Don’t spend hours waiting around the airport for your flight when you arrive to Iceland at Reykjavik-Keflavik International Airport, or in Akureyri! Take advantage of being in the remarkable country of Iceland by exploring restaurants, visiting popular attractions, or just relaxing at a spa for a few hours before you board your next plane. You are only 30 minutes from downtown Reykjavik, and the airport is small enough to make it exceptionally easy to get out and even rent a car if you want to. If you end up in Akureyri, Iceland's other main city, it's even easier to get out and explore. Here are Tripping.com’s 7 recommended activities for a layover in Iceland.
Make The Most Out Of Your Layover In Iceland
1. Blue Lagoon
Grindavik, Iceland
The Blue Lagoon is the ultimate place to relax, from the sauna and steam rooms to the Silica mud face mask and geothermal seawater. There’s even a man-made waterfall that will relax any tension and stiffness you have in your muscles after spending hours seated on a plane. Blue Lagoon is only a 20 minute ride from Keflavik International Airport. Don’t worry about your luggage while you’re out relaxing because Blue Lagoon has ample luggage storage available to fit even your largest carryon.
2. Dill
Why not try some of the best food in Iceland while you’re on your layover? Dill serves gourmet food, with an emphasis on serving local, seasonal ingredients. Although many traditional New Nordic ingredients are used, the famous chefs are known for adding their own creative flair. Expect the unexpected since the dinner menu is changed on a weekly basis!
3. Ion Spa
Nesjavellir, Iceland
Ion Spa allows your entire body to relax. Start with a cup of tea made from authentic Icelandic herbs and then warm yourself up in the sauna. Receive a facial, a foot massage, or both! There are several different spa packages available depending on what you are looking for. Treatments range from 30 to 90 minutes.
4. National Museum of Iceland
Immerse yourself into the Icelandic culture by learning about the country’s history at the National Museum of Iceland. The Museum’s permanent exhibit is the Making of a Nation, which demonstrates how Iceland has evolved from when it was first settled to modern day. For interactive and hands on learning about Icelandic culture, check out the second floor!
5. Perlan
Have you ever eaten on the top floor of a glass dome? How about a glass dome that has a revolving floor? When you eat at Perlan you can enjoy a four-course meal while viewing the beautiful city of Reykjavik from all angles.
6. Ambassador Whale Watching
Akureyri, Iceland
Instead of hanging around the airport, take advantage of Iceland’s wildlife by going on a whale watching tour! Once aboard the Ambassador boat, you can treat yourself to a sandwich and beer while you look for whales. There are six viewing platforms and two walk around decks!
7. HallgrÃmskirkja Church
Wondering what that tower is that you can see from almost anywhere in Reykjavik? HallgrÃmskirkja Church is one of the most popular tourist spots in all of Iceland. From the top of the 73 meter high tower you can look down at Reykjavik, see the mountains, and the ocean. While your inside the church, you can check out the country’s largest concert organ, which is called the Klaisorgan, and attracts organists from around the world.
This article was written by Colleen Regan.