Best 6 Things to Do Near Keflavík Airport

Being stuck in an airport on your layover is not how you’d want to spend your vacation. Or maybe you’ve been anticipating an Iceland trip for so long that you can’t wait to start exploring the minute you land in Keflavík. Luckily, there are plenty of things to do near Keflavik Airport, from dramatic coastlines to geothermal spas, all just a short drive away. Reykjavík’s international airport is perfectly positioned near an exciting array of attractions that can be explored in a rental car.

Step Into Viking World

Embrace Iceland’s Viking heritage right after you’ve touched down with a visit to Viking World in Keflavík town. At the heart of the museum is a striking replica of the Gokstad ship, known as Íslendingur (“The Icelander”). Inspired by the original vessel unearthed in Norway over a century ago, Icelandic craftsman Gunnar Marel Eggertsson built this impressive reconstruction, which now takes pride of place at Viking World in Keflavík.

The museum takes a deep dive into Viking history with boats and artifacts documenting their epic voyages. But that’s not all. Alongside history, the museum’s location is also a viewpoint showcasing Iceland’s stunning sea views.

Location: Reykjanesbær, Víkingabraut 1, 260 Njarðvík, Iceland

Distance: 11-minute drive via Reykjanesbraut/Route 41

Opening Hours: 9 am to 4 pm (7 days a week)

Visit the Giantess in the Cave

Tales from Icelandic folklore never cease to captivate. One such fairytale has been brought to life with a life-sized effigy of a dormant giantess cradled in her cave. Nestled in the town of Reykjanesbær, the Giantess in the Mountain (Skessan í hellinum) is a beloved local attraction based on a children’s story by author Herdís Egilsdóttir. 

The cave itself offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to step into a storybook, complete with cozy furnishings and lifelike details that make it feel like the giantess could wake at any moment. This whimsical stop near Keflavík Airport adds a touch of magic to your Icelandic exploration.

Location: 2C5W+H6X, Bakkavegur, 230 Keflavík, Iceland

Distance: 8-minute drive via Route 45 or Route 41

Opening Hours: 10 am to 5 pm (Sunday to Saturday)

Have a Bite at Kökulist Bakery

Kökulist has been around for decades, and for good reason. You can devour gourmet sandwiches, tear apart freshly baked goods, or snack on some ice cream and sweet treats. The locals can’t get enough of this place, and its convenient location makes it a delicious addition to your list of things to do near Keflavik Airport. Stop by and discover why it’s a favorite among travelers and locals alike.

Location: Reykjanesbær, Hólagata 17, 260 Njarðvík, Iceland

Distance: 9-minute drive via Reykjanesbraut/Route 41

Opening Hours: 7 am to 6 pm (7 days a week)

Rock N’ Roll at Icelandic Museum of Rock

Rock and pop music have quite a history in Iceland with the fishing town of Keflavík nicknamed ‘Beatle Town’ in the ‘60s and ‘70s. You don’t have to be a pro like Björk, Sigur Rós, or Daði Freyr to belt out your favorite tunes at the museum’s karaoke booth. Just remember to grab a T-shirt from the Rock N’ Roll souvenir shop. It’ll have locals talking as you tour the country.

Location: Reykjanesbær, Hjallavegur 2, 260 Njarðvík, Iceland

Distance: 9-minute drive via Reykjanesbraut/Route 41

Opening Hours: 11 am to 6 pm (7 days a week)

Step on The Bridge Between Continents

You don’t have to wait for your Golden Circle trip to step on the tectonic plates between continents at Þingvellir. Less than half an hour from the airport lies a metal bridge that straddles the gap between the Eurasian and North American plates. This massive fissure has been growing by 2.5 cm every year.

Don’t forget to snap a souvenir photo on this footbridge across the mid-Atlantic rift!

Location: V89F+8QH, 233 Hafnir, Iceland

Distance: 21-minute drive via Hafnavegur and Nesvegur

Opening Hours: 24/7

Unwind at the Blue Lagoon

Whether you’ve got a couple of hours on your layover or would like to start your Iceland trip by relaxing at the Blue Lagoon, the latter’s proximity to KEF Airport means visitors can easily take advantage of it. Lather on a silica face mask and soak in these mineral-rich milky waters. Even the entry-level package offers a complimentary drink and luxury toiletries, so you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy its perks.

Location: Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík, Iceland

Distance: 22-minute drive via Grindavíkurvegur

Opening Hours:

Summer opening hours -  June 1-August 20 - 7 am -12 am

Winter opening hours - August 21-May 31 - 07 am - 10 am

Most people associate Keflavík solely with Iceland’s largest international airport, but there’s so much more to discover. From charming local gems to unique cultural attractions, there are plenty of things to do near Keflavik Airport that make it well worth exploring. Whether you're just arriving, about to depart, or looking for a memorable day trip from Reykjavík, this vibrant town offers a perfect taste of Icelandic adventure. So grab your rental car, hit the Icelandic road, and uncover the magic waiting just beyond the runway.

Book your car rental from Keflavík Airport today.