Transportation in Iceland

Transportation is one of the most essential things about Iceland you should know if you are a traveler in this country. Because there are no railroads in Iceland, the most popular mode of transportation is by vehicle. Other choices include buses, airlines, taxis, and private drivers. Except for the Westfjords, Iceland's primary route, Hringvegurinn, or the Ring Road, runs along the coast around the island. During the summer, driving the Ring Road and adjacent roads is usually not a problem, but the weather might make it more challenging during the winter months.

Apart from driving, buses (Strætó) are perhaps Iceland's second most common kind of transportation. Straetó are Iceland's public buses, and you can tell them by their yellow hue. A 1-3 day city pass can be purchased if you are staying in Reykjavik. Strtó also travels to the major cities across the country; their timetable can be seen HERE. The sole disadvantage of taking the bus in Iceland is the high cost.

Strætó runs to all major destinations in Iceland during the summer months (June to mid-September), however service may be curtailed in the winter owing to the weather.

Of course, you can take a taxi anywhere in Iceland, but it is rather expensive, so renting a car or using the bus are more affordable. The cabs have a yellow taxi symbol on the top, and you must call and hire one if you require one. However, you can generally find taxis in line at the airport, at bus stations, and downtown. Taxis are metered and can be paid with cash or credit cards. In Iceland, Uber and Lyft do not exist.

Taxi Apps: HeyTaxi Iceland, Hreyfill Taxi App

App for bus: Strætó.is