Keflavik is probably one of the best known cities in Iceland because the main international airport of the country is located there. This city is part of Reykjanesbaer area on the south westerns coast of Iceland. There are many things to do and exciting plans in and around Keflavik airport, here I give you some ideas:

Duushús Museum

Inside the Duushús Museum you will find the Reykjanes Heritages Museum, between its numerous exhibition halls. They have exhibitions about the NATO presence on the island, the winter fishing season, etc. There is even a representation of an Iceland home from the 50s.

The NATO Base

This Former U.S. Naval Station was close to Keflavik airport and the American Army built it during the World War II. The goverment closed it on 2006 and the Icelandic Defence Agency took over the facilities

Viking World

This is amazing museum just 10 minutes away from Keflavik international airport. This building is the inspiration of the famous architect Guðmundur Jónsson. Its inauguration was in 2009. You can see how a Viking ship is and even go on board, you will learn about how the Vikings life was back in time. My advice is to book online in advance, as you will get a 10% discount on your tickets!

The Blue Lagoon

As we explained on a previous post, the Blue Lagoon is a fantastic place to visit either if just arrived to the country or if leaving on the same day, as it’s conveniently located really near the Keflavik airport. Relax at their amazing outdoor pools, get a massage in the water or spoilt yourself with a lunch at Lava Restaurant.

The Giganta’s Cave

Have a walk in Keflavik’s Main Street besides the sea and you will get to the Giganta’s Cave on the edge of a hill. You can get inside and see the giantess! This is a free and funny place to visit if coming with children and you will also enjoy the views from the harbour.

The Night of Lights

This is a family and Cultural festival anyone can enjoy during the first weekend of September. At this time days start getting shorter and nights gets longer. This event last now four days and ends on Sunday with fireworks. There are hundreds of event on each festival edition year by year.

National Park of Þingvellir or Thingvellir

To locate it in the map, look next to Reykjanes Peninsula, in the volcanic area of Hengill. It’s one of the most important places for Icelandic History, as the Alþingi first meeting was here. The Alþingi is Iceland’s government and one of the oldest national parliaments of the world. The first meeting took place here in 930. In this fabulous park you can also check out the continental drift, as one the biggest faults of the country is here, the  Almannagjá is the cause of many earthquakes in the area.

Things to do in and around Keflavik airport

Stekkjarkot

One of the best things to do around Keflavik airport is to visit Stekkjarkot which is an example of the old Icelandic fisherman cottages. The first cottage dates back to 1855, it had several dwellers but ended up abandoned 30 years later. Then there was an attempt to revive it and its owners refurbished it. It remained abandoned for some years until now. It’s free to visit and remember if visiting in winter you need to book on request.