Landing in Iceland is exciting, but a little preparation can make your arrival smoother, warmer, and far less stressful—especially after a long flight. Whether you’re heading straight to the countryside or planning a slow road trip around West Iceland, a few smart choices will help you start your adventure in the best possible way.
First, think about how you’ll get from Keflavík Airport to your first stop. Most visitors pick up a rental car at the airport, which is ideal if you’re planning to explore West Iceland at your own pace. Be sure to confirm your pickup details in advance and check your rental agreement for included insurance—gravel roads, wind, and changing weather are common in Iceland. If you’re arriving late at night or after a long journey, consider staying your first night near Reykjavík and starting your drive the next morning when you’re rested and alert.
If West Iceland is your destination, planning your route before you land will save time and stress. For example, if you’re heading towards Borgarfjörður, the Hvítá Inn is a comfortable and welcoming base close to Borgarnes. It’s a great first stop after leaving the capital area, putting you within easy reach of scenic spots like Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, Deildartunguhver hot spring, and the historic Reykholt area. Booking your stay at Hvítá Inn through Ourhotels.is in advance means you can drive straight there without worrying about last-minute accommodation.
Weather is one of the biggest factors in how smooth your arrival feels. Iceland’s conditions can change quickly—sun, wind, rain, and even snow can all appear in a single day, no matter the season. Before you land, download a reliable weather app and bookmark the Icelandic Met Office website, as well as the official road conditions site. This is especially important if you’re driving north and west to places like Stykkishólmur or Ísafjörður, where mountain roads and coastal routes can be affected by wind or snow in winter and early spring.
Packing smartly will also make your first hours in Iceland more comfortable. Keep warm layers, a waterproof jacket, and a hat and gloves in your carry-on so you can adjust quickly to the outdoor temperature as soon as you step out of the airport. Comfortable shoes with good grip are essential, especially if you plan to explore viewpoints or walk along the coast on your first day. Even in summer, evenings can be cool in West Iceland, so having layers ready will help you enjoy your surroundings from the moment you arrive at your hotel.
If your route takes you onto the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, planning a stop in Stykkishólmur is a wonderful way to ease into Icelandic coastal life. The Stykkishólmur Inn, available via Ourhotels.is, offers a cozy stay in one of the most picturesque towns in the country. Arriving here after your flight and drive means you can slow down, walk the colorful harbor, enjoy views over Breiðafjörður Bay, and adjust to the time zone and daylight conditions at a relaxed pace. It’s also a perfect base for exploring Snæfellsjökull National Park and the peninsula’s dramatic coastline over the next few days.
For travelers continuing further into the Westfjords, planning your timing is crucial. The drive to Ísafjörður is beautiful but long, with winding fjord roads that reward unhurried travel. Breaking up the journey with a night in Borgarfjörður or Stykkishólmur can make your arrival in the Westfjords much more enjoyable. Once you reach Ísafjörður, the Ísafjörður Inn provides a comfortable and convenient place to settle in after the drive. Booking through Ourhotels.is ensures you have a warm room waiting, so you can focus on enjoying the town’s charming streets, surrounding mountains, and nearby fjords instead of worrying about logistics.
Another tip for a smooth arrival is to manage your energy on day one. Jet lag, new daylight patterns (especially in summer when it barely gets dark), and the excitement of being in a new country can tempt you to do too much too soon. Instead, plan a lighter first day: a scenic drive, a relaxed walk in a nearby town, a simple local meal, and an early night. All of Ourhotels.is locations in West Iceland—Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn—are well placed for gentle first-day activities, from short walks and viewpoints to easy access to restaurants and services.
Staying connected will also help your arrival go smoothly. Consider picking up an Icelandic SIM card or arranging an international data plan before you land. Having mobile data makes it easier to use navigation apps, check weather and road conditions, and contact your accommodation if your arrival time changes. Ourhotels.is properties offer Wi-Fi, but having connectivity on the road between the airport and your hotel adds an extra layer of safety and convenience.
Finally, booking your accommodation in advance through Ourhotels.is is one of the simplest ways to ensure a smooth start to your trip. With options like Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (close to Borgarnes), The Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the heart of the Westfjords, you can plan a logical route through West Iceland that matches your pace and interests. Knowing exactly where you’re going each night lets you relax and enjoy the scenery instead of worrying about where you’ll sleep.
With a bit of planning—sorting your transport, checking the weather and roads, packing smart layers, and reserving your stays with Ourhotels.is—you can turn your arrival in Iceland into a smooth, memorable beginning to your journey. From your first night near Borgarfjörður to coastal days in Stykkishólmur and deep fjord views in Ísafjörður, West Iceland is ready to welcome you.
