Cruise port Reykjavik
Info for port Reykjavik on 11 Sept 2028
Port information & tips for Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the northernmost capital in the world and forms the fascinating gateway to Iceland's spectacular natural wonders. The city inspires visitors with its harmonious blend of modern design, Nordic hospitality, and an impressive backdrop of striking mountain ranges and the deep blue Atlantic. Architectural highlights near the water include the glass Harpa concert hall, the imposing Hallgrímskirkja, and the iconic Sólfar sculpture directly on the waterfront path. Most cruise ships dock at the modern Skarfabakki terminal, located about four kilometers from the city center. Thanks to comfortable shuttle buses and a well-developed coastal path, guests can quickly reach the bustling city center with its popular Laugavegur shopping street and the charming old harbor district.
The Port of Reykjavik is the most important hub for cruises in Iceland and usually welcomes guests at the Skarfabakki terminal in the Sundahöfn district or at the Miðbakki quay near the city center. Accessibility is very convenient for travelers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland thanks to its proximity to the international airport and a modern infrastructure.
Airplane
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) serves as the main gateway to Iceland and is served directly by major hubs such as Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, and Vienna. It is located around 50 kilometers from the port, with the transfer time via National Road 41 taking approximately 45 to 50 minutes and offering travelers their first views of the striking lava fields of the Reykjanes peninsula.
Transfer & Shuttle
From the airport, you can easily reach the port with the Flybus or Airport Direct, as these services are often coordinated with the arrival times of major airlines. In addition, many cruise lines provide coordinated transfers and private taxi companies are available around the clock to transport guests directly to the Skarfabakki or Miðbakki terminals.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Arriving at least one day before embarkation is advisable to bridge possible flight delays in a relaxed manner and to explore the Icelandic capital at your leisure. Many hotels in the city center are located in the immediate vicinity of the Old Harbour or offer a quick connection to the main pier Sundahöfn, so that the transfer to the ship on the day of departure takes only a few minutes.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Reykjavik is the most important hub for cruises in Iceland and usually welcomes guests at the Skarfabakki terminal in the Sundahöfn district or at the Miðbakki quay near the city center. Accessibility is very convenient for travelers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland thanks to its proximity to the international airport and a modern infrastructure.
Airplane
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) serves as the main gateway to Iceland and is served directly by major hubs such as Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, and Vienna. It is located around 50 kilometers from the port, with the transfer time via National Road 41 taking approximately 45 to 50 minutes and offering travelers their first views of the striking lava fields of the Reykjanes peninsula.
Transfer & Shuttle
From the airport, you can easily reach the port with the Flybus or Airport Direct, as these services are often coordinated with the arrival times of major airlines. In addition, many cruise lines provide coordinated transfers and private taxi companies are available around the clock to transport guests directly to the Skarfabakki or Miðbakki terminals.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Arriving at least one day before embarkation is advisable to bridge possible flight delays in a relaxed manner and to explore the Icelandic capital at your leisure. Many hotels in the city center are located in the immediate vicinity of the Old Harbour or offer a quick connection to the main pier Sundahöfn, so that the transfer to the ship on the day of departure takes only a few minutes.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The port of Reykjavik is well connected to the city center and, thanks to its modern infrastructure, provides a comfortable base for your explorations.
Shuttle Buses & Strætó
Cruise lines usually provide convenient shuttle buses directly to the Harpa Concert Hall, and the city area can also be flexibly explored using the yellow public buses from the provider Strætó.
Taxi
Official taxis are available directly at the terminal and will take you comfortably to the heart of the old town or nearby sights within about 10 minutes.
On Foot
The path to the center leads along the picturesque Sculpture and Shore Walk by the coast and offers you a beautiful first impression of the Icelandic capital after about 45 to 60 minutes of walking.
To make the most of your limited time in Reykjavik, we recommend a discovery tour through the vibrant city center combined with the impressive sights in the immediate vicinity of the coast.
Old Harbor & Harpa
The maritime heart of the city combines modern architecture in the form of the glass Harpa Concert Hall with the historic charm of the old harbor, and also offers a first-class selection of authentic seafood restaurants and small galleries.
Hallgrímskirkja & City Center
The imposing architectural landmark towers over the city and serves as an ideal starting point for a walk through the colorful alleys around the popular main shopping street, Laugavegur.
Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach
This special stretch of coastline on the edge of the city promises a unique bathing experience in the North Atlantic thanks to artificially heated seawater and hot springs, and is perfect for a nature-filled break due to the short journey.
Sky Lagoon
The spectacular Sky Lagoon is located only about fifteen minutes' drive from the harbor and offers an exquisite relaxation experience in a geothermally heated infinity pool directly on the coast. This location is perfect for travelers looking to combine Icelandic wellness traditions with a wide panoramic view over the North Atlantic. Thanks to the first-class infrastructure with an in-water bar, the revitalizing "7-step ritual," and a stylish bistro, you can enjoy a stay of the highest standard here. Ideally, reserve your visit for the early morning to experience the special atmosphere before the larger crowds of visitors arrive, and return to the ship relaxed about two hours before departure.
Returning to the port of Reykjavik is extremely easy and safe thanks to the well-developed infrastructure, ensuring you are back on board on time.
Taxi
Taxis can be found conveniently at central locations such as the BSI bus terminal, Hlemmur Square, or directly in front of major hotels like Hotel Borg at Austurvöllur Square. Thanks to the short distances, you can reach the Skarfabakki pier in a few minutes and can also easily pay for the ride contactlessly by credit card.
Shuttle Bus and Public Transport
Many cruise lines offer organized shuttle buses that depart regularly from the Harpa Concert Hall and take you directly to the ship. In addition, the yellow public bus line 16 connects the city center with the Klettagarðar stop near the harbor, enabling a reliable and inexpensive return to the terminal.
On Foot via the Coastal Path
If your ship is docked at the centrally located Miðbakki pier, you can easily reach the gangway in a few minutes on foot from the old town. For ships at the Skarfabakki terminal, a well-maintained and picturesque sculpture path leads along the coast directly to the harbor, offering relaxed orientation by the sea thanks to the flat paths and clear lines of sight.
In port on 11 Sept 2028
