If you’re facing a layover in Iceland, you may be wondering about things to do at Keflavik Airport beyond grabbing a snack or finding a place to rest. This is a compact international airport with limited amenities, but it’s generally manageable for short layovers and workable for longer ones if you plan ahead. Options are practical rather than exciting, and knowing what’s available — and what isn’t — can make the time pass more comfortably.
1. Eat
Food options are limited, and prices are high even by airport standards, so it helps to arrive with realistic expectations. That said, there are a few Icelandic and Nordic-inspired options worth noting if you’re curious to sample local flavours. Cafés and casual counters serve items like skyr, Icelandic yogurt that’s thicker and less sweet than most versions abroad, along with soups, rye bread, and open-faced sandwiches. Joe & The Juice is available for smoothies and grab-and-go items, which many travellers rely on during short connections.
For something more substantial, sit-down restaurants focus on Scandinavian-style menus featuring fish, lamb, and hearty comfort dishes, though these can feel expensive for what you get. Late-night and early-morning travellers should plan carefully, as airside food outlets close overnight. Landside, a small convenience store remains open 24 hours and is often the most reliable option for snacks, bottled drinks, and basic food during off-hours.
2. Shop
Shopping is limited but distinctly Icelandic, making it a reasonable place to pick up souvenirs without leaving the terminal. The Blue Lagoon shop sells skincare products made with minerals and algae from Iceland’s geothermal waters, which are popular with visitors who don’t plan to visit the spa itself. Rammagerðin is a solid stop for Icelandic gifts such as wool items, sweets, salt, and small design pieces that reflect local culture.
You’ll also find 66°North, a well-known Icelandic outdoor brand offering jackets, base layers, and accessories suited to the country’s unpredictable weather. Even if you don’t buy, it gives a good sense of how seriously Icelanders take outdoor gear. The duty-free area is one of the airport’s stronger features, particularly for alcohol, cosmetics, and Icelandic treats, and prices here are often lower than in shops around the country.
3. Go sightseeing
With a layover of about eight hours or more, leaving the airport is realistic for many travellers. Some head into Reykjavik, while others choose the Blue Lagoon, which is closer to the airport and easier to reach on a tight schedule.
Airport bus services are the most affordable way to get around and are timed to arriving flights, though advance booking is recommended. Taxis are available at all hours but are very expensive. Luggage storage is available at the airport, which makes short excursions more comfortable if you don’t want to carry bags.
Reykjavik is compact and well suited to walking, though weather can be cold, windy, or wet year-round. Travellers often visit Hallgrímskirkja, explore the waterfront near Harpa Concert Hall, or stop into the National Gallery of Iceland or the Reykjavik Art Museum. Food-wise, cafés are plentiful and often a safer bet than seeking out more adventurous traditional dishes if you’re short on time. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Reykjavik.
4. WiFi
Free, unlimited WiFi is available throughout the terminal and is generally reliable.
5. Sleep
Sleeping in the terminal can be challenging. Signs indicate that sleeping and camping are not permitted in public areas, and travellers report that this rule is enforced landside. Airside, enforcement tends to be more relaxed, but space is limited and seating fills quickly during peak departure waves.
When available, quieter seating is usually found near Gates 7 and Gates 10–15, though this varies by time of day. The terminal is modern but exposed, with tile floors and large glass walls that make it feel cold, especially overnight. Warm layers are strongly recommended, even if you’re only resting briefly.
For guaranteed rest, a hotel is the only reliable option. One property is within walking distance, and several nearby hotels offer shuttle service. Details are covered in our Reykjavik Keflavik Airport Guide.
Updated 12 January 2026
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Keflavik Airport. Visit our Keflavik Airport Guide for more information about more services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.