Reykjavik Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Reykjavik

Renting a car in Reykjavik offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its stunning surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as you wish. This is particularly beneficial for families and those seeking eco-friendly experiences, as it allows for convenient travel to various attractions. Key sites such as Reykjavik Harbour, known for its beautiful scenery, and the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church, ideal for cultural experiences, are easily accessible. You can also navigate to the vibrant shopping street Laugavegur or enjoy the green spaces in neighborhoods like Laugardalur, home to the Grasagardur Botanical Garden. From Downtown Reykjavik to Háaleiti, a rental car enables you to visit multiple destinations without the hassles of public transport. Whether you're interested in outdoor activities or family-friendly experiences, having your own vehicle enhances your journey, allowing you to explore the charm of Reykjavik and its surroundings comfortably and efficiently.

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 operates three rental locations in the Reykjavik area, providing travellers with convenient access to their services. This supplier is particularly popular for its Mini and Economy cars, allowing you to choose a vehicle that suits your needs while exploring the city and its surroundings. Customers appreciate the flexibility and ease of renting from Europcar, making it a solid choice for your trip.
• Budget: Budget also has three rental locations in Reykjavik, offering great options for those looking to explore at their own pace. Their most booked vehicles include Economy and Mini cars, which are ideal for navigating the city comfortably. With competitive pricing, Budget is a practical option for travellers wanting an affordable yet reliable car rental experience.
• Enterprise: Enterprise features one rental location in the Reykjavik area, focusing on providing excellent customer service. Known for popular choices like Midsize SUV AWD and Economy SUV, they cater to those seeking a versatile vehicle for various terrains. Enterprise is praised for its commitment to customer satisfaction, ensuring a smooth rental process for all travellers.

Where to stay in Reykjavik

• Downtown Reykjavik: A vibrant neighbourhood, Downtown Reykjavik is an ideal base for tourists seeking an outdoor, family, and eco-friendly experience. With attractions such as the iconic Hallgrimskirkja and the charming Reykjavík Cathedral nearby, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture. The area boasts a variety of spa and body treatment options, along with numerous restaurants for dining. Don't miss exploring Laugavegur street, perfect for a city holiday, and nearby parks and hotsprings for relaxation.
• Laugardalur: Known for its outdoor and family-friendly atmosphere, Laugardalur offers a delightful mix of experiences. Explore the beautiful Grasagardur Botanical Garden, perfect for romantic strolls, or visit Hofdi House, a historic site rich in culture. The area is also home to shopping venues and dining options, ensuring you have everything you need nearby. Laugavegur street is easily accessible, allowing for further exploration of the city.
• Vesturbær: This eco-friendly neighbourhood attracts visitors looking for outdoor activities and family fun. With the stunning Reykjavik Harbour close by, you can enjoy scenic views and leisure activities. The National Museum of Iceland provides a glimpse into the country's rich history, and the Reykjavík Cathedral is a cultural landmark worth visiting. Vesturbær also features a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a lively area to experience local dining.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best options 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre 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 the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, though it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that include unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra fees.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

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 generally more affordable. October and November can offer similar advantages, featuring slightly lower demand and moderate pricing. The months of January and February also see low demand, making them quiet times for rentals. In contrast, August stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand and elevated prices, while June through August experience peak rental activity.

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