Travel information
How to get around and what to visit.
Travelling to Iceland
Oversea
All year-round, the M/S Norröna sails weekly from Denmark to Iceland via the Faroe Islands. This form of travel allows passengers to bring their own car, motorcycle, caravan, camper, or bicycle with them to Iceland.
Between June and August, the ferry ride takes 2 days, leaving Hirtshals in Denmark on Tuesday mornings and arriving in Seyðisfjörður on Thursday mornings.
Ferries leave Denmark on a Tuesday and return on a Thursday. The cost depends on number of passengers, size of car and dates. It is around 375 €, but we recommend having a look here and booking in advance.
Some ferries stop for 6-9 hours on the way to Iceland and back at the Faroe Islands, you can tell the crew when boarding that you intend on going for a drive at Torshavn, and they’ll park your car in the right place for you to do so.
It’s a long drive from Seyðisfjörður, 658km taking about 8.5 hours, bear in mind that the quickest route has tolls.
You can also get a bus to Reykjavik, you’ll need to take a bus to Hofn, (about three hours south), then take another one the next day to Reykjavik.
By Air
Keflavik Airport is the international airport and it is 46km from Reykjavik and the venue. See below to find out how to reach Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport. Most flight carriers have routes to Keflavik Airport, as Summer is tourist season, it is recommended to book in advance.
Overland in Iceland
Driving in Iceland is a unique experience, the variety of terrain types can make it quite challenging. However, the landscape is stunning and this is a recommended way to experience Iceland. If you are going to be driving to Reykjavik, we recommend having a look here for a list of tips and things to keep in mind as you travel across Iceland.
Travelling to Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland, it is not a large city and easily walkable. There are lots of sightseeing locations in the centre, not far from hotels and the conference venue.
From Keflavik Airport
Keflavik Airport is 46km from Reykjavik and the venue. It is connected to the city via:
Taxi and Uber
Big-name taxi companies such as Uber or Lyft don’t operate in Iceland. A trip from KEF to Reykjavík city centre in a 5-seater taxi will cost around 15,000 kr / 106 €, or 20,000 kr / 142 € for a larger 8-seater taxi.
Airport Direct offers coach, shuttle, private and luxury travel.
Coach - 2,990 kr / 22 €
Shuttle - 6,590 kr / 47 €
Private - 19,990 kr / 142 €
Luxury - 30,900 kr / 213 €
Hreyfill Bæjarleiðir
+354-588-5522
tour(at)hreyfill.is
BSR
+354-561-0000
info(at)taxireykjavik.is
There are various taxi companies operating airport transfer services. We recommend you get in touch with them in advance and ask about pricing, you can find information on them here.
Transfers
Flybus works around flight arrivals and will wait if the flight is delayed, 3,499 kr / 25.00 €
Airport Direct offers coach, shuttle, private and luxury travel.
Coach - 2,990 kr / 22 €
Shuttle - 6,590 kr / 47 €
Private - 19,990 kr / 142 €
Luxury - 30,900 kr / 213 €
Grayline offers coach travel for around 20 € / 2,828 kr
Drive
Here are a few car rental companies, you can look for more options on Valkinn by unchecking everything apart from services on this page.
Blue car rental
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Driving in Iceland is a unique experience, the variety of terrain types can make it quite challenging. However, the landscape is stunning and this is a recommended way to experience Iceland. If you are going to be driving to Reykjavik, we recommend having a look here for a list of tips and things to keep in mind as you travel across Iceland.
Directions from Reykjavik Airport:
1. Head east on Route 41 (58 m)
2. Follow Route 41 and Route 40 to Stakkahlíð in Reykjavík (46.5 km)
Public Garages in Reykjavik:
Bus
Strætó operates buses in Reykjavík and around the country. You can put in your location here and use it to navigate to the venue. They are yellow and tickets can be bought on the bus in cash with exact change, or alternatively by card in one of the city's supermarkets or through the official Strætó application.
Bus 55 drives between the capital area and Keflavik International Airport every day for around 1,920 kr / 13.58 €
Interactive map
Have a look at the google map below for directions from Keflavik Airport and Seyðisfjörður port if you are arriving by ferry. The map also has the relevant venues and discounted accommodation signposted, if you zoom in to Reykjavik.
Press the side menu button 
to access different options on the interactive map.
About Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the capital and largest city of Iceland. It is located in southwestern Iceland, on the southern shore of Faxaflói bay. It is the centre of Iceland's cultural, economic and governmental activity, and is a popular tourist destination.
Reykjavík is believed to be the location of the first permanent settlement in Iceland, which, according to The Landnamabok, was established by Ingólfur Arnarson in AD 874. Until the 19th century, there was no urban planning in the city location. The city was founded in 1785 as an official trading town and grew steadily over the following decades, as it transformed into a regional and later national centre of commerce, population, and governmental activities. It is among the cleanest, greenest, and safest cities in the world.
Things to do
There are a lot of things to do in and around Reykjavik, hot springs, hiking, sea and helicopter tours, and more. We recommend you have a look at Visit Reykjavik for some ideas. Unfortunately the only thing you may not get to experience during the conference week is the famous Northern Lights, as these are only visible in winter. This site is also very good for browsing activities across Iceland.
Swimming in Iceland: there are 17 geothermal swimming pools in Reykjavik. Some are like sport centres with water-slide parks and spas with hot tubs, others are hot springs. Laugardalslaug is the most popular pool with everything you might need, including activities for the kids. Right in the centre is Sundhöllin, Reykjavík's oldest pool.
Hiking in Reykjavik: there are some very good hikes near the capital. Úlfarsfell is a mountain located in Mosfellsbær, a town which is a part of the Reykjavík capital area. It offers just as an impressive view over the city, suitable to dedicated and less experienced hikers alike. Not too far from the centre of Hafnarfjörður rest the remarkable solfatara fields of Krýsuvík, where you’ll discover an expanse of steaming volcanic vents and boiling hot springs. Hafnarfjörður is not too far from Reykjavik, about 17km away and linked by public transport.
Explore the city: there are a number of organised walks around the city centre, and a large number of historical buildings to see, all close to restaurants and hotels. CityWalk is a free city tour and very well rated, they also organise pub crawls; you can also take an unguided walk around the old town, or along the coast. There are great museums in the city, you can visit the National Museum of Iceland, the Reykjavik City Museum and the Saga Museum.
Sea tours: there are a number of companies offering sea tours to practice responsible whale watching, all are easily found in the northern part of Reykjavik, you could walk down by the coast and choose one on the day. Elding Adventure at Sea is very famous and in central Reykjavik. Whale Safari uses smaller boats so you can get a little closer to whales, dolphins and puffins in Faxaflói bay.
Horse riding: the Icelandic horse is a breed unique to Iceland, so the opportunity to ride one is once in a lifetime. This small and fluffy horse is the only breed in the world with five gaits, and there are plenty of opportunities to ride them in Reykjavik. Have a look at this list for a sample of companies in and around Reykjavik to choose from.
The Kolaportid Flea Market and thrift stores are a good alternative to buying souvenirs: you can find Icelandic jumpers and all sorts of memorabilia for much cheaper than tourist stores.
Eating & Drinking
Dill Restaurant: DILL was founded in 2009 with the aim of delivering a unique and memorable experience of Iceland. As an expression of Nordic cooking, they honour Icelandic ingredients and traditions in their own unique way.
ÓX: Exclusive 11 seat restaurant hidden in downtown Reykjavík. ÒX means to grow/expand/develop in Icelandic to name a few. A seat at ÓX costs ISK 32.500 per person. This price includes the food, drink and service of your meal including wine pairings or non alcoholic drink pairings and coffee.
Sumac: Icelandic pristine seasonal ingredients subtly immersed in exotic spices – adding luscious and inspiring influences from Lebanon and Morocco. An eclectically seductive culinary affair brought to the Icelandic dining experience.
Matur og Drykkur: A family restaurant that specialises in classical Icelandic cuisine with a modern twist.
Skál!: Natural wines, local craft beers and cocktails from foraged herbs as well as high-quality foods under nordic influences. Both smaller and bigger plates are made with Icelandic produce that are perfect for sharing.
Snaps Bistro: French bistro in downtown Reykjavik offers first-class ingredients, a quality selection of wines and lots of good vibes.
Hnoss Restaurant: Hnoss is a new restaurant located inside Harpan concert hall, where the emphasis is on food and culture.
Grillmarket: They use local materials such as tanned skins of spotted wolffish, columnar basalt, moss and trestles to decorate the restaurant’s interior and the produce is predominantly Icelandic, much of it bought straight from local farmers.
Perlan Restaurant: Perlan Restaurant is a unique revolving restaurant. The floor makes a 360° rotation, ensuring an ever-changing backdrop against guests' tasteful dinner. The restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients where Icelandic culinary traditions meet classic European cuisine.
Fish company: Housed inside the old Zimsen house, a former store that was built in the 19th century, the Fish Company’s interior is both glamorous and cosy, with an old rocking chair sitting comfortably next to the light shifting bar, a centre of elegant cuisine to dine in Reykjavík. The courses are influenced by Nordic fusion, but are grounded in solid Icelandic cuisine.
Messinn: Messinn is a small seafood restaurant, situated in the heart of Reykjavík, Iceland. Their speciality is fresh fish served for lunch and dinner every day of the week.
Hlemmur Mathöll: Hlemmur Food Hall is Reykjavík’s first food hall, inspired by the great European food markets. Here, a handful of ambitious vendors provide a sample of some of the best food Iceland has to offer. They are located inside the unique building that used to house Reykjavík’s main bus terminal.
Public House Gastropub: this restaurant showcases traditional Icelandic ingredients with a Japanese flair resulting in really delicious, reasonably priced dinner options.
Vínstúkan Tíu Sopar: A cosy little wine bar with emphasis on natural wines and tapas like small plates.
BrewDog Reykjavík: BrewDog Reykjavik is a privately owned craft beer bar & restaurant, located on the corner of Frakkastigur & Hverfisgata in the heart of Reykjavik. Along with beer from BrewDog they offer a range of locally brewed craft beer.
The Student Cellar: The Student Cellar is a restaurant and a café located at Háskólatorg, the main campus for the University of Iceland. It is a venue for concerts, meetings and all kinds of activities. Though most of its customers are students and university staff it is open for everyone. This is (most likely) the cheapest restaurant in town.
Food Cellar: Food Cellar is a Grill & Cocktail bar, situated in a 160 year old building in the centre of Reykjavík. Go and experience their secret menu, the bar has a superb selection of fine cocktails, put together by outstanding bartenders.
We recommend browsing both the Restaurants and Bars & Nightlife sections of Visit Reykjavik, as there is plenty more choice in where to go.
Tips when travelling to Iceland
Iceland is very big and there is lots to see outside of the capital. If you plan to stay a little longer and go sightseeing, try to book things ahead of time as it is a very popular tourist destination. The most popular places to visit are Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, the waterfalls and the black sand beaches of the South Coast. However, don’t expect to see everything during your trip, Iceland has lots of things to experience so make a few choices, and plan to come back to see more.
It is recommended to use chip-and-pin rather than cash; but if you are going to be using cash make sure to exchange it in advance, as EUR and USD is not accepted in many places. However, you will need cash for the bus unless you buy the tickets in advance.
There are no trains in Iceland currently, so the main public transport to use is the bus, which is very connected and well-run.
To help with environmental impact, people in Iceland are encouraged to drink tap water, “kranavatn” is pure and naturally filtered. You can find out more about the “drink responsibly” scheme here.
Bring your sleeping mask! During the spring and summer in Iceland, the sun sets for just a few hours each night. Most hotels do have blinds and good curtains but sometimes that’s simply not enough.
More information on Iceland and Reykjavik can be found on the Visit Reykjavik website.
Vakinn
Vakinn is an official quality and environmental certification for Icelandic tourism, run by the Icelandic Tourist Board. You can find Valkinn certified businesses here, including car rental companies, tourist tours and accommodation.
Travelling to the Venue
The address of the main conference venue is: Stakkahlíð, 105 Reykjavík (the University of Iceland School of Education). If you are driving the GPS coordinates are: latitude 64.13524311578489, longitude -21.90626552225988.
Floor plan / accessibility map, in Icelandic.
The venue for the opening party is Álftaneslaug, it is a way from central Reykjavik, but there will be organised buses going from the conference venue and back afterwards.
Routes
By Bus:
From Ráðhúsið stop
1. Take the 1 / 3 / 6 / 55 bus for 5 stops
Get of at Hlíðar
Walk 170m
From Lækjartorg A stop (opposite The Icelandic Punk Museum)
- Take the 1 / 3 / 6 bus for 6 stops
- Get of at Hlíðar
- 3Walk 170m
Walking:
- Walk south on Veltusund towards Austurstræti (9m)
- Turn left onto Austurstræti (240m)
- Continue onto Bankastræti (190m)
- Turn right onto Skólavörðustígur (500m)
- Turn left onto Frakkastígur (43m)
- Turn right towards Egilsgata (140m)
- Turn left towards Egilsgata (16m)
- Turn right towards Egilsgata (6m)
- Slight left onto Egilsgata (350m)
- Turn left onto Snorrabraut (70m)
- Turn right onto Flókagata (200m)
- Turn right at Rauðarárstígur (550m)
- Take the zebra crossing (220m)
By Car:
- Take Hafnarstræti and Tryggvagata to Lækjargata (300m)
- Head north on Veltusund towards Hafnarstræti (32m)
- Veltusund turns right and becomes Hafnarstræti (110m)
- Turn left onto Pósthússtræti (39m)
- Turn right onto Tryggvagata (140m)
- Take Route 49 to Bólstaðarhlíð (2.9km)
- Turn right onto Lækjargata (350m)
- Continue onto Fríkirkjuvegur (260m)
- Fríkirkjuvegur turns slightly right and becomes Sóleyjargata (400m)
- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Njarðargata (140m)
- Turn left onto Hringbraut/Route 49
- Continue to follow Route 49 (1.6km)
- Turn left onto Langahlíð (180m)
- Continue on Bólstaðarhlíð. Drive to Stakkahlíð (350m)
- Turn right onto Bólstaðarhlíð (210m)
- Turn right at the 1st cross street onto Stakkahlíð (160m)
By Car:
- Head east on Route 41 (58 m)
- Follow Route 41 and Route 40 to Stakkahlíð in Reykjavík (46.5 km)
- Turn right onto Stakkahlíð
Bus
Strætó operates buses in Reykjavík and around the country. You can put in your location here and use it to navigate to the venue. They are yellow and tickets can be bought on the bus in cash with exact change, or alternatively by card in one of the city's supermarkets or through the official Straeto application.
The nearest stop to the venue is Hlíðar.
Parking
Campus car parking is available around the University of Iceland, for the School of Education, car parks are at Stakkahlíð, Háteigsvegur and Bólstaðarhlíð. Stakkahlíð is the closest to the venue.
Designated disabled parking is available.
Taxis and Uber
Big-name taxi companies such as Uber or Lyft don’t operate in Iceland.
Hreyfill Bæjarleiðir
+354-588-5522
tour(at)hreyfill.is
BSR
+354-561-0000
info(at)taxireykjavik.is
Sharing a ride
Sharing a ride is a common way to get around in Iceland. You can go here to offer and request rides.
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