24 Hours in Iceland (KEF Layover): Two Seasonal Micro-Itineraries by Car

A layover in Iceland is more than just a pause between flights; it is an opportunity to step onto another planet. Whether you are crossing the Atlantic or heading into Europe, a stopover at Keflavík International Airport (KEF) places you on the edge of the Arctic Circle, surrounded by moss-covered lava fields, steaming geothermal vents, and dramatic coastlines.

However, 24 hours in Iceland is a tight window. To make the most of it without missing your connection, you need a precise plan. You need a vehicle that suits the season, a route that respects your energy levels, and the local knowledge to navigate efficiently.

At Holdur Car Rental, we have crafted two distinct "micro-itineraries" tailored to the season of your arrival. These guides are designed to be time-boxed and fatigue-aware, ensuring you experience the magic of Iceland safely before returning your keys at KEF.

You'll find us, Höldur - Europcar, as soon as you arrive at Keflavík Airport. We are one of just three car rental companies with a service desk inside the terminal, conveniently located in the arrivals hall to your left after you pass through Customs.

Your rental car will be waiting in the airport car park just outside the terminal, and one of our staff members will happily guide you to it. This prime location means you won't need to take a shuttle bus to a separate rental facility; a short walk is all it takes to begin your journey.

The "Quick Exit" Checklist at KEF

Before you hit the road, you need to clear the terminal efficiently. Every minute counts on a 24-hour layover.

1. Advance Booking: Always book your vehicle in advance. This minimizes paperwork at the counter.
2. Document Prep: Have your driver’s license, passport, and credit card ready before you reach the desk.
3. Vehicle Inspection: Spend 5 minutes inspecting the car with our agent. Check for any pre-existing scratches or dents.
4. Connectivity: Ensure you have a GPS unit or a Wi-Fi unit added to your rental. Connectivity is vital for safety alerts and navigation.
5. The Weather Check: Before leaving the lot, check road.is for road conditions.

Related Resource: Choosing the right vehicle is crucial. Read our guide on How to Choose the Right Car Rental at Keflavík Airport
 to match the car to the season.

---

Itinerary 1: The Midnight Sun Sprint (May – August)

Conditions: Nearly 24 hours of daylight.
Driving Conditions: Generally clear roads, high visibility.
Focus: Scenic landscapes and major landmarks.

In summer, the sun barely sets. This allows you to drive safely late into the evening, avoiding peak tourist crowds at major sites. This route tackles a modified version of the Golden Circle, optimized for a loop starting and ending at KEF.

Leg 1: KEF to Thingvellir National Park (1 hour 15 mins)

Head immediately away from Reykjavík and toward Thingvellir. This UNESCO World Heritage site is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart.

• The Experience: Walk the Almannagjá gorge. Because it is summer, you do not need to worry about icy paths.
• Time Box: Spend 60 minutes here.

Leg 2: Thingvellir to Geysir Geothermal Area (50 mins)

Drive east toward the Haukadalur valley.

• The Experience: Watch the Strokkur geyser erupt every 6–10 minutes. It is a reliable spectacle that requires very little walking from the parking lot.
• Time Box: Spend 45 minutes here. Grab a quick sandwich at the visitor center.

Leg 3: Geysir to Gullfoss Waterfall (10 mins)

Just down the road lies the "Golden Waterfall."

• The Experience: In summer, you can walk right up to the edge of the tumbling water. The mist is refreshing, and rainbows are common in the afternoon sun.
• Time Box: Spend 45 minutes here.

Leg 4: The Return via Kerið Crater (1 hour to the crater, then 1 hour to KEF)

Loop back via Route 35. Stop briefly at Kerið, a volcanic crater lake with striking red slopes and aquamarine water.

• The Experience: A quick hike around the rim provides excellent photos.
• Time Box: Spend 30 minutes here.

From Kerið, drive through the town of Selfoss and take the southern coastal road (Route 427) along the Reykjanes Peninsula back to KEF if road conditions allow, or stick to Route 1 for speed.

Total Estimated Driving Time: 4.5 – 5 hours.
Total Sightseeing Time: 3 – 4 hours.

---

Itinerary 2: The Aurora & Geothermal Glow (September – April)

Conditions: Limited daylight (4–9 hours), potential snow/ice.
Driving Conditions: Requires caution; darkness comes early.
Focus: Safety, geothermal warmth, and Northern Lights potential.

Do not attempt the Golden Circle in deep winter on a tight layover unless you are an experienced winter driver. Instead, focus on the Reykjanes Peninsula. It is close to the airport, geologically active, and offers dark skies for Aurora hunting.

Safety Note: Before departing, review our guide on after-dark safety and driving in wind.

Leg 1: KEF to Bridge Between Continents (20 mins)

Start your Iceland layover itinerary with a short drive south.

• The Experience: A footbridge spanning a fissure between tectonic plates. It is well-marked and accessible even in snow.
• Time Box: Spend 20 minutes here.

Leg 2: Gunnuhver Hot Springs & Reykjanesviti (15 mins)

A short drive leads to the ghostly steam of Gunnuhver.

• The Experience: View Iceland’s largest mud pool from a safe wooden ramp. Nearby, the oldest lighthouse in Iceland stands guard on the cliffs.
• Safety Tip: The steam can limit visibility; drive slowly.
• Time Box: Spend 30 minutes here.

Leg 3: The Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon (45 mins)

Winter travel is cold. Warm up in geothermal waters.

• The Experience: The Blue Lagoon is famous and close to KEF. However, for a more "local" feel, drive 40 minutes to the Sky Lagoon near Reykjavík (Route 41).
• Time Box: Spend 2–3 hours here. This is your primary rest stop to combat jet lag.

Leg 4: Dinner in Keflavík Town (variable drive)

Instead of driving deep into the countryside for dinner, head back toward Keflavík town (Reykjanesbær).

• The Experience: Enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
• Aurora Bonus: If the sky is clear and the aurora forecast is good , drive 15 minutes out of town to Garður Lighthouse to scan the skies for Northern Lights before your flight.

Total Estimated Driving Time: 2 – 2.5 hours.
Total Sightseeing/Relaxing Time: 4 – 5 hours.

---

Fatigue Management: Hitting the Wall

On a 24-hour layover, your biological clock may be out of sync. Driving while exhausted is the single biggest danger for tourists in Iceland.

Recognizing the Signs

If you find yourself drifting across lane markers, forgetting the last few miles of road, or feeling irritable, you must stop.

Where to Rest Safely

• Designated Rest Areas: Look for signs marked with a picnic table or tree icon (M). Do not stop on the shoulder of the road; this is illegal and highly dangerous, especially in winter darkness.
• Swimming Pools: Almost every town in Iceland has a heated swimming pool. The parking lots are safe, well-lit places to take a 20-minute power nap in your car before going inside for a wake-up swim.
• When to Abandon the Plan: If snow begins to fall heavily or wind speeds exceed 15 m/s, cancel your remaining sightseeing stops. Head directly to the airport or a hotel in Keflavík. No waterfall is worth missing your flight or risking an accident.

---

Logistics: Parking, Charging, and Fueling

To ensure your return to KEF is smooth, manage your vehicle logistics before the final hour.

Parking in Reykjavík and Attractions

If you venture into the city or visit major sites like Thingvellir, you will encounter paid parking.

• How to Pay: Most sites use apps like Parka or EasyPark. Download these via airport Wi-Fi before you leave.
• Cameras: Many lots use license plate recognition. If you fail to pay via app or kiosk, the fine will be sent to Holdur and charged to your card with an administrative fee.
• Learn more in our detailed post on parking in Reykjavík.

Fueling and Charging

• Gas/Diesel: Fill up at the station in Keflavík town (e.g., Orkan or N1) about 5km from the airport. There is a station at the airport, but it can be crowded.
• Electric Vehicles: If you are renting an EV, plan your charging stops. The Blue Lagoon and major grocery stores in Keflavík have fast chargers.
• See our guide on EV road trips for charging map recommendations.

---

Cost & Time Table

Planning your budget and schedule is essential for a stress-free layover. Below is an estimation for a party of two.

Item	Estimated Cost (USD)	Estimated Time	Notes
Car Rental (1 Day)	$80 - $200	N/A	Varies by season & vehicle size.
Fuel / Charging	$40 - $70	15 mins	Based on approx. 250km driving.
Blue Lagoon Entry	$90 - $110 pp	2 - 3 Hours	Must book weeks in advance.
Food (Casual)	$30 - $50 pp	1 Hour	Gas station burgers or soup/bread.
Parking Fees	$10 - $25	N/A	Thingvellir, Kerið, & City Parking.
Total (Approx)	$370 - $600	24 Hours	Includes car, food, and activities.

Downloadable Resources

• Click here to download the Summer (Midnight Sun) Google Map Route
• Click here to download the Winter (Aurora) Google Map Route

---

Frequently Asked Questions: KEF Layover & Local Highlights

What are the best stops near KEF for a short layover?

Some of the most rewarding sites are just a short drive from Keflavík International Airport. The Blue Lagoon offers unique geothermal relaxation and is less than 25 minutes away. The Reykjanes Peninsula features the Bridge Between Continents, Gunnuhver hot springs, and Reykjanesviti Lighthouse—all accessible within an hour or less. These locations are ideal for maximizing your time without risking your connection.

Can I see the Northern Lights during a KEF layover?

Yes, if your layover is between September and April and the skies are clear, you may catch the Northern Lights close to KEF. Head to Garður Lighthouse or the dark areas along the Reykjanes Peninsula for some of the best aurora viewing away from light pollution. Always monitor the aurora forecast to increase your chances.

How far is the Golden Circle from Keflavík Airport?

The classic Golden Circle route starts about 1.5 hours from KEF. While a full loop is possible in summer, winter travelers should tailor their plans based on daylight and road conditions. For most short layovers, we recommend focusing on Reykjanes sights or a shorter Golden Circle highlight route.

Where can I safely rest if I get tired during my layover journey?

You’ll find official rest areas along the main roads, marked with signs. Many towns have heated swimming pools with safe parking lots, perfect for a quick rest and refresh. Always avoid stopping on road shoulders and prioritize designated areas for your safety.

Are there convenient fueling and charging options close to the airport?

Keflavík offers several fueling stations (such as N1 and Orkan) less than a 10-minute drive from the terminal. Multiple fast-charging points are also available for electric vehicles, including stations at the Blue Lagoon, grocery stores, and near KEF. We recommend topping off before starting your return to the airport to avoid delays.

What should I know about parking near Reykjavík and major attractions?

Parking at Reykjavík and popular attractions—including Thingvellir, Kerið, and the Blue Lagoon—typically requires payment, either at automated machines or via mobile apps like Parka or EasyPark. Download these apps before your drive to streamline your experience and help avoid unnecessary fines.

 

Conclusion

A 24-hour layover in Iceland is a thrilling "teaser trailer" for a future, longer trip. By choosing the right route for the season and respecting the elements, you can witness the raw power of Icelandic nature without compromising your safety or your flight schedule.

Whether you are chasing the Midnight Sun or hunting for the Northern Lights, the key is a reliable vehicle and a flexible mindset.

Ready to book your layover vehicle? Check availability at Holdur Car Rental today and turn your wait time into an adventure.

Search for a car!