CARWIZ Rent a car Keflavik Airport
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is Iceland's largest airport and the primary gateway for international travelers. Situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland, it lies approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) southwest of Reykjavík, the nation's capital . The airport is located about 3 kilometers west of the town of Keflavík, within the municipality of Suðurnesjabær . Operated by Isavia, a government enterprise, Keflavík Airport serves as a hub for airlines such as Icelandair and Play.
What to do in Keflavik?
Keflavík, best known as the location of Iceland’s main international airport, is more than just a stopover point—it’s a gateway to the country’s otherworldly landscapes and home to unique local culture, maritime heritage, and Icelandic hospitality. Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, just 45 minutes from Reykjavík, Keflavík offers its own blend of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm.
The Duus Museum Complex is the cultural heart of the town, combining maritime history with art exhibitions and a quirky collection of local curiosities. Strolling along the harbor reveals colorful boats, modern sculptures, and views across Faxaflói Bay. Music fans should check out the Icelandic Museum of Rock ‘n’ Roll, which celebrates the country’s surprisingly rich music scene, from Björk to Sigur Rós.
Just outside of town lies the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa. Surrounded by lava fields and milky blue water, it’s the perfect introduction to Iceland’s geothermal wonders. Nearby, the Bridge Between Continents allows visitors to symbolically walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—a reminder of Iceland’s geological uniqueness.
Keflavík is also a base for exploring the lesser-known Reykjanes Geopark, a rugged landscape of steaming vents, craters, cliffs, and wild coastline. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will appreciate the region’s raw beauty and solitude.
While small, Keflavík offers cozy cafés, seafood restaurants, and welcoming guesthouses that make it ideal for a first or last night in Iceland. For those who take time to look beyond the airport, Keflavík reveals quiet surprises and an authentic Icelandic spirit.
