7 Unforgettable Experiences During Our 24-Hour Reykjavik Layover
Reykjavik Iceland
Ready. Set. Go.
Well just landed in KEF, one of the main international airports in Iceland, about 45 minutes from the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik.
We are on a transatlantic flight from Europe, more specifically Amsterdam, en route to Boston, via a 24-hour layover the airline offered to us when booking.
And since we never stepped foot in Iceland before AND heard amazing things about it, we said Absolutely Yes!
So here we are, making plans to see as much of Reykjavik and Iceland as possible in 24 hours.
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Hop on a Bus in Iceland
Upon arriving, we immediately booked a bus to take us from the airport to our hotel. The bus was fast, clean, and efficient and we had no problem finding it, getting onboard, and getting off at our destination. We even got to see a volcano!
From there we had key events we wanted to see while in Iceland, but allowed for some flexibility in our plans depending on new information we may encounter from talking to locals or as we learn new information.
Why is Iceland So Popular with Tourists?
Iceland has become a top destination for travelers from around the world, offering a rare blend of stunning natural beauty and unique experiences that captivate visitors. The island’s diverse landscape is one of its biggest draws, with dramatic contrasts between towering mountains, active volcanoes, expansive glaciers, and geothermal hot springs.
For many, visiting Iceland is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness some of the planet’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, like the Northern Lights or the powerful waterfalls such as Gullfoss.
The country’s remote location and unspoiled wilderness make it feel like an otherworldly escape, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Whether it’s exploring the volcanic terrain, soaking in the Blue Lagoon’s rejuvenating waters, or hiking through vast glaciers, Iceland offers a truly unique experience.
How Many Tourists Visit Iceland Yearly?
In recent years, Iceland has seen a significant rise in tourism, and 2023 saw a boost in visitors.
The most popular airport in Iceland is Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) southwest of Reykjavik. It serves as the primary gateway for international tourists and handles the majority of the country’s air traffic. Reykjavik Airport (RKV), located closer to the city center, primarily operates domestic flights and some flights to Greenland and the Faroe Islands.
What to do in Iceland in 24 Hours?
So after getting settled in, then we immediately went to walk toward the downtown city of Reykjavik.
The area has cute streets, specifically Laugavegur Street, many local restaurants, pubs, coffee shops, and tourist shops where you can grab a new T-shirt, a warm hat, or a magnet for your fridge. You can also walk to the ocean, see the rocks and awe at the landscape.
Breakfast Restaurants
My favorite meal of the day is breakfast. I love to scout out new breakfast restaurants when exploring a new city. When in Reykjavik, visit the Sandholt for Breakfast, go early, or be ready to wait as the lines can be long.
FlyOver Iceland
From there you can explore further, perhaps do the FlyOver Island ride, then warm up over hot chocolate after this experience, yes even in August.
The Largest Church, the Hallgrímskirkja
This impressive church, with its distinctive architecture and towering presence, offered panoramic views of the city from its observation tower. The striking design and historical significance of Hallgrímskirkja made it a highlight of our tour.
Northern Lights (Arora Borealis)
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of the most captivating natural phenomena that visitors to Iceland can experience. In Iceland, these vibrant, dancing lights are visible from late September to early April, when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest. The aurora is caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth’s atmosphere, creating a dazzling array of colors ranging from green to pink, red, violet, and sometimes even white or blue.
Iceland’s location near the Arctic Circle makes it an ideal spot to view the Northern Lights, with relatively low light pollution outside of Reykjavik providing perfect conditions. The country’s unique combination of landscapes—such as glaciers, volcanoes, and coastal cliffs—serve as breathtaking backdrops to the lights, making the experience even more unforgettable. Whether viewing them from a rural area, a guided tour, or a hot spring like the Blue Lagoon, the Northern Lights are a top reason travelers flock to Iceland, hoping for that once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Blue Lagoon
On this 24 24-hour layover, the Blue Lagoon was closed due to the volcano that was erupting. When it’s not erupting this is a must-see event.
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most iconic attractions, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its geothermal wonders. Located in a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula, about 50 kilometers southwest of Reykjavik, this stunning spa is renowned for its milky-blue waters, which are rich in silica, algae, and minerals. These elements are believed to have therapeutic properties, making the Blue Lagoon a popular destination for both relaxation and skin treatments.
The water in the Blue Lagoon is naturally heated by nearby geothermal activity, with temperatures ranging from 37°C to 40°C (98°F to 104°F), providing a soothing and warm experience even in the coldest of Icelandic winters. The lagoon is fed by the runoff from the Svartsengi geothermal power plant, which taps into superheated water below the Earth’s surface to generate energy, contributing to Iceland’s reputation for sustainable energy use.
In addition to the lagoon itself, the Blue Lagoon offers a luxury spa, in-water massages, and exclusive experiences in its Retreat Spa. The setting, surrounded by rugged lava fields, adds to the allure, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Iceland. The surreal blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and the unique Icelandic landscape makes the Blue Lagoon a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers.
Advance booking is required due to the lagoon’s popularity, and visitors can choose from different packages that offer a variety of amenities, including silica mud masks, drinks, and access to private lounges.
For anyone visiting Iceland, a trip to the Blue Lagoon offers not just relaxation but an opportunity to experience the country’s geothermal activity up close, blending luxury and nature in an unforgettable setting.
If You Have More Time in Iceland
The Golden Circle
This popular day trip from Reykjavik includes Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. It’s a perfect way to experience Iceland’s natural beauty in a short time.Harpa Concert Hall
A striking modern building on the waterfront, Harpa is known for its unique glass facade and offers both cultural performances and stunning views of the harbor.Reykjavik Old Harbour
A lively area filled with restaurants, shops, and tour operators. It’s a great place to explore on foot, and many whale-watching tours depart from here.Perlan
Perched on a hill overlooking Reykjavik, this museum and observation deck offers an interactive experience on Icelandic nature, glaciers, and volcanoes. The 360-degree view from the top is not to be missed.Sun Voyager Sculpture
This stunning steel sculpture is located along Reykjavik’s waterfront and symbolizes a dream of hope, progress, and freedom. It’s a great spot for photos, especially at sunset.The National Museum of Iceland
A fantastic place to learn about Iceland’s history, from Viking settlements to modern times. The museum offers engaging exhibitions on Icelandic culture and heritage.Whale Watching Tour
Reykjavik offers fantastic opportunities to go whale watching, where you can spot minke whales, humpbacks, and sometimes even orcas. Tours often depart from the Old Harbour.
These attractions provide a great mix of Iceland’s nature, culture, and history, allowing you to experience the best of Reykjavik and its surroundings in just a few days!
Iceland offers an incredible variety of things to do, from exploring volcanic landscapes to experiencing its rich culture and history. Whether it’s a quick layover or an extended stay, there’s something for every type of traveler. If you’re visiting Iceland on a 24-hour layover, planning ahead is key to making the most of your time. A focused itinerary allows you to see some of the country’s top attractions, such as the Northern Lights, iconic landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja, and unique experiences like Flyover Iceland.
During our 24-hour layover, we managed to fit in an amazing array of activities, from walking the streets of Reykjavik and visiting its famous sites to catching glimpses of the Northern Lights and the Sundhnúksgígar volcano. The day was packed with memorable experiences, and we left feeling both exhilarated and longing for more. While we wish we had more time to explore Iceland’s vast beauty, we can’t wait to return and dive deeper into all that this incredible country has to offer.
After we saw all that we could, we hopped back on the bus and was back in the airport and from there we landed in Boston Logan Airport. Learn about our experience as we tried Mobile Passport upon re-entry for the first time.
