Visit the northernmost capital city of
Iceland by hiring a car in Reykjavik. The majority of Iceland’s inhabitants live in the city which is the focus for tourism, art and culture for the nation. It’s a pretty city with a compact centre and made up of multi-coloured houses that give the city the look of a Lego construction site. Reykjavik is renowned for its thermal pools, heated by the seismic activity under the island. The pools are open year round enabling you to swim in winter whilst all around you is deep snow.
Here are some tips for driving in Reykjavik, places to visit, and considerations for the weather:
Driving Conditions:
-
Roads: Reykjavik's road network is well-maintained, with paved streets and modern infrastructure. The city itself is compact and easy to navigate.
-
Traffic: Reykjavik has a relatively small population, so traffic congestion is not a major issue compared to larger cities. However, during rush hours, there may be some traffic, especially on the main thoroughfares.
-
Weather: Iceland's weather can be highly changeable. Be prepared for rain, snow, and strong winds, especially during the winter months. Roads can be icy, so drive cautiously and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
-
Safety: Iceland has strict road safety rules. Always wear your seatbelt, and do not use a mobile phone while driving unless you have a hands-free system.
Places to Visit:
-
Hallgrímskirkja: This iconic church is one of Reykjavik's most recognizable landmarks. You can visit the tower for panoramic views of the city.
-
Perlan: The Pearl is a unique building with a revolving glass dome offering great city views. It also houses a museum and a restaurant.
-
Harpa Concert Hall: This modern architectural marvel is located by the waterfront and hosts various cultural events.
-
Reykjavik Old Harbor: Stroll along the picturesque harbor area, where you can find restaurants, shops, and boat tours.
-
Laugavegur: Reykjavik's main shopping street is filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
-
Tjörnin (The Pond): This small lake in the city center is a popular spot for feeding ducks and enjoying a leisurely walk.
Weather and Driving Tips:
-
Check the weather forecast before heading out. Weather conditions in Iceland can change rapidly, so it's essential to be prepared.
-
If you visit during the winter, consider renting a car with studded tires for better traction on icy roads.
-
Keep your headlights on, even during the daytime, for visibility, as daylight hours can be limited, especially in the winter.
-
Be cautious when driving on bridges, as they can be icy and slippery.
-
In Reykjavik, you'll encounter roundabouts. Remember to give way to traffic on your right when entering a roundabout.
If you are arriving by plane then remember that we offer car hire from Reykjavik Airport and
Keflavik, just 50km away. You will find the car rental desks where you need to show your driving licence and booking confirmation are situated in the main arrivals hall so you wont miss them.
Reykjavik’s airport has runways that are too small for most international flights, so they must land at Keflavik. Several operators fly from
UK airports so you will have a choice of flights and prices.