Car rental Keflavik Airport

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Cheap Car Rental Keflavik Airport

Cheap Car Rental Keflavik Airport

Exploring Iceland – Car Rental at Keflavik Airport

A whirling, charming, world of its own, Iceland is a country that combines majestic natural wonders with quirky culture to create a truly one-of-a-kind place. This Nordic Island is situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, and it boasts an incredible landscape of volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, and waterfalls, each more beautiful and awe-inspiring than the last. In fact, the eye-catching scenery is easily some of the most photogenic in the world, from the huge geothermal hot tub that is the Blue Lagoon, to the black sand beaches and floating icebergs dotted around the country, all featuring in numerous internationally renowned television shows such as Game of Thrones. And, when you’ve had your fill of these incredible natural scenes, you can spend some time relaxing in Iceland’s fascinating capital city, Reykjavik. This urban environment perfectly merges authentic Nordic charm with an exciting modern lifestyle for a holiday that can’t be beat.

Keflavik International Airport

Keflavik Airport is Iceland’s largest international airport. Located approximately 50km southwest of the capital, Reykjavik, it receives over 8 million passengers a year, which is about 25 times the number of people that live in this stunning country. Not only that, but as the tourist scene in Iceland grows, so too does the airport.

Some facilities at Keflavik Airport include:

Airport Contact Details:

IATA: KEF
ICAQ: BIKF
Address: Keflavíkurflugvöllur, 235 Keflavík, Iceland
Phone number: +354 425 6000

Why Consider Car Rental in Iceland?

The major airport, Keflavik is situated around 50km away from the main city in Iceland, Reykjavik. This is where you will most likely be staying, so renting a car will get you there in the most efficient and cost-effective way. Public transport, although advanced, can take up much more of your time, whilst cabs in Iceland aren’t going to be kind to your wallet.

But, that’s not the only reason why you should rent a car in Iceland. No, the main reason to get a rental car here is because it’s the best way to experience all the breathtaking beauty this incredible country has to offer. It’s no secret why Iceland is at the top of many a travel bucket list. From glaciers and fjords to hot springs and the Northern Lights, Iceland’s stunning scenery is second to none, and the only way to see as much of it as possible is by getting behind the wheel and exploring to your hearts content without the limitations that come with relying on public transport.

Compare Car Rental at Keflavik Airport

Comparing rental cars at Keflavik Airport couldn’t be easier with HolidayCars.com. We pay particularly close attention to your unique requirements, laying out all the information you need in a no-nonsense way. That means all it takes is one quick glance for you to see which car rental deal ticks all of your boxes. Not only do we remain a hundred percent transparent with our costs, we are also highly trusted and experienced, so you don’t need to worry about a thing. We even let you change your booking up to 48 hours before you pick up your car for free.

HolidayCars.com offers rental cars from 18 of the world’s top suppliers at Keflavik airport. These include award-winning companies such as Europcar,, AVIS, and Alamo. Depending on what works for you, you can either visit the Car Rental Centre that is based in the airport itself in the terminal’s arrivals hall. Here you will find at least four car rental service desks for world-renowned companies such as Budget and Hertz. Or, you can prebook your rental car from a number of other agencies to pick you up and drop you off at the airport instead.

Driving in Iceland

Once you’ve got your rental car you’re going to want to jump straight in and get driving. After all, there is so much to see and do now you’re finally in Iceland. But, before you turn the engine on, make sure you do read up on the local laws to ensure not only your own safety but the safety of those around you. Plus, by having an idea of Iceland’s rules and regulations, you can also save yourself a hefty fine or two as well. In general, remember to drive on the right-hand side of the road, and overtake on the left, speed limits are in km/h and car headlights must be switched on at all times, day or night.

A few more tips for driving in Iceland:

Frequently asked questions about car rental Keflavik Airport

What’s the best area to stay in Iceland?
Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik is arguably one of the best areas to stay in Iceland. It is great for tourist opportunities, with plenty of things to see and do, such as visiting the Cathedral of Hallgrimskirkja, or the Arbaer Open Air Museum.
What is the cheapest time to go to Iceland?
September and May are the cheapest months to visit Iceland. Here the weather is breezier and you may see some snow on the shorter days, however the crowds are smaller and prices are much lower. Plus, you will get the opportunity to see the local wildflowers and do plenty of bird-watching.
What is the best time to go to Iceland?
For long days filled with sunshine and warm weather, June to August are the best months to visit, especially if you can deal with the increase in prices. It is the perfect time for getting outdoors, going on road trips, and enjoying the open, natural landscape.
Can you get around Iceland without a car?
Whilst it may be possible to get around a specific area of Iceland such as Keflavik town, then yes you can do so without a car. However, if you want to explore more of this incredible country then it is highly recommended that you rent a car in order to make the most of your visit to Iceland.
Tips and experiences for Keflavik Airport

Our customers rated Keflavik Airport with an average of 9.2 based on 53 ratings, and these are the most recent tips, experiences and highlights.

07-09-2021
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says:
I highly recommend getting the GPS system with the car rental. This saved us much stress and was very reliable. Also check the safetravel.is map every time before you head out. Weather changes quickly and can be different a few miles away. Rookie Tip: if you have a manual transmission and are not familiar with the car, make sure you know how to get the gear to shift into reverse before you drive away from the car rental. We were stuck in the Kronan parking lot until the car in front of us drove off and we could go forward. Eventually we found the reverse release on the shift stick but should have figured this out before we took off, lol! Loved Iceland and will be back!
23-06-2021
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says:
The upgrade from a small SUV to a bigger one was smoosh. The return procedure was simple and quick.
10-06-2021
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says:
Get local food, Iceland is culinarry paradise! Local beer is delicious! Try smaller local spa's - much cheaper and very good!
28-05-2021
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says:
Check the car over well Get the insurance coverage because of possible gravel Get the GPS Look at the paperwork! I didn't see the free coffee Use the gas discount button ! Be prepared for a great scenic drive
08-05-2021
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says:
The car rental process is pretty slow in Iceland, but they are friendly. We had a good experience when leaving the airport but returning the car took too long. You have to ‘take a number’ and it took quite a while to be called up to the counter. The return process could be much better - give yourself plenty of time. The car itself was good and clean. Average experience overall.
25-04-2021
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says:
Definitely rent a car! You can see Iceland on your own and see everything the tour companies charge hundreds of dollars for. The gps system is tricky and the roads are narrow! They have these rotaries that just pop up and it's kind of funny. Just follow the speed limits and try not to just stop in the middle of the road to take photos! Picking up hitchhikers also can be fun, they're not dangerous and have many insights on their adventures.
26-03-2021
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says:
Take advantage of the Icelandair Stopover, which lets you make an Iceland stay for 1 day (or more even) and have it simply be part of a regular flight that passes through Iceland. You need to know about it BEFORE booking your travel. We wish we had known about it ahead of time for sure.
20-03-2021
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says:
Keflavik airport itself was wonderful! There was lots of great food options for when we had our return flight, and tons of seating while we waited for our flight in the main cafe area. It is about 40 minutes from Reykjavik but there are plenty of buses that you can hire to travel to and from the city itself. The staff at the airport were wonderful and answered any questions we had! If you're spending time in Reykjavik definitely hit the Icelandic Phallological Museum and the Icelandic Punk Museum, these two museums are so unique and you will not find anything like them anywhere else. Also go on the free walking tour hosted by CityWalk.is, it's great to learn the history of Iceland and get great tips on how to save money while traveling around the country.
25-01-2021
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says:
its always good before taking the car. to check the car if is there not any undocumented damages on the car.
23-12-2020
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says:
Buy the full insurance package from Holiday Cars. It’s a bargain. Read the Icelandic road rules carefully, especially as they apply to right of way on roundabouts. Check weather and road conditions before you drive any long distance in Iceland. Observe the speed limit. Unmarked and marked police cars patrol Highway 1. Never attempt to drive on an F Road unless you have a dual range 4WD vehicle. Be adventurous and plan a drive around Iceland over a week. Ask what the rules are for parking in Iceland. You must display the time you parked on the dashboard. Take a drive to the Krauma thermal pools. Enjoy a drink in the pools, and treat yourself to dinner there before driving back to Reykjavík.
19-12-2020
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says:
Enjoy the decor including the lampshades
22-11-2020
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says:
Hertz are the agents for Firefly. Hertz are keen to sell there own insurance as well as that dold through Firefly. They eventually admitted that it was not required.
18-11-2020
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says:
Clean, lovely staff, good shops and decent coffee - really good airport and puts UK ones to shame
14-11-2020
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says:
Excellent airport! There is an arrival/help desk at the arrival area. You can ask the individual at the station to call a car company shuttle service if you don’t have a phone plan for Iceland. When picking a car rental company, some agencies have offices inside the arrival terminal, but everyone has to take a shuttle to the actual car areas. This could be helpful if you’re trying to pick a car based on the rental office’s location. All the car rental lots were less than 5 minutes away. They are also a very easy drive onto the highway towards Reykjavík, so no problems going through congested airport traffic,
30-09-2020
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says:
Great airport with loads of shopping options. Very modern with a speedy customs and bag collection process
14-09-2020
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says:
Keflavik airport is just 30min away from Reykjavik, capital city of Iceland. It is great place to rent a car, as Iceland is one of the most beautiful places I have been to. Traveling in Iceland can be very challenging due to changing weather conditions. So it is important to check the weather forecasts and not to take unnecessary risk. But it the weather allows car travel, you get the reward for your efforts. Just 90 minutes drive from Keflavik you can admire craters, geysers, waterfall, hot springs, beautiful mountains and glaciers. For all who prepare well for their visit to Iceland, there is great time guaranteed. It was one of the greatest family holidays we had. So some extra effort and cost pays well there.
21-08-2020
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says:
Airport is easy to navigate. Just be aware that there can be black ice on the roads.
29-06-2020
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says:
If you are only staying over only one night the cost of a rental car is less than 2 RT bus tickets into Reykjavik. If you are staying longer the flexibility offered by a rental car to see the outlying sights, especially the northern lights. I suggest a small car as parking is sometimes difficult in Reykjavik and the spaces are very small. I suggest making sure that your cell phone will work in Iceland or rent a GPS for directions as the signs in the city are limited. The food is fresh, prepared with care and healthy, you must try the yogurt while you are here. The longer you stay the better your odds of seeing the northern lights, but we will return for the hospitality and wonderful food. The English signs in the airport are lacking and a bit confusing so don't hesitate to ask for help.
02-06-2020
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says:
If flying into Iceland, opt for the FlyBus or rent a car in order to save on the VERY expensive taxis! Most of the eating options inside of Keflavic airport require you to show a boarding pass for an outgoing flight that day. Therefore, it may not be the best option to wait until you land to eat. I'd recommend bringing a snack with you and having a hearty (bottomless!) bowl of typical lamb or seafood soup at Icelandic Street Food when you get into Reykjavik! You can see most of Reykjavic in a day. Rent a car and drive around the Island when the weather is good! Even when it isn't, pack clothes for the rain and cold and do it anyway (just drive very carefully!)
16-05-2020
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says:
When travelling on WOW AIR be prepared that there are no services offered complementary even basic things like a pillow/blanket/water/entertainment etc. The plane is very cold , so should be prepared for that. Iceland is a great long layover place to visit. Rent a car and go out for a day or two and see the beautiful country.
23-10-2019
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says:
One thing I was surprised about with regards to the Terminal, is that people arriving are in the same areas as people departing. There is no separation.
22-10-2019
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says:
Take your time! Iceland is to be enjoyed and savored, like a fine wine. I saw so many people going so fast on such narrow roads, and in such a rush to get to their next destination. If you are prepared and focused on where you are going next, it is wonderful to take time to be mindful of your surroundings and the gorgeous scenery around you and will make your trip to Iceland everything it should be. Stay prepared and ready for Icelandic road conditions all over iceland with the website http://www.road.is
09-10-2019
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says:
Recommend going straight to the blue lagoon from the airport or before leaving Iceland as its so close. Visit the golden circle in one day and stay on the roads close to the lake. Don't eat yellow snow. Water proofs are essential. Invest in shoe ice grips. Change your left over korona in Iceland before returning home.
30-09-2019
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says:
I would suggest taking your own food and water bottles to Iceland as it is a very expensive country. Everyone was very friendly and we enjoyed our stay. The blue lagoon and northern lights tour were the highlights for us. Driving in the snow was very frightening as we aren’t used to it, but we took it slow and everything was ok. I honestly think that hiring a car made our holiday much more enjoyable- we were traveling with a 4 month old baby and the cost of going on coach trips would have made most things unaffordable, we also would have struggled on a tour operators schedule, but this way we were able to do things at our own pace. We absolutely loved our holiday and would definitely go back!
25-09-2019
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says:
Don't be scared about driving in winter in iceland but do be sensible. A 4wd is not necessary but I would recommend a heavy car, estaye/mid range car. If driving down the south coast stop as often as possible. In winter make the most of daylight even if you need to set off and arrive in the dark. Do not miss, Geysir, Jokularson glacial lagoon (or the one nextdoor with very few visitors). The peninsula the airport is on is also beautiful and not much visited, especially the national park.
22-09-2019
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says:
Look out for the self check-in kiosks to which there are plenty. The shopping is good and plentyful at each stage of our boarding progression. Didn't try the dining but there seemed to be plenty available. Allow plenty of time if boarding via gates D as we had to pass through passport control and the gate is a good 10 minute walk. All in all a pleasant experience throughout.
20-08-2019
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says:
Well, the most standard and exciting trip was the golden circle! You will see awesome waterfalls and the impressive geisers. It also gives you the chance to see the northern lights in the evening by the lake. Apart from that the south coast is amazing :). Around Reykjavik is also very handy to have a car as there is no good public transportation. The classic blue lagoon is also excellent to visit a few hours before going to the airport. A car will save you some money if you are planning to use transport companies in your trip!
21-12-2018
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says:
The ring road and everything around it, of course!
04-12-2018
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says:
Tourist should plan their trip by researching the attractions they want to visit. I have followed the 'Golden Circle' to see the Falls, Geysir, National park, Blue Lagoon etc. One road lead to all these destinations. We were very lucky to see the 'northern light' on our first night. Tourist who hires a car should follow tour bus because they are the expert on northern light. We followed a tour bus at night as suggested by our hotel receptionist and observed glorious beauty of the light.
29-11-2018
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says:
I would recommend going to Iceland during the winter months and, if you have time, do the full ring road. Most people only do the south but in my opinion the north is the better region of the country. There isn't quite as much to do but the landscape is breathtaking.
25-11-2018
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says:
I'd definitely recommend a 4wd car in every season... in this way you are safe and able to drive everywhere without many concerns even on the ring road... it was early March and we found some very heavy snowfalls... we could see that other "normal 2wd cars" were struggling a lot but we had ZERO issues and were always safe. Moreover in summer a 4wd is the ONLY kind of cars allowed in the F-roads that cross the highlands (not accessible in ANY way during winter) I recommend a tour of the so called "Golden Circle"...perfectly doable in a day and then to drive around the "ring road" to discover the many marvels of this incredible island. If the visit is in summer then a visit to the inner part is also a "must". Be prepared though... Iceland IS expensive!! (and I live in Switzerland!!!) In short, Iceland is a magical place that nature-lovers will surely want to visit over and over!
06-11-2018
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says:
Be aware of winter driving conditions - they can be brutal - always check roads.is and safetravel.is both excellent sites and updated every 10 minutes - heed their warnings! - also en.vedder.is excellent for weather. I live in a land of ice and snow and am used to winter driving conditions but Iceland surprised me - consider upgrading to an AWD or 4x4. Factor in expensive gasoline/diesel costs to your travel budget - also NEVER pass a gas station without filling up. Even though Iceland is relatively small there are long distances to be covered.
02-11-2018
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says:
Must see is Gullfoss and Geysir
28-10-2018
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says:
Drive as much as you can. Drive southbound towards Vik....the black beach...the lighthouse....the plane wreck....the waterfalls. Will never forget that trip of 4 days....ever
19-10-2018
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says:
Get out and explore on your own, no need to follow the masses!
13-10-2018
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says:
Iceland is a world in itself. Definitely recommend hiring a car as it gives you the flexibility to build your own itinerary and not be locked into a scheduled bus tour. Along the Golden Circle we stopped multiple times to see the Icelandic Horses and see the different landscapes and scenery Iceland had too offer. A road trip to the Black Sand Beach of Vik is highly recommended, with plenty of scenic and waterfall stops along the way. For the Blue Lagoon, it definitely pays to arrive early and pre-booking of a ticket is a must! Its true what they say, Iceland is definitely the land of Fire & Ice.
04-10-2018
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says:
Reykjavik, although small compared to other capital cities, does have a rush hour! Make sure you leave plenty of time to get round it if travelling to or from the North
02-10-2018
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says:
Just drive around country
30-09-2018
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says:
Go do the golden circle yourself on one day and go on the 1 towards Akureyri for like an hour or two to explore the small villages up north/west on a second day. If you have a lot of time go all the way to Akureyri and visit the Myvatn heated pools rather than the Blue Lagoon
08-09-2018
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says:
Go during summer when there's lots of light
06-09-2018
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says:
The ring road is easy to navigate and the vast majority of tourist attractions are easily accessible right off the road. The Golden Circle is definitely worth seeing but try to drive further out of Reykavik, especially in the South, as the scenery is incredible.
05-09-2018
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says:
We hired a cottage with a hot tub (essential to enjoy the winder/warm bath experience). We visited the Blue Lagoon, Gulfoss falls, Geyser, Stokkor, Grindivik and of course Reykjavik. Great experience and lucky enough to see the Northern Lights in full glory on New Years Eve. Would recommend to anyone
01-09-2018
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says:
Keflavik is a very nice town, though there is much more to see in Iceland. If you stay there for at least a week, you should drive around. Iceland has many beautiful waterfalls, geysirs, natural hot springs and of course the northern lights in winter. The Blue lagoon is a must-see also.
09-04-2018
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says:
Keflavik is really an airport town primarily suitable if you are leaving early in the morning. If that is not the case then I will suggest staying in Reykjavik - 45 minute drive from Keflavik.
05-04-2018
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says:
Great gateway to Iceland.
03-04-2018
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says:
Secret lagoon is better than blue lagon
24-03-2018
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says:
Rent a car en take a roadtrip around the island
13-03-2018
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says:
Great place. Looking forward to going back to Iceland and spending more time there.
28-02-2018
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says:
Be aware it's an expensive country to travel
08-02-2018
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says:
Do get the insurance for gravel protection, even the roads that are not F roads may have gravel. Stop and enjoy the scenery and anything that catches your interest. While the well-known places are certainly worthy of a visit there is so much more to see off the beaten path! Stay in the guest houses of the very hospitable Icelanders, they are wonderful hosts of their country.
17-12-2017
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says:
Consider seriously the trip around the island
12-09-2017
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says:
We had an amazing time in Iceland. The first day we spent driving to Fludir and stayed in the Icelander Fludir Hotel, then moved on to Gulfs and the Geyser and a drive down to Hotel Anna on the south coast. The following day we drove to the Black Lava beach which was great fun, and trust them when they say there are sandstorms!!! We then drove up to the Ion Adventure hotel and put the car through a real test as it was sheet ice everywhere, but the car was brilliant.
17-02-2017
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says:
Iceland was awesome.