Many people assume that Reykjavik Airport (RKV) is the primary international airport, but that is not the case. Travelers often pre-book rental cars and choose Reykjavik Airport as the pick up location when they are actually flying into Keflavik International Airport (KEF), Iceland’s principal international gateway.
As you plan your Icelandic travels, it’s essential to understand the logistical details concerning its airports. There are quite a few airports in the country, but if you’re coming from an international destination, chances are you’ll be flying into the main hub, Keflavik International Airport (KEF).
It’s important to know about all the options that are available to you. In this article we offer comprehensive guidance on the numerous airports scattered across Iceland, providing insights into essential considerations before booking your flight ticket(s) and securing a rental car that will suit your trip.
By understanding the varied Icelandic airports, their locations, functions, and the significance of KEF as Iceland’s main airport, you can ensure you make informed decisions when booking your flights, rental cars, and accommodations for your Icelandic travels.
How Many Airports Are in Iceland?
Iceland has a total of 13 airports, with 4 of them designated as international airports. Among these, Keflavik International Airport (KEF) stands as the largest and most prominent, serving as Iceland’s primary international airport.
Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) is centrally located in the capital city, operating primarily domestic flights within Iceland. Egilsstaðir Domestic Airport (EGS) and Akureyri Domestic Airport (AEY) are also significant hubs for domestic travel, connecting various regions of the country. These airports collectively play key roles in Iceland’s transportation infrastructure, along with many other smaller domestic airports, ensuring efficient travel both domestically and internationally.
Iceland’s Main International Airport: Keflavik Airport
Airport code: KEF
Keflavik International Airport is located at the tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula in the southwestern region and is the largest airport in iceland. It’s very likely that if you flying to Iceland from an international destination, then you will be landing at this airport. Keflavik Airport is located approximately 31 miles (50 kilometers) or a 45-minute drive from downtown Reykjavik, and is less than 30 minutes away from Iceland’s Blue Lagoon.
The airport became operational during World War II after being built by the U.S. military in 1943. In 1987, it opened its modern terminal, which fueled Iceland’s growth in commercial aviation. Having international connections between Europe and North America, the airport has turned into a common stopover hub for travelers. In fact, when you fly Icelandair, you can choose to add a stopover in Iceland at no additional cost.
Photo from KEF International airport website
During summer peaks, KEF airport accommodates flights from 28 different airlines, including major carriers like Icelandair, PLAY, Lufthansa, Air Canada, British Airways, United, and more. Once you arrive, you can access tax-free shopping, purchase alcohol, and find the Hertz Iceland Rental Office (open 24/7), conveniently located within the airport’s arrival hall
Reykjavik Airport: Mainly Servicing Domestic Flights
Airport code: RKV
Reykjavík domestic Airport is located approximately 50 kilometers (30 miles) from Keflavík International Airport, in Reykjavik city center, right next to the Perlan Museum and Reykajvik University within walking distance. The airport serves as a hub for domestic flights in Iceland, offering routes to popular destinations such as Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and Bíldudalur. While primarily catering to domestic travel, Reykjavík Airport also facilitates a couple of international flights, connecting Iceland with Kulusuk in Greenland or faroe islands.
Airlines operating from Reykjavík Airport include Icelandair, Eagle Air Iceland, and Norlandair. Visitors to the airport can access a wide range of rental vehicle options at the Hertz Iceland office that is located onsite, ensuring convenient transportation for their Icelandic travels.
Photo from KEF International Airport website
Akureyri Airport: The Biggest Airport in North Iceland
Airport code: AEY
Located in the northern region of Iceland, Akureyri Airport serves as an important transportation hub with both domestic and limited international flights. The airport is located just outside the town of Akureyri, Iceland, 247 kilometers (153 miles) from Reykjavik, and it provides access to various domestic destinations. Some of these destinations include Reykjavik in the south, Grimsey Island in the north, and Thorshofn and Vopnafjordur in the east. Additionally, Akureyri Airport has recently started offering connections to international destinations in Denmark, London, Spain, and Greenland.
To meet travelers’ needs, Hertz Iceland operates a rental office at Akureyri Airport, providing car rental services for exploring the surrounding areas of North Iceland and Iceland attractions in the area, such as those located on the Iceland diamond circle route, Iceland horseback riding, whale watching and visiting the geothermal Iceland hot springs.
Photo from KEF International Airport website
Egilssaidir Airport: The Biggest Airport in East Iceland
Airport code: EGS
Located in East Iceland, in the town of Egilsstaðir, about 631 kilometers (392 miles) from Reykjavik, Egilsstaðir Airport connects travelers to various domestic destinations as well as some limited international destinations. Although Egilsstaðir Airport is one of the four airports in Iceland equipped to handle international flights, there is only one runway, and the airport primarily offers service to and from Reykjavik Airport, with several daily scheduled flights.
The airport’s terminal, originally constructed between 1963 and 1968, underwent extensive reconstruction and expansion from 1987 to 1999. An additional arrivals hall was constructed in April 2007, enhancing the airport’s facilities for travelers. Within this modernized space, you’ll also find the Hertz Iceland rental office. The airport is centrally located in East Iceland, making it a convenient gateway to the region’s many natural attractions, such as Vatnajokull National Park, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and the Eastfjords.
The 9 Domestic Airports in Iceland
Beyond the four primary airports in Iceland there are also nine domestic Iceland airports.
Isafjordur Airport
Airport code: IFJ
Serving the Westfjords region of Iceland, Ísafjörður Airport provides essential air links to this remote and picturesque area. The airport is situated on the eastern shore of Ísafjörður fjord, approximately 2 kilometers west of the town center. It operates flights to Reykjavik Domestic Airport daily.
Hertz Iceland has a car rental station located here too, and renting a car is the best option, as there are no public buses connecting the airport to the town. From here, you can visit many Iceland waterfalls and Látrabjarg Cliff to spot puffins in Iceland.
Hornafjordur Airport: Höfn airport (HFN)
Airport code: HFN
Hofn Airport is located in southeast Iceland, with flights offered between Hornafjordur and Reykjavik airports through Eagle Air that have varied scheduled times depending on time of year. The airport is located 5 kilometers (3 miles) north of the town of Höfn, about a 6-hour drive from Reykjavik when traveling south on the Route 1 Ring Road.
While there is a shuttle available into town, a rental car is recommended to effectively explore the area and the surrounding Iceland glaciers. There is a Hertz Iceland rental office located at this airport, so you can conveniently pick up your rental car here.
Vestmannaeyjar Airport
Airport code: VEY
Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) is an archipelago of 15 islands and 30 rock stacks off the South Coast of Iceland. Vestmannaeyjar airport is located on Heimaey, the largest and only inhabited island. The Westman Islands Airport (VEY) exclusively handles domestic flights within Iceland, with schedules based on airline timetables. It is not uncommon for there to be no scheduled flights between Reykjavik and Heimaey for a week or longer.
The Hertz Iceland car rental station on Heimaey is conveniently situated at the airport. If you plan to explore Heimaey by car, you have the option to reserve a vehicle and collect it at the airport. Alternatively, you can secure a ticket for the ferry Herjolfur and bring your rental car along to the island with you.
Bildudalur Airport
Airport code: BIU
One of the few airports located in the Westfjords area, approximately 5 kilometers away from the Bildudalur village, Bildudalur Airport offers a schedule of 6 weekly flights to Reykjavik airport via Norlandair, each day except Saturdays. The flights take approximately 40 minutes. The surrounding area is very scenic, close to the mountains and the ocean. There is a Hertz rental office at the airport, with a selection of different vehicles available, from 2WD compact cars to 4X4 SUVs.
In the North: Thorshofn Airport; Grimsey Airport; Husavik Airport; and Vopnafjordur Airport
There are four domestic airports located in North Iceland:
Thorshofn Airport
Thorshofn Airport (THO) serves the remote coastal community of Thorshofn, providing essential air connections to this isolated region. Situated on the Langanes peninsula, 3 kilometers north of Thorshofn, the airport facilitates transportation for residents and visitors, ensuring access to necessary services and opportunities for economic development. Weather conditions can sometimes impact flight schedules, which are primarily direct connections between Thorshofn and Akureyri through Norlandair.
Grimsey Airport
Grimsey Airport (GRY), also known as Grímseyjarflughavn, is a little airport located on the tiny island of Grímsey, situated 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of mainland Iceland. Grímsey Airport provides vital air links, connecting the island’s inhabitants to the mainland.
As the northernmost point of Iceland, Grímsey serves as a gateway to the Arctic Circle, offering unique experiences and opportunities for exploration in this pristine and remote environment. Flight routes are primarily between Grimsey and Akureyri, running Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays with Norlandair. Keep in mind that car rentals and public transportation are not available on the island.
Husavik Airport
Husavik Airport (HZK), located in northern Iceland, serves as a crucial transportation hub for the town of Husavik and its surrounding areas. Beyond providing access to the charming town itself, the airport offers convenient connections to nearby attractions such as Lake Myvatn and Dettifoss waterfall. Whether embarking on a whale-watching excursion in Husavik or exploring the volcanic landscapes around Lake Myvatn, the airport serves as an essential link for travelers seeking to discover the beauty of northern Iceland.
Vopnafjordur Airport
Vopnafjordur Airport (VPN) lies in the northeast of Iceland and is situated on the banks of the Hofsá River and near the inner end of Vopnafjörður fjord. It serves the village of Vopnafjörður in Northeast Iceland, and while it’s not a busy airport, it provides an essential connection from the remote village to Akureyri Airport via Norlandair. There are five flights per week and no rental car services located at the airport directly. In this area, you’ll find lots of great Iceland hiking opportunities.
Westfjords: Gjogur Airport
Airport code: GJR
Located within the rugged landscapes of the Westfjords region, Gjögur Airport is located on the coast of Húnaflói bay, near the small village of Árneshreppur. It primarily serves domestic flights to and from Reykjavik airport by Eagle Air.
The flight frequency varies by season, with more options in the summer than in winter in Iceland. With limited flight schedules, it’s important to plan your trip carefully and consider alternative travel options if needed. Surrounding the area, you’ll find volcanic landscapes, fishing villages, hiking trails, and opportunities to see Iceland wildlife.
Tips for Renting a Car From Iceland Airports
When renting a car from an Iceland airport, keep these essential tips in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey through the landscapes Iceland. From selecting the right vehicle, to ensuring you have the proper coverage, these tips are essential for travelers seeking to make the most of their Icelandic experience.
- The minimum age to rent a car is 20 years old, so make sure you meet this requirement before booking.
- For winter travel, it’s highly advisable to rent a 4X4 vehicle, regardless of your planned route. The unpredictable Iceland weather and road conditions in Iceland during the winter months make a 4X4 essential for safety and peace of mind.
- If you plan to drive on the F-roads in Iceland, which are unpaved and often rough, a 4X4 vehicle is mandatory, as other types of vehicles are illegal on these roads.
- Ensure you rent from the correct rental office based on where your flight is landing. Confusion between Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RVK) and Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is common, so double-check your pickup location to avoid any inconvenience.
- Consider both your group size and the amount of luggage you’re bringing when choosing a rental car. Select a vehicle that offers enough space and comfort for everyone in your party, along with adequate storage for your belongings.
- Choose a coverage package that suits your journey and provides sufficient protection for your rental vehicle. Keep in mind that basic coverage is mandatory by law on all rental vehicles in Iceland, but additional coverage options may offer added peace of mind during your travels.
Airports in Iceland
Careful planning regarding airport logistics is key as you prepare for your Icelandic travels. Understanding the differences between Reykjavik and Keflavik airports, as well as the extensive network of domestic and international flight routes, ensures a seamless journey from start to finish. It’s essential to note that while Reykjavik Airport caters primarily to domestic flights, Keflavik Airport serves as the primary international gateway, welcoming most international travelers to Iceland.
Additionally, domestic airports, complemented by numerous runways and landing strips spread across the country, play a key role in connecting Iceland’s diverse communities and easing travel within the island nation, contributing to its accessibility and interconnectedness.
With Hertz Iceland stations strategically positioned at major airports nationwide, you’ll always have a convenient rental car option available. Whether you’re embarking on a scenic road trip along the Ring Road or exploring the hidden gems of Iceland’s highlands, book with Hertz Iceland for peace of mind and reliable service throughout your Icelandic travels.
