Reykjavik Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Reykjavik

Renting a car in Reykjavik offers you the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as Reykjavik Harbour, known for its scenic views, and Hallgrimskirkja, a prominent cultural landmark. Families will appreciate the ability to manage luggage with ease and travel flexibly to various sites like Laugavegur, a bustling street filled with shops and cafes. Furthermore, the convenience of driving allows you to access popular neighborhoods like Downtown Reykjavik, where you can experience local culture, or Laugardalur, which features the beautiful Grasagardur Botanical Garden. Outdoor enthusiasts can venture to places like Oskjuhlid Hill in Háaleiti, enhancing your eco-friendly adventures. Overall, renting a car in Reykjavik is a practical choice for tourists seeking a comfortable and adaptable way to discover the rich offerings of the capital region.

Most popular car rentals in Reykjavik

• Economy: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for 2 medium suitcases. The Economy option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, and families who want an efficient and budget-friendly choice while exploring Reykjavik. Its compact size makes navigating the city simple, ensuring you can easily manage your luggage as you move around.
• Midsize SUV AWD: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV AWD accommodates 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This option is well-suited for those seeking extra comfort and space without compromising on manoeuvrability. With all-wheel drive, it offers added confidence for diverse driving conditions, making it a great choice for your adventures in and around Reykjavik.
• Mini: The Mini option is designed for up to 4 travellers and can hold 2 small suitcases. This car type is particularly suitable for solo travellers or couples looking for a compact and easy-to-handle vehicle. Its small size allows for convenient parking in Reykjavik’s urban areas, while still providing enough room for a comfortable journey.

Top rated car suppliers in Reykjavik

• Europcar: Europcar is a popular choice among travellers in Reykjavik, offering three rental locations throughout the city. Known for its well-maintained fleet, the most booked vehicles include Mini and Economy cars, making it an excellent option for those seeking budget-friendly and compact choices. Customers appreciate the flexibility and convenience of renting from Europcar, allowing for easy exploration of Reykjavik and its surroundings at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget also boasts three rental locations in Reykjavik, catering to a variety of travellers. The supplier is well-regarded for its competitive pricing, with Economy and Mini cars being the top picks among renters. This makes Budget an ideal choice for those looking to balance affordability with reliability. Many customers enjoy the straightforward rental process, ensuring a smooth start to their Icelandic adventure.
• Enterprise: With one rental location in Reykjavik, Enterprise stands out for its selection of Midsize SUV AWD and Economy SUV vehicles. This supplier is particularly well-suited for those who prefer a bit more space and comfort while navigating Iceland's scenic routes. Customers often highlight the friendly service and efficient rental experience, making Enterprise a solid option for families and groups looking to explore the beautiful landscapes around Reykjavik.

Where to stay in Reykjavik

• Downtown Reykjavik: A vibrant neighbourhood, Downtown Reykjavik offers a rich outdoor, family, and eco-friendly experience. It is home to popular venues such as spas and shopping areas. Notable local landmarks include the beautiful Hallgrimskirkja church and the Reykjavík Cathedral, both of which are ideal for culture enthusiasts. Laugavegur street, a central shopping destination, is also within proximity, allowing easy access to a variety of restaurants and cafes for dining options.
• Laugardalur: Known for its outdoor and family-friendly atmosphere, Laugardalur is perfect for those seeking a city-themed experience. This area includes the stunning Grasagardur Botanical Garden, which is great for a romantic outing or family visit. The historic Hofdi House adds a cultural touch to your stay. With shopping areas and restaurants nearby, Laugardalur provides ample opportunities for relaxation and leisure activities.
• Vesturbær: Offering a blend of outdoor and eco-friendly experiences, Vesturbær is an inviting neighbourhood for families. Key attractions include the Reykjavik Harbour, which provides scenic views and beach access, and the National Museum of Iceland, ideal for history buffs. This area also features various spas and dining establishments, ensuring a comfortable stay with plenty of options for relaxation and enjoyment.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Reykjavik

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to benefit from lower rates and greater availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just be sure to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards as a payment method.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Reykjavik

The best value period to rent a car in and around Reykjavik is November, when demand is low and prices are typically at their lowest. October and March also offer slightly lower prices with average demand. As summer approaches, June through August see increased demand and higher prices, making this the most expensive time for rentals. While July and August are particularly busy, October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	31.6°F (-0.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
February	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	33.4°F (0.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	43.9°F (6.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
July	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
August	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
September	47.1°F (8.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
November	36.0°F (2.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	30.7°F (-0.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average