The top 5 attractions to see after landing in Keflavik airport

Imagine: you’ve booked a trip to Iceland and you’re so excited by the time you land in Keflavik you just can’t wait to get stuck in some breathtaking scenery. The good news is that there are some must-sees close to the airport, so almost as soon as you step out of the arrivals hall you can crack on with your itinerary. If you’re in need of some suggestions, here are our picks for the top five attractions to see after landing in Keflavik airport.

Blue Lagoon

This upscale spa is high on the list of priorities for many visitors to Iceland, so why not take advantage of its luggage lockers and proximity to the airport and make it your first stop? A dip in the Blue Lagoon’s warm, geothermally heated waters and a replenishing silica face mask are just the ticket to a dehydrated, tired traveller. Even if you book the entry-level package, they’ll still throw in a complimentary drink, fluffy towel and use of their posh toiletries while you’re there.

The Bridge between Continents

Iceland’s all about plate tectonics but before you set out for Thingvellir’s famous chasm on a Golden Circle tour, why not check out the plate boundary right here in Reykjanes? Just a short drive from the airport, you can stand on this metal bridge which straddles the gap between the Eurasian and North American plates, growing at about 2.5cm every year. Snap a souvenir photo and tell your friends that you’ve followed your plane ride with another journey – from one continent to another. In case you’re wondering, Leif the Lucky was a trailblazing Icelander who was the first to set foot in North America, around a thousand years ago.

Viking World

This fascinating museum, just a few kilometres from Keflavik airport, is home to a replica of the Gokstad ship, called Íslendingur (the Icelander). The original was excavated in Norway more than a century ago and was found almost intact when archaeologists found it. Icelander Gunnar Marel Eggertsson created this magnificent copy, a painstaking labour of love which took him two years to complete. In 2000, to mark a millennium since Leif Eiriksson sailed to North America, he set out on a journey which took him from Iceland to New York.

Brimketill

Erosion by the waves that batter the wild Reykjanes coast has carved a natural pool out of the lava at Brimketill. It’s best viewed on a calm day at low tide, as you’ll see more of the rock and get a much better sense of the pool’s shape. You’ll need to keep your wits about you if you’re keen to get a closer look, as nature is a powerful force here and you’re likely to get a soaking as you watch from the viewing platform. But if you’re looking for something to wake you up after a tiring flight, this is the perfect place. Just be careful not to lose your footing.

Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll

Also located in Reykjanesbær is the Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll, which traces the history of rock and pop music in the country. You’ll have the chance to find out about some of Iceland’s most talented singers and groups, try playing the drums or guitar and belt out your favourite Icelandic hits in the museum’s karaoke booth. If you’re a fan of Björk, Sigur Rós, Daði Freyr or Of Monsters and Men, you won’t want to miss this. Before you leave, grab a souvenir T-shirt from the museum shop. It’s sure to be a talking point with the people you’ll meet as you explore the rest of Iceland.