Iceland is a country of volcanic activity, thermal baths, mountains and glaciers. Car rental in Iceland lets you see this stark landscape on your own terms.
Iceland is volcanically active, the centre of the country is a plateau of lava fields and glacier-topped mountains. There are naturally occurring geothermal baths, vast areas of uninhabited landscape, and lots of friendly Icelanders in the towns and cities. This country has the lowest population density in Europe so by far the best way to get around is by rental car in Iceland – see the places you want to see, when you want to see them.
Car rental Iceland - the most important rental sites
The capital city of Reykjavík is known for its nightlife and its museums where you can learn about Viking history. Akureyri and Egilsstaðir are great bases for exploring the other parts of Iceland; take a glacier tour from Akureyri in the north or a coastal day trip from Egilsstaðir in the east. A cheap car rental in Iceland will make your trip an experience to remember.
Whether you are taking a short business trip to Iceland or staying long term on holiday, it's a convenient idea to rent a car in Iceland. You can compare deals online or get the help of the agency on the spot. Car hire is available from companies in many locations including:
Reykjavík
Reykjavík Airport
Akureyri
Egilsstaðir
Grimsy
Hofn
Isafjordur
Planning your Iceland car rental
If you are starting your journey in Reykjavík or Hofn, you have to visit the Blue Lagoon which is only a 40 minute drive from Reykjavík. This geothermal spa contains so many minerals that the water is milky white. You should also take in the views on the west coast of the two glaciers from Akrafjall Mountain. Visit Arnarstapi to take a walk along the coast and see a colony of arctic terns in the nature reserve. The coastal path passes old trading places of fishermen and even takes you through a lava field!
There is plenty of culture to soak up in and around Reykjavík. In the city you can find the Solfar Sculpture, a beautiful dream boat by the water. You should also visit Hallgrimskirkja church and climb its stark spire for the view. In the north, visit Vatnajökull National Park. Another sight to see is Ásbyrgi, a tree-filled, horseshoe shaped canyon, viewed from a clifftop. Here you can find a campsite, a golf course and a visitor’s centre. You can also take your rental car in Iceland to other famous natural places; the Aldeyjarfoss waterfall is spectacular and you can drive almost all the way up to it.
Rent a car to get to the east of Iceland where you can go seal watching, hire a fishing guide, go glacier hiking and snowmobiling. If it’s relaxation you are after, you can find a campsite on the sheltered inlet of Atlavík, enjoy the beaches, hire a small boat or go horseback riding. It all becomes possible when you rent a car in Iceland and are free to explore the country at your leisure.
Getting around in Iceland
The road system is easy to navigate because Iceland's main road is a ring around the country. Smaller roads have rougher surfaces so make sure you rent a suitable vehicle. The general speed limit is 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads in rural areas, and 90 km/h on asphalt roads. Driving off road is prohibited to protect fragile plants. Most mountain roads are closed in winter and some may not open until June or later. In Iceland car rental will give you the possibility of experiencing this special island at your leisure. Just be prepared, drive with caution, and obey the speed limits.
