KEFUpdated November 21, 2025

Hotels and overnight stay at Keflaví­k airport

Keflavik · Iceland

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KEF · Long layover

Overnight stay at the airport

Can you spend the night at Keflaví­k airport (KEF)? Opening hours, rest areas and services for long layovers. See also the airport guide for general information.

Is it possible to spend the night at the airport?

Keflavík Airport operates 24 hours a day, allowing passengers to remain inside the facilities overnight. Although airport staff are generally tolerant, passengers may be woken up at around 4:00 am for preparations for the first flights. For a more comfortable stay, it is recommended to come prepared.

Rest Areas

  • Benches and Seats: Numerous benches and seats can be found throughout various areas of the terminal, especially near the C gates and in some cafés that remain closed at night.
  • Comfort: Although it is a quiet place at night, the airport can be cold and the lights are bright. It is advisable to bring a sleeping bag, blankets, an eye mask and earplugs to improve comfort.
  • VIP Lounges: The Icelandair Saga Lounge, while offering a more comfortable environment, closes during the night.
  • Nearby Hotels: For those who prefer guaranteed rest, the Aurora Hotel is located just 100 metres from the terminal, and other hotel options are available with shuttle services.

Luggage and Services

  • Lockers: Available on the ground floor, outside the arrivals area, to store luggage safely overnight.
  • Food and Drink: Food outlets operate only during flight hours, so it is best to be prepared in advance.
  • Bathrooms and Showers: Public toilets are available 24 hours a day. For those wishing to shower, there are showers in the Icelandair Saga Lounge (access according to the lounge’s conditions and opening hours).
  • Connectivity: The airport offers free and unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
  • Other 24-hour Services: ATMs, children’s play area and baby care facilities.

Services and opening hours can change. If you plan to sleep in the public area, have a plan B: some airports only let passengers with a flight stay overnight.

Hotels at and near KEF

Although there are no hotels directly connected to the terminal, the airport offers several accommodation options in its vicinity, ranging from modern hotels to cosy guesthouses. Many of them provide shuttle services for the convenience of travellers.

Hotels Near the Airport

  • Aurora Hotel: This hotel is located just 100 metres from the terminal, offering maximum convenience for early or late arrivals and departures.
  • Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik Keflavik Airport: A modern option with full facilities, ideal for business or leisure stays near the airport.
  • Flyers Hotel: This hotel provides a comfortable and practical stay for travellers thanks to its proximity to local restaurants and services.
  • A. Bernhard Guest House: This guesthouse offers a more intimate and homely experience.
  • Blue Viking Pods: Offers capsule or studio-style accommodation at affordable rates, especially appealing for travellers on a budget.
  • Guesthouse 1x6: A charming guesthouse that provides a quiet and personalised atmosphere.

Book a hotel near KEF

See hotels near KEF on Booking.com

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Tips for a long layover

  1. Check whether you can leave the airport: it depends on your nationality, the visa rules of Iceland and whether your bags are checked through.
  2. If you sleep airside, you will usually need a boarding pass for a flight that day. Ask your airline before you go through security.
  3. A lounge with day access can be cheaper than a hotel for a few hours: see VIP lounges at KEF.
  4. Keep your valuables with you, set an alarm and carry a light layer: terminals are often cold at night.
  5. Going to a hotel in town? See transportation from KEF (50 km to Keflavik), and check which services run at night.
German Giudici

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Creator of the Aeropuertos del Mundo website network since 2007.