Embarking on a self-drive adventure in Iceland is one of the best ways to explore its breathtaking landscapes at your pace. From navigating winding mountain roads to discovering hidden waterfalls, self-driving gives you the freedom to experience Iceland’s wonders on your terms. However, with unique driving conditions and weather to consider, preparation is key. This guide covers everything you need to know to stay safe and make the most of your self-drive journey.
Once you book your self-drive tour with Hidden Iceland, your journey begins seamlessly the moment you pick up your rental vehicle keys. Our travel experts will provide a detailed, personalised itinerary available online and via an easy-to-use app. Each day is carefully planned, featuring step-by-step guidance on recommended stops, activities, and scenic routes. From navigation tips to insider recommendations, we ensure your adventure is both stress-free and unforgettable. Explore Iceland at your pace with everything mapped out for you.
Self-driving Iceland
Embarking on a self-drive adventure in Iceland promises freedom and flexibility, but preparation is key to ensuring a safe and seamless journey. Iceland’s weather and road conditions can change rapidly, so staying informed is essential. Resources like Safe Travel will provide up-to-date safety alerts, travel tips, and information about driving in challenging conditions. Meanwhile, Road.is offers real-time updates on road closures, weather conditions, and maintenance schedules. Familiarise yourself with these tools before setting out to enjoy Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes safely and responsibly.
→ Safetravel.is
→ Road.is
The weather
Iceland is known for its unpredictable weather, which can sometimes affect planned activities. A daily weather forecast can be found online, and should be an essential part of your travel preparations. If any changes are necessary to your itinerary, we will communicate with you directly and update your itinerary accordingly, ensuring you always have the latest version in your app. Should you wish to make further adjustments to your trip or add a stop during your journey, we’re happy to update your itinerary even whilst you’re on the road.
Responsible tourism
At Hidden Iceland, we are deeply committed to responsible tourism, ensuring our operations have a minimal impact on Iceland’s delicate environment. We encourage our guests to tread lightly, respect nature, and leave no trace as they explore this incredible country. By taking the Icelandic Pledge, you can join us in protecting Iceland’s landscapes for future generations. For more information on our sustainability efforts, including our carbon-negative initiatives and eco-friendly practices, read our Environmental Policy. Together, we can make a difference.
→ Take the Icelandic Pledge
→ Read Hidden Iceland’s Environmental Policy
Safe travels! Góða ferð!
Driving in Iceland
- Drive on the right: In Iceland, you are required to drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Speed limits: Be mindful of speed limits. Generally, the limits are 30-50 km/h (18-31 mph) in populated areas, 80 km/h (ca. 50 mph) on gravel roads in rural areas, and 90 km/h (ca. 56 mph) on paved roads. Speed limits are well-signposted, so keep an eye out.
- Wearing seat belts: All passengers should wear a seatbelt at all times when travelling in a vehicle. Children under 135 cm are also legally required to use car seats (these can be included on request with your vehicle rental).
- Headlights on: Headlights must be on at all times, even during daylight hours and in the summer months.
- No right turns on red: Unlike many states in the US, Iceland does not allow right turns on red lights. You must wait for a green light before turning right, unless there is a designated feeder road.
- Roundabout rules: When driving around two-lane roundabouts, the vehicle in the inner lane has priority to exit. If you are in the outer lane, yield to the vehicle in the inner lane.
- Stay on marked roads: Off-road driving is illegal in Iceland and can result in hefty fines. Stick to marked roads at all times.
- Single lane bridges: When travelling in the countryside, even along Route 1, you may encounter single-lane bridges. Always slow down when approaching single lane bridges, and remember the car that arrives at the bridge first has right of way.
- Single lane tunnels: In some parts of Iceland, you’ll encounter single-lane tunnels with designated passing places. If oncoming traffic appears, you must use the nearest passing place on your right to give way. Many of these tunnels are equipped with traffic lights at the entrance and exit to manage the flow—always wait for a green signal before entering or exiting the tunnel to ensure it is clear and safe to proceed.
→ Learn more about Iceland’s tunnels and see a map of all the tunnels.
- Mountain and Coastal Fjord Roads: Driving through Iceland’s mountainous regions and along coastal fjords rewards travellers with breathtaking views, but these routes can be challenging. Roads are often narrow, with sharp switchbacks and limited passing places. It’s essential to manage your speed carefully and maintain proper road positioning, always remaining vigilant of oncoming traffic and other road users.
- Gravel roads: Ensure to suitably slow down before entering a gravel road. Once on the road, drive slowly and carefully, with an awareness of other road users.
- Stopping and parking: Do not stop on the side of the road. Always stop in designated parking areas or pull-ins. This is especially important if you are travelling in April, September, or October to view the Northern Lights. For safety, always park in a designated area, ensuring you are visible and away from traffic.
- Alcohol limit: The legal blood alcohol limit for driving in Iceland is 0.02%. There are severe penalties for exceeding this limit, so exercise caution.
- Sheep on the road: Sheep often roam along rural roads, particularly in the summer. If you see sheep at the roadside, slow down and be prepared for them to suddenly enter the road, often accompanied by lambs.
- Fuelling up: Automated gas pumps require a payment card with a pin. Be sure to get one from your bank before arriving in Iceland. Alternatively, you can pay at the counter at larger stations or purchase pre-paid cards for use in more remote areas. N1 stations are recommended for their wide coverage and good service across the island.
Parking in Reykjavík; What to know?
Parking in Reykjavík is generally straightforward, but here are the key details to keep in mind. By planning ahead and familiarising yourself with Reykjavík’s parking system, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience while exploring the city!
Parking zones: The city is divided into four main parking zones (P1, P2, P3, P4), with the rates increasing as you move closer to the city centre. Signs in each area indicate the zone and corresponding fees.
→ Learn more about the parking zones and rates
Payment options: Most parking areas require payment, which can be made at meters or via parking apps, allowing you to pay and extend time remotely. Payment is typically required during specific hours, usually from 9:00 AM—9:00 PM on weekdays (depends on the parking zone), with reduced hours on Saturdays and Sundays.
→ Learn more about online payment methods (apps)
→ Learn more about parking meters
Time limits: Some central parking areas have strict time limits, even if you pay, so always check signage to avoid overstaying.
Multi-storey parking garages: For convenient parking, Reykjavík has several multi-storey car parks located close to major attractions and shopping areas. These facilities often offer covered parking and flexible tariffs, making them a great choice for longer stays or bad weather. Look for signs directing you to these car parks, such as Harpa, Kolaportið, and Hlemmur.
→ Learn more about Reykjavík’s parking garage tariffs
Free parking areas: Parking outside the main zones, including many residential areas, is typically free. These spots can be a great option if you’re comfortable walking or using public transport into the centre.
Enforcement: Parking rules are strictly enforced in Reykjavík, and fines are issued for violations. Be sure to pay promptly and park only in designated areas, and not in the opposite of the driving direction.
→ Learn more about parking penalties
Accessibility: If you need accessible parking, look for clearly marked spaces near main attractions and facilities.
→ Learn more about parking spaces for people with reduced mobility
Parking in Key Locations for Self-Drive Travellers in Iceland
Þingvellir National Park: Þingvellir National Park offers multiple parking areas, including near Hakið Visitor Center, Öxarárfoss waterfall, and Silfra fissure. A single parking ticket is valid across all designated lots for the day, making it easier for visitors to explore different parts of the park. Payments can be made at on-site machines or online.
→ Learn more about Þingvellir National Park’s parking services
Vatnajökull National Park: At Vatnajökull National Park, parking facilities are available at popular sites such as Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Payments can be processed through the Parka app or at designated stations. Visitors with mobility parking permits may be eligible for exemptions, and it is recommended to contact park authorities in advance for more information.
→ Learn more about Vatnajökull National Park’s parking services and regional fees
Akureyri: In Akureyri, the city centre has structured parking zones where payment is required on weekdays but is free on weekends. Parking can be managed through mobile apps such as EasyPark or Parka, or by using pay stations in designated areas. Some zones have time limits, so it is important to check signage before leaving your vehicle.
→ Learn more about Akureyri’s parking areas and pay zones
Reykjanes Peninsula (Volcano Eruption Sites): Parking areas are designated near hiking routes leading to recent eruption sites on the Reykjanes Peninsula. It is essential to check for the latest updates on road closures and conditions before visiting, as accessibility may change due to volcanic activity. Safety guidelines must always be followed, and restricted areas should be avoided.
→ Learn more about hiking & parking by the volcanic eruption site
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