Getting Around Reykjavik: Transport Guide

Reykjavik’s very easy to get around: the city centre – hub of much of the activity, social, political and cultural, is compact. The bus system is efficient and provides a comprehensive network that covers all parts of the city, cheap. Metered taxis may be hired from ranks or hailed down on the streets. Taxi drivers needn’t be tipped. Cars, though prohibitively expensive, are easily hired from any of the many rental agencies in town. Reykjavik is easy to drive in; its roads are wide and never congested, parking space is easily available in metered lots and multi-storeyed complexes, and armed with a good map, you’ll find that Reykjavik is easy to navigate. It is compulsory to use seatbelts in the front and back seats, and to have your headlights on even in the day. Drivers must have the registration papers of the car, be over 20 years and have an international insurance and an international driver’s licence. Many visitors find that bicycling is the best way to get around since pollution is non-existent, and the roads are usually clear, and most attractions are within easy distance of each other. However, on a cycle you are vulnerable to the vagaries of Reykjavik’s quicksilver weather. Cycles may be rented from the many agencies in town.

The main bus stations are Hlemmur, Mjodd, Grensas, Artung and Laekartorg. Buses run by the municipal bus company, the SVR, provide services from 7 am to midnight on weekdays, and from 10 am to midnight on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. The night service takes over at midnight and closes at 4 am. Find out about ticket prices beforehand and have the exact amount ready; drivers are not allowed to return change. Special passes can be bought at the bus stations, bought from drivers, at the city hall and at public swimming pools. A skiptimidi, or transfer ticket is valid for 45 minutes from time of issue – if you’re changing buses midway, ask the driver to issue you one for the next bus.