Car rental at Reykjavík Center

Car Rental in Reykjavík Center

Compare 11 providers in downtown Reykjavik. Grab the keys and explore.

LocationCity Center
Providers11
Price tipBook 2-4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 20+

Quick answer: At Reykjavík Center you can compare rental cars from 11 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.

About Renting a Car at Reykjavík Center

With 11 rental companies in downtown Reykjavík, you have Iceland's best selection of car rental agencies in one place. Reykjavík is the country's only major city and the starting point for most Iceland trips - from here you can reach the Golden Circle, the south coast and Snæfellsnes without long detours. Book in advance, especially during summer.

Downtown Reykjavík stretches along Laugavegur and Austurstræti, approximately 2 km from the domestic airport RKV. Þingvellir National Park is 45 km east of the city center via Route 36, Geysir and Gullfoss approximately 110 km via Route 35 - the entire Golden Circle is a day trip. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is reached in approximately 2.5 hours north via Routes 1 and 54.

Avoid driving a car in downtown Reykjavík if you're only exploring the city - parking costs up to 250 ISK per hour in Zone 1. Rent your car the day you leave the city for excursions. Choose a rental company with an office near your hotel for easy pickup and return.

Which rental companies are in downtown Reykjavík? In the city center we compare a mix of international chains like Hertz, Avis and Budget as well as local Icelandic companies. Local companies often offer better prices and more flexible terms - always compare on car rental websites.

Is it easy to find parking in Reykjavík with a rental car? The city center is divided into parking zones P1 - P4 with varying prices. Zone P1 closest to the city center is the most expensive (approximately 250 ISK/hour).

Hotel parking or parking garages at Kringlan shopping mall (3 km east) are cheaper alternatives. Can I drive the Golden Circle as a day trip from Reykjavík? Absolutely - the classic route via Þingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss is approximately 300 km and takes 6-8 hours with stops.

Start early in the morning to avoid buses and tour groups at the most popular attractions.

We compare prices from all major providers at Reykjavík 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.

Quick Guide: Car Hire in Reykjavík Center

🚗 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 Reykjavík Center

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

Europcar
Dollar
Hertz
City Car Rental
Budget
Enterprise
FairCar
Thrifty
Nordic Car Rental
SIXT
GreenMotion

Essential Info for Renting at Reykjavík Center

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers

At Reykjavík Center you can compare rentals from 11 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 per mille
🅿️ Parking & Tolls

Parking often costs money in cities, check signs.

Road tolls: No

Frequently Asked Questions - Car Rental at Reykjavík Center

Which rental companies are available at Reykjavík Center?
You can compare 11 rental companies at Reykjavík 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 Reykjavík 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 Reykjavík 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 Reykjavík 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 Reykjavík 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 Reykjavík Center

Other Rental Locations Near Reykjavík Center

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