Iceland Car Rental Deals Save Big on Your Land of Fire & Ice Adventure

08/16/202508/19/2025

Iceland Car Rental

Start your Icelandic adventure now by using the search form above. Choose your pickup location (popular choices are Keflavík International Airport (KEF) the main airport serving Reykjavik or downtown Reykjavik, plus regional options like Akureyri in the north), select your travel dates, and click “Search.” We’ll instantly scan offers from dozens of rental providers in Iceland, including international brands (Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar) and reputable local companies. Whether you need a compact city car for Reykjavik’s streets, a sturdy 4x4 SUV for the highlands, or a passenger van for a group, you can compare them all in one place. Filter by car type (we even have campers and specialty vehicles), price, or supplier. Booking is secure and easy, with free cancellation on most rentals if your plans change. Plus, reserve now and pay at pick-up for many deals no upfront charge. Don’t wait vehicles (especially automatics and 4WDs) can sell out during peak seasons. Grab your ideal Iceland rental car today with AVR, and drive into an Icelandic saga of your own making!

Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes volcanos, glaciers, waterfalls, and fjords are best experienced with the freedom of your own rental car. Public transport is limited outside of Reykjavik, and tours can be expensive and rigid. With a car, you can chase the northern lights at midnight, pull over to photograph a wild fjord at sunrise, or soak in a hot spring far off the tourist trail. AirportVanRental makes it easy to find the perfect vehicle to conquer Iceland’s roads, whether you’re cruising Route 1 (the Ring Road) or venturing into the rugged interior. By renting a car in Iceland, you get to set your schedule linger at that glacier lagoon as long as you like, detour to a tiny fishing village on a whim, or skip crowded spots and discover hidden gems. And with our great ISK deals, the legendary Land of Fire and Ice becomes affordable on your terms. Get ready to hit the open road and explore Iceland’s natural wonders at your own pace, with AirportVanRental as your trusted partner.

Ultimate Freedom to Explore Nature: Iceland’s most spectacular sights are spread across the country, often in remote areas with no public transport. A rental car lets you visit what you want, when you want. Want to watch a sunrise at a secluded waterfall or stargaze by a glacier without a tour group’s schedule? With your own car, you can. You’ll reach places like Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon at the quiet dawn hours, or catch the Northern Lights dancing over an empty field at midnight, because you have the freedom to drive and stop anywhere safe. Iceland truly rewards those who explore at their own pace.

The Famous Ring Road & Beyond: Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) circles the whole country (~1,332 km of adventure). While there are bus tours, driving it yourself is far more rewarding. You can stop for a picnic lunch next to a random waterfall that doesn’t even have a name, or pause in a tiny village because you saw an interesting turf-roof church. Beyond the Ring Road, only a car (especially a 4x4) can get you to places like Landmannalaugar’s rainbow mountains, the far Westfjords, or Dettifoss (Europe’s most powerful waterfall) in the northeast. In summer, many highland interior roads (F-roads) open up these rough trails access surreal landscapes but are only drivable if you have your own properly equipped vehicle. With a rental, the entire island is your playground.

Flexibility with Weather: Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Tours might cancel due to a storm or skip an area because of timing. With a car, you can adapt on the fly. If a sudden rain squall hits, you can take a break in a cozy café and then continue when it clears. If a road is temporarily closed, you can choose an alternate route or adjust your itinerary. Conversely, if the skies are crystal clear and you’re loving a spot, stay longer! Having your own car means no rigid itinerary you decide when to linger or when to move on, which is invaluable in a country where a sunny day is gold and you might want to capitalize on it fully.

Cost-Effective for Groups and Off-Peak Travel: Iceland isn’t a budget destination, but renting a car can actually save money for families or groups. Splitting a rental and fuel between four people often beats paying four individual tour fees. Plus, you can buy groceries and snacks and store them in the car (food from supermarkets is much cheaper than eating out every meal). This is especially handy if you plan to travel to more remote regions where dining options are few. Also, during winter (off-peak season), car rental rates drop having a car then allows you to see the northern lights from dark countryside spots without booking special tours. You’ll also find driving in winter completely feasible on the main roads, thanks to good maintenance and you’ll have the flexibility to seek out clear skies for aurora hunting.

Convenience and Comfort: With your own vehicle, you can avoid crowded tour buses and set your own departure times. Love sleeping in? No problem head out at noon. Or maybe you’re an early bird you can be the first person of the day at popular sites like Thingvellir National Park before any bus arrives. Your luggage stays with you, safe in the trunk, eliminating the need to pack/unpack repeatedly if you’re moving between accommodations. You can also bring whatever gear you want hiking equipment, photography tripods, even an inflatable kayak if you’re adventurous throw it all in the car. There’s something wonderfully comforting about having a “home base on wheels” as you traverse a country as dynamic as Iceland. It turns a potentially challenging trip into a series of easy, scenic drives and spontaneous stops.

Our Iceland Car Rental Advantages (Why Book with AVR)

Booking an Icelandic rental through AirportVanRental comes with special perks and reassurances that you won’t get by going directly to a single supplier. We’re here to make sure you have a top-notch rental experience in Iceland:

Huge Range of Vehicles (Including 4x4s): Iceland offers unique driving opportunities and we have the vehicles to match. Our platform lets you access hundreds of car options from multiple companies. Need a sturdy 4x4 for exploring gravel highland roads? We’ve got options like Toyota Land Cruisers and Jeep Wranglers. Just want a reliable sedan or hatchback to cruise the Ring Road? Plenty of those too (Toyota Yaris, VW Golf, etc.). Campervans for a road trip and camping combo? Yup, those show up in search as well. Because we pull from many partners, you’re not limited to one company’s fleet. And we clearly indicate which cars are 4WD/AWD (important for winter or F-road travel) and which have automatic transmission (important for many travelers). Essentially, if it’s available in Iceland, you’ll see it on AVR no more hopping between websites to compare.

Best Prices in ISK with No Surprise Fees: We show all prices in Icelandic Króna (ISK) and include mandatory charges, so you’re comparing apples to apples. Iceland has some unique fees (such as an environmental fee or airport fee) our quotes clearly show those in the price breakdown. We know saving money is crucial; we regularly aggregate special promotions, whether it’s a winter discount or a free GPS inclusion. If you find a lower rate for the same car and terms, our best rate guarantee means we’ll work to match it. Also, unlike some sites that later spring currency conversion fees on you, we let you pay in ISK (or your home currency if you choose) transparently. No hidden costs you’ll see the total that you should expect to pay at the counter (aside from optional add-ons you choose).

Free Cancellation & Pay Later: Plans change, especially in a place with fickle weather like Iceland. Many of our deals come with free cancellation up until 48 hours before pickup. So you can lock in a great rate early without fear if you need to cancel or change dates, it’s usually no problem (we’ll always highlight the cancellation policy for each car). Additionally, a majority of bookings on AVR are reserve now, pay at pickup, meaning you typically don’t pay a cent until you arrive in Iceland and get the car. This gives you flexibility book early to secure the vehicle you want during peak season, but keep your funds until the trip. Just remember to cancel in time if your plans alter, as a courtesy.

Local Expertise & Support: We may be a global OTA, but we have local knowledge. Our team is familiar with Iceland’s rental quirks for instance, we can advise which suppliers include studless winter tires (a must in snowy months) or which allow crossing into other Nordic countries (if you have a grander road trip in mind, say to the Faroe Islands by ferry). We can help with questions about driving conditions, explain what “Super CDW” means in the Iceland context, or guide you on whether you truly need that gravel protection insurance. And should anything come up during your rental, our support is available to assist be it needing to extend the rental or handle an issue with the rental company. We act as your advocate, so you’re never alone in dealing with any problems. Iceland can sometimes have unpredictable scenarios (like a sudden road closure) having AVR’s support to liaise with the rental company can be a lifesaver.

Trust & Transparency: We pride ourselves on honest customer reviews and policy transparency. On our site, you can read reviews from other renters in Iceland see how the pickup at Keflavik Airport went for them, or how their experience was with that local company’s vehicle. We also lay out the rental terms (mileage limits, fuel policy, insurance details) clearly before you book. There’s no small-print trickery here. For example, if a rental has a 200 km/day mileage cap (some Iceland 4x4 rentals do), we show it upfront so you can decide accordingly. The same goes for insurance: Iceland rentals typically include CDW with an excess we’ll show that amount (e.g., “CDW included, €1500 excess”) and offer any available options to reduce it. Our goal is that when you arrive at the rental desk, you already know what to expect no hard-sell surprises or misunderstandings. When you book with AirportVanRental, you can hit Iceland’s roads with confidence, knowing you got a great deal from a platform that has your back.

Top Iceland Car Rental Deals

Iceland’s car rental rates can vary by season summer is high demand, while winter can bring bargains. Here are some example starting prices to give you an idea of the affordable deals you can find (quoted in Icelandic króna, ISK):

  • Economy Car from 3,500 ISK/day (~$27): Example: Toyota Aygo or similar (mini 2-door). Perfect for couples or solo travelers sticking to the main roads and towns. Easy to park in Reykjavik and sips fuel (great for Iceland, where gas is pricy). Despite its small size, it can handle the Ring Road fine in summer. Not much room for luggage basically two carry-ons and two people but if you pack light, it’s the cheapest way to get around on four wheels.
  • Compact Hatchback from 4,500 ISK/day (~$35): Example: Volkswagen Polo or similar. A bit more space than a mini car, with seating for up to 5 (best for 4 adults max with luggage). Good for city and highway driving. This is a common class for budget travelers who want reliability these cars can even manage some of the smoother gravel roads, though not the rough F-roads. Great for a summer trip around the whole Ring Road on a budget.
  • Midsize Sedan (Automatic) from 7,500 ISK/day (~$57): Example: Toyota Corolla or similar. Enjoy extra comfort and baggage room, plus the ease of automatic transmission (many international visitors prefer not to deal with stick shifts). A midsize is ideal if you’re covering long distances say, driving from Reykjavik to Akureyri and beyond as you get more engine power and stability. Many come with built-in GPS. These cars handle well in windy conditions common in Iceland. They are 2WD, so you’ll still stick to paved or well-graded roads, but 99% of Iceland’s main attractions are accessible by paved road anyway.
  • SUV (4x4) from 11,000 ISK/day (~$83): Example: Dacia Duster 4x4 or similar. One of the best values if you want a 4-wheel-drive. The Duster (and similar models) are economical compact SUVs that can be driven on F-roads (mountain roads) with care. Seating 5 with luggage, they give you more freedom to explore e.g., drive to Landmannalaugar or Kjölur highland route in summer. Even if you’re not doing highlands, a 4x4 provides peace of mind in winter or off-season shoulder months, and the higher ground clearance is nice for uneven rural roads. This price is a steal to unlock parts of Iceland most tourists don’t see.
  • Large 4x4 or Minivan from 15,000 ISK/day (~$114): Example: Toyota Land Cruiser or Mercedes Vito (9-seater). If you have a big group or serious adventure plans, spend a bit more for a full-size. A Land Cruiser-type 4x4 can tackle virtually any legal road in Iceland fording small rivers, climbing rough trails and fits 5-7 people plus gear. A 9-seat minibus (typically 2WD) is great for large families or group tours, like if you’re a bunch of friends doing a camping road trip. These larger vehicles often include extras like parking sensors and dual A/C. 15k ISK per day split among 7-9 people can actually be very economical per person. Keep in mind, bigger vehicles mean higher fuel consumption but they enable an unforgettable group adventure under one roof (or, rather, one car roof!).

Note: “From” rates are based on recent off-peak rentals (e.g., a November or early spring booking). In summer (June–August), prices can be higher sometimes 2x or more for certain car classes due to demand. Always check for your specific dates. We update deals frequently and sometimes run early-bird specials for instance, book a winter 4x4 in September and snag a great deal for December. Tip: If traveling in winter, consider a 4x4 or at least ensure your rental comes with winter tires (all major rentals do, by law, between Nov 1 and Apr 15). And if something seems unclear like mileage limits or insurance you can see those details with each quote or ask us. Happy deal hunting, and we hope these sample prices show that exploring Iceland by car can fit a range of budgets!

Driving in Iceland: All You Need to Know for a Safe Road Trip

Driving in Iceland is an adventure in itself one moment you’re cruising on a smooth coastal highway, the next you might be cautiously navigating a gravel mountain pass. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you drive safely and confidently in Iceland:

Basic Road Rules & Driving Side: In Iceland, you drive on the right-hand side of the road, same as in the U.S. and continental Europe. Overtake on the left of other vehicles. Always keep your headlights on 24/7 it’s actually mandatory to drive with low-beam headlights at all times, day or night (daytime running lights suffice if your car has them). Seat belts are compulsory for all passengers. Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal (so if you need to call, use hands-free or pull over). Iceland’s traffic signs follow international conventions triangular red/yellow signs for warnings (you might see ones for strong crosswinds in windy areas, which is very useful!), circular signs for restrictions, etc. One unique sign to know: a white rectangular sign with a black diagonal stripe means “end of all restrictions” often used leaving towns to indicate you’re back to default rural speed limits.

Speed Limits & Enforcement: The general speed limits in Iceland are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads in rural areas, and 90 km/h on paved rural roads. There are a few variations for example, some sections of highway in the Reykjavik area might be 70 km/h if curvy, or some larger roads in towns might be 60 km/h, but they will be signposted. On expressways near Reykjavík (like the road to KEF airport) you might see 90 km/h signs as well. Iceland is strict about speeding there are automated speed cameras on many routes (especially just outside towns where the limit drops). Fines are hefty and are often charged on the spot or sent to the rental company (who will pass the bill to you with an admin fee). So it’s not worth speeding plus, with Iceland’s scenery, you’ll want to take it slow and soak it in. Police do patrol, though not heavily; however, the cameras do their job. Also be mindful that gravel roads demand slower speeds even if 80 km/h is the limit, that might be too fast for conditions. Slow down on loose gravel to avoid skidding (and to avoid throwing up stones that can chip paint or windshields a common incident). In winter, drive well below the limit if roads are icy or snowy. Basically, drive to conditions, not just the posted limit.

Unique Road Conditions: About one-third of Iceland’s total road network is gravel or unpaved. Even parts of the main Ring Road were gravel until a few years ago (now almost all of Route 1 is paved). When you transition from pavement to gravel, do so gently slow down before the pavement ends to maintain control. Gravel can be washboarded (corrugated), which causes vibration; keeping a moderate speed helps, but if it’s severe, slow down further. In rural areas, you’ll encounter single-lane bridges on main roads. These are marked with a sign showing one thick line and one thin line meaning the car on the side of the thick line has priority. In practice, slow down as you approach a one-lane bridge. If another car is already on it or very close, yield and let them pass, then go. If two cars meet in the middle (happens rarely), generally the one who got there second should reverse. Take turns politely locals are used to it.

Watch out for livestock on roads especially sheep in summer. In the countryside, sheep roam free and often graze along road edges. If you see one, anticipate that it might dart across; slow down and be prepared to brake. Hitting a sheep can cause damage (to car and sheep!), and farmers can claim compensation from you via the rental if livestock is injured so better to avoid it altogether by being cautious.

Another quirk: wind. Iceland can have ferocious winds that can literally blow car doors open wider than intended (damage known as “door blow-out” is something insurance often doesn’t cover!). When parked on a very windy day, hold onto your door when opening so it doesn’t wrench out of your hand. And while driving, be ready for gusts, particularly in open areas or when you crest a hill they can make steering momentarily tricky. If you see a windsock or warning sign for wind, slow down a bit and keep two hands on the wheel.

F-Roads (Mountain Roads): These are interior highland roads marked with an “F” before the route number (e.g., F35 to Kjölur, F26 across Sprengisandur). They are untouched gravel/dirt tracks, often with potholes, mud, and unbridged rivers to ford. Never drive an F-road in a 2WD car it’s illegal per rental contracts and downright dangerous. If you plan to tackle F-roads, you must rent a 4x4 that the rental company agrees is suitable for F-roads. Even then, proceed with caution and ideally not alone (convoy with another vehicle if possible). Check the road conditions on the day (the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration has a website showing F-road openings/closures and conditions). If a sign says a road is impassable, take it seriously. Also note: off-road driving (leaving the marked track) is illegal everywhere in Iceland it causes terrible damage to the fragile moss and environment, and fines are enormous if caught. So stay on the tracks.

Navigation & Fuel: A good map or GPS is handy, but honestly, Iceland has a simple road network. Route 1 (Ring Road) goes around, and spurs lead to towns or sights. Google Maps works well (you can cache maps offline since signal can be spotty in remote areas). For fuel: Gas stations are fairly frequent along main roads. In the East Fjords or Westfjords, it can be 100 km between stations, so don’t let your tank drop too low top up when you can, especially before heading into less populated regions. Most stations are self-service with card pumps. Important: Many pumps require a credit card with a PIN code, so know your PIN. Alternatively, you can go inside to pay (during staffed hours) or purchase a fill-up card. Fuel prices are high (as noted, ~322 ISK/L for petrol), so a fuel-efficient car pays off. Diesel is used by many larger vehicles and is slightly cheaper per liter.

Weather and Seasonal Tips:Summer (June–August) driving is straightforward all roads usually open by late June (F-roads often not until mid-late June or July 1st). You’ll have nearly 24-hour daylight in June, so fatigue can sneak up since it never gets dark remember to rest. Winter (November–March) driving requires preparation: main roads are cleared quickly after snow, but ice can persist. Rentals in winter come with studded or winter tires; still, drive slowly on ice and leave huge following distances. Conditions can change mile to mile you might hit a white-out blizzard or freezing rain. Always check the weather forecast and road condition website (road.is) each morning in winter. Roads or mountain passes (even parts of Ring Road in the north-east) can close temporarily for snowstorms heed those closures; do not bypass barricades. If you’re not experienced in winter driving, consider limiting winter driving to daylight hours and sticking to Route 1 and major routes, or even consider guided tours for the extreme areas. Spring and fall are shoulder seasons where you can get a mix just be flexible.

Emergency & Help: The emergency number is 112 in Iceland for police, ambulance, or fire rescue. For roadside assistance, your rental should provide a number (sometimes they partner with ICE breakdown services or have their own). Cell coverage is pretty good along Ring Road and inhabited areas (3G/4G most places except very remote interior), but in some mountain valleys or far fjords you might lose signal. It’s a good idea to download the 112 Iceland app it can send your GPS location to authorities if you call for help via the app. Carrying a paper map and even a basic car safety kit (the car should have reflective vest and triangle) is wise.

Driving in Iceland truly lets you discover its magic just do so with respect for the island’s powerful nature. If the road ahead looks questionable, err on the side of caution. There’s a popular Icelandic saying: “Þetta reddast,” roughly meaning “It will all work out.” With good preparation and prudent driving, it certainly will, and you’ll have the road trip of a lifetime.

Recommended Iceland Road Trips

Ready to put that rental car to use? Here are two popular road trip routes plus one iconic shorter drive, showcasing the best of Iceland:

1. The Full Ring Road Adventure 1,332 km (828 miles), 7–10 days

This is the ultimate Iceland experience: driving Route 1 (the Ring Road) around the entire country. Starting and ending in Reykjavík, you’ll circle clockwise or counterclockwise it doesn’t matter, but let’s say clockwise for this description. Head north from Reykjavik to Borgarnes, then onward to Akureyri (the capital of the north). Highlights along this section: the Snæfellsnes Peninsula (a detour off Route 1, but worth it for Kirkjufell mountain and black sand beaches), the lava fields of Borgarfjörður, and in the north Goðafoss (“Waterfall of the Gods”) as you approach Akureyri. After a pit stop in Akureyri (a charming town check out its botanical garden and cafes), continue east to Lake Mývatn, an area brimming with geothermal wonders. Visit the bubbling mud pits of Námaskarð, walk in the surreal lava fields of Dimmuborgir, and soak in the Mývatn Nature Baths (a more low-key Blue Lagoon). Don’t miss Dettifoss in Vatnajökull National Park Europe’s most powerful waterfall accessible via a short detour road (weather permitting).

As you round the east, you’ll wind through the East Fjords enjoy the coastal scenery and quaint fishing villages like Seyðisfjörður or Djúpivogur. Next, the southeast brings you face-to-face with glaciers. Stop at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs drift serenely you can even take a boat tour among them. Across the road, visit Diamond Beach, where those ice chunks wash up on black sand. Drive past Vatnajökull (Europe’s largest ice cap) consider a glacier hike or ice cave tour out of Skaftafell if time allows. Continuing, you’ll pass Skaftafell National Park (great short hikes, like to Svartifoss waterfall).

Head into the south coast region: the town of Vík with its Reynisdrangar sea stacks and black beach is a must-stop. Then behold two of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls just off Route 1: Skógafoss (you can climb the stairs for a view from the top) and Seljalandsfoss, the one you can walk behind prepare to get misted! As you drive west, the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano (of 2010 eruption fame) looms to your right; there’s a little visitor center at Þorvaldseyri farm if interested. Finally, cruise through the farmlands of south Iceland back to Reykjavík.

This journey covers all Iceland’s varied landscapes you’ll experience seaside cliffs, highland deserts, lush fjords, and volcanos. Pro Tip: Don’t rush it. While technically doable in maybe 4 very long driving days, allocate at least a week. Ten days lets you add side trips (like Snæfellsnes or the Golden Circle or Westfjords) and not feel you’re racing every night to the next hotel. Also, check road conditions especially in shoulder seasons; the north and east can get snow early or late in the season.

2. Golden Circle & South Coast (Classic Highlights) Approx. 400 km combined, 2–3 days

If you have a shorter trip or want to hit the iconic spots efficiently, this road trip is perfect. Day 1: Golden Circle. From Reykjavík, drive 50 km northeast to Þingvellir National Park (Thingvellir). It’s a UNESCO site where you can literally walk between continents (the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates split the valley) and see where Iceland’s ancient parliament met. Next, 60 km further along, stop at Geysir in Haukadalur valley the original geyser (now mostly dormant) and its active neighbor Strokkur, which erupts scalding water up to 30 meters every 5-10 minutes. Enjoy the spectacle (and the sulphur smell!) and perhaps have lunch at the visitor center. A short 10-minute drive away is Gullfoss, one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, where the Hvítá river plunges in two tiers into a dramatic canyon. Gullfoss roars with incredible force on sunny days you’ll often see rainbows in the mist. That covers the Golden Circle’s “big three.” If you have time/interest, nearby you can also find Secret Lagoon in Fluðir (a quieter hot spring pool) or Friðheimar farm (where you can eat lunch in a tomato greenhouse). Return to Reykjavík or, to seamlessly continue, spend the night around Selfoss/Hella.

Day 2: South Coast. Head out on Route 1 towards Vík. First major stop: Seljalandsfoss (about 120 km from Reykjavík). Park and walk the loop behind the curtain of water (wear a rain jacket!). A short walk away is Gljúfrabúi, a hidden waterfall inside a canyon you can wade in to see it (worth it!). Next about 25 km further is Skógafoss you’ll likely spot its spray from the road. This 60m falls is breathtaking; climb the adjacent stairs for different perspectives (there’s a long trail beyond if you like hiking). Possibly check out the Skógar folk museum nearby if you’re into cultural history. Continue eastward. Just before Vík, consider the turnoff for Dyrhólaey peninsula a high cliff with a massive sea arch. In summer it’s a puffin nesting site (parts close for a time for bird privacy), and year-round it offers a panoramic view of endless black coast. Next, down on the beach near Vík, visit Reynisfjara black sand beach. Marvel at the basalt column cliffs (please heed warning signs and stay well back from the water sneaker waves here have swept people out to sea). You’ll see the Reynisdrangar basalt sea stacks rising offshore local legend says they were trolls turned to stone. Finally, pop into Vík town for fuel, snacks, and maybe a wool sweater from the iconic Icewear store. If heading back to Reykjavík the same day, turn around here (it’s ~2.5 hours drive back). If you can do Day 3, continue onwards from Vík to Jokulsarlon (as in the Ring Road itinerary above) as an extension, staying a night near Skaftafell.

This trip hits many of Iceland’s postcard sights with relatively little driving each day. It’s great if you have, say, a long weekend stopover. Roads on this route are paved and well-maintained year-round (weather permitting). Even in winter, tour buses run this route daily with a 4x4 or proper tires, you can too, just check forecasts.

3. Snæfellsnes Peninsula (Mini-Iceland) Approx. 300 km from Reykjavík round-trip, 1–2 days

Snæfellsnes is often called “Iceland in miniature” because it has a bit of everything volcano, glacier, black beach, sea cliffs, quaint towns all in one 90-km long peninsula. It’s an excellent shorter road trip. From Reykjavík, drive north on Route 1 and then Route 54 toward the town of Stykkishólmur (170 km, ~2.5 hours). Stykkishólmur is a charming fishing town with colorful houses; consider a short stop to climb the little hill with a lighthouse overlooking the harbor. From there, drive west along the north shore of Snæfellsnes. You’ll soon see Kirkjufell mountain near Grundarfjörður often dubbed “the most photographed mountain in Iceland” (it’s the pointy one from Game of Thrones). Across the road is Kirkjufellsfoss, a pretty waterfall with Kirkjufell as the backdrop a must for photographers. Continue west to Ólafsvík and then into Snæfellsjökull National Park at the tip of the peninsula. Here looms Snæfellsjökull, a 700,000-year-old stratovolcano with a glacier on top, made famous by Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. If you have a 4x4 and it’s summer, you can take a rough track up toward the glacier. Otherwise, stick to the main road plenty to see. Stop at Djúpalónssandur beach, where you can walk among smooth black pebbles and see remnants of a shipwreck. Try your hand at the “lifting stones” on the beach that sailors used to test strength (watch the waves though!). Further along, check out Lóndrangar, two towering lava rock pinnacles on the coast there’s a short trail for a closer look.

As you round the south side, you might visit the tiny hamlet of Arnarstapi. Here there’s a scenic coastal walk to Hellnar, featuring basalt arch rocks (Gatklettur) and abundant seabirds in summer. A short drive east of Arnarstapi is Búðakirkja, the photogenic black wooden church at Búðir, set against a lavascape and golden beach. Finally, follow Route 54 along the south coast back toward Borgarnes and Reykjavík. If doing in one day, it’s a long but feasible loop (start early!). Better, stay a night at a guesthouse in the area (Stykkishólmur or Grundarfjörður or Arnarstapi have options) and really savor the sites.

Snæfellsnes gives you that “far west” feel of Iceland without straying too far from the capital. Roads here are mostly paved (a few sections of Route 54 were gravel but are gradually being sealed; even when gravel, they’re fine in a 2WD if driven carefully). Winter driving here can be a bit trickier if storms hit, as services are sparse check conditions. But year-round, this peninsula road trip is a favorite among locals and photographers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, right turns on red are not permitted unless a specific signal allows it (rare). Plan to wait for green at urban intersections. Book with AVR for local‑driving tips included in your confirmation.

Only one: the Vaðlaheiðargöng tunnel near Akureyri. Pay online or in the app up to 24 hours before or after driving through; current passenger‑car pricing is listed on the official site. AVR alerts travelers about this charge in pre‑trip reminders.

Yes, F‑roads require a 4×4 and are seasonal. Openings vary with snowmelt, typically mid‑ to late‑June through early autumn; always check current status on road.is before you go. AVR compares vehicles that are F‑road eligible so you can choose confidently.

Standard limits are 50 km/h (urban), 80 km/h (gravel), and 90 km/h (paved rural); headlights must be on at all times, day or night. These rules are strictly enforced. AVR recommends setting your car’s lights to “auto” and driving below posted limits in poor weather.

Usually no if your license uses the Latin alphabet; yes if it does not. Most renters must also have held a license for at least 1 year, and the minimum rental age is typically 20 (higher for SUVs/vans). Book your Iceland car hire easily through Airport Van Rental, your trusted OTA partner.