How to Plan a Trip to Reykjavik
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Iceland needs.
Your 4-step Reykjavik plan
Step 1 — Book flights to KEF
Keflavík Airport (KEF) is the main gateway to Reykjavik. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to KEFStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Blue Lagoon (between airport + city) for the best first-time visit — Geothermal spa, 20 min from KEF, pre-booked entry €74-115.
Where to stay in ReykjavikStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Blue Lagoon (between airport + city), then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Reykjavik.
Things to do in ReykjavikStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Flybus + Strætó (to BSÍ Bus Terminal) is ISK 3,899 (€26) and takes 45 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
KEF arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Iceland is Schengen — visa-free for most Western passports up to 90 days. KEF has separate Schengen + non-Schengen sections — confirm gate during transit.