Exploring Reykjavik by car gives you the freedom to experience Iceland’s vibrant capital and its surrounding natural beauty at your own pace. Whether you’re planning to visit museums, waterfront cafés, or nearby attractions like the Blue Lagoon and Þingvellir National Park, renting a car in Reykjavik makes it all easy and convenient.

At ExploreIcelandRentalCars.com , we make car rentals in Iceland simple — with hassle-free airport delivery, affordable rates, and flexible options for every traveler.

Why Rent a Car in Reykjavik?

Reykjavik is compact and easy to navigate, but having your own vehicle lets you explore beyond the city limits. Public transport is limited, especially if you want to take spontaneous trips or visit nature spots outside the city. With a Reykjavik car rental, you can plan your own schedule and discover Iceland at your own rhythm.

Parking in Reykjavik – What You Should Know

Parking in Reykjavik is straightforward once you understand the system:

Zones & Fees: The city center has four parking zones (P1–P4), each with different rates and time limits. You can pay via ticket machines or the Parka mobile app.

Free Parking: Outside the main downtown area, many streets and residential zones offer free parking.

Hotels & Guesthouses: Most accommodations provide free or discounted parking for guests — confirm before you book.

Tip: Avoid parking on yellow-marked curbs or sidewalks; fines are strictly enforced.

 

Driving Rules and Local Etiquette

Icelandic roads are safe, but it’s important to adapt to local conditions during your car rentals in Iceland:

  • Keep headlights on at all times — it’s mandatory, day or night.
  • No honking unless it’s an emergency; Icelanders value quiet roads.
  • Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved rural roads.
  • Seatbelts: Required for everyone in the vehicle.

When renting from Explore Iceland Rental Cars, every vehicle is well-equipped for Icelandic conditions, whether you’re driving in the city or on the open road.

Best Scenic Routes Around Reykjavik

Here are a few must-drive routes from the capital:

Reykjavik to the Golden Circle (Full-Day Trip) – See Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

Reykjavik to Reykjanes Peninsula – Explore geothermal landscapes and end your day at the Blue Lagoon.

Reykjavik to Hvalfjörður Fjord – A beautiful, lesser-known drive with coastal views and hiking spots.

Use Google Maps navigation for accurate travel times and fuel station locations - coverage in Iceland is excellent.

Fueling and Electric Car Options

Fuel stations are self-service and open 24/7 with credit/debit cards. For eco-conscious travelers, Explore Iceland Rental Cars also offers hybrid and electric vehicles, perfect for short city trips or long-distance adventures.

Final Tips for a Smooth Reykjavik Driving Experience

  • Always check weather updates at vedur.is 
  • Download SafeTravel.is for alerts and road safety tips.
  • Keep a charged phone and offline maps in case of weak signal areas.

With these simple tips, you’ll have an excellent Reykjavik car rental experience and drive just like a local.

Ready to Explore?

Skip the long queues and rent your car directly at Keflavik Airport with ExploreIcelandRentalCars.com 

We’ll deliver your vehicle right to the airport — no counters, no waiting, just keys in hand and freedom on the road.

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