How to Get from Keflavik International Airport to Reykjavik University

The dedicated airport shuttle service is the gold standard for transfer between KEF and Reykjavik. Operated primarily by Reykjavik Excursions (Flybus) and Gray Line Iceland, these coaches are synchronized with flight arrivals and departures.

Why It's the Best for Most Travelers:

• Door-to-Door Service: The main coach takes you to BSÍ bus terminal. Then, a smaller "mini-bus" (included in Flybus+ or Gray Line "Hotel Pickup" fare) takes you and your luggage directly to your specified stop near Reykjavik University (e.g., University of Iceland, Háskóli Íslands bus stop).
• Flight-Guaranteed: Buses wait for delayed flights. If your flight is delayed, your transfer is automatically protected.
• Comfort & Facilities: Coaches are modern with free Wi-Fi, ample luggage space (typically 2 suitcases + hand luggage per person), and onboard commentary.

Step-by-Step Guide & Pricing:

Provider	Service	One-Way Fare (Approx.)	Travel Time	Booking Advice
Flybus / Reykjavik Excursions	Flybus+ (with hotel/stop transfer)	5,500 ISK ($42 USD)	45-75 mins	Book online in advance for the best price and guaranteed seat. Tickets are flexible.
Gray Line Iceland	Airport Express with Hotel Transfer	4,990 ISK ($38 USD)	45-75 mins	Often bundled with tours. Compare prices directly on their website.
Note: Return tickets offer a small discount. Fares are subject to change; check operators' sites for latest prices.

Deep Dive: The shuttle system is incredibly efficient. Upon landing, follow signs for "Buses" or "Ground Transport" in the arrivals hall. The sales desks for both companies are prominently located. Even if you've booked online, you may need to present your voucher. Coaches load directly outside. During the peak season (June-August), buses can be full, making advance booking crucial. In winter, services run reliably but schedules may be slightly less frequent.

Iceland's public bus operator, Strætó, offers the most economical transfer but requires a transfer and more planning.

Route & Details:

1. Route 55 (Airport Express): Take this bus from KEF Airport stop to the final stop, BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavik. Journey: ~45 mins.
2. Transfer at BSÍ: From BSÍ, walk to the adjacent city bus terminal and take a local bus to Reykjavik University.
   • Option A: Bus 6 (to Háskóli Íslands) or Bus 11/12/13/14 (to Nauthólsvegur). Travel time: 10-15 mins.
   • Option B: It's a 25-minute (2 km) walk from BSÍ to the University campus.

Cost & Practicalities:

• Fare: A single fare for Route 55 is 1,980 ISK (~$15 USD). You will need to pay again for the city bus transfer (~490 ISK) unless you have a transfer ticket or pass.
• Payment: Pay on board with exact change in ISK, by credit/debit card, or via the Strætó app. The app is highly recommended for planning, real-time tracking, and mobile tickets.
• Luggage: Space is limited to what you can hold on your lap or at your feet. Not suitable for large groups or those with multiple large suitcases.
• Frequency: Route 55 runs approximately every 30-60 minutes. Check the current timetable on Strætó's website, as service is reduced on weekends and holidays.

Who Should Use It? Solo travelers or couples on a very tight budget, with minimal luggage, who are comfortable navigating a bus transfer. For simplicity and convenience, the extra ~$20 for the direct shuttle is usually worth it.

For direct, hassle-free service to the university's doorstep, taxis and pre-booked private transfers are available. This is the most expensive option but offers clear advantages in specific situations.

Options & Price Comparison:

Service Type	Estimated Cost (One-Way)	Pros	Cons
Official Airport Taxi (Hreyfill/Borgarleiðir)	18,000 - 25,000 ISK ($135 - $190 USD)	Available 24/7 immediately outside arrivals. Fixed price to Reykjavik zones. Good for groups of 3-4.	Very expensive for solo travelers. Meter can run in traffic.
Pre-Booked Private Transfer (e.g., Blue Car Rental, Go Iceland)	15,000 - 22,000 ISK ($115 - $165 USD) for a standard car	Driver meets you with a name sign. Fixed, pre-paid price. Often cheaper than hailed taxis. Can book larger vehicles.	Still a high cost compared to buses.

When is a Taxi/Transfer Worth It?

• Late-Night/Early-Morning Arrivals: When public and shuttle buses are not running.
• Traveling in a Group (3+ people): The cost can be split, making it competitive with multiple shuttle tickets.
• Heavy Luggage or Special Needs: If you have mobility issues, excessive sports equipment (e.g., golf bags, diving gear), or very young children with car seats.
• Business Travel or Tight Schedule: When you need to go directly to a meeting or accommodation without any stops.

Warning: Do not accept offers from unlicensed drivers inside the terminal. Always use the official taxi rank or a reputable pre-booked service.

Keflavik Airport is the main hub for car rentals in Iceland. If your plans include exploring the Golden Circle, South Coast, or beyond, picking up a car immediately is logical.

Key Considerations:

• Cost-Benefit Analysis: Daily rental rates for a small car start around 6,000 - 12,000 ISK ($45 - $90 USD) in low season, excluding insurance and fuel. For a week-long stay, this often proves more economical and flexible than multiple shuttle trips.
• Driving to Reykjavik University: The drive is straightforward: take Route 41 towards Reykjavik, then follow signs for the city center and the University area (Háskóli Íslands). Parking at the university is limited and often requires a permit or payment. Use public parking lots (Parka) nearby.
• Rental Advice:
  • Book Months in Advance: Especially for summer. Use comparison sites like Blue Car Rental or Reykjavik Cars.
  • Understand Insurance: Gravel Protection (GP) and Sand & Ash Protection (SAAP) are highly recommended for driving outside Reykjavik.
  • Winter Driving (Oct-Apr): A 4x4 is strongly advised. Roads can be icy and weather changes rapidly. Check Road.is and Vedur.is before driving.

Verdict: Only rent a car if you plan to leave Reykjavik. For a city-centric stay at the university, it's an unnecessary expense and logistical hassle.

This table summarizes all key data to help you decide at a glance. Prices are approximate and subject to change.

Transport Method	One-Way Cost (Approx.)	Total Travel Time	Convenience / Effort	Best For
Airport Shuttle (Flybus+)	5,500 ISK ($42)	45-75 min	Very High (Direct transfer)	MOST TRAVELERS – Best value blend of cost & convenience.
Public Bus (Strætó)	1,980 ISK ($15)*	75-90 min	Low (Requires transfer)	BUDGET SOLO TRAVELERS – The cheapest option.
Taxi / Private Transfer	18,000 - 25,000 ISK ($135-$190)	45-60 min	Maximum (Door-to-door)	GROUPS, LATE NIGHTS, SPECIAL NEEDS – Most convenient.
Rental Car (per day)	6,000 - 12,000 ISK ($45-$90) + fuel	45-60 min drive	High (But adds parking hassle)	EXPLORERS – Only if touring beyond Reykjavik.

* Plus potential second fare for city bus transfer.

Insider Advice for a Hassle-Free Journey:

• Book Shuttles in Advance: This is the single most important tip. It guarantees your seat, often at a slightly lower price, and speeds up your exit from the airport. You can book as late as when you collect your luggage if you have data.
• Download Essential Apps:
  • Strætó App: For public bus schedules and tickets.
  • Vedur.is / SafeTravel.is: For weather and road condition alerts.
  • Parka App: For paying parking in Reykjavik if you rent a car.
• Currency & Payments: Iceland is nearly cashless. A credit/debit card (with a PIN) is used for everything, including bus fares and taxis. You do not need ISK cash for the transfer.
• Dress for the Weather at Arrival: The walk from the terminal to buses/taxis is short but can be very windy, rainy, or cold. Have your outer layer accessible in your carry-on.
• Luggage Tip: If you are staying in Reykjavik before/after your university visit, some tour operators (and the BSÍ terminal) offer luggage storage for a fee, allowing you to explore freely.
• University-Specific Tip: The main campus area is served by several bus stops: "Háskóli Íslands" (main building), "Nauthólsvegur" (by the sports facilities), and "Vatnsmýri" (science buildings). Confirm the closest stop to your destination with your shuttle driver or on the bus app.