Quick Answer
The fastest and most convenient way to get from Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) to Ãsafjörður is by domestic flight (45-50 min flight time, ~3-4 hours door-to-door). The cheapest way is by public bus (Strætó), involving a transfer at the BSà terminal in Reykjavik (total ~6-7 hours, ~12,500 ISK). For flexibility and exploring the Westfjords, renting a car is highly recommended, though the drive is long (5-7 hours).
By Domestic Flight: The Fastest Option
Flying is the most efficient way to cover the 450 km distance to the remote Westfjords. Flights operate from Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV), also known as Reykjavik Airport, to Ãsafjörður Airport (IFJ). It's crucial to distinguish RKV from the international Keflavik Airport (KEF), which is 50 km away.
Airlines & Booking
Two main operators serve this route:
- Norlandair: The primary carrier, offering multiple daily flights on small propeller planes (e.g., Dash-8).
- Eagle Air (part of Icelandair): Often operates under a codeshare. Check schedules on Icelandair's website.
Tip: Book directly on the airline's website for the best fare alerts and cancellation policies. Booking 2-3 months in advance for summer travel is advisable.
The Real "Door-to-Door" Journey & Time
While the flight itself is under an hour, the total travel time is longer. Here's a realistic breakdown:
| Step | Estimated Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Arrival at RKV & Check-in | 45-60 mins before flight | RKV is small; security is quick. |
| 2. Flight (RKV to IFJ) | 45-50 minutes | Stunning aerial views of fjords. |
| 3. Disembark & Collect Baggage | 10-15 minutes | IFJ is a tiny airport. |
| 4. Transfer to Ãsafjörður town | 5 minutes | Walk, taxi, or pre-booked shuttle. |
| Total Door-to-Door | ~3 to 4 hours | Subject to weather delays. |
Cost & Luggage
Flight prices vary wildly: from 25,000 ISK ($180 USD) for a promo one-way fare to 45,000+ ISK ($325+ USD) for last-minute bookings in peak season (June-August). Check baggage allowances carefullyâweight limits on small planes are strict (often 15-20 kg checked).
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Saves a full day of travel; avoids long, potentially difficult drives; offers incredible views.
- Cons: Most expensive option; luggage limits; highly weather-dependent (flights are commonly cancelled in winter).
By Public Bus (Strætó): The Budget Choice
Iceland's public bus system, Strætó, offers the most economical connection to Ãsafjörður. This journey involves one transfer in Reykjavik and showcases Iceland's dramatic landscapes.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: RKV to BSà Bus Terminal (Reykjavik). Exit the airport and take Strætó Bus Line 55 ("Reykjavik Airport / Flugvellir"). The ride to the main BSà Bus Terminal takes about 15-20 minutes. Frequency is every 30-60 minutes. Fare: ~500 ISK (pay with app, card on board, or cash).
- Step 2: BSà to Ãsafjörður. At BSÃ, board the long-distance Strætó Bus Route 57 ("Ãsafjörður"). This is a comfortable coach. The journey takes approximately 5.5 to 6 hours with a short break in the town of HólmavÃk.
Schedule, Tickets & Practical Info
- Schedule: Bus 57 runs once daily year-round, typically departing BSà in the late morning (e.g., 10:30 or 11:30). Always verify the current schedule on the Strætó website or app. There is no Sunday service in winter.
- Tickets: Purchase the long-distance ticket (Route 57) in advance via the Strætó app or at the BSà terminal. The fare from BSà to Ãsafjörður is about 12,000 ISK one-way. The local Line 55 fare is separate.
- Luggage: You can bring one large suitcase and carry-on, stored in the coach's hold for free.
- Comfort: Coaches have WiFi, toilets, and power outlets.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Very affordable; scenic land route; reliable in most weather; comfortable coaches.
- Cons: Very long journey (6-7 hrs total); inflexible schedule (once daily); requires a transfer; not ideal for those prone to motion sickness on mountain roads.
By Rental Car: For Ultimate Freedom
Driving yourself offers unparalleled freedom to explore the stunning Westfjords at your own pace. However, this is a serious road trip requiring preparation.
Renting at Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV)
Several major agencies have desks inside the small terminal: Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Blue Car Rental. Book months in advance for summer. For winter travel (Oct-Apr), a 4x4 vehicle is mandatory due to snowy and icy conditions on mountain passes like the one on Road 60 into Ãsafjörður.
The Driving Route & Time
The most direct route is ~450 km and takes 5 to 7 hours of pure driving, excluding stops.
- Take Route 41 north from Reykjavik to Route 1 (the Ring Road).
- Follow Route 1 north through the Hvalfjörður Tunnel (toll applies).
- Near the town of Borgarnes, turn west onto Route 60 towards the Westfjords.
- Follow Route 60 all the way to Ãsafjörður. This includes the steep and winding mountain pass at Ãverárfjall (road conditions can be challenging).
Essential Resources: Always check Road.is for real-time road conditions and SafeTravel.is for alerts.
Cost Breakdown
- Rental Car: 15,000 - 35,000 ISK/day ($110 - $250 USD), depending on season and vehicle type (4x4 costs more).
- Fuel: ~10,000 - 15,000 ISK ($70 - $110 USD) for the round trip, given high Icelandic fuel prices.
- Tolls: Hvalfjörður Tunnel toll is ~1,500 ISK ($11 USD) for a passenger car.
- Potential Extra: Gravel Protection Insurance (GPI) is highly recommended for the Westfjords' gravel roads.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Complete flexibility; ability to stop at waterfalls, hot springs, and villages; cost-effective for groups of 3-4.
- Cons: Long, tiring drive; expensive for solo travelers; demanding driving conditions in winter; liability for any damage.
By Taxi or Private Transfer: For Special Circumstances
This is the least practical option for the average traveler due to exorbitant cost, but it may suit specific needs.
Cost Reality
A pre-booked private transfer or taxi for this 450km journey typically costs between 120,000 and 180,000 ISK (approximately $850 to $1,300 USD) one-way. The price is based on distance, not per person, so it can be split among a group.
When to Consider This Option
- Traveling in a group of 6-8 people where the per-person cost becomes comparable to flying.
- Arriving on a late flight after the bus has departed and the next day's schedule doesn't work.
- Travelers with significant mobility issues where other forms of transport are not feasible.
- Extremely tight schedule where the flight is cancelled and driving is the only backup.
How to Book: Arrange through reputable companies like Guide to Iceland or Gray Line Iceland well in advance. Do not expect to find a taxi at RKV willing to make this trip spontaneously.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Door-to-door service; available outside bus/flight schedules; privacy.
- Cons: Extremely expensive; still a very long journey (5-7 hrs); not a good use of time or money for most.
Travel Time & Cost Comparison Table
This table summarizes all options to help you decide. Costs are approximate for one adult in 2024.
| Transport Method | Approx. Door-to-Door Time | Approx. One-Way Cost | Key Considerations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic Flight | 3 - 4 hours | 25,000 - 45,000 ISK ($180 - $325) | Weather delays, baggage limits, must book ahead. | Time-pressed travelers, those wanting to avoid long drives. |
| Public Bus (Strætó) | 6 - 7 hours | ~12,500 ISK ($90) | Once-daily schedule, transfer at BSÃ, scenic but long. | Budget travelers, solo backpackers, those without a tight schedule. |
| Rental Car | 5 - 7 hours (driving) | 20,000 - 50,000 ISK* ($145 - $360) | *Includes 1-2 days rental + fuel. Winter 4x4 mandatory. Road conditions critical. | Groups, explorers, photographers, travelers wanting flexibility. |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 5 - 7 hours | 120,000 - 180,000 ISK ($850 - $1,300) | Extremely high cost, must be pre-booked. | Large groups splitting cost, emergency situations, special needs. |
Verdict: For most travelers, the choice is between the speed of flying and the value/freedom of the bus or rental car.
Traveler Tips & Local Experience
1. Weather is the Ultimate Decider
Especially from October to April, winter storms can shut down all transport to the Westfjords. Flights are cancelled, buses are delayed, and roads (particularly Route 60) close. Always build at least one full day of buffer into your itinerary when traveling to/from Ãsafjörður in winter.
2. Booking Strategy for Summer (June-August)
Everything books out. Secure your flight, rental car, and accommodation in Ãsafjörður at least 4-6 months in advance. Last-minute options in summer are scarce and prohibitively expensive.
3. The "Hidden" Airport Transfer
If your international flight lands at Keflavik (KEF), you need to get to Reykjavik Domestic (RKV) for your connecting flight or bus. The Flybus shuttle is the easiest way (45 min, connects to BSÃ and major hotels). Factor this extra leg (and ~3,500 ISK cost) into your plans.
4. Ãsafjörður Arrival Logistics
- If you fly: The airport is just 5 minutes from town. Most hotels offer a pickup shuttle if requested. A taxi into town costs ~2,500 ISK.
- If you take the bus: You'll be dropped centrally. Almost everything in town is within a 10-15 minute walk.
- If you drive: Parking is generally easy and free at hotels and guesthouses.
5. Consider a Hybrid Approach
Many experienced travelers recommend: Fly one way, drive the other. Fly into Ãsafjörður to save time at the start, then rent a car there to explore the Westfjords at leisure, driving back to Reykjavik over a few days. This avoids the costly one-way rental drop fee.
6. Essential Apps & Links
- Strætó App: For bus schedules and tickets.
- Road.is & Vedur.is: For road conditions and weather.
- SafeTravel.is: Register your travel plan for safety.
FAQs: Getting from Reykjavik Domestic Airport to Ãsafjörður
What is the fastest way to get from Reykjavik Domestic Airport to Ãsafjörður?
The fastest way is by taking a connecting domestic flight. The total door-to-door time is typically 3-4 hours, including a short flight from Reykjavik (RKV) to Ãsafjörður (IFJ) with airlines like Norlandair or Eagle Air, which takes about 45-50 minutes, plus airport transfer and check-in time. This is significantly quicker than the 5-7 hour drive.
Is there a direct bus from Reykjavik Airport to Ãsafjörður?
No, there is no direct bus from Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) to Ãsafjörður. You must first take a local Strætó bus (Line 55) or a Flybus shuttle from the airport to the main Reykjavik BSà bus terminal. From there, you can catch the long-distance Strætó bus route 57 to Ãsafjörður. The total journey by bus takes approximately 6-7 hours, depending on connections.
How much does a taxi cost from RKV to Ãsafjörður?
A taxi or private transfer for the ~450 km journey from Reykjavik Domestic Airport to Ãsafjörður is extremely expensive, typically costing between 120,000 - 180,000 ISK (approx. $850 - $1,300 USD). It is not recommended for most travelers due to the high cost and long duration (5-7 hours). This option is only practical for large groups splitting the cost or those with specific mobility needs.
Can I rent a car at Reykjavik Domestic Airport and drive to Ãsafjörður?
Yes, major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Blue Car Rental have desks at Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV). The drive to Ãsafjörður via Route 1 and the Westfjords is scenic but long (5-7 hours). It's crucial to book a 4x4 vehicle in winter (Oct-Apr) as mountain roads like the pass at Ãverárfjall (road 60) can be treacherous. Always check Road.is for conditions.
Is the flight to Ãsafjörður often cancelled due to weather?
Yes, flights to Ãsafjörður are susceptible to cancellations or delays, especially during winter (November to March) due to strong winds, snow, and low visibility in the Westfjords. It's recommended to: 1) Book through your airline for timely alerts, 2) Avoid tight connections, 3) Consider travel insurance that covers weather disruptions, and 4) Have a flexible schedule if traveling in winter.
What is the cheapest way to travel to Ãsafjörður from the airport?
The cheapest way is by combining the Strætó public bus system. Take bus Line 55 from RKV to BSà terminal (approx. 500 ISK), then the long-distance bus 57 from BSà to Ãsafjörður (approx. 12,000 ISK). The total cost is around 12,500 ISK (~$90 USD). This is far cheaper than flying (25,000+ ISK) or renting a car. Purchase bus tickets on the Strætó app or at the BSà terminal.
Where does the bus arrive in Ãsafjörður?
The Strætó bus route 57 terminates at the main bus stop in Ãsafjörður, located centrally at Ãðey og Skutulsfjarðarbraut, near the supermarket and the town's service center. This is within walking distance of most guesthouses, hotels like the Hotel Ãsafjörður, and the town's amenities. The airport shuttle (if you fly) will typically drop you at your accommodation.
Is it better to fly into Reykjavik Domestic (RKV) or Keflavik (KEF) for a trip to Ãsafjörður?
For a trip focused on the Westfjords, flying into Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) is generally better if you can find a connecting flight. It saves you a 45-minute transfer from Keflavik (KEF) to RKV. However, most international flights land at KEF. If arriving at KEF, you'll need a Flybus or taxi to RKV (45 mins) for your domestic connection, or you can take a bus all the way from KEF to BSÃ and then bus 57, which is much longer.