Driving in Iceland

If you find yourself driving in Iceland, you may be looking for parking options in Reykjavík. Read on to discover how and where to park around Iceland.

The most common gas station brands you’ll see throughout Iceland are Orkan, N1, ÓB, Atlantsolía, and Olís. In Reykjavík and other built-up areas, stations are frequent and tend to offer extra facilities, like shops, toilets, and even cafés. In more rural areas, you’ll tend to encounter self-service pumps, most of which operate 24/7 and accept card payments.

Going on the road? Check out the complete Reykjavik rent a car Driving in Iceland tips and information guide

Do you need a car in Reykjavík? And if so, where do you start? Learn more about your transportation options here.

Renting a car will offer you the opportunity to explore without limits, knowing that you will be brought back to your accommodation in the safety of your own vehicle.

This guide is built to help you make a clear decision: should you drive F-roads, what is legal, what is risky, what insurance covers, and how to prepare properly.

Planning a trip to Iceland in 2026? Renting a car in Reykjavík is the easiest way to see the island’s dramatic scenery, from city streets to remote waterfalls. This quick guide covers everything you need to know to book confidently, drive safely, and make the most of your Icelandic adventure.

There are a lot of tips out there for general driving in Iceland, and you can find more helpful information here. The most important thing is to check the weather conditions and follow safety advice.

One of the best Iceland car rental tips is to ensure that you are aware of the CDW costs as this can often be quite high. Also make sure that your car rental includes gravel protection.

Sometimes travel plans change because of a flight delay, a surprise day off, or a sudden patch of perfect Icelandic sunshine. The good news is that renting a car at the last minute in Iceland is easier than you might think.

Many people are apprehensive about driving in Iceland, mainly because of the weather conditions, which is understandable. Iceland’s weather can change quickly and can be treacherous at times. But there are a few driving laws in Iceland that you should be aware of before you hit the road, no matter the weather.

Only the most adventurous among us hear and answer the call of Iceland’s Highlands. This largely untouched, mysterious, and breathtaking part of the country is one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets.

Iceland, like most other countries, drives on the right side of the road. There are few one-lane bridges or one-way streets, but otherwise stick to the right. During icy or snowy weather you may be forced more central, so make sure you keep an eye out for oncoming traffic. The speed limits are written in km/h and are usually 50 km/h (31 mi/h) in urban areas, 80 km/h (49 mi/h) on gravel and 90 km/h (56 mi/h) on asphalt roads. Make sure that you stick to the limit, and there are many speed cameras across the country and there is a hefty fine if you break it.

Iceland’s Highlands are a remote, mountainous area within the heart of the island. Think rugged, untouched, wild, and unbelievably gorgeous. Venturing into the Highlands will take you to some of the most pristine scenic locations and some of the most prime hiking locations Iceland has to offer.

There is no road trip on Earth quite like Iceland’s Route 1, famously known as the Ring Road. Spanning 1,332 kilometers (828 miles), this legendary loop connects the misty fjords of the East, the volcanic landscapes of the North, and the iconic waterfalls of the South.

Parking in Reykjavik is simple once you understand how it works, but confusing if you do not. Many visitors receive parking fines not because they parked illegally on purpose, but because they misunderstood zones, missed payment deadlines, or used the wrong app.

Do you need a 4x4 or a regular car in Iceland? We answer that, and more in this guide to choosing the right rental for you.

Discover essential tips for safe night driving in Iceland. From Northern Lights to challenging roads, navigate the darkness with confidence.

Not sure where to rent a car in Iceland? Compare Reykjavik vs Keflavik pickup to find the easiest, most cost-effective option for your trip.