Iceland is a land of stunning contrasts—fiery volcanoes, sparkling glaciers, dramatic coastlines, and peaceful countryside. While the landscapes are famously wild and remote, getting around the country is more accessible than many travelers think. That said, it does require a bit of planning. Here are some practical tips to get around in Iceland to make the most of your time here!
Most journeys begin in Reykjavík, the capital and hub for transportation. From there, you have plenty of options to explore the rest of the island, whether you are chasing waterfalls on the South Coast, soaking in geothermal pools, or hunting for the Northern Lights in the middle of winter.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to move around Iceland—both inside the city and across the countryside. We’ll cover rental cars for the independent traveler, public transport options, and guided tours that offer comfort, storytelling, and a deeper connection to the places you visit.
Whether you are planning a quick city break or a full loop around the Ring Road, this guide will help you find the right way to explore Iceland, based on your travel style, the season, and what you want to see.
Let’s hit the road!
1. Getting Around Reykjavík
Reykjavík is compact and easy to navigate:
- On Foot: Ideal for exploring the downtown area, shops, restaurants, and cultural sights.
- Public Buses (Strætó): Reliable and affordable. You can use the Klapp app to pay and plan routes.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Available but expensive—best reserved for short distances or airport transfers.
2. Exploring beyond the capital
Once you leave the city, distances grow and public transport becomes limited. Here are your main options:
a. Renting a Car
- Great for flexibility and spontaneous stops.
- Available directly from Keflavík Airport or in Reykjavík.
- In winter, be cautious of road conditions—4x4s are highly recommended.
b. Guided Day Tours
- Perfect if you prefer not to drive or want expert local knowledge.
- Small group tours (like ours at EastWest) let you visit highlights like the Golden Circle, South Coast, or Snæfellsnes Peninsula without stress.
- Ideal for solo travelers, families, or anyone who enjoys comfort and storytelling.
c. Multi-Day Tours
- Good for travelers who want to go further without worrying about accommodation or routes.
- Great for regions like the North, East Fjords, or Highlands.
3. Long-Distance travel and Buses
- Strætó Intercity Buses: Connect Reykjavík with some towns, but schedules are limited—better in summer.
- Domestic Flights: Useful if you are short on time and want to reach the North (e.g., Akureyri) or Westfjords quickly.
- Hitchhiking: Popular among budget travelers, but only in summer and rural areas—always with caution.
4. When should you choose a tour?
- You want a stress-free experience with local insights.
- You’re visiting in winter and want to avoid icy roads.
- You have limited time and want to see the key sights efficiently.
- You want extras like Northern Lights photos, meals, or hotel pickup.
Conclusion
Whether you drive yourself or hop on a small group tour, getting around Iceland is part of the adventure. For those based in Reykjavík, tours are a fantastic way to explore far-off places without the hassle. No matter your style, Iceland’s landscapes are waiting for you—just choose the way that suits you best.
We recommend that you take a look at our tours in Iceland. For those seeking more comfort and privacy, we recommend private tours.
