From the airport into Reykjavík: every option and what it costs

By Katrín Jónsdóttir, Iceland host 24 August 2026 6 min read

Busy airport scene showing travelers in motion and a rental car bus waiting under a covered terminal. — Photo by Diogo Miranda on Pexels

The rain taps the terminal windows at Keflavík as you step off the plane, and the first thing you notice is the wind—it has a personality here. You’ve landed on a windswept lava peninsula, 50 kilometers from Reykjavík, with no train tracks to carry you into town. Iceland has no passenger railway, so your choices are bus, taxi, or private transfer. Let me walk you through each, with real prices and honest advice, so you can start your trip without a hitch.

Why there’s no train (and why that’s okay)

Iceland is small, volcanic, and sparsely populated—a railway just never made sense. Instead, the country relies on a good road network and a fleet of buses. From Keflavík International Airport (KEF), you’re looking at a straightforward 45-50 minute drive along the Reykjanesbraut highway into Reykjavík. The scenery is stark: moss-covered lava fields, a glimpse of the sea, and if you’re lucky, a rainbow over the mountains. You won’t miss the train, trust me.

Airport buses: the middle ground

The most popular option for solo travelers and couples is the airport bus. Two main companies run the route: Flybus and Airport Direct. Both depart regularly after each flight arrival, so you won’t wait long even if your plane is delayed.

Flybus – Single adult fare is around 3,499 ISK (about $25). The bus takes you to the BSÍ terminal in central Reykjavík, from where you can connect to hotels for an extra fee (roughly 1,000 ISK). Journey time: about 45 minutes.
Airport Direct – Similar price, around 3,999 ISK one-way, but they include hotel drop-off in most central districts (Miðborg, Vesturbær, Laugardalur) at no extra cost. Buses run every 30-40 minutes after arrivals.

Both accept credit cards on board (Iceland is nearly cashless), and you can book online in advance. For a first-time visitor, Airport Direct is slightly easier because you don’t have to navigate from BSÍ to your hotel with luggage. But if you’re staying near Hlemmur or along Laugavegur, the Flybus drop-off at BSÍ is only a short walk.

Public bus (Strætó) – the budget bet

If you’re traveling light and want to save every króna, you can take the regular city bus, route 55, operated by Strætó. The single fare from the airport to Reykjavík is 690 ISK (about $5) as of January 2026, which is a steal compared to the tourist buses. However, it’s not direct: you’ll have to change at Hafnarfjörður or use the Klappið app to plan your journey. The ride takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, and buses run less frequently (roughly every hour). You can pay by tapping your contactless bank card on board (cash is no longer accepted since June 2025). This option works well if you’re on a tight budget and have time to spare, but I wouldn’t recommend it with heavy luggage or after a long flight.

Taxis and private transfers: comfort at a price

Sometimes you just want to get to your hotel without thinking. Taxis line up outside the arrivals hall at Keflavík, and they’re reliable but pricey. A metered ride into central Reykjavík typically costs between 18,000 and 22,000 ISK (around $130-160), depending on traffic and your exact destination. The journey takes 45-50 minutes. For a couple or family, this can be worth it, especially if you’ve arrived late and the buses have stopped (they run until around midnight, but not all night).

Private transfers, such as those from Airport Direct or Gray Line, cost a bit more than the bus but less than a taxi if you book online. A private car for up to 4 people is around 20,000-24,000 ISK (about $145-175). The driver meets you at arrivals with a name sign, helps with bags, and takes you door-to-door. This is the smoothest experience, especially if you’re staying in a quieter district like Hlíðar or Háaleiti, where buses drop you only at main stops.

Which option should you pick?

Here’s my local take, Katrín’s rule of thumb:

Flybus or Airport Direct – for most travelers, the sweet spot of cost and convenience.
Strætó bus – only if you’re a solo backpacker with no deadline and a small backpack.
Taxi or private transfer – if you’re splitting the fare with friends, arriving after midnight, or carrying ski gear, child seats, or just want a stress-free start.

And remember, once you’re in Reykjavík, you can get around on foot, by Strætó (single fare 690 ISK, or an adult 30-day pass around 11,600 ISK), or by renting a bike. The city is compact and safe to walk, even in light rain (which you’ll likely experience—today is 8-10°C with 10mm of rain, so bring a waterproof jacket).

Local tips for a smooth arrival

Before you leave the airport, grab a tourist SIM at the 24-hour 10-11 store in the arrivals hall if you need data (prices around 2,000-6,000 ISK). But first, check if your eSIM will work—options like Airalo and Holafly are handy, but note that EU roaming rules don’t apply in Iceland, so your EU SIM won’t get free roaming.

If you’re staying in the city centre (Miðborg), you’ll be close to everything: Hallgrímskirkja, the Sun Voyager sculpture, and the buzzing Laugavegur shopping street. For a quieter stay, consider Vesturbær or Grandi, both within a short bus ride of downtown. And don’t forget to validate your bus ticket if you use an app—the driver won’t remind you.

Finally, if you’re planning to explore beyond Reykjavík—like the Golden Circle or the Blue Lagoon—consider renting a car at the airport. But that’s another article. For now, get to your hotel, drop your bags, and go treat yourself to a hot dog at Bæjarins Beztu (about 600 ISK). You’ve earned it.

Kær kveðja, Katrín

Frequently asked questions

Is there a train from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík?

No, Iceland has no passenger railway. You'll take a bus, taxi, or private transfer. The drive is about 45-50 minutes on the Reykjanesbraut highway.

How much is the bus from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík?

The Flybus costs around 3,499 ISK one-way, and Airport Direct about 3,999 ISK. The cheapest is the public Strætó bus (route 55) at 690 ISK, but it takes over an hour and requires a change.

How much is a taxi from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík?

A metered taxi costs roughly 18,000-22,000 ISK (about $130-160). Private transfers booked in advance are similar, around 20,000-24,000 ISK for up to four people.

What is the best way to get from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík for a family?

A private transfer or taxi is easiest—they provide child seats and door-to-door service. The cost is worth it if you have kids and luggage, especially after a long flight.

Do buses from Keflavík Airport run at night?

The airport buses run after every flight arrival, but the public Strætó bus has limited evening hours. Taxis are available 24/7, but are pricey.

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