You’ve got 36 hours in Reykjavík. That’s not a lot, but it’s enough. Enough to see the skyline from a church tower, soak your legs somewhere steamy, and maybe even detour to a crater or two.
Reykjavík’s small, but it doesn’t play small. You’ll find big views, strong coffee, and weird art in the streets. This guide shows you how to make every hour count without turning your trip into a checklist.
Why a Rental Car is the Smartest Way to Explore Reykjavík
Reykjavík’s great. But if you’re stuck waiting for buses, it shrinks fast. With a car, you don’t wait. You go. No crowds, no clock-watching. Just your own pace. Want proof? Here’s why renting a car in Iceland makes sense, even if you’re not staying long.
Public Transport vs Self-Drive: What’s Right for Your Short Trip?
You’ve got 36 hours in Iceland. That clock starts the second you land. Public transport works, but it moves at its own pace. That Reykjavik city card costs around 5,500 ISK, or $43, and buses show up every 15 to 30 minutes if you're lucky.
Miss one and you're just standing there. Taxis kick off at 790 ISK, roughly $5, and the price jumps fast. Having your own car? Different story. You’re not stuck waiting. Want to swing by the Blue Lagoon, Þingvellir, or stop somewhere random because it looks cool? Go for it. That’s the difference.
The Perks Of a Rental No One Talks About
A rental car gives you more than freedom. It gives you comfort, privacy, and control, all packed into one ride. Here’s how:
- Store jackets, snacks, and camera gear without carrying it everywhere.
- Take cover when the weather flips, which happens a lot.
- Recharge your phone or yourself between stops.
- Time visits for off-peak hours, like hitting Sky Lagoon when it’s quiet.
- Travel with kids or friends without syncing everyone to a schedule.
- Change clothes after a hot spring without hunting for a bathroom.
What Kind of Car is Best for Reykjavík + Nearby Drives?
If you’re spending 36 hours in Reykjavík, skip the monster truck fantasy. You don’t need a giant 4x4 to drive ten minutes to a coffee shop or get around Reykjavík by car. A compact car fits the city better, especially when squeezing into tight parking spots downtown.
But if you’re planning a Golden Circle detour or just want a little extra comfort, a small SUV is a great pick. Bonus points for heated seats. Most locals drive manual, but if you're not into gear shifting on vacation, go automatic. It’s worth it. Iceland has it all. We’re talking hills, roundabouts, and weird intersections. No one wants to stall in front of a line of tour buses.
Cars We Actually Recommend for 36 Hours in Reykjavík
You don’t need a tank. You need something easy, warm, and decent on fuel. These five hit the mark without trying to impress anyone.
- Toyota Aygo (automatic) - Small, sharp, and parks where others give up. Gets you around without complaining.
- Toyota Yaris (automatic) - Comfortable, quiet, and doesn’t eat fuel. Good for city stuff and day trips.
- Kia Rio (manual) - A little more space, a little more kick. If you’re cool with shifting, this one’s solid.
- Opel Corsa Electric - Easy to drive, warm seats, and no gas stations. Just charge and go.
- Kia XCeed (automatic) - Not too big, not too boring. Feels good on the road. Fits Reykjavík perfectly.
Grab one and go. Book your rental in Iceland now and start your Reykjavík road trip the right way.
Arrival in Iceland: Renting Your Car and Getting to Reykjavík
You just got off the plane. You’re probably hungry, maybe half-asleep, and definitely not in the mood to figure out transport. The good news? Picking up your car at Keflavík is simple if you know what’s coming.
From airport pickup to Reykjavík parking zones, here’s how to make the whole thing painless. If you're not sure which insurance to go with, we’ve got you covered. This breakdown of Iceland car rental insurance will save you time, stress, and probably some money too.
How to Get Your Rental Car After Landing at Keflavík Airport
No shuttle. No waiting around. Your rental car is right there when you land. Our office is located at Blikavöllur 3 in Keflavík, just minutes from the terminal. It’s quick, easy, and saves you from juggling extra transport after a long flight. Most travelers are behind the wheel within 20 minutes of landing.
Choosing Cars Iceland at the airport means less hassle, better prices, and zero detours into the city just to pick up your ride. Walk out, pick up your keys, and get moving. That’s how a trip should start. Now, you're ready to enjoy the best itinerary in Iceland in 2 days!
Driving from Keflavík to Reykjavík: What the Road’s Really Like
The drive from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík is pretty easy and simple. You’ll follow Route 41, or Reykjanesbraut, if you want to sound local. It’s about 50 kilometers (31 miles), mostly smooth highway, with lava fields on one side and ocean views popping in and out. The whole thing takes around 45 to 50 minutes unless the weather decides to mess with you.
Speed limits are pretty clear:
- 90 km/h (56 mph) on the open road
- 50 km/h (31 mph) in towns and city areas
Watch the signs. They’ll shift near construction zones or smaller towns, and Icelandic cops do not play around when it comes to speeding. What about the roads in Iceland? Usually great. Even in winter, you’ll find crews out clearing things up fast. Just double-check for ice or wind warnings before you head out.
Parking in Reykjavík: What You Actually Need to Know
Parking in Reykjavík isn’t hard, but you’ll want to know how the zones work. The city uses a color-coded system. P1 (red or pink) is right in the middle of everything and the most expensive, around 630 ISK per hour (about $5), and you can only stay for three hours. P2 (blue) is cheaper at 230 ISK an hour (roughly $1.80) and gives you more time.
Paid hours run from 9 am to 9 pm on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 10 am on Sundays. You can pay at meters with coins or cards, but honestly, it’s easier to use the EasyPark or Parka app. Just punch in your zone and go.
Heading to Hallgrímskirkja? There’s a small lot nearby, but it fills up fast. You might get lucky behind the church, where a few free spots sometimes open up. Visiting Harpa? Go for the underground garage. It costs about 510 to 660 ISK per hour ($4 to $5.15), and you can pay at a kiosk or with your phone. Plus, it connects right to the building, so no getting rained on.
Day 1 Afternoon: Reykjavík's Iconic Sites by Car
You just got here. Great. Now act like it. 36 hours in Reykjavík isn’t long, so skip the jet lag excuses. Start strong with proper food, maybe a soak, maybe a scenic drive. No soft landings here. The city’s waiting, and wasting your first evening isn’t an option.
Hallgrímskirkja + Nearby Streets (with Parking Tips)
Start at Hallgrímskirkja. It’s a huge concrete church, 74.5 meters tall to be exact. That’s about 244 feet if you’re counting. Built to look like lava. You don’t have to hike to the top either. There’s an elevator. Just press the button and you’re up. The view covers the whole city, Mount Esja, and the ocean.
Step outside and head into Skólavörðustígur, better known as Rainbow Street. Shops, murals, and photo spots everywhere. Laugavegur is close too, full of coffee, bakeries, and Reykjavík street art. For parking, look for a P3 meter or a side street uphill from the church. It’s usually cheaper and less crowded. Park it, stretch your legs, and start exploring.
Perlan Museum & Observation Deck (Drive + Visit)
Perlan fits into any 36-hour Reykjavík itinerary without wasting time. It’s indoors, quick to explore, and actually interesting. You’ll get volcanoes, glaciers, and Northern Lights explained with visuals that don’t feel like homework. There’s a 100-meter ice cave too, which sounds gimmicky but looks great in photos.
The view from the top? Full city and mountain wraparound. Don’t overthink it. The parking’s free, right outside, and there’s never a hassle. You’re in, you’re out, and you’ve seen more of Iceland than half the tourists sitting at cafés.
Sunset at the Sun Voyager and Harpa by the Harbor
If you’ve only got 36 hours around Reykjavík, don’t waste golden hour sitting inside. Between 9 pm and 11 pm, the Sun Voyager turns into a lighting dream. Bay views. Mountain backdrop. No filter needed. From there, walk the harbor toward Harpa. It’s ten minutes, maybe less if you’re not stopping every two steps for photos.
Harpa’s glass façade outshines everything around it. Tourists love it. You will too. Need coffee? Reykjavík Roasters nails it. Kaffibrennslan’s cozy if you want sweets. Parking? Use a meter or park under Harpa. It’s open all day. No excuses.
Day 1 Evening: Dinner & Relaxation in the City
Now’s not the time to crash early. You’ve got 36 hours in Iceland, and your first evening matters. Eat something legit, take a breather, maybe sneak in a soak or a drive.
Where to Eat: Top Local Restaurants with Easy Parking
You’re hungry. You don’t want to circle the block five times. These spots are fantastic and won’t make you rage over parking.
- Grillmarkaðurinn - Pricey, but worth it. Icelandic food done properly. No private lot, but garages and P3 zones are nearby. Book it or don’t bother showing up on a weekend.
- Snaps - Local favorite. French-ish food. Loud, busy, good drinks. You can usually find street parking close by. If it’s Friday or Saturday, reserve or forget it.
- Ramen Momo - Tiny, always packed, super fresh. Vegan stuff that doesn’t suck. Metered parking around the corner. Show up early or stand in line.
- Still hungry at midnight? Hot dogs at Bæjarins Beztu are a hit here in Iceland. Or head to Dillon for music and whiskey. Reykjavík doesn’t shut down early. Use that to your advantage.
- Pro tip - The dinner rush is between 6 and 9 pm. Want peace? Eat earlier or wait it out.
Read more about Reykjavík restaurants with easy parking.
Optional Evening Drive: Sky Lagoon or Grótta Lighthouse
If you’ve only got one and a half days in Reykjavík, your evening should count. Sky Lagoon is a fabulous pick for a relaxing soak with fewer people after sunset. The views over the North Atlantic are unreal, and if the skies are clear, the Northern Lights sometimes show up. Towels are included, and the seven-step spa ritual is worth doing.
Book online or risk standing around. Prefer something quieter? Drive out to Grótta Lighthouse. It’s peaceful, perfect for stargazing, and only a 5 to 10 minute walk from the lot. Bring a flashlight. Stay for 30 to 45 minutes, then call it a day.
Cozy Stays in Reykjavík with Easy Parking
Nothing kills a good trip like circling for parking with your bags in the back. Luckily, Reykjavík has a few smart stays where you can sleep easily and park without stress.
- Fosshotel Reykjavík - Sleek, modern, and close to everything. No private lot, but nearby garages charge around 240 to 260 ISK per hour. Street parking is free after 6 pm, which helps if you’re rolling in late.
- Center Hotels - Some locations, like Midgardur, offer free guest parking if you’re lucky enough to grab a spot. Others point you to nearby P2 or P3 zones or garages. Staff are helpful and usually spot-on with advice.
- Reykjavík Residence - No dedicated lot, but there are garages nearby, and they’ll help you find a good deal. Worth it for the apartment-style setup and location.
- Guesthouse Sunna - Excellent budget choice. Private lot, free for guests, and actually secure. It’s first come, first served. If it’s full, street parking nearby is usually easy and doesn’t cost much.
- More picks with free parking - Check out Skuggi Hotel, Hotel Klettur, or Brim Hotel. All offer free parking and don’t make you stay miles outside the city to get it.
Day 2 Morning: The Golden Circle Self-Drive Adventure
You’ve got wheels, so use them. Leaving Reykjavík is easy, and the payoff is massive. With just a bit of driving, you’ll hit the infamous Golden Circle, jam-packed with waterfalls, geysers, and wide-open views. 36 Hours in Reykjavik isn’t just about the city. This is where the real Iceland starts to show itself.
Þingvellir National Park: History, Nature, and Trailheads
Þingvellir is where history and geology slam together in full view. It’s the site of the world’s oldest parliament, the Alþingi, first held here in 930 AD. The park sits in a rift valley where two continents pull apart.
You can see it in the Almannagjá gorge and the Silfra fissure, which attracts divers year-round. Öxarárfoss waterfall and Silfra are both close to the parking and worth the short walk.
Well-marked trails weave through lava, cliffs, and historic meeting grounds. There’s a café and restrooms at the service center if you need a break or just want coffee with your tectonic plates.
Geysir and Gullfoss: Scenic Roads and Best Photo Stops
Driving from Þingvellir to Geysir takes roughly 50 minutes. Fields, hills, maybe a volcano in the distance if the weather plays nice. Strokkur? It goes off every 5-10 minutes. You’ll hear it before you see it.
Walk around, grab your photo, move on. Gullfoss is just up the road. Less than 10 minutes. The upper viewpoint is the best when it’s quiet. Fewer people, better light. Need a break? Geysir Café has food, nothing fancy, but it works. Good enough for coffee. That’s really all you need.
Optional Detour: Kerið Crater or Secret Lagoon
Got time to spare? Kerið Crater is an easy one. Right off Route 35. Costs about 500 to 750 ISK, maybe $4 to $6 depending on the day. Walk the rim, or go down to the lake if you feel like it. Takes 20 or 30 minutes tops. Free parking right at the entrance. From Gullfoss, it’s about a 50-minute drive. Reykjavík’s about an hour away.
Want something slower? The Secret Lagoon in Flúðir is a natural hot spring. Old, quiet, no fuss. Water stays at 38 to 40°C. That’s 100 to 104°F. Thirty minutes from Geysir. Worth it if you need a proper soak.
Day 2 Afternoon: Return via Scenic Routes or Hidden Gems
The trip’s not over just yet. There’s still time to pull over, wander a lava field, soak in a pool, or take that photo you skipped earlier.
Explore Reykjanes Peninsula (Lava Fields, Geothermal Sites)
If you're trying to see Iceland in just 36 hours, the Reykjanes Peninsula delivers a lot without burning half your day. Lava fields stretch for miles. Krýsuvík bubbles and steams like the ground’s trying to breathe. Seltún has mud pots and boardwalks that get you right into the action. Gunnuhver geothermal area? Massive, loud, and tied to an old ghost story.
The Bridge Between Continents lets you walk from one tectonic plate to another, which sounds fake but isn’t. Start the loop near Selfoss and head back toward Keflavík along the coast. You'll get hot springs, cliffs, ocean views, and weird landscapes everywhere.
Blue Lagoon: Timing, Access, and Booking Tips
Still got 36 hours left in Iceland? You can still fit in the Blue Lagoon. It’s only 20 minutes from Keflavík, easy to reach, and hard to screw up. Late afternoon or early evening is best. Fewer people, quieter water. Feels more like a soak and less like a pool party. Go in the late afternoon or early evening if you want fewer people floating around.
Book ahead unless you enjoy disappointment at the door. Parking is free, so no excuses there. Towels come with most packages, unless you go budget and end up drip-drying. Plan for at least two hours if you want to do it properly. Dip, float, zone out. It’s touristy, yes, but still worth it.
Final Photo Stops Before Returning Your Car
Still got a little time? Use it. Iceland doesn’t need much to leave a mark.
- Garður Lighthouse is near Keflavík. Easy to reach. Ocean views go forever. Snap a last photo, take a breath, and just stand there for a bit.
- Hafnarfjörður Marina is south of Reykjavík. It’s calm. A quick walk, maybe a coffee. You’ll see boats, rocks, and probably a few birds. No rush, just a quiet way to wrap it up.
- Quick tips: Grab a gas station hot dog. Yes, really. Icelanders love them, and you’ll get it after the first bite. Refuel your car, leave a 30 to 45 minute buffer for drop-off, and you’re good. Most rental offices are close by, but traffic and check-ins can eat up time fast.
Practical Tips for Driving in Reykjavík and Beyond
Driving in Reykjavík? Not that hard. Out of the city, it’s a different game. Roads change. The weather turns fast. Some drivers get weird. Summer’s easy enough, but winter? Whole other story. If you're not ready, it shows. A few solid tips now will save you later.
If you're here in the colder months, it’s worth reading this first: How to drive in snow. Wind, ice, whiteouts, they all hit harder than you think. The rest below covers the stuff people wish they knew before hitting the road. It’s not everything, but it’s enough to keep you moving.
Seasonal Driving: Winter Tires, Daylight Hours, Road Conditions
- Winter tires are required from November 1 to April 15 with at least 3-4 mm of tread.
- Studded tires are allowed but not always available, so ask your rental company.
- Driving with the wrong tires or out-of-season studs? That can cost you.
- In December and January, expect only 4 to 5 hours of daylight.
- Plan your trips around midday, and skip the long drives once it gets dark.
- Before heading out, always check real-time road conditions at umferdin.is. It can save your trip.
36 hours in winter vs summer: what changes?
In this table, you can see the difference between doing an itinerary in Iceland for 2 days in summer vs. winter. We included the daylight hours for better planning.
| Stop | Summer (June–August) | Winter (November–March) |
|---|---|---|
| Reykjavík | Midnight sun (up to 21 hrs daylight), perfect for late-night walks | ~4–7 hrs daylight; plan activities midday |
| Sky Lagoon / Grotta Lighthouse | Open till late, Grotta ideal at sunset (if any!) | Dark early (~3 PM); Grotta is a Northern Lights hotspot |
| Thingvellir National Park | Full daylight to explore (~20 hrs), trails well marked | Short days (~4–6 hrs); arrive early and bring headlights |
| Almannagjá Gorge | Dry terrain and clear paths under long sun | Low visibility; hike only in daylight (often <6 hrs) |
| Silfra Fissure | Snorkel/dive under bright sky; visibility excellent | Tour slots limited by light (~10:30 AM–3 PM) |
| Geysir & Strokkur | View eruptions all day, even at 10 PM | Limited daylight; early stops best (~11 AM–2 PM) |
| Gullfoss | Best under full sun (~18–21 hrs), rainbows common | Magical with snow but very short visiting window |
| Kerid Crater | Colorful crater pops in sunlight; best late morning | Crater may be snow-filled; visit midday |
| Secret Lagoon | Day or late evening soak under bright skies | Dark early; go before sunset (~2–3 PM) |
| Gunnuhver Geothermal Area | Hot steam visible against green terrain all day | Steam contrasts with snow; go before dusk (~3 PM) |
| Bridge Between Continents | Best for clear daylight shots around noon | Snowy & icy; visibility may be low after 3 PM |
| Garður Lighthouse | Great ocean view sunsets near midnight | Great after dark for Northern Lights |
| Hafnarfjörður Marina | Full daylight for seaside cafes & walks | Festive lights but best visited ~11 AM–2 PM |
Fuel Stations, Tolls, and Emergency Contact Numbers
Fueling up isn’t complicated, unless you forget your PIN. Reykjavík and Keflavík are full of stations like N1, Olís, Orkan, and Atlantsolía. Need gas before drop-off? Keflavík Airport has 24/7 options.
Most pumps are self-service, so don’t show up with cash and confusion. Costco is the cheapest, but good luck if you don’t have a membership. Iceland’s only toll road is the Vaðlaheiðargöng tunnel near Akureyri. It’ll cost you about 2,152 ISK, or $17, per trip. Pay online or pay more later. Everything else? Free to drive. For emergencies, dial 112.
Local Driving Laws Every Tourist Should Know
Even if you’re doing a short trip to Iceland, don’t ruin it with a traffic fine or a roundabout meltdown. Here’s the stuff that matters:
- Drive on the right, and unless a sign says otherwise, yield to the guy coming from your right
- Roundabouts: inner lane wins, always signal before you bail.
- Pedestrians rule at zebra crossings, so slow down or get side-eyed.
- Single-lane bridges? First one there gets to go. Don’t argue.
- Alcohol limit is 0.02%. That’s basically zero.
- Headlights on, always. Yes, even when the sun’s still up at midnight.
- Forget any of this, and you’re getting fined. No warnings.
Cost Breakdown: Renting a Car vs Guided Tours
Think guided tours are cheaper? Sometimes. But not always. Once you add up the cost of tickets, meals, and losing half your day waiting on a group, things start to shift. Renting a car isn’t just about price. It’s about control. Do what you want, when you want, and maybe save a little while you’re at it. Let’s break it down.
Rental Cost + Fuel vs Tour Prices
Let’s do the math like grown-ups. Renting a compact car for two days in Iceland? You’re looking at around $150 to $240 total. That covers the car, fuel, insurance, unlimited mileage, and yes, your right to pull over for hot dogs whenever you feel like it. Meals, entry fees, and parking? Still on you, obviously.
Now, take a Golden Circle bus tour. For two people, it’ll run you $160 to $220 for an 8-hour ride with a guide who decides when you pee. Sure, pickups are included. But freedom? Not really. And no, lunch is not part of the deal.
Value of Freedom: Spontaneous Stops, Flexible Meals
With a car, you can stop when something looks cool, eat when you feel like it, and nap if you’re dead tired. Bus tours don’t do that. They keep moving. No time for side roads, no chance to ditch the boring parts. You just sit there. That’s it.
How to Save with Off-Peak Car Rentals
|
Booking Time |
Typical Savings |
Best For |
|
Shoulder Season |
20–40% |
Flexible travelers |
|
Early Booking |
Secures choice |
Peak periods, families |
|
Last Minute |
10–20% |
Flexible, off-peak |
Map of the 36-Hour Route
You’ve got the plan. Now make it easy to follow. Whether you're cruising with signal or completely offline in the middle of lava fields, this map setup has you covered. We’ve got a downloadable file for no-service zones, a Google Maps route you can send to your phone, and a printable version if you like things old-school. Take your pick, or use all three.
Downloadable Map with All Stops and Detours
Planning to go off the grid? Download this and keep it handy. Iceland’s cell service drops fast once you leave town.
Google Maps Route for Drivers
Open this on your phone, follow it step by step, and you’re good to go. Day-by-day layout included, so no guessing.
Printable Itinerary Version
For anyone who likes paper, you can simply print the map as it can be downloaded into PDF version. Just in case anyone wants something to show border agents, grumpy travel buddies, or their mom.
Make the Most of Reykjavík in Just 36 Hours
With 36 hours in Reykjavík, you can see a lot if you do it your way. A rental car gives you the comfort, freedom, and flexibility that no tour bus ever will. And if this quick trip left you wanting more, good.
There’s still the South Coast, Snæfellsnes, and the Westfjords waiting. Ready to go again? Check out our Iceland road trip itineraries and start planning. When you book with us, you get free winter tires, 24/7 support, and zero excuses. Reserve your rental now and hit the road like you mean it.
