Reykjavik car rental

Car rental in Reykjavik

Rent a car in Reykjavik, Iceland, to explore a city where vibrant urban life exists in harmony with breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled on the coast, this capital city offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and stunning landscapes. Collect your rental car from Keflavik International Airport or from downtown to start your Icelandic journey.

Begin your adventure with a visit to the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church, its towering spire offering panoramic views of the city. Immerse yourself in Icelandic history at the National Museum of Iceland or marvel at captivating marine life at the Reykjavik Maritime Museum. For a relaxing escape, soak in the geothermal waters of the Sky Lagoon, where the mesmerizing Northern Lights might just make an appearance.

Venture beyond the city to discover Iceland's famously dramatic landscapes. The Golden Circle route unveils geysers, waterfalls, and Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion or outdoor adventures, a Reykjavik car rental will set you off on an unforgettable journey.

Book your Reykjavik Iceland car rental online with Hertz today and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime.

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A quick travel guide to Reykjavik

The Reykjavik EDITION by Marriott

Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

For five-star luxury in the heart of the city, The Reykjavik EDITION sets a whole new standard. Set in the Old Harbour against a backdrop of scenic mountain views, this opulent destination hotel offers 253 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, alongside a superior collection of restaurants and dining spaces. Head to Rooftop at EDITION on the seventh floor and take in the summer skies or the Northern Lights. Or visit the Michelin Guide-recommended TIDES, specializing in sustainable Icelandic seafood and locally sourced fresh produce.

 

Reykjavik Lights by Keahotels

Suðurlandsbraut 12, 108 Reykjavík, Iceland

Inspired in name and décor by the lights of Iceland, this smart hotel combines affordable comfort with Nordic elegance. Rooms range from individual single to double rooms with views of Mount Esjan and Laugardalurinn, to the dormitory room sleeping groups of up to 10 in comfort. Reykjavik Lights is just across from the Laugardalur outdoor activity park, and less than 3km from popular attractions such as the Sun Voyager sculpture and the Icelandic Phallological Museum. When you’re done exploring, kick back in the comfortable lounge area and enjoy a game of cards or chess.

 

Hótel Húsafell

Stórarjóður, 320, Iceland

Take a break from the rigors of city life with a stay at Hótel Húsafell, situated on the vast grounds of a former working farm and surrounded by hot springs, glaciers and mafic lava. The rooms are minimalist, but contain all essential modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, flat screen TVs and hot drink facilities, plus floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. Geothermal pools, hot tubs and a waterslide, a golf course, and a sleek on-site restaurant serving hand-crafted meals based on local ingredients complete your Icelandic wilderness paradise picture.

Dill Restaurant

Laugavegur 59, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Serving classic Icelandic cuisine with a twist, formulated from local produce and elegantly presented, Dill Restaurant has both a Michelin Star for quality and a Green Star for sustainability. Elevate your Reykjavik dining experience with an exploration of the multi-faceted Icelandic countryside, presented to you in a series of curated dishes crafted by founding chef Gunnar Karl Gislasson. The menu changes regularly to reflect the best of seasonal produce, served as a multi-course tasting feast where every dish tells a story.

 

Reykjavik Kitchen

Rauðarárstígur 8, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland

Family owned and run, Reykjavik Kitchen focuses on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere and serving up simple yet delicious local food. Choose from a selection of three-course menus – meat, seafood or vegan – or go a la carte. Standout dishes include coffee cured salmon, lamb ribeye with a truffle butter glaze, and baked sweet potatoes with mushroom and coconut sauce. Watch the chefs prepare all this and more in the theatrical open kitchen, or turn your gaze to the first-floor windows to watch the bustle of the main shopping district from above.

 

101 Reykjavik Street Food

Skólavörðustígur 8, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Welcoming, relaxed and straightforward, this no-frills street food joint is one of the best spots in the city for an affordable meal out without compromising on quality. The bright yellow façade and wide windows welcome you from the moment you arrive, where the friendly servers await to bring you some of the best comfort food in the country. Warming soups and stews are a house specialty, ranging from chicken or beef noodle to lobster bisque, vegan mushroom, and traditional Icelandic fish stew.

See the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are one of the Earth’s most marveled natural phenomena, and the rural areas away from the bright lights of the city center are the best places to witness them in all their glory. Hop in your Reykjavik rental car and head out of town towards Perlan for elevation, or Seltjarnarnes Nature Reserve, a designated dark area. The best times to travel to see the Northern Lights are September to March – wait for a night where cloud cover is forecast to be minimal.

Visit an active volcano

The volcanic landscape is part of the unique charm of Iceland, and there are many dormant and active volcanoes in the region of Reykjavik. While there are none within the city itself, it’s only a short drive when you rent a car from Reykjavik to reach either the Reykjanes Peninsula and Fagradalsfjall volcano, or Sundhnúkagígar Crater Row. Be sure to check safety updates before you travel, and consider joining a tour for additional security with a knowledgeable guide.

Shop until you drop

From charming boutiques selling locally crafted goods to high-end designer stores, the shopping culture in Reykjavik has exploded in recent years. Whether you’re looking for quirky souvenirs, a new outfit for a fancy night out, or just a chance to browse, you’ll find a diverse range of stores, outlets and malls to cater for your every need. Kringlan is one of the largest indoor malls in the region, Grandi District is packed with designer labels, and Laugavegur is your go-to spot for trendy shops and cafes.

Reykjavik car rental FAQs

Navigating the parking in Reykjavik can be tricky, but with a little bit of know-how, you’ll soon find it a breeze.

  • The parking system is divided into four color-coded zones – P1, P2, P3 and P4. Each has its own fees and restrictions, so check before you park.
  • Parking fees are typically applied between 9am and 9pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am and 9pm on Sundays, and parking may be free outside these times. There are some exceptions though, so check before you park.
  • The easiest way to pay for parking your rental car in Reykjavik is via an app, such as Parka or EasyPark. This also lets you track your parking and extend it if you can’t make it back in time.
  • The Route 1 Ring Road is the main road in and out of Reykjavik and for the whole of Iceland. It connects all major towns and most of the popular tourist attractions.
  • Main roads other than the ring road are signified with two digits and represent alternative routes.
  • Three-digit roads connect main roads within a specific region.
  • F-roads are rural and often require specialized vehicles with off-road capability.

To get from Keflavik International Airport to central Reykjavik in your rental car:

  • Head north on Route 41 / Reykjanesbraut.
  • Follow Route 41 / Reykjanesbraut and Route 40 / Hafnarfjarðarvegur. to Njarðargata in Reykjavík.
  • Continue on Njarðargata.
  • Take Sóleyjargata and Fríkirkjuvegur to reach Kirkjustræti in central Reykjavik.

 

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