Plan a trip to Iceland
Few countries feel as otherworldly as Iceland. Perched on the edge of the Arctic Circle, this volcanic island is a land of erupting geysers, cascading waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and the shimmering northern lights. Whether you’re soaking in geothermal hot springs, hiking across glaciers, driving the iconic Ring Road, or exploring Reykjavik’s vibrant food and music scene, Iceland delivers adventure at every turn. Alaska Airlines offers seasonal nonstop flights from Seattle to Reykjavik, making it one of the most accessible European getaways from the West Coast.
Things to do in Iceland
- Soak in the milky-blue waters of the Blue Lagoon or the newer Sky Lagoon near Reykjavik.
- Chase the northern lights from September through March under some of the darkest skies in Europe.
- Drive the Ring Road (Route 1) for a 828-mile loop past waterfalls, glaciers, fjords, and volcanic landscapes.
- Hike between tectonic plates at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Walk behind the curtain of water at Seljalandsfoss waterfall.
- Explore the black-sand beaches and basalt columns at Reynisfjara near Vík.
- Go whale watching from Reykjavik or Husavik, the whale capital of Iceland.
- Snowmobile or ice-cave tour on Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier.
Flying to Reykjavik (KEF) with Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines offers seasonal nonstop flights from Seattle (SEA) to Keflavik International Airport (KEF), Iceland’s main international gateway. Connecting service is available from cities across the Alaska Airlines network through Seattle. Keflavik Airport is located about 30 miles southwest of downtown Reykjavik.
Best time to travel to Iceland
Summer (June through August) brings nearly 24 hours of daylight, mild temperatures in the 50s–60s °F, and access to highland roads and remote trails. It’s the most popular season, so book early. Winter (November through March) is colder and darker but rewards visitors with the northern lights, ice caves, and lower prices. Spring and fall offer a balance of fewer crowds, reasonable weather, and a chance to catch the aurora.
How long is the flight to Iceland?
Nonstop from Seattle to Reykjavik takes roughly 7.5 to 8 hours eastbound and about 8 to 8.5 hours on the return. If you’re connecting from another U.S. city through Seattle, total travel time will vary with your layover.
Getting around Iceland
A rental car is the best way to explore Iceland, especially if you plan to drive the Ring Road or venture beyond Reykjavik. A standard car works for paved roads in summer, but a 4x4 is essential for highland F-roads and winter driving. The Flybus shuttle connects Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik in about 45 minutes. Within Reykjavik, the compact city center is easily walkable, and local buses cover the greater metro area.
Popular flight routes to Iceland
Nonstop and connecting service from the U.S. to Reykjavik (KEF).
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