What would you do during an 18 hour layover at Keflavik airport? Stay there and wait? That sounds dreadful. Leave the airport and sleep? Tempting. Rent a car and drive around the Reykjanes Peninsula? YES, PLEASE!!
Having arrived at 11:00 p.m., I left the airport and slept first, but then I returned and rented a car in the morning, determined to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula in the few, short hours afforded me. It was just enough time to pique my interest in Iceland, and I think that’s what the tourism board was hoping.
I suspect that Icelandair deliberately undercuts their competitors on flights between the United States and Europe. Budget conscious tourists will book with them, despite the long layovers at Keflavik. They know that you’ll leave the airport and do something – whether it’s simply hanging out in Reykjavik or using the time to take a drive.
It is clever, because I loved Iceland so much I want it to be a future travel destination rather than layover. Other travelers have told me the exact same thing.
Here’s one example why:
The Blue Lagoon. Tucked away in a field of volcanic rock, steam rises from a geothermal spa. The temperatures were cold on that early April day, and the winds fierce (note lifeguard with winter coat!), but I envied those people with enough time to cast off their cares and clothes and take a swim.
Next time, Iceland. Next time…
Jolene's Life in Focus 
You just reminded me of why I love Iceland so much. If you do return consider driving Route 1 which goes right around the island and takes a couple of weeks to do it justice. There are some amazing places.
I will definitely consider it! I’ve seen some amazing photos from that route.
Fascinating sequence.
Thank you!
you won´t believe me but I was checking the blue lagoon just a few days ago and started dreaming of being there!!
I think it’s a sign, Ellen. You should go! 🙂
Yessssss!!!!! 🙂
Aaron and I have 4.5 days there, coming up in 3 weeks; can’t wait! We are planning to visit The Blue Lagoon, rent a car and drive the whole island, and see as many worthwhile things as possible. I got the hankerin’, after a 3 hour lay over, years ago. Can’t wait, but thanks for this wonderful glimpse of what we’ll see!
It’s so amazing… You’re going to have so much fun!
I too would loooove to visit Iceland!
It’s such a fascinating place!
Blue Lagoon is just amazing: it’s relaxing and very good to the skin! If you still have some time in Reykjavik, walk around the city, it’s very nice and cozy! We have a trip tip of a great experience in Reykjavik.
Check it out: http://dothattipz.wordpress.com/category/reykjavik/
Do that! TripTipz team
Next time, I’ll have to visit the city of Reykjavik. I got so distracted by the countryside, I barely made it back to the airport in time!
I had a layover at Keflavik airport in 2001 but we decided we didn’t quite have enough time to justify renting a car. That small taster definitely made me want to return though. Some time hopefully I will. You might, therefore, be into something with the airline and tourism industry being in cahoots over layover times.
Yes! See! 🙂
I hope you do make it back someday. The whole east side of Iceland looked amazing too (in pictures), but of course I didn’t have near enough time to drive all the way there.
Looks very interesting! 🙂
It was! I’d never been anywhere like it.