· IS

Keflavík

Keflavík, Reykjanesbær, Iceland

Keflavík, located in Reykjanesbær, Iceland, is a charming town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and modern amenities. Situated on the stunning Reykjanes Peninsula, Keflavík is a popular destination …

#Keflavík#Reykjanesbær#Iceland#Coastal town#International airport

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Keflavík.

Top Hotels in Keflavík

Top Flights to Keflavík

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Keflavík.

Tours

Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa

A world-famous geothermal spa with milky blue waters known for its healing properties surrounded by lava fields.

Bridge Between Continents

A symbolic footbridge across the Mid-Atlantic Ridge that connects the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Reykjanes Lighthouse Tour

Visit the oldest lighthouse in Iceland with a scenic view over the Atlantic Ocean.

Viking World Museum

A museum dedicated to Viking heritage with life-size ship replicas and Viking artifacts.

Duushús Cultural Center

Explore Icelandic culture through art, history, and regional exhibits at the Duushús Cultural Center.

Reykjanes Art Museum

A vibrant local museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic visual art.

Garðskagi Lighthouse & Café

Visit Garðskagi Lighthouse and enjoy a coffee with a view at the local café.

Keflavík Maritime Museum

Learn about Iceland's maritime history at the Keflavík Maritime Museum.

Shopping

Asbru Shopping Center

A shopping center offering a wide array of Icelandic products and brands.

Outdoor

Volcano & Lava Caving Adventure

Explore the volcanic landscapes and lava caves of Reykjanes for a thrilling outdoor adventure.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Keflavík.

Currency
kr | ISK | Icelandic Króna
Population
Information not available.
Languages
Icelandic, Polish, English, Spanish
Average weather
Keflavík
Jan
snow
2°-2°
Feb
snow
2°-2°
Mar
cloud
3°-1°
Apr
cloud
5°1°
May
cloud
8°3°
Jun
cloud
11°7°
Jul
cloud
13°9°
Aug
cloud
13°8°
Sep
rain
10°6°
Oct
rain
7°3°
Nov
rain
4°0°
Dec
snow
2°-2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Keflavík.

What people love

Traveling to Keflavík, located in Reykjanesbær, Iceland, has many pros which make it a fantastic destination for tourists. Here are some detailed reasons why you should consider visiting Keflavík:

  1. Gateway to Iceland: Keflavík is home to Iceland's largest international airport, making it the main entry point for travelers visiting the country. This convenient location allows for easy access to other popular destinations in Iceland.

  2. Blue Lagoon: Just a short drive from Keflavík, you can find the famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a must-visit attraction for relaxation and rejuvenation.

  3. Unique Landscapes: The Reykjanes peninsula, where Keflavík is located, offers a unique landscape with lava fields, geothermal areas, and rugged coastlines. It's a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring volcanic craters.

  4. Rich History: Keflavík has a rich history, particularly related to its strategic importance during World War II and the Cold War. Visitors can learn about the region's military past at the Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll and the Duus Cultural Centre.

  5. Local Cuisine: Keflavík and the surrounding area offer a variety of dining options where you can sample traditional Icelandic dishes such as fresh seafood, lamb, and skyr (a type of yogurt). The town also has a vibrant café culture.

  6. Northern Lights: Due to its location close to the Arctic Circle, Keflavík is an excellent place to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) during the winter months. Many tour operators in the area offer guided Northern Lights tours.

Overall, Keflavík offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation opportunities that make it a compelling destination for travelers to Iceland.

Enjoy your trip!

What to know

Traveling to Keflavík, located in Reykjanesbær, Iceland, does come with some potential cons:

  1. Weather: The weather in Keflavík can be quite unpredictable and harsh, with strong winds and frequent rain. This can make outdoor activities less enjoyable and may disrupt travel plans.

  2. Isolation: Keflavík is a relatively small town, and the surrounding area can be quite remote. If you prefer bustling city life or easy access to amenities, Keflavík may feel isolated.

  3. Cost of Living: Iceland, in general, is known for being an expensive travel destination. Accommodation, dining, and activities in Keflavík can be pricey, which may put a strain on your travel budget.

  4. Limited Public Transportation: While Keflavík is well-connected by road, public transportation options within the town and surrounding areas can be limited. Renting a car may be necessary to explore the region effectively.

  5. Tourist Crowds: Keflavík is a popular entry point for visitors to Iceland due to its proximity to the international airport. This can lead to crowded tourist attractions and accommodations, especially during the peak travel season.

Overall, while Keflavík offers stunning natural beauty and unique experiences, travelers should be prepared for potential challenges related to the weather, isolation, cost of living, transportation, and tourist crowds.

Keflavík, a town in the municipality of Reykjanesbær in Iceland, has a rich and varied history. Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, it is approximately 50 kilometers southwest of the capital, Reykjavík. Here is an overview of its history, significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

  • Settlement and Development: Keflavík's history dates back to the Age of Settlement in Iceland (9th-10th centuries). Its name means "Driftwood Bay," reflecting the importance of driftwood to the early settlers in a treeless landscape.
  • Fishing Town: In the 16th century, Keflavík emerged as a significant fishing and trading post. The abundant fishing grounds off the coast of Iceland have historically been crucial to its economy.

20th Century Developments

  • World War II: During World War II, the United States established a military base in Keflavík as part of the defense agreement with Iceland. The airfield built during this time became Keflavík International Airport, now Iceland's main international gateway.
  • Post-war Growth: After the war, the presence of the American military significantly influenced the town's economy and infrastructure. The base was a major employer and led to increased urban development.

Significant Events

  • Formation of Reykjanesbær: In 1995, Keflavík merged with the nearby towns of Njarðvík and Hafnir to form the municipality of Reykjanesbær.
  • Closure of U.S. Naval Air Station: In 2006, the U.S. Navy closed its base at Keflavík, marking the end of a significant era. This led to economic challenges but also opportunities for redevelopment.

Important Landmarks

  • Keflavík International Airport: The airport remains a critical infrastructure hub for Iceland, serving as the primary international gateway.
  • Viking World Museum: This museum in Keflavík showcases Iceland's Viking heritage and features a replica of the Gokstad Viking ship.
  • Duushús Museum: A cultural center located in historical buildings, it includes exhibitions on local art and history.
  • Stekkjarkot: A preserved Icelandic turf house that offers insights into traditional Icelandic life.

Historical Figures

  • Jón Þorsteinsson: A prominent merchant and shipowner in Keflavík during the 19th century who was influential in developing the town's fishing industry.

Keflavík has transitioned from a strategic military location to a vibrant community with a focus on tourism and cultural heritage, while still maintaining its roots in fishing and trade.