Iceland Stopover Itinerary: Make the Most of Your Layover
What to do during a layover in Reykjavík?
There are multiple things to do during a layover in Reykjavík. But it all depends on the time you have at your disposal. If you have just a few hours in Reykjavík, you should aim for a nice walk around downtown. If you have a wider window, you can venture out of the capital and experience Icelandic natural hot springs and the sights on the way.
Iceland is a gateway between two continents. And the history of Iceland’s aviation industry is tied with offering affordable flights between America and Europe with a stop in Iceland.
Icelandic carriers like Icelandair have for a long time offered the option to extend the layover in Iceland for up to 48 hours for free. So there is no reason to say that you have technically been to Iceland while running between airplanes. Extend the layover and get a sample of the best things Reykjavík and the surrounding area has to offer.
Enjoy the mix of nature and urban charm within a short radius during the stopover by making the hours you have at your disposal count.
How Long Is Your Layover? Pick Your Adventure Wisely
First off, let’s get real about timing.
What you can do depends on how much time you have.
- Under 6 hours Relax and stay close to the centre. Reykjavík’s city center is small and easy to navigate. Meaning you can get a lot done in a short amount of time.
- 6 to 12 hours You get a little breathing room. Do some local hot springs or a short boat ride for whale watching.
- 12 to 24+ hours This is when Iceland really opens up. Classic Golden Circle tours, volcanic landscapes, and even the chance to catch the Northern Lights (if you’re lucky with the timing).
You might wonder if you can get out of the airport and back in time. Yes you can! Plan ahead and be mindful of the time you have left.
Short Stopover in Reykjavík (Under 6 Hours)
You don’t have hours to roam. No worries — Reykjavík’s size means you can see a surprising amount in just a couple of hours.
Start with Hallgrímskirkja, the iconic church that looks like something straight out of a dystopian sci-fi movie. It’s tower offers a 360 view of the city — a great way to snap some photos of the city from above.
From Hallgrímskirkja, head down to Brauð & Co, Iceland’s first hipster-craft bakery and try one of their cinnamon buns. Ask if they have anything fresh out of the oven but be careful, they are so delicious that you won’t mind the scolding pain of the oven hot buns until after you have devoured them.
Then head further down the hill to Laugavegur, the main street. It’s lined with quirky boutiques, gift shops and cozy cafés.The famous Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog stand is close by. It has become a do-like-the-locals landmark for tourists but for a very good reason. If you want to blow your cover, this is the place is worth it to blend in with the other tourists.
Go to one of Reykjavík’s local pools like Laugardalslaug, Vesturbæjarlaug or Sundhöllin. These pools are where Icelanders hang out and socialize. They are Iceland’s answer to the Pubs in England or Cafés in France. You don’t have to book in advance so you can just show up. But keep in mind that the public pools might be closed with short notice due to maintenance – so call in advance to make sure they are open.
Medium Stopover (6 to 12 Hours)
With more time, you get options to get outside the capital. You should relax at the natural hot springs at Hvammsvík Hot Springs, a 45-minute scenic drive from Reykjavík.
Hvammsvík is less crowded than the big touristy spot. Imagine taking a soak right by the North Atlantic, surrounded by untouched landscapes of an Icelandic fjord.
Another must is a short whale watching tour or a puffin watching tour from Reykjavík. They last from around two to three hours and give you a chance to see humpbacks or orcas. Nothing compares to seeing a whale blow meters away from you.
Long Stopover (12 to 24+ Hours)
If you’re blessed with a longer stopover, you’ve officially got a day to explore. This means a full Golden Circle day trip is totally doable.
Head first to the Geysir area. The geyser Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes.
Then go to Gullfoss waterfall. The raw power of that water is one of the most spectacular things to see in Iceland.
End with Þingvellir National Park, where you can literally walk between two tectonic plates — Europe and North America — a pretty neat reminder of nature’s power and Iceland’s unique geography. The park’s history as the site of the oldest parliament in the world adds some historic depth.
On the way back from Þingvellir, the Hvammsvík Hot Springs is a 15 minute detour from the main road.
The international airport is located on Reykjanes Peninsula which offers volcanic landscapes, geothermal areas and the famous Bridge Between Continents.
Getting From Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík when you don't have a lot of time
The airport shuttle is the best way to get to Reykjavík. It’s affordable, runs frequently and will drop you off in the city center. It’s better than any airport express train on the continent since you will enjoy the lunar-like scenery on the way. The buses have luggage storage if you’re not checking bags.
If you have a DIY mentality (or are in a small group), renting a car gives you the flexibility to travel on your own. Remember the roads can be tricky, especially outside summer.
Taxis and private transfers are available but tend to cost — sometimes doubling or tripling the Flybus cost if you are alone or in a small group. If you’re pressed for time it might be the best option.
Eat and Drink During Your Stopover
Icelandic food might not be what you expect. Think fresh, simple, and honest — with a few wild cards thrown in.
Try some of the local specialties like skyr, a creamy yogurt-like dairy product – technically a cheese – that’s packed with protein. Or grab some fresh seafood — Icelandic cod and Arctic char are staples, often served in bistros, food trucks and restaurants around Reykjavík.
For a quick snack, that hot dog stand again is legendary. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is an institution. Pair it with Coca Cola and you have the most common culinary denominator of Icelanders.
If you’re a beer fan, try some of the local brews. Ranging from mass produced and mass consumed lagers like Gull or to the more quirky micro brews and wild ales.
Practical Tips: Keeping Your Stopover Stress-Free
- Iceland’s weather changes fast, so pack layers. Waterproof everything, just in case.
- The currency is Icelandic crown (ISK), but credit cards are widely accepted..
- Keflavík Airport and some Reykjavík hotels offer luggage storage. That way, you can explore hands-free.
- SIM cards are easy to pick up and give you reliable internet on the go.
Reykjavík Layover Ideas
When you have a layover in Reykjavík, it’s best to prioritize the things you want to get done. And add some additional things you could do, it’s best to stay flexible.
- Hike around downtown Reykjavík. It’s not a lot of ground to cover and you can get a selfie in front of the most mandatory selfie spots.
- Grab an Icelandic hot dog. If the line for the OG is too long, there are multiple alternatives in both food trucks and small corner stores
- Have a relaxing soak in geothermal water. If you are extremely pressed for time, go to a local swimming pool. If you have a couple of hours more to spend, go to Hvammsvík Hot Springs.
- Visit the Grandi district. It has multiple activities and museums that enables you to experience Iceland without leaving the capital. And a lot of delicious dining options.
- Go to an ice cream parlour – no matter the weather. Get the classic soft ice cream in a cone with a chocolate dip. It’s the desert sibling of the hot dog.
In Summary
There’s plenty to make those hours count. Getting from the airport to Reykjavík is straightforward, and once you’re there, you can soak in the Hvammsvík Hot Springs, go whale watching, or stroll through the city’s best spots.
If time allows, the Golden Circle is within reach too.
It all fits nicely into most layovers, with clear routes and practical tips that keep things smooth and stress-free.
FAQs About Stopovers in Iceland
Q: What to do during a layover in Reykjavík?
A: It depends on how much time you have. If you have just a couple of hours, you can cover a big portion of downtown Reykjavík. If you have a longer layover, you could soak in some natural hot springs just north of the city or visit a museum.
Q: Can I leave the airport during a layover?
A: Yes, you can. Just remember to factor in customs and travel time back to the airport.
Q: How do customs and immigration work during a layover in Iceland?
A: You’ll go through regular immigration at Keflavík if leaving the airport, so have your documents handy.
Q: When’s the best time to do a stopover in Iceland?
A: Summer offers endless daylight and mild weather, while winter brings Northern Lights but shorter days.
Q: Are tours reliable in winter?
A: Generally, yes — but always check weather forecasts and tour cancellations.