Iceland, a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and the Northern Lights, is a popular destination for travelers. With its unique blend of nature and culture, it's no wonder that many people want to explore this enchanting land. When planning a trip to Iceland, understanding the airport system is essential for a smooth and enjoyable journey. In this article, we will delve into the world of Iceland airports, providing you with a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the Land of Fire and Ice.
Overview of Iceland Airports
Iceland has a total of six international airports, with Keflavík International Airport (KEF) being the largest and most commonly used. The other five airports are smaller and primarily serve domestic flights. Here is a brief overview of each airport:
- Keflavík International Airport (KEF): Located about 45 kilometers west of Reykjavik, KEF is the primary airport for international flights. It offers a wide range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and a duty-free zone.
- Reykjavík Airport (RKV): Located in the heart of Reykjavik, RKV is a domestic airport that offers flights to various destinations within Iceland.
- Akureyri Airport (AEY): Located in the north of Iceland, AEY is a domestic airport that offers flights to Reykjavik and other destinations in the north.
- Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS): Located in the east of Iceland, EGS is a domestic airport that offers flights to Reykjavik and other destinations in the east.
- Húsavík Airport (HZK): Located in the north of Iceland, HZK is a small domestic airport that offers flights to Reykjavik and other destinations in the north.
- Vestmannaeyjar Airport (VEY): Located off the south coast of Iceland, VEY is a small domestic airport that offers flights to Reykjavik and other destinations in the south.
Getting to and from the Airports
Getting to and from the airports in Iceland is relatively easy, with various transportation options available. Here are a few:
- Taxis: Taxis are available at all airports, but can be quite expensive. A taxi ride from KEF to Reykjavik can cost around 20,000 ISK (approximately $150 USD).
- Buses: The Strætó bus company offers services from KEF to Reykjavik, as well as to other destinations in Iceland. A one-way ticket from KEF to Reykjavik costs around 2,500 ISK (approximately $20 USD).
- Rental Cars: Renting a car is a popular option for travelers in Iceland. Many car rental companies have desks at KEF, and offer a wide range of vehicles to suit different budgets and needs.
- Private Transfers: Private transfer services are available from KEF to Reykjavik and other destinations in Iceland. These services can be booked in advance and offer a convenient and hassle-free way to get to your destination.
Airlines and Routes
Several airlines operate in Iceland, offering flights to and from various destinations around the world. Here are a few of the most popular airlines and routes:
- Icelandair: Icelandair is the national carrier of Iceland and offers flights to destinations in Europe, North America, and Scandinavia.
- WOW Air: WOW Air is a budget airline that offers flights to destinations in Europe and North America.
- Norwegian Air: Norwegian Air offers flights to destinations in Europe and North America.
- Lufthansa: Lufthansa offers flights to destinations in Europe and North America.
- Delta Air Lines: Delta Air Lines offers flights to destinations in North America.
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights in Iceland are operated by several airlines, including:
- Air Iceland Connect: Air Iceland Connect offers flights to destinations in Iceland, including Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and Vestmannaeyjar.
- Norlandair: Norlandair offers flights to destinations in Iceland, including Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and Grímsey.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you navigate the airports in Iceland:
- Arrive early: Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare, especially during peak season.
- Check-in online: Check-in online to avoid queues at the airport.
- Pack wisely: Pack wisely and avoid bringing unnecessary items to avoid delays at security.
- Be prepared for security: Be prepared for security checks and have your laptop and liquids ready.
Conclusion
Navigating the airports in Iceland can seem daunting, but with the right information and planning, it can be a breeze. From understanding the airport system to getting to and from the airports, we hope this guide has provided you with the knowledge you need to make the most of your trip to Iceland.
What is the largest airport in Iceland?
+The largest airport in Iceland is Keflavík International Airport (KEF).
How do I get to Reykjavik from KEF?
+You can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to get to Reykjavik from KEF.
What airlines operate in Iceland?
+Several airlines operate in Iceland, including Icelandair, WOW Air, Norwegian Air, Lufthansa, and Delta Air Lines.