Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Keflavik Airport (KEF) to the University of Iceland is the Flybus shuttle (or competitors like Gray Line) to the BSà bus terminal in Reykjavik, followed by a short taxi (5 mins) or local bus (10-15 mins) to the campus. The total journey takes 45-75 minutes and costs between 5,500 - 7,500 ISK ($40 - $55 USD) depending on your final transfer. The cheapest option is the public Strætó bus Route 55 (with a transfer), costing only 690 ISK ($5), but it takes longer (70-90 mins) and is less convenient with luggage.
1. Airport Shuttle Bus (Flybus / Gray Line) â The Recommended Choice
This is the most popular and balanced option for most travelers and students. Dedicated coaches wait outside the arrivals hall and provide a non-stop service to Reykjavik's main bus terminal, BSÃ.
Key Operators & Service Details
- Flybus by Reykjavik Excursions: The largest operator. Coaches depart within 35-40 minutes of each flight landing, 24/7.
- Gray Line Airport Express: A direct competitor with similar service, prices, and frequency. It's worth comparing both for deals.
The Process: After booking (online or at the counter), you board the coach. Your luggage is stored below. The 45-50 minute drive ends at BSÃ. From there, you must reach the university campus (approx. 3km away).
Getting from BSÃ to the University
| Option | How To | Cost (approx.) | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | Taxi rank outside BSÃ. Say "Háskóli Ãslands, Main Building". | 2,500 - 3,500 ISK | 5-10 min | Those with heavy luggage, groups of 2+, or in bad weather. |
| Local Bus | Take bus Route 11, 12, 13, or 14 from BSÃ. Get off at "Háskóli Ãslands". | Included if you have a transfer ticket* or 490 ISK | 10-15 min | Budget travelers, those with light luggage. |
| Walk | Not recommended with bags. A 35-40 minute walk. | Free | 35-40 min | Only for very light packers on a nice day. |
*Some Flybus "Bus Plus" tickets include a transfer voucher for the local bus from BSÃ to your final address area.
Pros, Cons & Hidden Factors
Advantages: Hassle-free, meets all flights, ample luggage space, comfortable, free Wi-Fi on board, easy booking.
Disadvantages: Not door-to-door (requires a transfer), can be crowded in peak season, slightly more expensive than public bus alone.
Depth: While efficient, the BSÃ transfer can be confusing for first-timers. In winter, having to move luggage from the coach to a taxi/bus in cold/windy conditions is a real consideration. Booking a "Bus Plus" ticket can streamline this.
2. Public Bus (Strætó) â The Budget Champion
Iceland's public bus system, Strætó, offers the absolute lowest cost transfer. It's viable, but requires planning and comfort with transfers.
The Route: A Two-Leg Journey
- Leg 1 (Airport to City Edge): Take Route 55 from the airport stop. It does not go downtown but to transfer hubs like Mjódd or Háholt. Travel time: ~50 minutes.
- Leg 2 (To University): At Mjódd (the most common hub), transfer to a city bus heading towards the university area. Key routes: 6, 11, 12, 13, 14. Travel time: 15-20 minutes. Get off at "Háskóli Ãslands".
Critical Practical Details
- Tickets: A single fare (690 ISK) is valid for 75 minutes, including transfers. Use the Strætó app to buy tickets and plan routes in real-time. Cash on bus is accepted but requires exact change.
- Frequency & Hours: Route 55 runs regularly but less frequently than shuttles. Service reduces significantly after ~11:00 PM and before ~5:00 AM. Always check the Strætó timetable for your arrival day.
- Luggage: Space is very limited compared to airport coaches. One large suitcase and a carry-on is the maximum you should attempt. Not suitable for multiple large bags.
Deep Dive Analysis: The cost saving is substantial, but the true "cost" is complexity and time risk. If you miss your connection at Mjódd, you could wait 20-30 minutes for the next bus. In rain or wind, the transfer wait can be unpleasant. For a student on a tight budget arriving during daylight hours with one suitcase, it's perfect. For a family of four with ski equipment, it's a nightmare.
4. Taxi & Private Transfer â For Convenience & Special Circumstances
A direct, private ride from the airport to the university steps. This is by far the most expensive option and is generally not recommended for budget-conscious travelers or students.
Cost Reality & Providers
The fixed price or meter fare for a standard taxi (4 passengers) is typically 25,000 - 35,000 ISK ($180 - $250 USD). Major companies include Hreyfill and Borgarleiðir. You can pre-book a private transfer online for a similar price.
When Does a Taxi Make Sense? A Decision Matrix
- Group of 3-4: Split 4 ways, the cost becomes ~8,750 ISK per person, competing with door-to-door shuttles.
- Extreme Luggage: Sports equipment, musical instruments, or bulky research gear that won't fit on a bus.
- Mobility Challenges: For travelers with disabilities or injuries.
- Very Late/Early Flight: When other services are infrequent and reliability is paramount.
- Corporate/Business Travel: Where cost is secondary to time and receipt simplicity.
Deep Insight: Many tourists underestimate this cost. The 50km distance at Icelandic taxi rates (which include airport surcharges) creates this high fare. Always agree on an approximate fare or ensure the meter is on before departing. For a true private transfer, booking in advance online is often cheaper than hailing a cab at the rank.
5. Walking & Cycling â The Theoretical (and Adventurous) Options
This is not a practical recommendation for arriving travelers. The distance is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) via the main road, Route 41. However, understanding the impossibility underscores why motorized transport is essential.
The Reality of the Journey
- Walking Time: 10-12 hours non-stop along a highway with no continuous pedestrian path. Highly dangerous and not advised.
- Cycling Time: 2.5 - 3.5 hours for a very fit cyclist with luggage, on a busy road often with strong crosswinds.
- Safety & Legality: Walking on Route 41 is illegal in sections. Cycling is legal but requires extreme caution and proper gear (lights, helmet, high-vis clothing).
Contextual Use Case: This option is only relevant for an extreme budget adventurer planning a multi-day hike/bike tour who would cycle from the airport as the start of their Icelandic journey. For any standard traveler, student, or academic, it is not feasible. The existence of affordable bus options makes considering this unnecessary and risky.
6. Tickets, Cost Comparison & Smart Planning
Making an informed decision requires comparing all options side-by-side and knowing how to plan effectively.
Definitive Cost & Time Comparison Table
| Transport Method | Total Approx. Cost (One Way) | Total Approx. Time | Transfers | Best For | Book in Advance? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Bus (Strætó) | 690 ISK ($5) | 70-90 min | 1 (e.g., at Mjódd) | Solo budget travelers, light packers | No (but use Strætó app) |
| Airport Shuttle (Flybus) + Local Bus | 5,500 - 6,500 ISK ($40-47) | 55-75 min | 1 (at BSÃ) | Most travelers & students (Best Value) | Recommended |
| Airport Shuttle + Taxi | 8,000 - 10,000 ISK ($58-72) | 50-65 min | 1 (at BSÃ) | Small groups, those with more luggage | Recommended for Flybus |
| Door-to-Door Shared Shuttle | 8,000 - 12,000 ISK ($58-87) | 50-80 min | 0 | Solo/Couples wanting direct service | Required |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 25,000 - 35,000 ISK ($180-250) | 45-60 min | 0 | Groups of 3-4, special needs, corporate | Recommended for transfers |
Essential Planning Tools & Tips
- Booking Links:
- Route Planning: Use Google Maps set to "Transit" mode for real-time public bus directions from BSà or Mjódd to "University of Iceland".
- Currency: All prices are in Icelandic Króna (ISK). You can pay for almost everything with a credit/debit card (Visa/Mastercard). Having a small amount of ISK cash is optional but not necessary for transport.
7. Traveler Tips & Insider Insights
Go beyond the basics with advice from seasoned travelers and students.
- Luggage Strategy: If you have very heavy bags, the Flybus+taxi combo is worth the extra cost. The walk from the BSÃ coach to the taxi rank is short. Consider packing a small daypack with essentials for your first night in case of any minor luggage delays.
- The "Wind and Weather" Factor: Icelandic weather is volatile. A 45-minute shuttle ride can be smooth one day and buffeted by strong winds the next. If you are prone to motion sickness, come prepared. Your transfer at BSÃ will also be exposed to the elements.
- Student Advantage: While there's no direct student discount on airport transport, once in Reykjavik, students can apply for a Strætó student discount card for cheaper city bus fares. Inquire at the University's service desk.
- Wi-Fi & Connectivity: The Flybus/Gray Line coaches have free Wi-Fi. Use this time to confirm your check-in details, message your host, or map your transfer from BSÃ. The airport and most of Reykjavik also have excellent 4G/5G coverage if you have an international plan or local SIM.
- Winter Specifics (Nov-Mar): Road conditions can slow all transport. Allow a buffer of 15-30 minutes on all estimated travel times. Darkness falls early; arriving in the dark makes the transfer at BSà or Mjódd less intuitive. Pre-booking your entire journey is even more crucial.
- Arriving on a Budget: The absolute cheapest method is the Strætó bus. To maximize its utility, ensure your flight lands during daytime operating hours, pack light (one suitcase), download the Strætó app before you land, and have a payment card ready.
FAQs: Keflavik Airport to University of Iceland
What is the cheapest way to get from Keflavik Airport to the University of Iceland?
The cheapest option is taking the public Strætó bus (Route 55 to Reykjavik, then transfer). A single ticket costs 690 ISK (approx. $5 USD). However, the most cost-effective and convenient option for most travelers is the Flybus shuttle, which costs from 4,990 ISK (approx. $36 USD) one-way and takes you to the BSà bus terminal, a short bus/taxi ride from the university.
Is there a direct bus from Keflavik Airport to the University of Iceland?
No, there is no single direct bus. You have two main bus options: 1) The non-stop Flybus or similar shuttle to BSà terminal, then a 10-minute taxi or local bus ride. 2) The public Strætó bus Route 55 to Mjódd or Háholt, then transfer to a city bus (e.g., Route 6, 11, 12, 13, 14) that stops at the University ("Háskóli Ãslands" stop).
How long does the journey from KEF to the University take?
Total travel time typically ranges from 45 to 90 minutes: Flybus/Shuttle (45-50 mins to BSÃ) + transfer (5-15 mins). Public Bus (70-90 mins with transfer). Taxi/Private Transfer (45-60 mins direct). Times can be longer at night, in bad weather, or during rush hour (7:30-9:00 AM).
What should I do if my flight arrives very late at night or early in the morning?
Flybus and Gray Line shuttles coordinate with all arriving flights, 24/7. Public Strætó bus Route 55 runs from early morning until around midnight. For flights arriving between midnight and 4:00 AM, a pre-booked taxi or private transfer is the most reliable (though expensive) option. Some shuttle services may have limited frequency.
Is it easy to find taxis at Keflavik Airport?
Yes, taxis from licensed companies like Hreyfill and Borgarleiðir are readily available outside the terminal arrivals hall. However, a direct trip to the University of Iceland is very expensive, ranging from 25,000 to 35,000 ISK ($180-$250 USD). It's only recommended for groups of 3-4 sharing the cost, those with excessive luggage, or travelers with mobility issues.
Where do I buy bus tickets or the Flybus ticket?
Flybus/Gray Line tickets: Book online in advance for the best price, at the counters in the arrivals hall, or from the driver (subject to availability). Strætó public bus tickets: Purchase via the "Strætó" app (highly recommended), from vending machines at the airport, or pay with cash/contactless card on the bus. The app allows easy ticket management and route planning.
Can I use the Reykjavik City Card for this transfer?
No, the Reykjavik City Card only covers travel within the capital city's public bus system. It does NOT cover the journey from Keflavik Airport (which is 50km away) to Reykjavik. You will need a separate ticket for the Airport Flybus or the Strætó Route 55 to enter the city limits.
Which option is best for a student arriving with lots of luggage?
The Flybus or Gray Line shuttle is ideal. They have dedicated luggage compartments, drop you at BSÃ terminal where you can manage your bags, and from there you can take a short, cheap taxi ride directly to your student housing. Avoid the public bus with multiple large suitcases as space is limited and transfers can be cumbersome.