Things To Do
in Keflavík
Keflavík is a town located on the southern coast of Iceland, known for its proximity to the country's main international airport. The town has a strong maritime history as a fishing village and is home to the Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll. Keflavík offers beautiful coastal views, rugged landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
Visitors can also enjoy local seafood restaurants, shops selling Icelandic souvenirs, and a relaxing atmosphere in this charming seaside town.
- "Halló" - Hello
- "Takk fyrir" - Thank you
- "Góða ferð" - Safe travels
- "Afsakið" - Excuse me
- "Hvernig hefurðu það?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Keflavík Coastline. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore and take in the fresh sea air.
Visit the Viking World museum to learn about the history and culture of the Vikings in Iceland. Don’t miss the replica of the Viking ship, the Íslendingur.
Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant to experience Icelandic cuisine. Relax with a stroll around the harbor to watch the sunset.
Make your way to the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing soak in the geothermal waters. Take time to enjoy the spa facilities and unwind.
After soaking, treat yourself to a meal at the Lagoon’s restaurant overlooking the water. Sample Icelandic dishes while enjoying the serene views.
Return to Keflavík and explore the local nightlife. Find a cozy bar for a drink and mingle with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes including mountains, beaches, and geothermal sites.
- Unique cultural experiences and rich Viking history.
- Close proximity to Reykjavik, providing easy access to urban amenities.
- Low crime rates and high safety for residents and visitors.
- Mild oceanic climate compared to other regions in Iceland.
- Limited job opportunities and economic activities.
- Higher cost of living compared to many other countries.
- Harsh weather conditions during winter months.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Isolation due to geographical location, which may increase travel costs.
Best Activities in Keflavík
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula, including geothermal areas, lava fields, and coastal cliffs.
Relax in the world-famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa known for its mineral-rich waters and stunning surroundings.
Enjoy hiking trails in the Eldvörp area, which features beautiful volcanic landscapes and views of the coastline.
Visit the Garður Lighthouse and surrounding areas for incredible bird watching opportunities, including puffins and arctic terns.
Take a sea kayaking tour from Keflavík, where you can paddle in the ocean and explore the nearby islands and shoreline.
Join a snorkeling tour at Silfra, a unique fissure filled with crystal-clear water between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Experience Icelandic culture with a horseback riding tour through the scenic countryside and lava fields.
Join a local fishing tour for a chance to catch various species of fish as you experience the beautiful coastal waters.
Tours
Uncover the best of Keflavík with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Keflavík
Visit one of these nice places.
Located at the tip of the Gardskagi peninsula, this lighthouse offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes, perfect for capturing dramatic sunset photos.
This nature reserve features unique geothermal landscapes, rugged coastlines, and volcanic rock formations, providing numerous photography opportunities amidst Iceland's natural beauty.
While known for its incredible spa experiences, the Blue Lagoon also offers picturesque views of the milky blue waters against the lava fields, especially interesting during sunrise or sunset.
The harbor area is perfect for capturing images of colorful fishing boats, the dramatic coastal cliffs, and views across the bay towards Snæfellsnes Peninsula on clear days.
Outside the museum, you can find the replica of a Viking ship, along with beautiful views of the harbor, ideal for a unique combination of history and scenery in your photos.
A bit outside of Keflavík, this site is renowned for its vibrant geothermal activity, mud pots, and steaming vents, making it a great spot for capturing the colorful contrast of the landscape.
A symbolic bridge that connects the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, offering a unique photo opportunity against the backdrop of Iceland's diverse terrain.
This geothermal area features bubbling mud pools and vibrant mineral deposits, providing an otherworldly landscape for photography, especially with unique colors and textures.
Food in Keflavík
Keflavík Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Icelandic fish soup typically made with various local fish, root vegetables, and cream. It's best enjoyed at local seafood restaurants like Kaffi Duus and Vitinn.
Must-Try!
A comforting dish made with cod or haddock, potatoes, onions, and béchamel sauce, often served with rye bread. Try it at the Gallerý Matarkjallarinn for an authentic taste.
Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product known for its high protein content and creamy texture. Look for skyr at grocery stores or try it in various dessert preparations at Keflavík's cafes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Keflavík better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local food market where visitors can purchase fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other Icelandic delicacies. It's a great place to experience the local food culture and connect with vendors.
Located in the heart of Keflavík, this casual eatery offers a range of traditional Icelandic street food, such as kleinur (fried pastries) and fisherman's stew, providing a convenient way to sample local flavors on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Icelanders value personal space and privacy. When interacting with locals, maintain a comfortable distance and avoid overly intrusive behavior.
Using polite language such as 'takk' (thank you) and 'vinsamlegast' (please) is appreciated. Always greet people with a smile and a friendly demeanor.
Icelanders have a flexible approach to time. While punctuality is important, they often adopt a relaxed attitude towards schedules. Be patient and adaptable in social settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Keflavík with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Keflavík
Ensure a smooth experience
In Keflavík, as in much of Iceland, tipping is not a customary practice. Service charges are typically included in the bill at restaurants and bars. However, if guests feel they received exceptional service, leaving a small tip is appreciated but not expected.
Most establishments in Keflavík accept credit and debit cards, and cash payments are becoming less common. Icelandic króna (ISK) is the official currency. Contactless payments and mobile payment options are widely available, making transactions convenient for both locals and visitors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Keflavík.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Keflavík runs from March to May. Expect cool temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). The snow begins to melt, revealing picturesque landscapes, and days become longer with increasing sunlight. This is a great time for bird watching as migratory birds return, and the famous Icelandic flora starts to blossom.
Summer lasts from June to August, with mild temperatures averaging between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The long days and midnight sun offer ample daylight for exploring the stunning scenery and outdoor activities. This is the peak tourist season, making it the best time for hiking, camping, and enjoying various festivals.
Autumn spans from September to November. The weather begins to cool down, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Expect beautiful fall foliage and dramatic sunsets. The Northern Lights can start to appear in September, making it a great time for aurora hunters while the crowds start to dwindle.
Winter in Keflavík lasts from December to February, characterized by cold temperatures between -3°C and 5°C (27°F to 41°F). Expect snow, wind, and shorter daylight hours. However, this season is perfect for experiencing the Northern Lights, hot springs, and winter sports, offering a unique magical winter landscape.
Keflavík at Night
Hiking in Keflavík
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A hike to Eldey Island offers stunning coastal views and unique birdwatching opportunities, including puffins during the summer months.
The Reykjanes Peninsula features numerous hiking trails that showcase geothermal areas, lava fields, and dramatic coastal landscapes.
A popular hiking trail that provides panoramic views of the Reykjanes Peninsula and surrounding waters, Valahnúkur is a favorite for both locals and visitors.
A scenic hike around Lake Kleifarvatn offers a blend of breathtaking views, interesting geological formations, and the chance to experience the area's unique flora and fauna.
This coastal trail runs along the shoreline, providing picturesque views of the ocean, birdlife, and opportunities for peaceful walks in a serene environment.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Keflavík through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Keflavík by plane.
The main international airport in Iceland, located in Keflavík, approximately 50 kilometers west of Reykjavík.
A domestic airport serving flights within Iceland, also providing some international connections, located in Reykjavík.
An airport located in Akureyri, one of the largest towns in northern Iceland, with limited international flights.
An airport in East Iceland, serving the Egilsstaðir region with a few international flights, primarily to nearby destinations.
A small regional airport in the Westfjords of Iceland, offering limited service primarily for domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group, comprising the majority of the population in Keflavík, with cultural roots and traditions stemming from the Norse settlement.
A significant and growing demographic, including individuals from various countries, particularly those who work in the service and hospitality sectors, as well as NATO personnel at the nearby military base.
Represents a considerable portion of the population, with a focus on families living in the area, contributing to local schools and community activities.
A smaller demographic group in Keflavík, consisting of senior citizens who are part of the community, often involved in various social and cultural events.
The Soul of Keflavík
Discover the essence of Keflavík through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Keflavík, with a strong local club system and community support.
Handball is widely played and enjoyed in Keflavík, featuring both youth and adult leagues.
Basketball has a growing following in Keflavík, with local teams participating in regional competitions.
Swimming is a popular recreational activity, with several well-maintained pools and swimming facilities in the area.
Volleyball is played both indoors and on the beach, attracting players of various skill levels.
Track and field events are popular, with local clubs promoting various athletic activities for all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Keflavík.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Icelandic cuisine traditionally revolves around seafood and meat, most restaurants in Keflavík offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as root vegetable stews, mushroom risottos, and innovative salads.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free versions of traditional Icelandic dishes, and many establishments in Keflavík are attentive to accommodating gluten-free dietary requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Keflavík with these cultural adventures.
