Around 78 flights go from London to or via Reykjavik’s Keflavik International Airport (KEF) every week. So if you’re looking for cheap flights to Iceland’s capital, you’ve got plenty of options to weigh up. From London, you can take off from various airports, and choose from both direct and indirect flights.
For direct flights, Heathrow (LHR) is your best bet as both British Airways and Icelandair fly to Reykjavik. But flights from Gatwick (LGW) are also worth comparing, as direct Icelandair flights from here sometimes work out cheaper. Or, if you don’t mind a stop, you could fly indirect from either airport – or even London City (LCY) – which could shave a significant amount off your airfare.
If you’re basing your trip on the weather, summer – from June to August – is a popular time to go, but things like flights and accommodation can be more expensive. These are the best months if you’re planning a whale-watching tour from Reykjavik, too. You might want to consider the shoulder months of May and September, when the crowds have calmed down a little and prices tend to be lower.
For the cheapest flights from London to Reykjavik, you could try visiting in winter instead. There are benefits beyond the price: if you’re hoping to get a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis, the best time to see the Northern Lights is in the cooler, darker months between September and March.
FAQs about flights from London to Reykjavik
Which airlines fly from London to Reykjavik?
You can fly direct to Reykjavik with British Airways and Icelandair from London Heathrow, and also with Icelandair from Gatwick. Both carriers fly indirect from London City Airport, too. Alternatively, you could fly indirect from any of these London airports with carriers including SAS, Norwegian and Lufthansa.
Which airlines have the cheapest flights to Reykjavik?
Icelandair and British Airways tend to have the cheapest flights from London to Reykjavik.
Can I fly direct from London to Reykjavik?
Yes – you can fly direct with British Airways and Icelandair.
Which London airport offers the cheapest direct flight to Reykjavik?
London Gatwick often offers the cheapest flights to Reykjavik, with Icelandair.
How long is the flight from London to Reykjavik?
A direct flight takes approximately two hours.
How do I get into Reykjavik from Keflavik International Airport?
There are various buses and shuttle services at the airport, but the Flybus is one of the most convenient ways to get into the city. There’s a booking desk in the arrivals hall or you can book online in advance, and buses leave from just outside the terminal. These buses run after every flight, so there’s always one waiting, and the transfer to the city’s main bus terminal takes about 45 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares cost around €24 or you can pay a bit more for a FlyBus+ ticket and get dropped at your hotel. There are taxis at the airport, too, but as it’s a long way from the city centre you’re looking at a fare of between €200 and €250.
What are the top things to do in Reykjavik?
Iceland’s capital and biggest city is possibly most well-known for the Blue Lagoon – a cobalt-coloured geothermal spa close to Reykjavik. A dip in the bath-warm waters is a must, but make sure you book ahead, as this wonder of the world is understandably popular. Also on the must-do list is whale watching, a visit to Hallgrimskirkja church, and a Northern Lights tour to try to spot the elusive Aurora Borealis.
Do I need a visa to travel to Reykjavik?
British passport holders can visit Iceland for up to 90 days without a visa. You just need to make sure that your passport has at least six months validity left, on the day you travel. You might also be asked to prove that you have a return ticket, showing when you're planning to leave Iceland.
