The Ultimate Guide to Transportation in Iceland

Discover the best transportation options in Iceland and plan your trip with confidence. From renting a car and booking guided tours to using domestic flights, buses, and ferries, this guide covers the best ways to get around Iceland and make the most of your visit.

Traveling in Iceland requires careful planning due to its unique landscapes, long distances, and changing weather conditions. Getting around the country can be done in several practical ways, depending on your travel style, itinerary, and level of flexibility.

Many visitors choose to rent a car in Iceland for the freedom to explore and reach remote locations off the main routes. Others prefer tours and packages, which offer a more relaxed way to experience Iceland’s highlights without having to plan the route.

If you’re traveling between towns or sticking to a budget, public transport in Iceland provides scheduled bus services connecting key regions. For smooth arrivals and departures, reliable airport transfers connect Keflavik International Airport with Reykjavik and other popular destinations.

Keep reading to discover the best ways to travel across Iceland, compare your options, and plan an unforgettable journey.

Key Takeaways: How To Travel in Iceland

The main modes of transportation in Iceland are rental cars, guided tours, buses, domestic flights, and taxis.

• Rental cars: Renting a car is the most popular way to experience Iceland, but requires attention to changing weather conditions, road types, and local traffic rules.

• Guided tours: Joining tours offers a more relaxed experience, where transportation and sightseeing are combined, making it easier to explore key attractions.

• Public buses (Straeto): Public transportation is great for getting around in Reykjavik and the wider capital region, with payment options including the Klappid app and contactless card payments.

• Flights across Iceland: Domestic flights are a convenient option for reaching remote areas of Iceland quickly, especially when traveling long distances or during winter.

• Airport transfers: The most popular way to get from Keflavik International Airport to Reykjavik is by Flybus, taxi, or private transfer, as ride-hailing services like Uber, Bolt, and Lyft aren’t available in Iceland.

Traveling by Car in Iceland

Renting a car in Iceland is the easiest and most common way to get around the country. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, stop at scenic viewpoints, and reach both popular attractions and hidden spots.

A car rental is also one of the best ways to experience the wide range of things to do and places to visit in Iceland without being tied to fixed schedules.

In summer, a standard small car rental handles the Ring Road and its most popular attractions. In winter, or for the Highland F-roads, a 4x4 rental car is essential.

To prepare for a road trip, we recommend checking out this guide to driving in Iceland for tips and traffic rules.

Self-Drive Tours in Iceland for Independent Travel

Iceland self-drive tours are the best way to explore Iceland if you’re comfortable driving here. You get the independence of a road trip with the route, hotels, basic insurance, and key bookings already arranged, so there’s no planning stress and far less risk of missing a must-see stop.

This setup is especially useful if you want to drive the full Ring Road, where distances are long and planning each stop can be time-consuming. Summer self-drive tours are also a great option for reaching more remote regions like the Westfjords, where public transport is limited, and guided tours may not always go.

Here are some of the most popular self-drive adventures in Iceland, ranging from short scenic routes to longer journeys:

• 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour with the Golden Circle & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: A compact winter route focused on key highlights and Northern Lights viewing opportunities.

• 1-Week Self-Drive Tour of West and South Iceland with the Golden Circle: A well-paced trip covering diverse landscapes and major southern and western sights.

• 7-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour of South Iceland, the Golden Circle & Snaefellsnes: A varied itinerary combining coastal scenery, glaciers, and winter night-sky experiences.

• 10-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road with Top Attractions & Snaefellsnes: A full-circle journey through Iceland’s most iconic natural landscapes, including the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

• 2-Week Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road & the Westfjords: An extended route exploring both popular highlights and the remote region of the Westfjords.

Meet-on-Location Tours in Iceland for Activities Along Your Route

Meet-on-location tours are a practical option in Iceland, especially if you’re already driving or planning a self-drive trip. Instead of starting from the capital, you simply drive to a designated meeting point near the attraction, join a local guide, and continue the experience from there.

Compared to full-day guided trips, meet-on-location tours also give you more flexibility, since you’re not tied to a fixed departure schedule or long bus routes. These tours are also a good way to safely access more technical or seasonal activities such as glacier hiking or ice cave tours.

Below are some of the most popular meet-on-location tours in Iceland:

• Crystal Blue Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier: Step inside a naturally formed blue ice cave to see the glacier’s vivid ice formations up close.

• Jokulsarlon Boat Tour: Sail among towering icebergs at the stunning glacier lagoon in Southeast Iceland.

• Glacier Hiking at Skaftafell: Explore Vatnajokull’s icy terrain with a guided hike in Southeast Iceland.

• Katla Ice Cave Tour: Discover a stunning ice cave beneath the Katla Volcano on the South Coast.

• Whale Watching in Husavik: Spot humpback whales, minke whales, and more on a boat tour in North Iceland.

• Snorkeling in Silfra: Swim between tectonic plates in crystal-clear waters in Thingvellir.

• Snowmobiling on Langjokull Glacier: Ride across Iceland’s second-largest glacier near Gullfoss.

• Blue Lagoon Comfort Ticket: Relax in the world-famous geothermal spa, surrounded by mineral-rich, milky-blue waters.

Practical Tips for Driving in Iceland

So you’ve decided to rent a car in Iceland. Here are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

• Observe speed limits. The maximum speed limit is 56 mph (90 km/h), and it is strictly enforced. Always follow posted signs, especially in changing road conditions.

• Watch for sudden weather changes. The weather in Iceland can shift quickly from clear to icy or windy. Check weather updates and road conditions before heading out, and if visibility becomes poor, pull over in a safe area and wait for conditions to improve.

• Handle doors carefully in strong winds. Wind gusts can be extremely strong and may damage car doors. Always hold the door firmly when exiting the vehicle.

• Stay alert for sheep on roads. Sheep often roam freely, especially in rural areas during summer. Drive carefully and never stop in the middle of the road to take photos.

• Keep headlights on at all times. Driving with headlights on is mandatory in Iceland, even during daylight hours, to improve visibility in changing conditions.

• Be aware of two-lane roundabout rules. In Iceland’s two-lane roundabouts, vehicles in the inner lane generally have priority.

• Keep in mind the kilometer fee. Iceland uses a usage-based road fee (approx. 6.95 ISK per kilometer), which is tracked and added to your bill if not already included in your rental.

• Avoid off-road driving. Off-road driving is illegal in Iceland and can cause serious environmental damage. Always stay on marked roads and tracks.

• Refuel whenever possible. Gas stations in Iceland can be far apart outside towns and in remote regions. It’s best to refuel early rather than risk running low.

Joining Guided Tours in Iceland

If you prefer not to drive, or you’re visiting Iceland in winter when road conditions can be more challenging, guided tours are one of the easiest ways to explore the country. With transportation, timing, and route planning all taken care of, you can focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Options range from short day tours to multi-day guided packages. This makes it simple to visit major attractions along the South Coast, Golden Circle, and other key regions without worrying about navigation or road conditions.

Day Tours in Iceland for Easy Sightseeing

Day tours are a convenient option if you want to explore Iceland’s top attractions without renting a car. Most of these tours run year-round from Reykjavik and last roughly 8 to 12 hours, making them a good fit if you’re based in the capital and short on time.

Day tours typically focus on a specific region and return to Reykjavik the same day. They are also a good way to access locations where parking, weather conditions, or seasonal road closures can be challenging for independent travelers.

When choosing a day tour, consider the season, total travel time, and how much time is spent at each stop. Some tours focus on seeing as many highlights as possible, while others offer smaller groups and a slower pace.

Below are some of the most popular day tours in Iceland, offering easy access to many of the country’s most famous natural attractions.

• Golden Circle Tour: Explore Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route in a smaller group setting, with more time at key attractions and a more personal experience.

• Snaefellsnes Peninsula Day Tour: Embark on a full-day journey through coastal cliffs, volcanic landscapes, and charming fishing villages, often called “Iceland in Miniature.”

• South Coast Tour from Reykjavik: Visit some of Iceland’s most iconic natural attractions, including Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, Reynisfjara Beach, and glacier viewpoints.

• Inside the Volcano Thrihnukagigur Tour: Descend into the colorful magma chamber of a dormant volcano, one of the few places in the world where visitors can enter a volcano from the inside.

• Landmannalaugar Super Jeep Tour: Venture into Iceland’s remote Highlands to discover colorful rhyolite mountains, lava fields, geothermal areas, and dramatic landscapes.

Multi-Day Tours in Iceland for Hassle-Free Travel

For longer trips, guided multi-day tour packages are one of the most convenient ways to travel around Iceland. These tours typically include transportation, accommodation, and planned activities in a single booking. You’ll travel by buses, minibuses, or super jeeps, depending on the itinerary and destinations visited.

Multi-day tours can be especially useful for first-time visitors, winter travelers, and anyone wanting to experience multiple regions in a limited amount of time. Local guides handle navigation, road conditions, and logistics, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than the planning.

Many packages also feature exciting add-ons, including:

• Hot spring visits for relaxation

• Horseback riding tours on Icelandic horses

• Glacier hikes and ice cave explorations

• Snorkeling experiences between continental plates

• Volcano tours for an up-close look at Iceland’s geology and geothermal activity

• Helicopter tours for breathtaking aerial views

Another advantage is that accommodations are pre-arranged along the route, which can be particularly helpful during peak travel seasons when hotels in Iceland, especially in popular areas, often sell out well in advance.

Here are some of the top multi-day tour packages in Iceland to consider:

• 2-Day South Coast Summer Tour: Witness waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier landscapes, and a scenic boat ride among icebergs while journeying through Iceland’s South Coast.

• 3-Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Multi-Day Tour: Explore the Golden Circle, South Coast, and a stunning blue ice cave in Vatnajokull while spending two nights in the countryside for optimal northern lights viewing.

• 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package: Experience Iceland’s top winter attractions, including the Golden Circle, South Coast, Glacier Lagoon, an ice cave, and the Blue Lagoon, with a customizable itinerary and all logistics arranged for you.

• 6-Day Ring Road Tour in Iceland with Glacier Hike, Ice Caving, and Whale Watching: Journey around Iceland’s diverse landscapes while combining classic sightseeing with adventure activities on glaciers and at sea.

• 8-Day Guided Tour of the Complete Ring Road & Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Discover all of Iceland’s major regions on a complete Ring Road journey, with extra time to explore the diverse landscapes and coastal scenery of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Guided Bus Tours in Iceland for Budget-Friendly Travel

Guided bus tours in Iceland are an easy and often more affordable way to explore beyond Reykjavik without the need to drive. These tours typically depart from the capital and follow set routes to major attractions such as the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Bus tours are especially useful for travelers who want to visit multiple sites in a single day. They also offer a social travel experience, giving you the chance to meet and mingle with other travelers while sharing the journey.

Along the way, local guides provide context on Iceland’s geology, history, and culture, helping you better understand the landscapes you’re passing through.

Below are some of the top guided bus tours from Reykjavik:

• Golden Circle Afternoon Tour: Explore Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route in a shorter afternoon trip, visiting Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir Geothermal Area.

• Sightseeing Bus Tour of the South Coast: Travel along Iceland’s dramatic southern coastline to see waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacier viewpoints.

• Northern Lights Minibus Tour in Iceland: Join a small-group evening tour in search of the northern lights, with guides choosing the best locations.

Using Public Transport in Iceland

Public transport in Iceland is mainly based on a bus system, as the country does not have trains, subways, or trams. Bus services can be a practical option for travelers who prefer not to rent a car but still want to explore parts of Iceland beyond Reykjavik.

While Icelandic public transportation offers an affordable and straightforward way to get around, it does require some planning in advance, as routes and schedules are limited compared to other travel options and may not reach all destinations.

Straeto Public Buses in Iceland for Low-Cost Local Transport

The only public transportation in Iceland is the Straeto bus service. This is run by the government and is a convenient way to get around Reykjavik and the surrounding areas. Official bus stops are found throughout the city, and all of them have the timetable and bus route available there.

Straeto has an Iceland bus app called Klappid, which is available for iOS and Android. It is available in English and is an incredibly convenient way to purchase tickets and manage your public bus transportation in Iceland.

Travelers can use the app or the Straeto website to plan routes by entering their location, destination, and desired departure or arrival time to see available bus options on a map.

If you don’t want to get a card or download the app, you can also pay via contactless card transactions. You can find up-to-date price information on the Klappid website.

You can also purchase day passes at several retailers, with passes available for one to three days. You can find the complete list of places that sell bus passes on the city bus website.

Here are some bus routes helpful for visitors in Iceland:

• Bus 55: The main airport bus route connecting Reykjavik’s BSI Bus Terminal with Keflavik Airport. The route works on timetables that reflect the flights coming in and out of Iceland.

• Bus 88: A transfer route that connects with airport services and stops near the Blue Lagoon, making it easy to include in your arrival or departure plans.

• Bus 50: Runs between Reykjavik and Borgarnes, serving as a gateway to West Iceland and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

• Bus 57: Connects Reykjavik with Akureyri and passes through several Western towns along the way, making it useful for regional travel.

• Bus 51: Travels from Reykjavik toward South Iceland (except Wednesdays) and is used for reaching Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

• Bus 52: Directly connects Reykjavik with Hofn in Southeast Iceland, passing through towns and settlements along the South Coast.

Highland Buses in Iceland for Easy Access to Interior Regions

Highland buses are seasonal transport services that operate during the summer months, when Iceland’s interior roads become accessible after winter snow melts. These routes connect Reykjavik and other towns with remote Highland destinations such as Landmannalaugar, Thorsmork Valley, and other popular hiking areas.

The service is strictly transportation-based, with no guides provided on board. Upon arrival, travelers explore the trailheads and valleys independently, ideal for experienced hikers and self-guided visitors.

For those who prefer a more structured experience, Highland bus tours in Iceland offer guided options that include transportation to the Highlands along with planned activities and expert-led itineraries.

Schedules are limited and typically run from late June to early September, depending on weather and road conditions. Because services are infrequent, advance booking and flexible planning are recommended when using Highland buses.

Alternatively, you can book Highland passes, which are shuttle-style transport between key Highland locations. These transfers are useful for planning flexibility in case you miss a scheduled bus departure or need to adjust your travel plans.

Booking Domestic Flights in Iceland

Most travelers arriving in Iceland will land at Keflavik International Airport, the country’s main gateway for international flights. It is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, approximately 31 miles (50 kilometers) southwest of Reykjavik.

However, if you’re traveling within Iceland, you’ll typically depart from Reykjavik Domestic Airport, which is located much closer to the city center. This airport serves regular daily flights to several regions across the country and also operates routes to Greenland and the Faroe Islands.

The majority of domestic flights within Iceland take less than an hour, meaning you could easily fly from Reykjavik to Akureyri in the north if you are short on time.

Domestic flight services also provide access to some towns in Iceland during winter, when many roads to more remote places are closed.

You can reach the following destinations by domestic flights in Iceland:

• Grimsey (North Iceland)

• Akureyri (North Iceland)

• Husavik (North Iceland)

• Egilsstadir (East Iceland)

• Vopnafjordur (East Iceland)

• Thorshofn (East Iceland)

• Westman Islands (South Iceland)

• Hofn in Hornafjordur (Southeast Iceland)

• Isafjordur (West Iceland)

• Bildudalur (Westfjords)

• Gjogur (Westfjords)

Other Ways To Get Around Iceland

While rental cars, guided tours, buses, and domestic flights are the most common forms of transportation in Iceland, there are several other ways to travel around the country.

Depending on your itinerary, budget, and travel style, these alternatives can help you reach specific destinations, enjoy a slower pace of travel, or access areas that are best explored on foot or by sea.

Boats and Ferries in Iceland

While boats and ferries are not a primary way to travel around Iceland, they can be useful for reaching offshore islands, crossing certain regions more efficiently, or experiencing the country’s coastline from a different perspective. Depending on your itinerary, ferry services can save driving time and provide access to destinations that are otherwise difficult to reach.

Some of the most important ferry routes include:

• Baldur Ferry – A Baldur ferry transfer connects Stykkisholmur on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Brjanslaekur in the Westfjords, often via Flatey Island.

• Herjolfur Ferry – Connects the South Coast with the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar), one of Iceland’s most popular island destinations.

• Grimsey Ferry – Links the mainland town of Dalvik with Grimsey Island, Iceland’s only inhabited island located on the Arctic Circle.

Boat tours in Iceland are also a popular way to experience some of the country’s natural attractions. You can get close to the icebergs on a Zodiac boat tour of Jokulsarlon, join whale-watching excursions from Husavik or Reykjavik, or explore coastal cliffs and bird colonies by sea.

For travelers looking for a more extensive maritime experience, expedition cruises and circumnavigation voyages also sail around Iceland during the summer months, stopping at major ports and remote coastal communities. This offers a unique perspective on the country’s landscapes without the need to drive between destinations.

Motorcycling in Iceland

Experienced riders can explore Iceland independently or join a guided motorcycle tour, particularly during summer when road and weather conditions are more favorable. Options include paved journeys around the Ring Road and adventure rides through remote regions, though Highland routes require suitable motorcycles and advanced riding experience.

Read our complete guide to motorcycle travel in Iceland for information about guided tours, routes, equipment, road rules, motorcycle rentals, and bringing your own bike.

Taxis and Taxi Apps in Iceland

Traveling by taxi can be convenient in downtown Reykjavik, although compared to other countries, the cost of a cab can be quite high.

Taxis arrive pretty quickly in Iceland. Just like with bus drivers, most drivers speak English, but it’s not a requirement of their employment.

In Reykjavik, the two main taxi companies are Hreyfill and Taxi Reykjavik BSR. You can catch a taxi at designated taxi stands throughout the city or book one directly by phone through the company’s dispatch service.

• Hreyfill: Call (+354) 588 5522

• Taxi Reykjavik BSR: Call (+354) 561 0000

For arrivals and departures, airport taxis are available between Keflavik International Airport and Reykjavik. These are a popular choice for groups, travelers with lots of luggage, or those arriving outside regular bus schedules.

• Airport taxi: Call (+354) 420 1212

There is currently no Uber or Lyft service in Iceland. However, you can use Hopp Taxi, a popular taxi-booking and mobility app that allows users to book licensed taxis directly from their phone and pay electronically. It offers a similar level of convenience to ride-hailing services, particularly in Reykjavik and other larger towns.

Hreyfill also offers its own mobile app for iPhone and Android, allowing you to book taxis, track your ride, and manage payments directly from your smartphone.

Carpooling in Iceland

Carpooling can be a cost-effective way to travel to other towns around Iceland. Although it is not a widely used mode of transportation among travelers in Iceland due to its inflexibility, it is still a budget-conscious way of getting from A to B, as you can share the fuel and transportation costs with the other passengers.

One of the most widely used carpooling platforms is Samferda.net, where drivers post upcoming trips and available seats for passengers. The service allows travelers to connect directly with drivers, arrange pickup details, and contribute to travel expenses.

Available in English and German, it can be a useful resource for getting between towns and regions while meeting other travelers and locals along the way.

Biking in Iceland

Cycling in Iceland is a rewarding way to experience the country’s landscapes, particularly during the summer months when days are long and road conditions are generally more favorable. Popular cycling areas include Reykjavik, the South Coast, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and sections of the Ring Road.

However, cycling in Iceland requires preparation. Strong winds, sudden weather changes, and long distances between services can make routes more challenging than they appear. Riders should carry basic repair equipment, extra layers, and enough food and water for longer journeys.

For visitors who want to try cycling without committing to a multi-day trip, guided bike tours offer an easier introduction to exploring Iceland on two wheels.

If you’re bringing your own, most airlines allow bikes to be transported as checked luggage when properly packed. When you arrive in Iceland, there is a facility outside of the arrivals exit where you can reassemble your bike. Bike rental services are also available in Reykjavik and several other towns around Iceland.

Check out the updated cycling trail map for routes and tips.

Hiking Between Destinations in Iceland

Hiking in Iceland offers a unique way to experience its stunning landscapes, with trails that take you where no car can. Options range from short, scenic walks to weeklong treks deep into nature.

Here are a few reminders when planning to hike in Iceland:

• Best season: Summer is ideal, with long daylight hours and temperatures reaching 68 F (20 C). Winters can drop below 14 F (-10 C), making conditions harsh.

• Essential gear: Weather changes fast, so pack accordingly. A GPS and a map are crucial in the Highlands, even on marked trails. You can rent hiking gear in Reykjavik.

• Safety tips: Always inform someone of your route and expected return. Some multiday trails have free huts, but bring your own bedding and leave them as you found them.

• Guided tours: For a safer, more immersive experience, consider joining guided hiking tours in Iceland.

Hitchhiking in Iceland

Hitchhiking in Iceland is generally considered safe due to the country’s low crime rate, and it is sometimes used by budget travelers. However, it can be unpredictable and impractical, especially in remote areas where traffic is limited and weather conditions change quickly.

Because many rural roads are sparsely traveled, waiting times can be long, and most passing vehicles are tourists rather than locals.

While crime is rare, it’s important to use common sense, trust your instincts, and avoid getting into any vehicle you feel uncomfortable with.

Choosing the Best Way To Travel Around Iceland

The best way to explore Iceland depends on your travel style, budget, and schedule. If you want maximum flexibility, renting a car or booking self-drive tour packages is the most popular choice, simplifying planning while still giving you freedom on the road.

If you prefer a more relaxed experience, guided tours and public transport in Iceland offer an easy way to visit major attractions without worrying about driving conditions or navigation. For longer distances, domestic flights can also help you save time when moving between regions.

Ultimately, Iceland transportation options are diverse, so choosing the right one will help you make the most of your trip based on how you want to experience the country.