 years, with a surcharge applied to drivers under 25. For comprehensive travel across Iceland, a 4x4 vehicle provides access to gravel roads, highland routes, and rural areas where smaller cars may struggle.

Book your rental car in advance through our comparison tool to lock in the lowest rates and ensure the vehicle you want is waiting at the terminal.

Reykjavík Airport Taxi Services

Hreyfill taxis wait directly outside both terminals at Reykjavík Airport. These distinctive yellow or white cabs can be flagged down, booked through the Hreyfill mobile app, or reserved by phone at +354 588 5522. A taxi ride to the city center takes approximately 10 minutes and costs between $15 and $20. All taxis accept major credit cards, and tipping is not expected in Icelandic culture. For destinations beyond Reykjavík, taxi fares are metered and can become expensive—consider booking a private transfer or rental car for longer journeys.

Private Car Services at Reykjavík Airport

Several companies offer pre-booked private transfers from Reykjavík Airport, providing a premium alternative to taxis. These services feature meet-and-greet drivers who wait in the arrivals area with a name sign, assist with luggage, and provide direct transportation to hotels, the BSI bus terminal, or Keflavík International Airport for ongoing international flights. Fixed rates are agreed upon at booking, eliminating any concerns about meter fares or currency confusion. Private car services are particularly suitable for families with children, business travelers, and groups with significant luggage. Book at least 24 hours in advance for guaranteed availability.

Bus Services at Reykjavík Airport

Strætó public buses provide economical connections between Reykjavík Airport and the city center. Route 15 stops at the Main Domestic Terminal, while Route 19 serves the Eagle Air Terminal. Both routes run from early morning until approximately 11:30 PM with frequencies of 15 to 30 minutes depending on the time of day. The single fare costs $3.00 and is payable by contactless credit card or through the Strætó mobile app, which also provides real-time bus tracking. For travelers continuing to Keflavík International Airport, the BSI bus terminal—reachable by a short taxi ride or 15-minute walk from Reykjavík Airport—hosts Flybus departures to KEF every 30 to 60 minutes. The bus stop is located directly outside the terminal exit, making connections seamless.

Hotel Shuttles

Most Reykjavík hotels do not operate dedicated shuttle services to Reykjavík Airport, as the city center is an easy walk or brief taxi ride away. The Flybus service does not stop at Reykjavík Airport, as it exclusively runs between Keflavík International Airport and central Reykjavík. Travelers staying at nearby hotels along Hringbraut or in the Vesturbær district can walk to the airport in 10 to 20 minutes. Larger hotels sometimes arrange taxi pickups on behalf of guests upon request at the front desk.

Parking at Reykjavík Airport

Parking at Reykjavík Airport is straightforward and affordable, with a single parking lot located directly adjacent to the terminal buildings. Short-term parking costs approximately $1.50 per hour, making it ideal for picking up or dropping off passengers. Long-term parking uses the same lot at a daily rate of approximately $8.00. The lot is paved, well-lit, and monitored by security cameras. Payment is made at automated kiosks that accept credit cards with chip-and-PIN or contactless payment, as well as Icelandic coins. No free parking is available on airport grounds, though street parking in nearby residential areas requires a short walk.

Electric vehicle charging stations are not currently installed at Reykjavík Airport. Drivers of electric vehicles should charge at facilities in downtown Reykjavík or at the ON Power charging stations located at various points around the capital region before arriving at the airport.

Places to Explore Near Reykjavík Airport

Reykjavík Airport's central location places travelers within easy reach of Iceland's most iconic attractions. The Perlan Museum sits less than a five-minute walk from the terminal, featuring a rotating restaurant, an indoor ice cave, and a viewing deck with 360-degree views of Reykjavík and the surrounding mountains. The Hallgrímskirkja church, Reykjavík's most recognizable landmark, stands 2.5 kilometers from the airport, approximately a 7-minute drive or 30-minute walk. The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre, with its stunning glass facade, faces the old harbor just 10 minutes away by taxi.

For day trips, the famous Golden Circle route—including Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall—starts approximately 40 minutes from the airport by car. The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is a 45-minute drive toward Keflavík. Whale watching tours depart from Reykjavík's old harbor just 10 minutes from the airport, while the Reykjanes Peninsula with its dramatic volcanic landscapes and the bridge between continents is a 45-minute drive southwest. For travelers with extra time, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers a microcosm of Icelandic landscapes within a two-hour drive north of Reykjavík.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Reykjavik

Reykjavík experiences a subarctic oceanic climate moderated by the Gulf Stream, resulting in cool summers and relatively mild winters for the latitude. Summer temperatures from June through August average 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) with nearly 24 hours of daylight around the summer solstice. This is the peak tourist season, offering the best conditions for driving, hiking, and outdoor exploration. The midnight sun phenomenon provides extended daylight for sightseeing. Shoulder seasons in May and September offer fewer crowds, lower prices, and generally acceptable weather, though some highland roads remain closed.

Winter brings temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F) with occasional snowfall and limited daylight—as little as four hours in December. However, this is the prime season for northern lights viewing, and popular attractions like ice caves are accessible. Winter driving requires a 4x4 vehicle and careful attention to road conditions, which change rapidly. Spring and autumn are unpredictable with frequent weather changes, but offer dramatic skies and excellent photography conditions. The best time to visit depends on priorities: summer for accessibility and hiking, winter for aurora borealis and frozen landscapes, and shoulder seasons for balance.

Essential Travel Tips

Arrive at Reykjavík Airport at least 45 minutes before domestic flights, or 60 minutes in summer when passenger numbers increase. Flight status information is available through the Isavia website and mobile app, which provide real-time departure and arrival updates. Pack warm, waterproof layers regardless of the season—Icelandic weather demands windproof jackets, sturdy footwear, and thermal base layers year-round. Credit and debit cards are accepted virtually everywhere in Iceland, and many travelers complete their entire trip without handling cash. Carry backup payment methods in case of card issues.

English is spoken fluently by nearly all Icelanders, making communication effortless for English-speaking travelers. A passport or national ID card is required for international flights arriving at or departing from Iceland. For car rentals, a valid driver's license using the Roman alphabet is mandatory; travelers with licenses in other scripts must obtain an international driver's permit before arrival. Fuel stations near Reykjavík Airport include N1 on Hringbraut and Olís on Bústaðavegur, both within a five-minute drive. Fill up before returning a rental car, as fuel is expensive in Iceland and surcharges for unfilled tanks are steep.

Book your rental car ahead of your arrival to secure availability and the best rates, especially during summer when demand peaks.

About the City

Reykjavík, the northernmost capital city in the world, combines Nordic efficiency with creative energy and dramatic natural beauty. Founded by Norse settler Ingólfur Arnarson in 874 AD, the city grew from a small fishing village into a modern capital of approximately 140,000 residents, with the greater capital region housing two-thirds of Iceland's population. Reykjavík serves as Iceland's cultural, economic, and political heart, while maintaining the accessibility and charm of a much smaller community.

Local cuisine emphasizes fresh seafood including Arctic char, cod, and langoustine, alongside traditional Icelandic lamb and dairy products like skyr. Restaurants in the city center range from cozy cafés serving kleina and rye bread to Michelin-recognized establishments crafting modern Nordic cuisine. Cultural attractions include the National Museum of Iceland, the Reykjavík Art Museum, and the Saga Museum, all offering insights into the nation's Viking heritage and artistic traditions. Street art, live music venues, and a vibrant nightlife scene fill the compact downtown area. Reykjavík makes an excellent base for exploring southwest Iceland, with the airport's central location providing seamless connections to domestic flights and road networks leading to natural wonders across the entire country.

Start Your Journey at Reykjavík Airport

Reykjavík Airport stands as the essential launch point for discovering Iceland's remote regions, from the whale watching capital of Húsavík to the dramatic fjords of Ísafjörður. Its unmatched location in the heart of Reykjavík means your Icelandic adventure begins the moment you step off the plane, with the city's restaurants, museums, and geothermal pools just minutes away.

Booking your rental car in advance through our comparison platform guarantees the best vehicle for your Icelandic journey. Whether you need a compact car for a Reykjavík city break or a rugged 4x4 to tackle highland roads, securing your wheels ahead of time saves money and eliminates stress. Start planning your Iceland trip today and experience the freedom of driving through one of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth from the very doorstep of Reykjavík Airport.