Iceland has no railways, so you travel the country by road or by air. How you get around depends on the season, your budget, and how far into the wilderness you want to reach. Here is an overview of the main options and practical tips for each.
Rental car – the most freedom
For most visitors a rental car is the best solution. You set your own pace and route and reach places buses never go.
- For the Ring Road and lowland areas, an ordinary car is often enough in summer.
- For the Highlands and F-roads you need a four-wheel-drive (4x4) – it is both a requirement and a matter of insurance.
- Campervans combine transport and accommodation and are popular through the summer.
- Refuel whenever you can; on remote routes petrol stations are far apart. Some self-service pumps require a card with a PIN.
The Ring Road (Route 1)
The Ring Road circles the whole country and is about 1,332 km long. Driven non-stop it would take roughly 16 to 18 hours, but most travellers spend at least seven to ten days to enjoy it.
- The road is mostly paved and single-lane in many places – drive carefully.
- Break the journey into manageable stages and stop for waterfalls, beaches and towns along the way.
- The general speed limit is 90 km/h on paved roads, 80 on gravel and 50 in urban areas.
- In winter sections can close due to weather; check road.is and vedur.is.
Single-lane bridges and tunnels
In many places there are single-lane bridges where only one car can pass at a time – the vehicle closest has priority. Some tunnels charge a toll, for example Vaðlaheiðargöng near Akureyri; pay the fee online within the time limit to avoid a fine.
The Highlands and the seasons
Highland F-roads open only in high summer, often from June or July into September, once the snow has gone and rivers are passable. Outside that window, routes such as Landmannalaugar and Askja are closed. Check the opening dates before you plan.
Public buses – Strætó
Strætó runs the public buses in Reykjavik and between towns. In the city the service is good, but in the countryside it is limited and infrequent, especially in winter. Plan carefully and check the timetables if you rely on the bus.
Domestic flights and ferries
To save time over long distances, domestic flights are a great option. There are flights to Akureyri, Egilsstaðir and Ísafjörður, among others, from Reykjavik city airport. This suits you well if you want to visit the north or east without driving all the way. Ferries also link islands and fjords, for example Herjólfur to the Westman Islands and Baldur across Breiðafjörður.
Guided tours and more
- From Reykjavik there are countless guided day tours – the Golden Circle, the South Coast, glaciers and the northern lights – ideal without a car.
- Cycling suits the adventurous, but weather and wind are demanding.
From Keflavik airport to the city
The international airport is in Keflavik, about 45 minutes from Reykjavik. The easiest way is to take the Flybus or a scheduled coach timed to the flights, or to rent a car directly at the airport. The coaches stop at major hotels and the BSÍ bus terminal.
Winter driving
In winter you need studded tyres, slow driving, and constant checks of road.is and vedur.is. Start early so you make the most of the daylight and reach your destination before dark. Keep your phone fully charged and carry good travel insurance.
Parking and useful apps
At popular sights such as Þingvellir and many waterfalls a parking fee is charged; in some places you pay at a self-service machine or online, so keep a payment card handy. Download a navigation app and save maps for offline use, because mobile coverage can drop on remote routes. Never leave your car in the middle of the road to take photos – use the marked pull-outs. Before you set off, read the rental contract carefully: check whether insurance covers gravel, sand and river damage, and photograph the car to avoid disputes later. Finally, it is wise to keep an ice scraper, a tow rope and a blanket in the car, especially outside summer, and always refuel when the tank is half empty.