Beyond Keflavík: How to get to East Iceland
For many international visitors, Iceland begins at Keflavík International Airport. From there, the journey to Austurland can become an adventure in itself, with a road trip along the Ring Road. From there, the journey to Austurland can become an adventure in itself, with a road trip along the Ring Road. But there are other options to reach the east, and they might be easier than you think...
You can fly directly from Reykjavík to Egilsstaðir, sail directly into Seyðisfjörður aboard the Norröna, or fly to Akureyri (North Iceland) from selected European destinations and continue east by road.
Whichever way you choose to arrive, getting to the east is only the beginning. The real reward is having time to slow down and explore the fjords, mountains, forests, fishing villages and wide-open landscapes that make the region so distinctive.
Once you arrive, explore Austurland in your own way by following the coastal Fjord Way or venture inland along the Highland Circle.
Fly to Egilsstaðir, your gateway to Austurland
Egilsstaðir International Airport (EGS) is the main airport serving Austurland and is located just outside Egilsstaðir, the largest town in the region.
Icelandair operates year-round domestic flights between Reykjavík Domestic Airport (RKV) and Egilsstaðir. The flight takes approximately 60 minutes, making it a quick and convenient way to reach Austurland from the capital area.
For international travellers, there is one important detail to know: domestic flights to Egilsstaðir depart from Reykjavík Domestic Airport, not Keflavík International Airport.
If you arrive internationally at Keflavík and want to continue to the east by air, you will need to transfer between the two airports. Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavík Domestic Airport are approximately 50 km apart.
One convenient option is Flybus, which operates frequent airport transfers between Keflavík and Reykjavík. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, with buses departing in connection with arriving flights. Flybus also offers hotel pick-up and drop-off options in Reykjavík. Check the current timetable when planning your connection.
Once you board your flight at Reykjavík Airport, Austurland is only about an hour away.
From Egilsstaðir, you are ideally placed to explore the wider region. The town is located on Route 1 and is a natural hub for travelling to the Eastfjords, Hallormsstaður National Forest, the highlands and many of Austurland’s smaller communities and natural attractions.
But Egilsstaðir is only one option. Austurland is made up of relatively short distances between many of its towns and attractions, making it easy to choose accommodation in different parts of the region and use them as a base for exploring the surrounding area.
Egilsstaðir International Airport: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
Arrive by sea, sail straight into Austurland
There is something special about arriving to Iceland by sea.
The Norröna, operated by Smyril Line, sails from Hirtshals in Denmark via the Faroe Islands to Seyðisfjörður in Austurland. Arriving by ferry brings you directly into one of the region's most distinctive towns, famous for its colourful historic houses, creative atmosphere and iconic Rainbow Street.
The ferry is particularly appealing to travellers bringing their own vehicle. You can arrive with your car and make Austurland the destination of your trip rather than simply a stop along the way.
Once you arrive in Seyðisfjörður, take the time to explore. Stay for a few days, follow the winding roads through the Eastfjords, hike into the surrounding mountains, discover local food and culture, or simply slow down and enjoy the space.
Norröna operates between Denmark, the Faroe Islands and Iceland during the main sailing season, with services to Seyðisfjörður continuing into November. Schedules vary throughout the year, so check the current sailing timetable when planning your trip.
Seyðisfjörður Rainbow Street: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
Fly to Akureyri, then continue east
Another option is to begin your Iceland adventure in North Iceland.
Akureyri International Airport (AEY) has direct international flights from selected European destinations. From Akureyri, Austurland can be reached by road, making it possible to combine North and East in the same trip.
Current international connections include seasonal flights from the UK with EasyJet, with London Gatwick and Manchester among the destinations served. There are also seasonal connections from Zurich with Edelweiss, and Kontiki as well as seasonal charter services connected to travel companies. Amsterdam is served through Voigt Travel’s charter programme. Routes and schedules vary by season.
From Akureyri, the journey east can take you through some of North Iceland’s best-known landscapes before reaching the quiet fjords and communities of Austurland.
Along the way, highlights such as Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn and Dettifoss offer an easy way to combine some of North Iceland’s most iconic sights with an onward journey to the east.
For travellers looking to experience both regions, this can be an excellent alternative to following Iceland’s more traditional routes around the country.
Explore flights options to Akureyri →
International flight routes to Akureyri are seasonal and subject to change. Always check the latest information with the airline or travel provider before booking.
Höfði, Mývatn Lake: Visit North Iceland
Drive from Keflavík and make Austurland a part of your road trip
Keflavík International Airport remains Iceland's main international gateway, and for many visitors it will be the natural starting point for an Iceland road trip.
From Keflavík, Austurland is a part of a longer journey around the country. You might travel east along the south or north coast before continuing into the Eastfjords or make Austurland part of a complete Ring Road adventure.
If you are driving in Iceland, always check current road and weather conditions before setting out. Conditions can change quickly, particularly outside the summer season. Snow, ice, strong winds and temporary road closures can affect travel times and accessibility.
For current road conditions, check Road.is before travelling. SafeTravel is also a useful resource for information about travel conditions and safety in Iceland.
Roadtrip: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
From getting here to exploring Austurland
Once you arrive, the question is no longer how to get here, but where to go first.
Austurland stretches from the highlands to the Atlantic coast, with fjords, fishing villages, forests, waterfalls and dramatic mountain landscapes connecting the region.
Here are some places worth adding to your itinerary.
Seyðisfjörður, the colourful fjord town
Nestled at the head of a spectacular fjord, Seyðisfjörður is known for its colourful historic houses, creative atmosphere and dramatic mountain scenery.
Walk along the famous Rainbow Street to the blue church, explore local art and cafés, or head into the surrounding landscape to discover waterfalls and hiking trails. The town is also the arrival point for the Norröna ferry from Denmark and the Faroe Islands.
Gufufoss: Esther Ösp
Borgarfjörður Eystri home of puffins, hiking and local stories
Farther north, Borgarfjörður Eystri is surrounded by dramatic mountains and an extensive network of hiking trails. It is also home to Hafnarhólmi, one of Iceland’s best-known places to see puffins up close during the summer nesting season.
The area is closely connected to Icelandic folklore and local stories, adding another layer to its distinctive landscape and small-community atmosphere. Between puffin watching, hiking and exploring the surrounding mountains and coastline, Borgarfjörður Eystri offers a chance to slow down and experience a quieter, more intimate side of Iceland.
Explore Borgarfjörður Eystri →
Borgarfjörður Eystri: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
Stuðlagil, one of Austurland's most striking landscapes
Stuðlagil Canyon is famous for its extraordinary basalt columns and the glacial river that runs through the canyon.
The canyon is one of Austurland's best-known natural attractions and can be included in a journey through the interior of the region.
Stuðlagil: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
Hallormsstaður National Forest and Lagarfljót
Austurland is home to Iceland’s largest forest, Hallormsstaður National Forest, stretching along the shores of the long and mysterious Lagarfljót lake.
Nearby, Hengifoss is one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, plunging 128 metres down a striking cliff marked by distinctive layers of red clay between the basalt. The waterfall can be reached by a scenic hike offering views across the surrounding valley and lake.
Together with viewpoints, walking trails and Skriðuklaustur, the area offers an easy way to combine some of Austurland’s most impressive natural scenery with its history and cultural heritage.
Explore Hallormsstaður and Lagarfljót →
Hengifoss: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
The Eastfjords – mountains, fjords and life by the sea
The Eastfjords are not a single destination but a succession of deep fjords, towering mountains and small coastal communities, each with its own character and connection to the sea.
From Vopnafjörður and Mjóifjörður to Seyðisfjörður, Reyðarfjörður, Eskifjörður, Norðfjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Stöðvarfjörður, Breiðdalsvík and Djúpivogur, the coastline reveals the scale and diversity of East Iceland. Fishing and seafaring have shaped life here for generations, while the mountains and fjords provide a dramatic setting for hiking, wildlife watching and exploring the coast.
Keep an eye out for seabirds, seals and other wildlife along the way, and take time to experience the small towns and villages that are part of life in the fjords.
Take your time. Stop along the way. The journey through the Eastfjords is part of the experience.
Neskaupsstaður views: Esther Ösp
Vök Baths – geothermal water on Lake Urriðavatn
Just outside Egilsstaðir, Vök Baths offers geothermal floating pools on Lake Urriðavatn, making it an easy addition to an East Iceland itinerary.
It is a particularly good stop after a day spent exploring the region's landscapes.
Vök Baths
Stay a little longer
Austurland offers a wide range of accommodation, from hotels and guesthouses to cottages, apartments, hostels and campsites.
Whether you are looking for a comfortable base in Egilsstaðir, a guesthouse in one of the fjord communities, a countryside cottage or a place to camp close to nature, there are options throughout the region.
Because distances between many of the region's communities and attractions are relatively short, you can choose to stay in one location and explore from there or move between different parts of the east as you travel.
Explore accommodation in East Iceland →
Plan your own adventure
Not sure how to put it all together?
Visit Austurland has created suggested travel routes to help you plan your journey through the region. Use them as inspiration for a self-drive adventure, choose individual stops and experiences, or combine several routes to create your own itinerary.
The Fjord Way
Follow the winding coastal roads through the Eastfjords, connecting dramatic landscapes, small seaside communities and some of the region's most memorable natural attractions.
The route takes you through the fjord communities of Austurland and can be combined with stops for hiking, waterfalls, birdwatching, local food, history and culture.
The Stone Arch: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
The Highland Circle
Starting in Egilsstaðir, the Highland Circle takes you from forests and fertile valleys into the highlands and back again.
Along the way, you can discover Hallormsstaður National Forest, Hengifoss, Skriðuklaustur, Snæfell, Kárahnjúkar, Hafrahvammagljúfur canyon and Stuðlagil.
Some parts of the route are seasonal and require a suitable four-wheel-drive vehicle, so always check road conditions and accessibility before setting out.
Hafrahvammagljúfur: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
Austurland offers more than one way in, and even more ways to explore once you arrive.
Whether you fly to Egilsstaðir, sail into Seyðisfjörður, fly to Akureyri and continue east, or make Austurland a part of a longer road trip from Keflavík, give yourself enough time to discover the places, people and landscapes along the way.
Austurland is a destination in its own right.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to East Iceland?
There are several ways to reach East Iceland. You can fly from Reykjavík to Egilsstaðir, sail from Denmark to Seyðisfjörður aboard the Norröna, fly internationally to Akureyri and continue east by road, or drive east from Keflavík as part of a Ring Road or Iceland road trip.
Can I fly directly from Keflavík to Egilsstaðir?
No. International flights arrive at Keflavík International Airport, while domestic flights to Egilsstaðir depart from Reykjavík Domestic Airport. If you arrive at Keflavík and want to fly to Egilsstaðir, you need to transfer between the two airports.
How long is the flight from Reykjavík to Egilsstaðir?
The flight from Reykjavík Domestic Airport to Egilsstaðir takes approximately 60 minutes. Icelandair operates year-round domestic flights between the two airports.
Can I take a ferry to East Iceland?
Yes. The Norröna, operated by Smyril Line, sails from Hirtshals in Denmark via the Faroe Islands to Seyðisfjörður in East Iceland. The ferry is particularly convenient for travellers bringing their own vehicle.
Can I fly to Akureyri and then travel to East Iceland?
Yes. Akureyri International Airport has seasonal international flights from selected European destinations. From Akureyri, you can continue east by road, combining North and East Iceland in the same trip. Popular highlights along the way include Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn and Dettifoss.
Is East Iceland suitable for a road trip?
Yes. East Iceland can easily be included as part of a longer Iceland road trip, whether you arrive from Keflavík and follow the Ring Road east or travel into the region from North Iceland. The region also has suggested travel routes, including the Fjord Way and the Highland Circle.
Where should I stay in East Iceland?
East Iceland offers accommodation throughout the region, including hotels, guesthouses, cottages, apartments, hostels and campsites. You can stay in Egilsstaðir or choose accommodation in one of the fjord communities and explore the surrounding area from there.
How long should I spend in East Iceland?
Even a few days allow you to experience some of the region's highlights, while a longer stay gives you more time to explore the Eastfjords, smaller communities and inland landscapes
How do I get from Keflavík Airport to East Iceland?
By air: transfer to Reykjavík Domestic Airport and fly with Icelandair to Egilsstaðir.
By road: rent a car and follow Route 1 east.