Is There Uber in Iceland in 2025? [A ‘How To’ Guide to Getting Around]
Planning a trip to the land of fire and ice and wondering if there is Uber?
Unfortunately, the answer to your question is no. There is no Uber in Iceland. Or Lyft, or any other ride-sharing app for that matter. Why? It’s boring really – laws and regulations, small population, bla bla.
The point is that Uber is not an option, so it’s important that you know exactly how to get around when you are visiting this rugged and otherworldly island.
And fear not, there are plenty of other ways to get around 🤗
How to Get Around Iceland (without Uber)
It’s quite easy to get around Iceland without Uber. Whether you’re staying in Reykjavik or touring the whole island, there is a mode of transportation that will get you to where you want to go.
Here are five common options. When I was in Iceland I used a combination of several of these.
1. Renting a Car (or Campervan) – The Most Flexible Option
If you’re planning to explore Iceland beyond Reykjavik, renting a car is the most common and flexible option. This is what we did and what I recommend.
When visiting Iceland, travelers tend to explore beyond the capital. Driving in Iceland is straightforward, the roads are wide-open (once you get out of Reykjavik) and the landmarks, viewpoints, and attractions are endless.
Having a car gives you the freedom to explore remote hot springs, go up north, out east, or see the highlands, all while stopping every few miles to gawk at something amazing (like we did!).
Where to Rent a Car in Iceland
Rent a car online AHEAD OF TIME (!!!) through your favorite car rental company or car rental platform. I like to use Discover Cars to find and book my rentals.
There are two main places to pick up and drop off your rental:
- Keflavik International Airport (KEF): The most convenient place to pick up a rental car upon arrival. Most major and local car rental companies operate here.
- Reykjavik City Center: If you’re staying in the capital and need a car for just part of your trip, you can rent from companies within the city.
Where to Rent a Campervan in Iceland
Renting a campervan is a really fun option for adventurous travelers to see the Country. You can van-camp at any designated camping spot in Iceland (no reservation required). Sleep where you want when you want without being tied to an itinerary or hotel reservation!
Most companies will pick you up from the airport in a shuttle and bring you to their Campervan office (nearby). Here are some of the most popular campervan rental companies in Iceland that we saw on the road quite a bit:
Tips for Driving in Iceland
- Be Prepared for Changing Weather: Roads can be icy, and sudden storms are common, even in summer (we had a mix of beautiful sun, rain, and one day of snow (a complete white-out) in September.
- Watch for F-Roads: These are highland roads requiring a 4×4. If you plan on exploring remote areas, make sure your rental is approved for F-roads.
- Gas Stations Can Be Sparse: Always fill up when you have the chance, especially in rural areas.
- Check Road Conditions: Websites like road.is provide real-time updates on closures and conditions.
Renting a car in Iceland is a little bit different. You have to consider unique types of insurance for ash and even getting your door blown off by the wind… and you can only take certain cars on certain roads. Sound intimidating?
2. Booking Private Transfers & Tours
If you prefer convenience and don’t want to drive yourself, private transfers and guided tours are great alternatives to Uber in Iceland.
For private airport transfers or private transfers to popular destinations and landmarks, there are several options here.
If you don’t need a private transfer but need an airport transfer, Flybus is a reliable option. Also, check if your hotel has an airport shuttle.
If you need transfers to other areas of Iceland guided tours offer stress-free travel to major sights with hotel pickup and dropoff. Here are some options for popular destinations:
- Golden Circle Tours: Daily excursions from Reykjavik covering Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir.
- South Coast Tours: See waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches with a knowledgeable guide.
- Northern Lights Tours: Best way to chase the auroras without worrying about driving at night.
- Iceland Blue Lagoon Tours: Great way to visit Iceland’s crown jewel and get the bonus of additional information from a guide along the way.
This type of travel is best for travelers who want a hassle-free experience, don’t want to wait in lines, worry about insurance coverage, or figure out the local bus system.
3. Using Public Transportation
Iceland’s public transport system is limited compared to other European countries, but buses are a reliable option within Reykjavik and for some longer routes.
Public transportation is best for budget travelers staying within Reykjavik who don’t mind planning around bus schedules.
Reykjavik’s Bus System – Strætó
- How It Works: Strætó is the main public bus system operating within Reykjavik and surrounding towns.
- Fares: A single fare costs around 550 ISK ($4 USD). Day passes are also available.
- Payment: Pay in cash (exact fare required) or use the Strætó app.
- Operating Hours: Limited service at night and on weekends
Buses to Other Parts of Iceland
You can certainly take the bus to other parts of the island, not just locally. Check fare prices and schedules for long-distance (countryside) buses here. You can see information regarding all of Iceland’s bus routes here.
While the long-distance bus network connects major towns, the schedules are limited so you will have to plan your trip around the schedule.
Some public buses can take you to popular sites, but tours or rental cars are better options.
4. Taking Taxis – The Closest Alternative
If you are wondering “is there Uber in Iceland”, you likely want a way to conveniently travel close distances in and around Reykjavik. The best alternative to this would be taxis.
That said, while taxis exist in Iceland, they are expensive. Due to high wages and fuel prices, taxi fares are some of the most expensive in Europe. This may or may not be of concern to you, but worth noting.
Iceland taxis are best for short rides within Reykjavik or when public transport isn’t an option. However, Reykjavik is walkable, especially if you stay in a central location. We had a car but we didn’t use it while we were in Reykjavik.
How to Book a Taxi in Iceland
You won’t find taxis cruising for passengers as in other major cities. Instead, you must call or use an app.
- Taxi Apps: Icelandic taxi services like Hreyfill have their own apps that function similarly to Uber.
- Hotels & Restaurants Can Call for You: If you’re out and need a ride, most establishments will gladly arrange a taxis
Taxi Fares in Iceland
- Reykjavik to KEF Airport: ~$150 USD (ISK equivalent)
- Short City Ride: ~$20–$30 USD
- Nighttime & Weekend Surcharge: Rates increase during peak times.
5. Biking, Scooting, & Walking in Reykjavik
As mentioned above, Reykjavik is a compact, walkable city, making it easy to explore on foot.
It’s also bike-friendly and bike rentals & guided e-bike tours are an eco-friendly alternative to car rentals. Another option is hopp scooter that you can find and book through the hopp app.
Transportation in Iceland FAQ
Iceland drives on the right side of the road, just like the United States and most of mainland Europe. Steering wheels are on the left side of the car.
Yes! A US citizen can legally drive in Iceland with a valid U.S. driver’s license.
No, road signs in Iceland are in Icelandic, but they are fairly easy to understand because they use international symbols similar to those found in the U.S. and Europe.
Driving in Iceland can be easy or challenging, depending on the season, route, and weather conditions. If you’re comfortable driving in rural or unpredictable environments, you’ll likely be fine.
The best way to get around in Iceland depends on your travel style, budget, and itinerary. Personally, I think renting a car is the best way.
Yes! You can get around Iceland via bus, private transfer, or guided tour, but these options require more planning and flexibility.
Yes and no—it depends on where you are and what you want to see. While Reykjavik is very walkable, the rest of Iceland is vast, remote, and best explored by car or tour.
Final Thoughts on Planning Your Iceland Transport
So while there is no Uber in Iceland, there are several other ways to get around Reykjavik and the rest of the Country. To sum up this post:
- For flexibility & exploring remote areas → Renting a car is highly recommended.
- For stress-free travel → Guided tours are your best bet.
- For budget travelers → A mix of public buses, walking, and Flybus works well.
- For local eco-friendly travelers → Walking, biking, or scootering will get you around Reykjavik.
I hope you have the best time in Iceland and that this post helped you understand the best way to get around and see the Country! In my experience renting a car was a very freeing option and driving around was breezy!
