Photo: Bob T, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Reykjavik, Iceland

A small, dramatic capital that doubles as a convenient stopover between North America and Europe.

Main airport: Keflavik International Airport (KEF)

Local Time

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Current Weather

10°C

Overcast 21 km/h

Coordinates

63.9850, -22.6056

171 m elevation

Nearby Airports

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Reykjavik is compact enough to see on foot, but its real draw is what surrounds it — geothermal spas, volcanic landscapes, and the Northern Lights within a short drive. Icelandair's long-standing stopover program has made the city a popular, low-friction midpoint between North America and mainland Europe.

Best time to visit

June–August has the mildest weather and nearly 24-hour daylight; September–March is better for viewing the Northern Lights on clear, dark nights.

Top attractions

•The Hallgrímskirkja church tower for a city view
•The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa (book ahead — it regularly sells out)
•The Golden Circle day-trip route: Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss
•The Harpa concert hall on the waterfront
•A Northern Lights or whale-watching tour, depending on the season

Practical tips

•Keflavik Airport (KEF) is about 45 minutes from Reykjavik by road — the Flybus and similar shuttle services are the standard option, since there's no train.
•Iceland is expensive for food and alcohol — factor that into a stopover budget.
•Rental cars book up quickly in peak summer and around holidays; reserve well ahead if you plan to drive the Golden Circle.

Frequently asked questions

What airport serves Reykjavik?

Reykjavik's main airport is Keflavik International Airport (KEF).

When is the best time to visit Reykjavik?

June–August has the mildest weather and nearly 24-hour daylight; September–March is better for viewing the Northern Lights on clear, dark nights.

Is Reykjavik a good place to meet someone flying from a different city?