Most visitors to the island’s first port of call will be Keflavik International Airport. After that, many immediately depart to the capital city of Reykjavik and start their Icelandic adventure from there. But this approach will have you miss out on a number of things to do in Keflavik (the town nearest to the airport).
So, before heading towards Reykjavik, stick around and visit Keflavik and its surrounding area – you’ll be surprised how many impressive sights and activities you’ll find other than just the airport.
What is Keflavik Known For?
As you can imagine, Keflavik is mostly known for its international airport by the same name. But this town has much more to offer. Here’s what you need to know:
- Keflavik is also part of the Reykjanes region, just like Reykjavik, and sits in the southwest of Iceland.
- It is part of the Reykjanesbær municipality that boasts the largest population in Iceland; over 15,000.
- Keflavik International Airport has existed since the 1940s, just not as it’s known today. It was once a refueling airport for the US military and became even more important during the years of World War II. After the war, the military essentially gave the airport to Iceland, but the last of the US personnel only left in 2006.
- Because of its location in the south of Iceland, Keflavik is known for having much milder weather than the towns and cities further north. For example, temperatures in summer can reach highs of 14° C (57° F), lows of 7° C (45° F), and an average of around 10° C (51° F). During the winter, you’re looking at highs of 3° C (38° F), lows of -1° C (30° F), and an average of 1° C (34° F).
Interesting Things to See and Do in Keflavik
Below are a few interesting things to see and do in and around Keflavik you can consider adding to your trip itinerary:
Icelandic Museum of Rock ‘n’ Roll
The name of the Icelandic Museum of Rock ‘n’ Roll can be a bit misleading since you’ll be walking down memory lane of many genres of music from some of the artists who came out of Iceland. This is often surprising to visitors who never knew that bands such as Of Monsters and Men are actually Icelandic.
View this post on Instagram
Viking World
Viking World is exactly what it sounds like: you can enter the world of the Vikings here on their original home turf and discover their history and how they lived, get close to archaeological finds, and even get a close-up look at an authentic Viking ship. Viking World makes an exciting outing for the entire family.
View this post on Instagram
Duus Museum
Duus Museum is a cultural combo destination where you can check out the art in the Art Museum halls as well as learn more about the area at the Heritage Museum. So, if you consider yourself a bit of a culture fundi, Duus Museum is not to be missed.
View this post on Instagram
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal pools and has such a unique aesthetic with its milky bright blue waters that it’s even featured in a few Hollywood movies! Here, you can lie in the warm water (proven to have healing properties), grab a drink or a bite to eat, or get pampered at the on-site spa.
Reykjanesviti Lighthouse
Reykjanesviti Lighthouse, built in 1878, is officially the oldest lighthouse in Iceland. It stands on the tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula, where it has guided sailors to safety for centuries.
Well, at least the concept of the Reykjanesviti Lighthouse, since the original had to be completely demolished in 1905 and rebuilt after severe damage caused by earthquakes and the ocean. So, the one we see today is the Reykjanesviti Lighthouse 2.0 version.
Keflavik Harbor
Keflavik Harbor is also one of the oldest here on the island. Although you won’t find any particular landmarks or natural wonders here, many take a leisurely stroll along the harbor banks, breathe in some fresh air, and look out over the water.
Skessuhelir, the Giantess Cave
The Giantess Cave promises to be the ultimate family fun. This cave, found on the waterfront of Keflavik, is literally a storybook come to life. It is the home of one of the most beloved children’s book characters here in Iceland; Giganta, the Giantess.
In true giantess fashion, everything in her house is huge – and available to be explored! So, step into Giganta’s shoes, take a snap next to her giant dress hung out to dry, and take a selfie with the legend herself as she sits in her giant chair.
View this post on Instagram
Kleifarvatn Lake
If you’re looking for one of the most peaceful and tranquil spots near Keflavik, Kleifarvatn Lake is it. It is the largest lake in the district, covering 9.1 square kilometers (3.5 square miles), and it is a go-to among locals and visitors alike for everything from leisurely strolls and hikes to birdwatching and fishing.
Just remember that you need a permit to fish at the lake. You can purchase a recreational fishing permit from the Directorate of Fisheries here in Iceland.
Traveling Keflavik & All Its Exciting Sites and Attractions
If no one has told you yet, the best way of exploring the island is by hitting the road, and you’ll find that the most convenient and affordable way of doing that is by renting a motorhome in Iceland. Here’s why:
- A motorhome will allow you to stay at our super affordable campsites, where you can truly immerse yourself in the breathtaking Icelandic landscape.
- A motorhome means you can now go camping in comfort without having to “rough” it Bear Grylls style. Not only will you have all your creature comforts inside the camper, but you’ll also find that most camper campsites have all the essential amenities and facilities, including WiFi.
- You’ll also be extending the camping season when you go camping in a motorhome. That’s because, from late fall till early spring, conditions are not ideal for traditional camping, with the cold, winds, ice, and snow making things very uncomfortable. However, these conditions are no match for a motorhome, and you’ll still be able to go camping despite the seasons changing.
- We don’t know about you, but being able to walk back to the parking lot of one of our many attractions, such as Kleifarvatn Lake, Keflavik Harbor, or Reykjanesviti Lighthouse, and having a nice relaxing coffee soaking up the views, gives these outings just that little bit of extra flair of convenience and comfort.
- Many are tempted to book spots on day tours in and around Keflavik. Not only can that become very expensive very quickly, but it also means someone else is captaining your Keflavik adventure. From where you stop to how long you stay - when you’re part of a tour group, these will all be predetermined. But if you’re cruising the island in your motorhome, you’ll have the freedom and flexibility to decide how and where to spend your time.
How to Rent a Motorhome at Keflavik Airport
Renting a motorhome at Keflavik Airport is pretty simple. We highly recommend you book your rental motorhome well in advance, though, especially if you plan on visiting during our busy summer season. The last thing you want to do is plan a motorhome road trip around Iceland only to find that all the motorhomes have been rented.
Once you arrive at Keflavik, make your way to the entrance of the airport, where you’ll need to catch a shuttle to the rental agent lots, just a short drive away. There, you’ll need to get all the official paperwork out of the way. For this, you won’t need an international driver’s permit. But you will need a valid driver’s license from your home country that’s in a language understood here in Iceland. When you rent your motorhome, please keep the following in mind:
- Ensure that your motorhome will be able to handle your planned route. If you have some unpaved roads on your route, it might be better to go the 4x4 motorhome route. And if you’re planning on driving on a few F-roads, a 4x4 will be a legal requirement. You can always chat with your rental agent if you’re feeling unsure.
- You also need to ensure you have sufficient rental insurance on your motorhome. Although some basic insurance is mandatory and already included in your rental package, there are others that may be essential for your specific route. For example, those traveling along the coast should think of getting Sand and Ash Protection, and those exploring unpaved routes will need some Tire Insurance.
- Only rent your motorhome from a reputable rental agent like Motorhome Iceland. Do your due diligence and read online reviews. Also, make sure they’re actually locals; equipped with the insider knowledge to serve you best.
- Make sure you get all the additional extras you may need for your trip. For example, snow tires are a legal requirement during the colder months of the year, and an ice scraper can come in super handy. Ask your rental agent what’s included and what can be rented at an additional cost.
Conclusion: Is Keflavik Worth Visiting?
With so many things to see and do in Keflavik and its surroundings, visiting Keflavik is definitely worth it. So, why not start your Iceland journey from this town? Rent a motorhome in Iceland to make your trip around the island much more convenient and affordable, and make Keflavik your first pit stop on your road trip.
