Why the airport pickup is convenient

Iceland's main attractions are outside Reykjavík, so a car from Keflavík lets you go straight to the South Coast or the Ring Road. Visit Iceland says renting a car is the easiest and most flexible option for the Ring Road, with guided tours as an alternative, and that visitors need at least 7 days for the 1,322 km loop. If you are landing for a Ring Road trip, an airport pickup removes the Reykjavík detour. See the self-drive tour guide and the Ring Road tour. To pick up in town, see car rental in Reykjavik.

When to skip the airport car

If your first days are in Reykjavík, a car may sit unused. The Flybus runs from early morning until late at night, with BSÍ departures from about 04:00 to 22:30 and airport arrivals from about 04:45 to 23:15 according to its timetable, and takes about 45 minutes. Each ticket includes two bags of up to 23 kg each, hotel pick-up and drop-off is available at many stops for a possible extra fee, and Flybus says your seat is guaranteed even if your flight is delayed. The Reykjavík City Card includes unlimited public transport in the city. Compare with Keflavik airport to Reykjavik and Iceland airport transfer.

First-drive rules

Self-service stations exist in all towns and along major highways, but distances vary, so keep enough fuel to reach the next one. Most stations accept only debit or credit cards with a PIN, not cash. Gravel roads are drivable in a normal car, but reduce speed before the pavement turns to gravel. Check road.is, the Icelandic Met Office and SafeTravel before leaving the airport. Safe Travel Iceland also advises winter equipment such as winter tires in the cold months, a daily forecast check and the emergency number 112. Off-road driving is strictly forbidden.

Season and vehicle

In March and early April, Visit Iceland strongly recommends a 4x4; in May and summer a two-wheel-drive car is typically enough outside the highlands. In winter daylight is limited, and in November Reykjavík has about 8 hours of daylight at the start of the month and about 5 by its end, so landing in the evening and driving on icy roads is a risk worth considering. Read Iceland 4x4 rental and Iceland in winter.

Highlands and rivers

F-roads are for 4x4s only and are usually closed from mid-September until June or July. No insurance covers damage while crossing a river. See Iceland F-roads.

Booking

Visit Iceland advises booking rental cars and 4x4s 6 to 8 months ahead in summer, since they often sell out. Visitors from outside the EU or EEA who bring their own car need a Green Card or other proof of third-party insurance. The Discover Cars page for Iceland in the box at the top of this page lets you compare cars for your dates. See also car rental in Iceland.

A tour for the first full day

If your flight lands early and you prefer not to drive on day one, the Golden Circle is open all year and needs no 4x4. We recommend the full-day Golden Circle tour with Kerid crater, 4.7 out of 5 from 27,992 reviews, from €70 on 6 November 2026.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Picking up a car for a three-day city stay.
  • Choosing a 2WD for March or early April.
  • Carrying only cash for fuel.
  • Assuming a 4x4 permits river crossings or F-roads: no insurance covers river damage.

FAQ

How long is the Flybus from Keflavik to Reykjavik?

About 45 minutes.

Does the Flybus wait for delayed flights?

Flybus says your seat is guaranteed, even if your flight is delayed.

Can I pay for fuel in cash?

Most stations accept only debit or credit cards with a PIN, not cash.

Do I need a 4x4?

Not in May to September outside the highlands; strongly recommended in March and early April.

When should I book?

Visit Iceland advises 6 to 8 months ahead for summer.

The Iceland Authority editorial team, 7 November 2026.