Car rental at Center

Hafnarfjordur City Car Hire

Find your ideal car from 3 local providers. Skip the airport markup — rent in the city instead.

See today's best deals Quick guide (2 min)
LocationCity Center
Providers3
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 20+
✅ 3 providers compared ⚡ Results in 30 seconds 🧾 No hidden fees ⭐ Free cancellation

Quick answer: At Center you can compare rental cars from 3 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely — not just cheaply.

Best priceBook 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and lower rates.
Zero dramaChoose "full-to-full" fuel and film the car at pickup.
DepositHave a credit card in the driver's name ready — that's where most people get caught out.
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About Renting a Car at Center

Hafnarfjörður is a town on the Reykjanes Peninsula, 10 km south of Reykjavik city center and just 30 km (25 minutes) from Keflavík International Airport. With 3 rental companies in the center, it's a practical option for staying in the southern metropolitan area. From here, it's 40 km (35 minutes) to Þingvellir National Park and 60 km to Geysir and Gullfoss.

Hafnarfjörður is known as the 'elves' city' with a local tradition of folklore surrounding underground beings in the lava fields. The harbor with its restaurant district and historic center are worth a visit. The town borders Reykjavik and public transportation (Strætó line 1) connects the cities in 25 minutes, but with a rental car you are much more flexible.

Hafnarfjörður is a good base if you want to avoid Reykjavik's more expensive accommodations – prices are generally lower and you're still close to everything. Drive to the Reykjanes Peninsula's geothermal area Gunnuhver (50 km south) for dramatic steam columns. Book a rental car in advance during summer – 3 rental companies aren't always enough to meet demand.

Is it better to rent a car in Hafnarfjörður or at Keflavík airport? Keflavík has more rental companies and better prices thanks to competition. Hafnarfjörður is best if you're already staying in the city and don't want to travel to the airport.

How long does it take to drive the Golden Circle from Hafnarfjörður? Þingvellir is 40 km (35 minutes), Geysir 90 km (1 hour 15 minutes), and Gullfoss 105 km (1 hour 30 minutes). The entire Golden Circle round trip takes approximately 5–6 hours.

Is there free parking at rental locations in Hafnarfjörður center? Yes, parking in Hafnarfjörður center is generally free or inexpensive compared to Reykjavik. Check signage on site.

We compare prices from all major providers at Center so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

What to Know Before Renting in Hafnarfjordur

🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms

  • Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
  • Extra driver: can cost extra — check before booking.
  • Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
Pro tip: Cheapest rate + expensive terms = an expensive rental in disguise.

🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents

  • Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
  • Passport or national ID
  • Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
A valid license is accepted in most of Iceland. Check if an IDP is needed.

📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup

  • Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
  • Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
  • Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
60 seconds now can save 6 weeks of email disputes.

Rental Companies at Center

Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).

Hertz
Thrifty
Dollar

Essential Info for Renting at Center

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers ▼

At Center you can compare rentals from 3 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.

  • Book 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
  • Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
  • Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in Iceland ▼

In Iceland you drive on the Right side.

  • Urban speed limit: 50 km/h
  • Rural roads: 90 km/h
  • Motorway: 90 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,0 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼

Parking costs often in cities, check signs.

Road tolls: No

Frequently Asked Questions — Car Rental at Center

Which rental companies are available at Center?▼
You can compare 3 rental companies at Center on SmartCarRental. Availability varies by season and dates, so the best way to see current options is to search with your travel dates.
Do I need an international driving permit in Iceland?▼
Requirements depend on your home country. EU, US and UK licenses are generally accepted, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license isn't in Latin script.
→ Read more in our guide
Is there an age limit for renting a car at Center?▼
The minimum age to rent in Iceland is typically 20 years. Drivers under 25 often pay an additional young driver surcharge.
→ Read more in our guide
What are the traffic rules in Iceland?▼
In Iceland you drive on the Right side. Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads and 90 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?▼
When collecting your car at Center you'll typically need: 1) A valid driver's license (held for at least 1 year), 2) Passport or national ID, and 3) A credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit.
→ Read more in our guide
How does the fuel policy work?▼
Most providers at Center use a "full-to-full" policy: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. This is typically the simplest and cheapest option.
→ Read more in our guide
When is it cheapest to rent a car at Center?▼
Generally, booking 2–4 weeks in advance, choosing a mid-week pickup, and avoiding peak season gives you the lowest prices.
→ Read more in our guide

15-Day Weather Forecast for Hafnarfjordur

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