Virtually all international arrivals come through Keflavík International Airport (KEF) (tel. 425-6000), about 50km (31 miles) southwest of Reykjavík. KEF is sometimes called “Leifur Eiríksson Air Terminal” or “Reykjavík Airport,” even though Reykjavík has a small, domestic airport in the city proper, Reykjavík City Airport. Extensive renovations to Keflavík International were completed in 2007, and the airport sees nearly 9 million passengers each year. Arriving passengers must go through another security check before clearing Customs. The airport has a tourist information desk with brochures galore, but the staff cannot make hotel or tour reservations.
Until recently only Icelandair and WOW Air flew to Iceland, but many additional airlines have opened up routes. Peak season is June to August, plus the 2 weeks before Christmas and the 2 weeks after the New Year.
Icelandair (tel. 800/223-5500 U.S. and Canada) flies to Keflavík from 21 North American cities. Flights from North America are usually overnight, though from May to October daytime flights are available from New York and Boston a few times per week. Icelandair offers a good range of discount packages combining airfare, hotels, and sometimes tours. Midweek flights are often significantly cheaper. Fares between the U.S. and Europe can include a free stopover for up to 7 days in Iceland. All fares, except for some special offers, are discounted for children under 12.
Duty-Free Alcohol
Alcohol prices in the airport may seem high, but they’re far lower than elsewhere in Iceland, so consider buying duty-free before you leave the airport. Icelandair prohibits alcohol from being transported in carry-on luggage, so if you’re taking this airline and want to buy duty-free, wait until you arrive in Keflavík. Customs limits you to 1 liter of wine or 6 liters of beer, plus 1 liter of spirits. If you’re not carrying spirits or beer, then you can bring in 2.5 liters (5.3 pints) of wine.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
