10 Best Last-Minute Day Trips from Reykjavik for Any Rental Car
Many visitors arrive in Iceland with limited time and a standard 2WD vehicle. The good news is that some of the country’s most rewarding sights are located just outside the capital and do not require a 4x4 or a high-clearance SUV.
Many visitors arrive in Iceland with limited time and a standard 2WD vehicle. The good news is that some of the country’s most rewarding sights are located just outside the capital and do not require a 4x4 or a high-clearance SUV.
This guide outlines ten easy, last-minute day trips from Reykjavik that are accessible with any economy or standard rental car. You will find clear routes, realistic drive times, and practical tips to help you make the most of a short stay in Iceland without the stress of long-distance planning.
Reykjavik Day Trips at a Glance
If you are short on time, this table gives you a quick overview of the best last-minute day trips from Reykjavik, including driving time and vehicle requirements.
| Destination | Drive Time from Reykjavik | Road Type | 2WD Suitable | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reykjanes Peninsula | 30–60 minutes | Paved roads | Yes | Volcanoes, coastlines, geothermal areas |
| Hafnarfjörður | 15 minutes | Paved roads | Yes | Short walks, lava parks, harbor views |
| Mosfellsdalur Valley | 20 minutes | Paved roads | Yes | Quiet countryside, light sightseeing |
| Þingvellir National Park | 45 minutes | Paved roads | Yes | History, geology, iconic landscapes |
| Hveragerði | 45 minutes | Paved roads | Yes | Hot springs, easy hikes, cafés |
| Selfoss | 50 minutes | Paved roads | Yes | Food stops, waterfalls, flexibility |
| Akranes | 50 minutes | Paved roads | Yes | Lighthouses, beaches, photography |
| Borgarnes | 75 minutes | Paved highways | Yes | Fjord views, small-town Iceland |
| Blue Lagoon Area | 45 minutes | Paved roads | Yes | Lava fields, short scenic stops |
| Mount Esja | 20 minutes | Paved roads | Yes | Hiking, panoramic city views |
Why Reykjavik is the best start for short car rentals
Reykjavik sits at the center of Iceland’s most accessible road network. Within a 90-minute radius, you can reach dramatic coastlines, geothermal valleys, and national parks. Even a 48-hour booking can deliver a complete Iceland experience.
If you are booking last minute, check real-time availability on our Reykjavik car rental page. For pickup rules, insurance basics, and general policies, review the car rental FAQ before you arrive.
1. Reykjanes Peninsula: the volcanic loop
Drive time: 30 to 60 minutes
Recommended Rental Car: Kia Cee'd or similar
The Reykjanes Peninsula is a UNESCO Global Geopark and one of the easiest day trips from Reykjavik. Roads are paved, signage is clear, and distances between stops are short. Before heading out, review our Driving in Iceland guide for current road and weather considerations.
- Seltún Geothermal Area: bubbling mud pools and colorful mineral deposits
- Gunnuhver Hot Springs: powerful steam vents and active geothermal features
- Reykjanesviti Lighthouse: wide ocean views and dramatic coastal cliffs
2. Hafnarfjörður: lava parks and coastal charm
Drive time: 15 minutes
Car needed: Any rental car
Hafnarfjörður is often called the town of the hidden people. It is an ideal short escape with lava parks, harbor views, and easy walking paths.
3. Mosfellsdalur Valley: a calm rural escape
Drive time: 20 minutes
Recommended Rental Car: Dacia Duster or similar
Mosfellsdalur offers horse farms, open landscapes, and quiet roads. It is a reliable choice when you want countryside scenery without long driving times.
4. Þingvellir National Park: history meets geology
Drive time: 45 minutes
Recommended Rental Car: KIA Sportage or similar
Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Iceland’s most important landmarks. Roads are fully paved and well maintained, making it accessible with any cheap car rental in Reykjavik.
5. Hveragerði: geothermal town and hot river walk
Drive time: 45 minutes
Recommended Rental Car: 4x4 Rental
Hveragerði is known for geothermal activity and greenhouse farming. Park at the Reykjadalur trailhead for a straightforward walk into the steaming valley.
6. Selfoss: riverside dining and easy waterfall access
Drive time: 50 minutes
Recommended Rental Car: Small Car
Selfoss works well as a flexible day trip with food options and nearby attractions.
7. Akranes: lighthouses and quiet coastlines
Drive time: 50 minutes
Recommended Rental Car: Any rental car
Akranes is ideal for travelers seeking ocean views without crowds.
8. Borgarnes: fjord views and Icelandic history
Drive time: 75 minutes
Recommended Rental Car: Automatic Rental Car
Borgarnes offers a true road trip feel while remaining an easy drive on main highways. Review our guide to petrol prices in Iceland before heading north.
9. Blue Lagoon area: lava fields and mossy terrain
Drive time: 45 minutes
Recommended Car: Toyota Yaris or similar
The area around the Blue Lagoon offers striking lava scenery even without visiting the spa.
10. Mount Esja: the ultimate local hike
Drive time: 20 minutes
Recommended Rental Car: KIA Sorento
Mount Esja is Reykjavik’s local mountain with clear trails and panoramic bay views.
Practical tips for last-minute renters
- Check conditions before leaving: always review Vedur.is and Road.is
- Stick to paved roads: all trips listed are suitable for 2WD vehicles
- Fuel planning: self-service stations often require a card with a PIN
- Confirm policies: use the rental car FAQ for insurance and return rules
Book your Reykjavik rental car and explore today
A short stay in Iceland does not mean missing out. With Reykjavik as your base, geothermal areas, waterfalls, and coastal towns are all within easy reach. Reserve your vehicle through Reykjavik Rent A Car and build a flexible last-minute itinerary that works.