The Icelandic capital of Reykjavik continues to capture the hearts of intrepid travellers. With village vibes, welcoming bars and a clutch of attractions, Reykjavik itself is a charmer. But it’s the chance to dip into natural Iceland – for the geothermal pools, the spectacular northern lights and erupting geysers – that makes Reykjavik such a special place.

If you plan to visit from the North West of England, you’re in luck, as both Icelandair and easyJet offer direct cheap flights to Reykjavik from Manchester Airport (MAN).

The average flight time to Keflavik International Airport (KEF) from Manchester is two hours and 40 minutes.

How to get to Reykjavik from the airport 

You’ll be glad you bagged low-cost flights from Manchester to Reykjavik, as airport transfers don’t come cheap.

One-way tickets on airport shuttle services (with Gray Line or Flybus) cost from 2,100 Icelandic krona (£13) for a central drop off in Reykjavik. Opt for the service right to your hotel door and expect to pay closer to 2,800 krona (£18).

Taxi fares from Keflavik Airport to central Reykjavik cost around 13,000-18,000 krona (£80-100).

If you’re independent, adventurous and looking for a good-value alternative, consider car hire in Reykjavik, to collect your vehicle upon arrival at the airport. Even in winter, you don’t need a 4x4 to take to the main tourist routes.

We can help you to find your dream place to stay too. Visit our hotels in Reykjavik page for all the information you need.

Why go to Reykjavik?

Stay only in central Reykjavik and you can easily fill a few days with the sights, sounds, and copious drinks of the buzzing city centre. Everything you need is concentrated within a few blocks of this gloriously unique cityscape, where timber buildings and brightly-painted street scenes meet the icy-grey waters of Faxafloi Bay and the striking modern glass facades of Harpa, the city’s stunning concert hall.

In among all of that is the hilltop attraction of Hallgrimskirkja cathedral, which offers far-reaching views (and a handy lift to get you up there).

Strike out from Reykjavik, in a rental car or on a coach tour, and within an hour the cityscape gives way to natural panoramas filled with thunderous waterfalls, hot springs, horse-filled fields and beaches as black as night. Talking of night, you can take your chances with after-dark tours in the hope of seeing the northern lights.

All of this in one city? No wonder we’re all rushing to Reykjavik.