Book flights to Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the northernmost capital in the world and is the primary gateway for any journey into the North Atlantic. This coastal destination has a harbour that remains the central hub for the city, connecting the urban landscape to the surrounding sea and volcanic horizons.

The city centre has many colourful corrugated iron buildings that sit alongside modern architectural achievements like the Harpa Concert Hall. Visitors often find their way to the towering Hallgrimskirkja church or the Sun Voyager sculpture, which pays homage to the seafaring history of the region. The Laugavegur district contains a high concentration of galleries and independent boutiques that reflect the local creative spirit.

A sense of discovery defines the atmosphere here, where small-town intimacy meets a sophisticated cultural scene. The city is a base for those seeking natural wonders like the Blue Lagoon or the Golden Circle, while also providing a rich culinary landscape focused on fresh seafood and Nordic traditions.

High season in Reykjavik

Reykjavik enters its most active period during the summer months, specifically from June to August. Under the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, the city experiences nearly 24 hours of daylight, which influences a high-energy social atmosphere. Visitors landing at Keflavik International Airport often notice the immediate change in pace, as the extended light allows for late-night rounds of golf or strolls along the Old Harbour well past midnight. Temperatures are mild, typically ranging between 10°C and 15°C, making the city streets and outdoor cafes popular gathering spots.

The cultural calendar is dense with events like Culture Night and the Reykjavik Pride festival, which draw large crowds to the downtown core. This season is defined by its accessibility, as the highland roads open and the lush green landscapes surrounding the city are easy to explore. The lifestyle is outdoors-focused, with locals and travellers alike frequenting the city’s many geothermal pools, such as Laugardalslaug, to soak in the sun. The atmosphere is one of constant motion, where the distinction between day and night becomes blurred by the persistent northern light.

Low season in Reykjavik

Reykjavik takes on a quiet, intimate character during the low season, which runs from November through March. The days are short, with as little as 4 hours of daylight during the winter solstice, creating a cosy environment defined by the Icelandic concept of "gluggavedur" or "window weather." Upon arrival, the sight of snow-dusted mountains and city lights reflecting off icy streets provides a dramatic introduction. Temperatures often hover around 0°C, and the city is frequently swept by Atlantic winds, which encourages a shift toward indoor cultural life and warm gallery spaces.

This period is the primary time for witnessing the Northern Lights, which often dance above landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja on clear nights. The social pace slows down, focusing on seasonal celebrations like Iceland Airwaves or the Winter Lights Festival, where light installations brighten the darker hours. Life revolves around the warmth of local bookshops and coffee houses, offering a tranquil contrast to the summer rush. The low season is defined by this stark, natural beauty and the communal warmth found in the city’s heated public spaces.

Most international travellers arriving on a flight to Reykjavik will touch down on the Reykjanes Peninsula, though the city also maintains a secondary airfield located much closer to the historic centre. These two distinct gateways handle the vast majority of air traffic, separating long-haul arrivals from domestic and regional connections.

Keflavík International Airport (KEF)

Keflavík International Airport, identified by the code KEF, is the primary gateway for those taking flights to Reykjavik from abroad. It is situated approximately 50 km southwest of the capital in the municipality of Reykjanesbær. As the largest hub in the country, it is the main base for Icelandair and Play, and includes a single large terminal building that manages all international arrivals and departures.

After clearing customs, the most common way to reach the city is via the dedicated airport shuttle buses, which depart frequently and take roughly 45 to 50 minutes to reach the Reykjavik BSI Bus Terminal. Public bus Line 55 also operates between the terminal and the city, though it involves more stops and a longer transit time. Taxis are available 24 hours a day at the ranks outside the arrivals hall, providing a direct door-to-door service to any district in Reykjavik or nearby towns like Hafnarfjörður. Car rental desks are located within the terminal area for those planning to drive themselves along the main highway, Route 41, which connects the airport directly to the capital region.

Reykjavik Airport (RKV)

Reykjavik Airport, or RKV, is the city's domestic hub located just 2 km from the heart of the capital. It sits within the Vatnsmýri district, making it easily accessible for passengers travelling within the country or to Greenland and the Faroe Islands. The airport consists of two small terminals that primarily handle scheduled flights by Icelandair and Eagle Air, focusing on regional connectivity rather than long-distance international routes.

Because of its central location, reaching the city centre from the arrivals gate is exceptionally quick, often taking less than 5 to 10 minutes by vehicle. Travellers can use local public transit, specifically Line 15, which stops near the terminal and connects to the Hlemmur transit hub. Many visitors choose to take a taxi due to the short distance, or even walk if they are staying in the southern part of the 101 Reykjavik postal code area. There are no heavy rail or metro links, as the city relies entirely on its road network and bus system for airport transfers.

After your flight descends over the rugged volcanic landscapes and touches down at Keflavik International Airport, a 45-minute drive leads into a capital that feels both like a cozy village and a modern metropolis. Reykjavik greets visitors with a crisp Atlantic breeze and a skyline defined by colourful rooftops and sharp, contemporary architecture. This northernmost capital is a place where ancient sagas meet a cutting-edge creative scene, making it a captivating first stop for any explorer.

Hallgrimskirkja
This towering church has a striking concrete facade inspired by the basalt columns found in the countryside. The view from the top provides a panoramic look at the city's bright houses and the surrounding sea.

Harpa Concert Hall
Located right on the water, this building has a glass honeycomb exterior that captures and reflects the changing northern light. It is a hub for music and design, glowing with different colours as the sun sets over the harbour.

Laugavegur
Walking down the main artery of the city reveals a collection of independent boutiques, galleries, and historic timber buildings. The street has a lively, social energy where the local coffee culture and fashion sense are on full display.

Old Harbour
Once a simple fishing port, this area now contains renovated boat sheds that house artisan ice cream shops and maritime museums. It is the best place to watch the local fishing fleet while smelling the salt air of the North Atlantic.

Sun Voyager
This stainless-steel sculpture resembles a dream boat or a viking longship pointed toward the horizon. It is a peaceful spot for reflection, especially during the long hours of the midnight sun or under the winter stars.

Tjornin
The central pond is a tranquil spot in the heart of the city where locals gather to feed the swans and ducks. It is surrounded by the city hall and charming old homes, offering a quiet escape just steps away from the bustling downtown core.

Laugardalslaug
Visiting this thermal pool complex is a foundational local experience that focuses on relaxation and conversation. The outdoor geothermal tubs allow you to soak in naturally heated water while the cool air provides a refreshing contrast.

Touching down in Reykjavik is the start of an incredible northern adventure, and booking your departure well in advance helps you find the best value. If you are a frequent flyer, eDreams Prime includes additional benefits that make every discovery even more seamless, allowing you to focus on the anticipation of your flight rather than the logistics.