Keflavik

Keflavík is the largest town on the Reykjanes Peninsula and home to Keflavík International Airport, making it the first place most visitors to Iceland set foot. Rather than rushing straight to Reykjavík, the town itself offers a surprising amount: a scenic harbour, interesting restaurants and fish-and-chips shacks, and the excellent Víkingaheimar (Viking World) museum housing the full-size replica longship Íslendingur.

The surrounding Reykjanes area has grown significantly in visitor interest since recent volcanic eruptions made the lava fields and fissures more dramatic than ever. Keflavík serves as a convenient base for exploring the Blue Lagoon, Gunnuhver geothermal area, Reykjanesviti lighthouse, and the Bridge Between Continents, all within 20–30 minutes by car.

Keflavík is 50 km south-west of Reykjavík via the Reykjanesbraut highway, with regular bus connections including airport transfers. The town makes a practical first or last stop for visitors with early flights, saving the cost of a Reykjavík hotel on a transit night. The harbour area has been upgraded in recent years with new eateries and a cultural centre.