11/12/2021
Arriving in a new country, especially after a long flight, can often present the first challenge: how to get from the airport to your accommodation. For those heading to START Hostel from Keflavik International Airport (KEF), Iceland's main international gateway, understanding your transportation options is key to a smooth and enjoyable start to your Icelandic adventure. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most convenient and cost-effective ways to reach START Hostel, ensuring your journey is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible.
Keflavik Airport, while not directly in Reykjavik, is well-connected, offering several choices for travellers. Whether you prioritise speed, budget, or comfort, there's an option tailored for you. Our aim is to provide you with all the necessary details, from special taxi rates to bus routes, helping you make an informed decision and begin your Icelandic experience on the right foot.
Taxi Services: The Direct and Convenient Choice
When it comes to airport transfers, taxis often stand out as the most direct and convenient option, especially for those with luggage or arriving late at night. While Iceland is known for its higher cost of living, including transport, START Hostel has taken proactive steps to ensure their guests receive a fair and competitive rate for this essential journey.
Aðalstöð: Your Preferred Taxi Partner
START Hostel has established a special arrangement with a reputable local taxi service called Aðalstöð. This partnership is specifically designed to offer guests a preferential fixed rate for transfers between Keflavik International Airport and the hostel, or vice versa. This is a significant advantage, as it removes the uncertainty of metered fares, which can sometimes escalate due to traffic or unforeseen delays.
Identifying an Aðalstöð taxi is straightforward, making your arrival experience less stressful. Look for their distinct logo in the car window: an 'A' with wings. This unique identifier helps you easily spot their vehicles among the other taxis available at the airport's designated pick-up points. Ensuring you choose an Aðalstöð taxi and mention the START Hostel special rate immediately upon entering is crucial to securing your fixed price.
The fixed rate offered by Aðalstöð for START Hostel guests calculates to approximately 5200 ISK, which is roughly equivalent to 35 Euro or 37 USD. This transparent pricing allows you to budget effectively for your transfer, knowing precisely what to expect. In comparison, other taxi services operating from the airport have been known to charge considerably more for the exact same journey, making Aðalstöð an economical choice for hostel guests.
Why Choose a Taxi?
- Door-to-Door Service: Taxis offer the ultimate convenience, dropping you directly at the hostel's entrance. This is particularly beneficial if you have heavy luggage or if the weather is inclement.
- Speed: Taxis are typically the fastest way to reach your destination, as they follow the most direct route without multiple stops.
- Comfort: After a long flight, the comfort of a private vehicle can be invaluable.
- Fixed Price Assurance: With Aðalstöð's special rate, you avoid any surprises regarding the cost, providing peace of mind.
Remember, while taxi services in Iceland are not the cheapest globally, the special rate with Aðalstöð represents excellent value for a direct, comfortable, and reliable transfer from the airport to START Hostel.
Public Transportation: The Bus 55 Option
For budget-conscious travellers or those who prefer public transport, the local bus service offers a viable alternative. Bus 55 operates a route from Keflavik International Airport, connecting it to Reykjavik, with a convenient stop relatively close to START Hostel.
The key stop for START Hostel guests on the Bus 55 route is 'Keilir'. From the Keilir bus stop, START Hostel is approximately a 10-minute walk. This walk can be an easy stroll, depending on factors such as the time of day, the amount of luggage you're carrying, and the prevailing weather conditions. Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so dressing appropriately and having suitable footwear for walking is always advisable.
While the bus offers a more affordable way to travel, it does require a short walk with your belongings. Consider if this walk is manageable for you, especially if you have large suitcases or are arriving during colder months when pathways might be icy or windy.
For up-to-date schedules and route information for Bus 55, you would typically check the official public transport website. Although we cannot provide direct links, a quick search for Icelandic bus schedules will guide you to the relevant resources to plan your journey accurately.
Pros and Cons of Bus Travel
| Feature | Taxi (Aðalstöð) | Bus 55 |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Approx. 5200 ISK / 35 EUR / 37 USD (fixed) | Significantly cheaper (standard public transport fare) |
| Convenience | Door-to-door, direct transfer | Requires a 10-minute walk from 'Keilir' stop |
| Speed | Faster, no multiple stops | Slower, multiple stops, adherence to schedule |
| Comfort | Private vehicle, personal space | Shared public transport |
| Luggage | Handled by driver, ample space | Must manage own luggage, limited space |
| Accessibility | Easy to spot and book (with prior knowledge) | Requires understanding of bus routes and schedules |
| Arrival Time | Flexible based on your arrival | Fixed schedule, potential waiting time |
As the table highlights, both options have their merits. Your choice will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and travel style. If budget is your primary concern and you don't mind a short walk, the bus is an excellent option. If convenience and speed are paramount, especially after a long flight, the Aðalstöð taxi service offers an unparalleled experience.
Other Transportation Considerations
The information provided primarily focuses on taxis and buses as the recommended options if you are not using a rental car. Renting a car at Keflavik Airport is another popular choice for many visitors to Iceland, offering maximum flexibility for exploring the country at your own pace. However, if your primary need is simply to get to START Hostel and you haven't arranged a rental car, the taxi and bus services are your best bet.
Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, planning ahead is always beneficial. Knowing your options and how to access them before you land will significantly reduce any potential stress upon arrival. START Hostel's dedication to ensuring a smooth experience for its guests is evident in their provision of specific, helpful information regarding transfers.
Making Your Decision: Factors to Consider
Choosing the right transport from Keflavik Airport to START Hostel involves weighing various factors that align with your travel priorities:
- Budget: If saving money is your top priority, the Bus 55 is the more economical choice, despite the short walk. The Aðalstöð taxi, while more expensive than the bus, offers a fixed, competitive rate compared to other taxi services.
- Luggage: For those with multiple bags, oversized luggage, or heavy suitcases, the door-to-door service of a taxi will be far more convenient and less strenuous than navigating public transport and walking from the bus stop.
- Time of Arrival: If you're arriving late at night or very early in the morning, when bus services might be less frequent or public areas quieter, a taxi offers a reliable and safe direct transfer.
- Comfort and Convenience: After a long journey, the desire for a hassle-free transfer is often high. A taxi provides a private, comfortable, and direct route to your destination without the need for transfers or walking.
- Travel Companions: If you're travelling with a group, sharing a taxi might become more cost-effective per person, potentially rivalling or even surpassing the per-person cost of multiple bus tickets, especially for the convenience offered.
- Weather Conditions: Iceland's weather can be unpredictable. On a cold, windy, or rainy day, the prospect of a 10-minute walk from the bus stop might be less appealing than a direct taxi ride.
Ultimately, the best option is the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences. Both the Aðalstöð taxi service and the Bus 55 offer reliable ways to reach START Hostel from Keflavik Airport, each with its own set of advantages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further assist you in planning your transfer, here are some common questions travellers might have:
Q: How long does the journey from Keflavik Airport to START Hostel take by taxi?
A: The journey time can vary depending on traffic and road conditions, but typically, a taxi ride from Keflavik Airport to START Hostel is quite efficient, often taking approximately 15-20 minutes due to the hostel's proximity to the airport.
Q: Can I book the Aðalstöð taxi in advance?
A: While the provided information doesn't explicitly state pre-booking procedures, it implies that the special rate is offered when you ask about it 'right away' upon arrival. It's always a good idea to confirm with START Hostel directly if pre-booking is possible or recommended, especially for late-night arrivals.
Q: Is the 10-minute walk from Keilir bus stop difficult?
A: The difficulty of the walk from Keilir to START Hostel is subjective. It's a relatively short walk, but it could be challenging with excessive luggage, in adverse weather conditions (wind, rain, snow, ice), or if you have mobility issues. It's generally on flat terrain, but always assess your personal comfort level.
Q: Are there other bus options besides Bus 55?
A: Bus 55 is specifically mentioned as the public transport option connecting Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik with a stop near the hostel. Other bus services primarily connect the airport to Reykjavik city centre or other specific destinations, but Bus 55 is highlighted for its direct relevance to START Hostel guests.
Q: What if I have more questions about transportation?
A: START Hostel encourages guests to contact them directly for any further questions regarding transportation before their arrival. You can reach them at [email protected], demonstrating their commitment to ensuring guests have the best possible experience during their visit to Iceland.
In conclusion, your journey from Keflavik International Airport to START Hostel is designed to be as smooth as possible, thanks to clear options and special arrangements. Whether you opt for the comfort and fixed-rate reliability of an Aðalstöð taxi or the budget-friendly approach of Bus 55, you have excellent choices to begin your Icelandic adventure. Remember to consider your personal needs, luggage, and budget when making your decision, and don't hesitate to reach out to START Hostel for any additional assistance. We wish you a fantastic visit to Iceland!
If you want to read more articles similar to Seamless Journey from Keflavik Airport to START Hostel, you can visit the Taxis category.