GETTING TO AND AROUND ICELAND
The two major Icelandic airlines,
Icelandair and Iceland Express, serve the vast majority of those
who visit Iceland. Their network reaches over 30
destinations in Europe in North America. Additionally, during the
summer time, there are several charter airlines, mainly from
various locations in Europe, offering flights to Iceland.
Direct flights to Iceland are available from all
major cities in Europe and North America, including Paris,
Barcelona, Glasgow, Oslo, Stockholm, Helskinki, London,
Berlin, Amsterdam, Boston, New York, Orlando and Seattle.
Iceland is not as far away as you might think.
Flight times from the majority of destinations in Europe are
usually no longer then 3-4 hours.
With the Schengen Agreement, entry into Iceland
has been facilitated; nevertheless you should always carry a
passport or personal ID valid for 3 months after your
departure.
The Leifur Eiríksson Terminal at Keflavik International Airport
(50 km from Reykjavik) is the gateway for most passenger flights
and air-freight flights to and from Iceland. Unveiled in April
1987, the terminal is small by international standards but
remarkable both for its ease of use as well as its comfort,
spaciousness and relaxing atmosphere.
The airport is open 24 hours per day and offers a good selection
of shops and stores. All retail sale and services operated in the
departure hall are located within the Duty-Free Zone and the goods
and services available here are very competitive, compared to other
European airports.
When arriving, passengers should stroll straight downstairs to the
Arrival hall where, unlike most international airports, tax- and
duty-free goods are available upon arrival.
Iceland can also be reached by ferry. Throughout
the year the Smyril Line "Norræna" maintains a regular scheduled
cruise- and car-ferry service to Seyðisfjörður/Iceland from Denmark
and the Faroe Islands.
There are also a number of local ferry services connecting
ports.
GETTING FROM THE AIRPORT AND AROUND ICELAND
The Flybus airport shuttle between
Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavík makes numerous trips
over the day - every day of the week. It departs from Keflavik
Airport approximately 30-40 minutes after all arriving
flights. Passengers are dropped off at major hotels and
guesthouses in Reykjavík. The distance between Keflavik Airport and
Reykjavik is 50 km and the drive takes 50-75 minutes.
Car-rental agencies are found at
Keflavik Airport and also in most major towns and at the national
airports. When renting a car, remember to bring along your credit
card.
Local transport includes municipal
buses, and taxis which can also be hired for sightseeing. Have in
mind that the taxis cost rather more than a bus fare.