Airport Transfer in Iceland from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik City one way

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, chances are you’ll be taking a shuttle from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik. We’ve looked into this particular transfer service, and it’s a popular option among travelers wanting a hassle-free start or finish to their trip. It’s simple, straightforward, and offers the convenience of pre-booking so you won’t waste time waiting in long lines when you land or before you depart.

What we really like about this experience is how easy it is to organize—especially with the mobile ticketing—and the extra comfort of free WiFi onboard, which can be a real lifesaver after a long flight. Plus, the roughly 45-minute journey means you get to relax shortly after landing and start soaking in Iceland’s atmosphere without stress.

However, a potential downside is that there’s some inconsistency in reviews regarding the service’s communication and the bus company’s operations. If you’re arriving late or have specific drop-off needs, it’s worth keeping an eye on those details.

This transfer service works best for those who value convenience and speed over a more personalized or direct hotel drop-off experience. If you’re arriving at Keflavik and want a reliable, budget-friendly way to reach Reykjavik quickly, this could be a practical choice. That said, being aware of the reviews and potential hiccups will help you plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Pre-booking guarantees your seat, saving time at the airport.
• The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, providing a quick transition from airport to city.
• Free WiFi onboard allows you to stay connected or plan your first steps in Reykjavik.
• The transfer operates on a schedule matching flight arrivals, making timing more predictable.
• Luggage allowance includes one suitcase and one carry-on, with some restrictions on oversize items.
• Customer reviews are mixed, highlighting helpful staff and smooth trips but also some confusion and communication issues.

Detailed Review of the Keflavik to Reykjavik Airport Transfer

How the Service Works

This shuttle service is designed to make your arrival or departure smoother. When you arrive at Keflavik International Airport, you’ll find the Airport Direct service desk in the arrivals hall. The buses are conveniently located just a one-minute walk from the arrivals area, so it’s easy to find without wandering around.

Your proof of purchase or mobile ticket is all you need—no need to print anything. Upon arrival, you simply show your voucher and hop aboard the orange bus, which is immediately in front of the airport. The process is meant to be seamless: load your luggage, board, and settle in.

The Journey to Reykjavik

The ride lasts about 45 minutes, a reasonable time that allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery. Some reviews mention that the bus isn’t always clearly marked, so it’s useful to double-check with the driver, especially if there are multiple buses going to different locations. The onboard amenities include free WiFi, which creates a nice atmosphere to catch up on emails or share your arrival with friends.

This transfer doesn’t include hotel drop-off or pickup, but there’s an option to add a connection with SmartBus from the Reykjavik Terminal to your hotel. This is handy if you’re staying nearby or want to complete your trip with minimal fuss.

Price and Value

At around $30.89 per person, this service is quite affordable — especially considering it’s a shared transfer. For many travelers, paying a little extra for the convenience saves the hassle of figuring out local transportation or waiting in lines. When you compare the cost to a taxi, which could be more expensive, this shuttle offers a decent balance of price and comfort.

Luggage Considerations

You’re allowed one suitcase and one carry-on bag per person. If you have oversized or extra luggage, it’s best to check beforehand, as restrictions may apply. This is particularly relevant for travelers bringing surfboards, golf clubs, or bikes, which might have limitations.

Customer Feedback: The Good and The Not-So-Good

The reviews are mixed, but there are some common themes. Many passengers praise the helpful staff, punctual service, and clean buses. One reviewer remarked, “The shuttle bus was at the airport and we were able to have our 3 suitcases loaded by a very helpful worker,” which speaks to the efficiency of the check-in process.

On the other hand, some reviews highlight issues with communication and operation. For example, one traveler was surprised to find the service no longer operated directly from the airport and had to navigate confusion between the different bus companies, leading to frustration. Others noted that bus markings aren’t always clear, and some drivers might not always be the friendliest.

A few reviews mention waiting times or miscommunications, such as needing multiple attempts to contact customer service, or being told different things about the drop-off points. Plus, there’s been feedback about buses being replaced or renamed, which can make it confusing if you haven’t checked the latest details before travel.

Who Is This Transfer Best For?

This shuttle service is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who value speed and simplicity. If you’re arriving late or want to avoid the expense of a taxi, this could be a good option. It’s also suitable for those who don’t mind a shared transfer and aren’t too particular about a direct hotel drop-off.

However, if you’re arriving with oversized luggage, or if you need a guaranteed hotel pickup/drop-off, you might want to explore other options or confirm the specifics beforehand. Also, for travelers who prefer more personalized service and clearer communication, some reviews suggest that this service can sometimes be a bit inconsistent.

The Itinerary & What to Expect

Arrival and Boarding

Once your plane touches down at Keflavik, you’ll head straight to the arrivals hall where the Airport Direct desk is located. The orange buses are parked just outside, making it a quick walk with your luggage. You can show your mobile voucher—no printing required—and board the bus effortlessly.

The Ride

The 45-minute drive offers some nice opportunities to enjoy the views of Iceland’s rugged landscape, especially on good weather days. The buses are air-conditioned, and the free WiFi adds a layer of comfort, perfect for checking your messages or browsing your trip plans.

Some travelers have mentioned that bus markings aren’t always clear, so asking the driver or being attentive can help avoid confusion. The bus schedule is aligned with flight arrivals, which helps in reducing wait times, but delays in flights can sometimes lead to longer wait times at the airport.

From Reykjavik Terminal to Accommodation

This transfer ends at the Reykjavik Terminal in the city. You can add a SmartBus connection from there to your hotel, which generally involves a brief wait and a short ride. This makes the overall trip flexible, especially for those staying in central Reykjavik.

The Experience Inside the Bus

The buses are described as clean, comfy, and warm, with helpful staff. Many reviews highlight the friendly and accommodating drivers, making the journey pleasant. The onboard WiFi is a bonus, especially after a long flight, so you can plan your next steps or share your first impressions of Iceland.

Potential Drawbacks During the Trip

While most reviews are positive, a few mention lighting issues or driver demeanor—sometimes a bit grumpy or unhelpful. Plus, if your arrival is during off-peak hours or late at night, the available buses and communication may be less reliable.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a cost-effective, straightforward way to get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik, this transfer service offers a lot of value. The pre-booking system ensures a seat, and the short 45-minute journey makes it ideal for those eager to get into the city quickly. The free WiFi and helpful staff add to the overall convenience, especially after a long flight.

However, be aware that reviews point to some issues with communication and clarity about bus operations, so it pays to double-check the latest details before your trip. If you’re carrying oversized luggage or prefer a more direct, hotel-to-hotel experience, you might want to explore alternative options.

This shuttle is a good fit for independent travelers who prioritize affordability and simplicity. It’s especially suited for those arriving during scheduled flight times and comfortable with a shared ride. Just keep in mind the potential for minor hiccups, and plan accordingly.

FAQ

Is this transfer service available for all flight arrivals?
Yes, the buses are scheduled to match all flight arrivals, so you should find a bus shortly after your plane lands.

Do I need to print my voucher?
No, you don’t need to print anything. Your mobile ticket or proof of purchase is enough to board the bus.

Can I add hotel drop-off from Reykjavik Terminal?
Yes, you can include a connection with SmartBus from Reykjavik Terminal to your hotel, making your trip even more seamless.

How much luggage can I bring?
You’re allowed one suitcase and one carry-on per person. Oversized or excessive luggage may require prior inquiry.

What if my flight is delayed?
Since the buses operate on a schedule aligned with flight arrivals, delays may affect waiting times, but generally, the service aims to accommodate common delays.

Is the bus service suitable for late-night arrivals?
It can be, but check in advance if there are buses running at your arrival time, as some reviews mention communication issues, especially late at night.

In the end, this transfer service offers a practical, budget-friendly solution to start or end your Iceland adventure. Just keep an eye on the latest info and reviews to ensure it fits your specific needs. Happy travels!