How to Get Around Iceland

Whether you’re planning to tackle Iceland’s legendary Ring Road, stay based in Reykjavík, or venture off the beaten track to fjords and hidden valleys, there’s a travel style to suit every kind of explorer. From self-drive adventures to expertly guided tours, you’ll find practical options for getting around no matter your pace, comfort level, or season.

In this guide, we’ll answer the most common questions travelers ask about getting around Iceland. We’ll walk you through your transport choices, share insider tips, and help you decide how to make the most of your time in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Think “wild and rugged,” and you might assume Iceland’s roads are as raw as its lava fields—but don’t be fooled. Beneath those epic landscapes lies surprisingly modern infrastructure, from smooth Route 1 asphalt to ferry links and mountain tunnels that keep you rolling year-round. Whether you choose a hop-on/hop-off coach, car rental or a self-drive tours, getting between waterfalls and geothermal pools is easier than you think.

Sure, October through March can throw in sudden storms and short daylight, but with a little planning—checking Road.is for closures, downloading offline maps, and padding each drive day by 30–60 minutes—you’ll breeze through safely. And if you book through Iceland Tours, we’ll handle any weather-related shuffles to your itinerary, so you can stay carefree and focused on the magic outside your window.

Oh yes—you really don’t need four wheels to see the island’s highlights. Iceland has no trains (quirky, huh?), but don’t let that stop you.

You can hop on the public bus network, Strætó, which threads its way through every town and village on Route 1 (Strætó FAQ). In summer it’s pretty reliable, though in winter schedules thin out to just a handful of runs beyond Reykjavík—so I’d double-check the app and build in a little buffer if a storm rolls in. A one-way fare from Reykjavík to Selfoss runs about 2,200 ISK.

If you’d rather be chauffeured, private tours are a lifesaver. You’ll get picked up right at your hotel (or a nearby meeting point) and whisked off to the Golden Circle, the South Coast—or literally wherever your curiosity leads. Picture stepping behind locked gates at Friðheimar’s greenhouse for a private tomato-tasting lunch, slipping into an off-the-grid ice cave before the crowds arrive, or swapping stories over a geothermal lunch in a hidden hot-spring oasis. It’s like a VIP Iceland experience—no planning headaches, just pure adventure.

For longer hops—think Reykjavík to Akureyri or Egilsstaðir—a domestic flight can shave a five-hour drive down to about 45 minutes. Fair warning, though: winter fog or volcanic dust can ground planes, so I’d book a flexible ticket and keep a bus backup in your back pocket.

Whichever you choose, you’ll be surprised how smoothly Iceland’s transport options can link you to waterfalls, lava fields, and hot springs—no rental car required.

Visitors can get around Iceland just like the locals—often with even more options. Regular bus routes connect most towns and villages, but for real flexibility, renting a car is the top choice. Route 1 (the Ring Road) is well maintained, easy to navigate, and open year-round, making it perfect for a classic self-drive adventure. Also, check out our Ring Road Ultimate Guide.

If you’d rather not drive, you’re still covered. A wide range of guided tours—both day trips and full circuits—depart from Reykjavík daily and take in must-see spots like the Golden Circle, South Coast, and glacier lagoons. These are especially handy in winter when driving conditions can be unpredictable.

That said, you’re not limited to four wheels. For a deeper connection with nature, try mountain biking along coastal trails or kayaking past icebergs on a glacial lagoon. These experiences get you closer to Iceland’s raw landscapes than any car window ever could.

Prefer to let the sea do the driving? Ferries connect parts of the country too. The Westman Islands, for example, are just a short hop from the South Coast—but offer a whole different world of volcano hikes, puffin cliffs, and jaw-dropping ocean views. Bonus: you might even spot whales on the way.

Reykjavík is a breeze to get around. It’s small, safe, and designed for walking—so if you’re staying downtown, chances are you’ll cover most of it on foot. From iconic landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja to the cozy cafés of the Old Harbor, everything’s within easy reach.

Electric scooters are another fun option for short hops across the city. They’re app-based and widely available in summer, with rental stations scattered across central neighborhoods. Prefer pedals to pixels? Bike rentals are also popular, and Reykjavík’s cycling paths make for relaxed cruising.

Public transport is reliable, with city buses Strætó running frequently between neighborhoods and nearby suburbs. For longer rides, or if you’re catching a tour, the main bus terminal at Vatnsmýrarvegur is your go-to hub.

Taxis are easy to find in the capital, especially at major hotels and tourist areas. While ride-sharing apps like Uber haven’t launched in Iceland, local taxi apps work just as smoothly.

And if you’re heading to the airport, you’ve got options: Flybus, Airport Direct, or a private transfer. Just be sure to book ahead—especially during busy travel months.

Nope—Uber and other international ride-hailing apps don’t operate in Iceland (yet). So if you’re looking to book a ride, conventional taxis are still the go-to option, especially in Reykjavík. You’ll find them at taxi ranks, hotels, or via local apps like Hreyfill which make it easy to request a cab without calling.

That said, taxis in Iceland are known for being pricey—especially if you’re traveling outside the capital or heading to the airport. A one-way ride from Reykjavík to Keflavík International Airport, for example, can cost over 20,000 ISK (around €130). For most travelers, a shuttle bus service like Flybus or Airport Direct offers much better value, especially with hotel pickup options.

If your goal is to explore sights outside the city—like waterfalls, black-sand beaches, or glacier lagoons—taxis quickly become impractical. In these cases, guided day tours or multi-day packages offer a more convenient and budget-friendly way to see the country. They often include transportation, a local guide, and sometimes even meals or entry fees.

You’ve come to the right place if you want to figure out how best to explore Iceland—whether you’re dreaming of a flexible road trip or prefer to let someone else handle the logistics. Below you’ll find four of the most popular and practical ways to get around, especially if you’re planning to follow the iconic Ring Road or venture off it a little.

Self-drive tours are hands-down the most flexible way to experience Iceland. By renting a car, you can take control of your route, pace, and priorities. Want to linger at Skógafoss while the morning mist rolls in? Detour to a hot spring you spotted on Instagram? Pull over for a photo of a curious sheep? You can. That’s the beauty of going your own way.

This option works especially well for travelers who like to explore independently, love scenic drives, or are traveling as a couple or family. You’ll find that Iceland’s roads are generally well maintained, and Route 1 (the Ring Road) is paved nearly all the way around.

That said, there are a few things worth noting:

Pro tip ▶︎ Self-drive doesn’t mean doing it all solo. Book a self-drive package with Iceland Tours and we’ll pre-arrange your accommodation, car rental, and itinerary. You just pick the playlist.

Want the freedom to explore without the pressure of planning or driving? Then small group tours might be your sweet spot. These trips pair you with a knowledgeable local guide and a handful of like-minded travelers—so it’s social without being overwhelming.

Whether you’re cruising along the South Coast, chasing waterfalls in the Eastfjords, or crossing into the dramatic Westfjords, your guide’s got the wheel (and the insights). They’ll share the stories, geology, and folklore behind each stop—things you might miss if you were driving solo with your nose in Google Maps.

Pro tip ▶︎ Traveling solo but want the company of others? Small group tours are a great way to make new friends on the road—without sacrificing comfort or privacy.

If you like the idea of someone else doing the driving—but still want to shape your own adventure—a privately guided tour gives you the best of both worlds. You’ll be paired with a personal driver-guide who’s not just your chauffeur, but also your storyteller, navigator, and local expert.

You set the tone. Want more time in geothermal pools? Less in museums? A longer photo stop at that epic canyon you saw on Instagram? Done. Your itinerary is customizable, and we’ll match you with a guide who shares your interests—be it photography, Viking history, or tracking elusive Arctic foxes.

This is the premium way to explore Iceland, especially if you value privacy, flexibility, and the chance to ask all the questions along the way.

Pro tip ▶︎ Perfect for families, couples, or anyone with a specific passion they want to explore in depth. Think of it as a road trip… with a backstage pass.

If you’d rather not be on the move every night, base yourself in Reykjavík and explore Iceland’s wonders with a series of unforgettable day trips. Multi-day tours are a great option if you want the best of both worlds—city comforts in the evening, natural marvels by day.

You could spend one day soaking in the power of Gullfoss and the geysers of the Golden Circle, then head to the dramatic black sand beaches of the South Coast the next. Add in a snorkel between tectonic plates at Silfra or a lava tunnel walk for even more variety.

And when the day winds down, Reykjavík awaits—with cozy cafés, Nordic cuisine, and perhaps a Northern Lights hunt if the sky’s clear.

Pro Tip ▶︎ Want to cut down on packing and unpacking? Multi-day tours are perfect for travelers who prefer fewer hotel changes while still seeing Iceland’s headline acts.

Travel around Iceland in the way that fits you best. Crave the independence of a self-drive trip? Prefer sharing the journey with fellow explorers on a small group tour? Or maybe you’re after a fully custom, privately guided adventure with all the personal touches?

At Iceland Tours, we make it easy. Book your Ring Road tour today with just a 5% deposit, and we’ll take care of the rest—from car rental and accommodations to handpicked excursions and hidden gems.

Bonus? You can tailor your itinerary with optional upgrades, activity add-ons, and extra nights. So your trip isn’t just seamless—it’s yours.