How to Get to East Iceland from The States: Flights, Ferries, and Scenic Drives
Why East Iceland is Worth the Journey
East Iceland feels like a world apart from the rest of the country. Stretching from dramatic fjords to quiet fishing villages, this region offers solitude, raw beauty, and a slower pace that many travelers crave. Unlike the many other popular sights closer to the capital, the Eastfjords see fewer tourists, making it one of the best places in Iceland to experience authentic local life.
Wild reindeer roam the valleys, puffins nest along the cliffs, and waterfalls tumble down mountainsides that seem to rise straight from the sea. Charming towns like Seyðisfjörður and Djúpivogur welcome visitors with colorful houses, cozy cafés, and a strong sense of community. For outdoor lovers, East Iceland is a base for hiking, highland explorations, and spotting the elusive Northern Lights in winter.
Yes, it takes a little more effort to reach East Iceland – but that journey is exactly what makes arriving here feel so rewarding.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson. Location: Bjólfur
Discover How to Reach the Remote Beauty of East Iceland
Getting to East Iceland isn’t as straightforward as stepping off a plane and arriving. Its remoteness is part of the charm, and it means travelers have several ways to make the journey. Here’s a look at the main routes you can take.
1. Fly to Iceland: Direct Flights From the East Coast of the US
For most travelers, the easiest way to begin the journey to East Iceland is by flying directly into the country. Several airlines offer direct flights to Iceland from the East Coast, with departures from major cities like New York, Boston, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Baltimore.
All flights land at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), Iceland’s main international hub, located about 45 minutes from Reykjavík. The flight time from the East Coast is surprisingly short – usually just 5 to 6 hours – making Iceland one of the most accessible transatlantic destinations.
Airlines such as Icelandair, United, Delta, and American Airlines operate nonstop routes, often with multiple daily departures during the peak summer season.
2. Continue Onward to Egilsstaðir in Eastern Iceland
Keflavík International Airport is the main entry point into Iceland, but it’s located in the southwest of the country. To actually reach East Iceland, most travelers continue to Egilsstaðir, the region’s capital and transportation hub.
Here are a few ways to get from Reykjavík to Egilsstaðir:
By Domestic Flight
The fastest and most convenient option is to catch a domestic flight from Reykjavík Airport (RKV) to Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS). The short hop takes about one hour and is operated by airlines such as Icelandair. Flights run daily, though schedules can vary slightly, especially during the off-season, so booking early is recommended.
Tip: You can also fly to Akureyri (AEY) in the north or Hornafjörður (HFN) near Höfn and continue by car or bus, combining a short flight with a scenic drive.
By Bus Service
For travelers who don’t want to rent a car, Iceland’s public bus system, Strætó BS, does connect Reykjavík with East Iceland – though it’s not a straightforward journey. Expect a multi-leg trip with at least one overnight stop along the way.
From Reykjavík, you have two main paths:
- Via North Iceland: Take Route 57 from Reykjavík to Akureyri (about 6.75 hours). From there, continue on Route 56 across the north to Egilsstaðir (about 3.5 hours). In summer, this service runs daily, while in winter it operates 3-5 times per week.
- Via South Iceland: Take Route 51 from Reykjavík to Höfn (about 7.75 hours). From Höfn, connect the next day on Route 94 (about 1.75 hours), which travels east through Djúpivogur, a small town just a 1.5-hour drive from Egilsstaðir.
Because of the distances and limited schedules, overnighting in Akureyri or Höfn is usually necessary. While slower, the bus can be a budget-friendly way to see more of Iceland along the way.
Photographer: Ragnhildur Aðalsteinsdóttir. Location: Egilsstaðir airport
3. Arrive in Seyðisfjörður by Ferry From Mainland Europe
One of the most unique ways to arrive in East Iceland is by sea. The Smyril Line ferry, Norröna, sails year-round from Hirtshals, Denmark, to Seyðisfjörður (where the famous Seyðisfjarðarkirkja blue church is), with a stop in the Faroe Islands along the way.
The crossing takes about 2-3 days, making it an adventure in itself. Travelers can bring cars, campervans, or motorcycles on board, which makes the ferry especially popular with Europeans who want to road-trip around Iceland.
Photographer: Kolbeinn Þráinnsson. Location: Seyðisfjörður
4. Drive the Ring Road to the Eastfjords on a Scenic Road Trip
For travelers who enjoy road trips, driving Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) is one of the most rewarding ways to reach East Iceland. The journey can be taken in either direction – north or south – each with its own highlights. If you choose the southern route, you get a great view of the black sand beaches.
Northbound Route (Clockwise):
Heading north, the Ring Road passes through Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, and the volcanic landscapes around Lake Mývatn. From there, the road cuts across to Egilsstaðir and the Eastfjords. This route is about 7.5-8 hours nonstop, and it’s perfect for those who want to combine East Iceland with the north’s hot springs and geothermal wonders.
Southbound Route (Counterclockwise):
Driving east along the South Coast from Reykjavík, you’ll pass some of Iceland’s most famous attractions, including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the black sand beaches of Vík, and Vatnajökull National Park. Continuing through Höfn, the road winds along the dramatic Eastfjords before reaching Egilsstaðir. This drive typically takes 8-8.5 hours nonstop, though most travelers stretch it into a 2-3 day trip.
Once in East Iceland, you’ll find a network of scenic routes:
- Coastal Experience follows fishing villages and sea views.
- Highland Circle explores rugged summer-only Highland roads.
- Ring of Riverdale circles Lagarfljót lake and Hengifoss waterfall.
- Fjord to Fjord links fjords like Egilsstaðir with Seyðisfjörður and Reyðarfjörður.
- On the Edge reaches Borgarfjörður eystri and Vopnafjörður for wildlife and solitude.
Local buses exist within towns, but they don’t reach sights, so a car is the best way to explore.
Photographer: Jessica Auer. Location: Lighthouse in Norðfjörður
Travel Tips for Visiting East Iceland by Air, Sea, or Road
No matter how you get to East Iceland, a little planning makes the journey smoother and more rewarding. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Book early: Domestic flights to Egilsstaðir and car rentals in summer often sell out quickly. Reserving in advance can save both money and stress.
- Consider the seasons: Summer (June–August) offers the easiest travel conditions, with long daylight hours and all routes open. Winter brings fewer crowds and the chance to see the Northern Lights.
- Budget wisely: Compare the cost of a domestic flight with the price of car rental, fuel, and overnight stops. Sometimes flying is cheaper and faster, while driving gives you more freedom to explore.
- Pack for variety: Weather in Iceland can shift quickly. Layers, sturdy shoes, and waterproof gear are essential.
- Expect limited services: Outside Egilsstaðir and larger towns, gas stations, restaurants, and shops can be sparse. Always top up on fuel, snacks, and cash before long drives.
The Rewarding Journey to East Iceland Awaits
Getting to East Iceland takes a bit more planning, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. Whether you start with direct flights to Iceland from the East Coast and connect onward, or choose the slower pace of a ferry or road trip, the journey itself becomes part of the experience. When you finally arrive and witness its fjords, waterfalls, hiking trails, and quiet villages, you’ll find the effort was more than worth it.
Visit East Iceland and let the journey lead you to unforgettable places.
FAQs About Getting to East Iceland
What US cities fly nonstop to Iceland?
Airlines offer nonstop flights from East Coast cities like New York, Boston, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Baltimore.
Which US airline flies to Iceland?
American Airlines, Delta, and United are US airlines that operate direct flights to Iceland from the East Coast.
What is the cheapest city to fly into in Iceland?
Keflavík International Airport (near Reykjavík) is the main and usually the cheapest entry point into Iceland.
What month is the cheapest to fly to Iceland?
Flights are usually cheapest in the shoulder seasons (September–October and April–May), when demand is lower than in summer.
How long is the flight from the East Coast to Iceland?
Most nonstop flights from the East Coast to Iceland take about 5-6 hours.