Exploring 4 Major Airports in Iceland

AviaTech Channel
3 min readFeb 13, 2024

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Iceland, which is called the Land of Fire and Ice, has amazing views, hot springs, and cute towns. But there are four big airports, and it can be hard to pick which one to use.

Let’s look at each airport and where you can go from there to help you choose the best way to start your Icelandic trip.

Keflavík International Airport (KEF)

Where: In the southwest of Iceland, 50 km from Reykjavík

What it offers: It’s the main airport with flights to lots of places around the world.

Best for: People visiting for the first time, those who want to see the city, or check out the Golden Circle and South Coast.

Why choose it:

It’s easy to get to: It’s the biggest airport and you can easily get public transport or rent a car.

You can see a lot: It’s close to Reykjavík and the Golden Circle with its cool waterfalls and parks.

You can explore the South Coast: You can easily visit famous places like Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

Things to think about:

It’s far from the north: If you want to visit places like Akureyri or Myvatn, it’s not the closest airport.

It might cost more: Flights from here can be a bit pricier than local flights.

EXPLORE ALL AIRPORTS IN DETAIL: https://aviatechchannel.com/airports-in-iceland/

Reykjavík Domestic Airport (RKV)

Where: In Reykjavík

What it offers: Flights within Iceland, not many international flights.

Best for: People who want to see specific parts of Iceland or those on a budget.

Why choose it:

It’s close by: Perfect if you’re exploring Reykjavík or nearby areas like Reykjanes Peninsula and the Blue Lagoon.

It’s cheaper: Flights from here within Iceland are often cheaper.

You can see unique places: You can fly to smaller airports near cool natural spots like Akureyri for whale watching.

Things to think about:

Not many choices: There aren’t many flights to other countries compared to KEF.

You might need to plan more: You might have to take connecting flights from KEF or other international airports.

Akureyri Airport (AEY)

Where: In the north of Iceland, known as the “Capital of the North”

What it offers: Flights within Iceland and some international flights in summer.

Best for: People who love nature, adventures, or want to see the Northern Lights.

Why choose it:

Northern Lights: It’s a good spot for seeing the Northern Lights because the sky is often clear.

Nature trips: You can easily get to the Myvatn area with its cool lava fields and waterfalls.

Whale watching: It’s close to Húsavík, a popular place for watching whales.

Things to think about:

Not many flights in winter: There are fewer international flights, especially in winter.

It’s colder: The weather is colder up north compared to the south.

Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS)

Where: In the southeast of Iceland, near the Eastfjords

What it offers: Flights within Iceland and some international flights.

Best for: People who want to explore lesser-known places, hike, or see wildlife.

Why choose it:

Cool landscapes: You can visit the Eastfjords, which have amazing mountains, fishing towns, and lots of animals.

Hiking: You can go to Vatnajökull National Park, a big park with glaciers and hiking trails.

Wildlife: You can see puffins, reindeer, and seals.

Things to think about:

It’s remote: It’s far from the main tourist spots, so it might take longer to get to other places.

Not as many options: There aren’t as many flights or services compared to other airports.

Choosing your airport:

What do you want to do? Think about if you want to explore cities, see nature, or visit specific areas.

How do you like to travel? Consider if you want something easy, cheap, or more adventurous. When are you going? Check if flights are available and what the weather will be like when you plan to visit.

Extra tip: You could try flying to different airports during your trip to see more of Iceland!

Iceland has lots to offer, no matter where you go. Pick the airport that lets you do what you want, and have a great time in Iceland!

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