Getting Around Capital Region 2025
Navigate Capital Region like a local with our transportation guide.
The Capital Region (Höfuðborgarsvæðið) of Iceland is the country's most populous and vibrant area, centered around Reykjavik, the world's northernmost capital city. It encompasses seven municipalities including Reykjavik, Kópavogur, Hafnarfjörður, Garðabær, Mosfellsbær, Seltjarnarnes, and Kjósarhreppur, together forming Iceland's cultural, political, and economic heart. The region blends dramatic volcanic landscapes, steaming geothermal pools, world-class museums, and a legendary nightlife scene unlike anywhere else on earth.
Transportation Overview
Quick comparison of transport options in Capital Region.
Public Transit
Strætó buses cover Reykjavik and all Capital Region municipalities well but run infrequently (every 20-30 min) and stop around midnight
Taxis
Reliable and easy via Hreyfill app; expensive for longer distances
Car Rental
Essential for day trips to Golden Circle, South Coast, Blue Lagoon — best car rental value in the region
Walking
Reykjavik city center is compact and highly walkable; most attractions within 20 minutes on foot
Getting There
How to arrive in Capital Region.
✈️ By Air
Keflavik International Airport
Iceland's main international airport, handling all major international routes. Opened in 1943 as a US military base, now modernized with full services.
Reykjavik Domestic Airport
Small airport handling domestic Iceland flights and some Greenland/Faroe Islands routes. Walking distance from city center.
Airport Transfer Options
Complete Transportation Guide
Route guides, fare information, and transport app recommendations.
Local Transportation
Getting around within Capital Region.
Reykjavik city center is compact and very walkable. The Strætó bus network connects all neighborhoods and outlying municipalities.
Walking — city center within 30-minute walking radius
Strætó buses — covers all areas; route map at straeto.is
Taxi/Hreyfill app — easy and reliable
Car rental — essential for day trips outside the city
Cycling — well-developed bike path network
🚌 Buses
Strætó buses cover all Reykjavik neighborhoods and outlying municipalities. $4 per ride (exact change only on bus); buy daily/weekly passes via Strætó app for best value.
🛺 Local Alternatives
Taxis available via Hreyfill and BSR apps; bike rental from $20/day; e-scooters available in summer
Intercity Travel
Getting between cities and regions.
BSÍ bus terminal in Reykjavik connects to all parts of Iceland via long-distance buses (Strætó and Reykjavik Excursions). Day tours depart from BSÍ and major hotels.
Long-Distance Buses
Long-distance buses from BSÍ terminal: Akureyri from $55, Akranes from $15, Borgarnes from $20
Shared Taxis/Minivans
Shared day tour buses available from all major hotels; popular Golden Circle and South Coast tours from $80
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights from Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) to Akureyri $80+, Vestmannaeyjar $60+
Private Car/Driver
Private car hire with driver from $200/day for full-day excursions
Driving in Capital Region
Information for self-driving travelers.
Recommended?
Yes
Driving Side
right
License Required
Valid driving license from home country accepted for up to 90 days; international driving permit recommended
Road Conditions
F-roads (highland tracks) require 4WD and are closed October-May; always check road conditions at road.is
Driving Considerations
- Research local driving laws and road conditions before deciding to drive
- Consider hiring a driver instead - often affordable and less stressful
- Ensure comprehensive insurance if renting a vehicle
- Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas
- Keep copies of all documents (license, insurance, rental agreement)
Transportation Tips
Essential advice for getting around.
The Flybus airport shuttle is the only practical public transport between Keflavik and Reykjavik — book in advance
Strætó app shows real-time bus locations and lets you buy tickets on your phone
Taxis become scarce on Reykjavik weekend nights — book via app or queue at dedicated taxi stands
Renting a car for the Golden Circle and South Coast is significantly cheaper than joining tours if traveling in a group of 2+
Always carry a physical Strætó route map as a backup — free from Reykjavik visitor centers
Road.is is the official road conditions website — essential before any drive outside Reykjavik
Parking in Reykjavik city center is metered Mon-Sat 9AM-6PM; free on Sundays and evenings
Electric vehicles are available to rent and charging stations are widespread throughout the Capital Region
Useful Apps
Strætó
Official Reykjavik public bus app with real-time tracking, route planning, and ticket purchase
Hreyfill
Iceland's main taxi app, similar to Uber — easy booking and fare estimates
Road.is (Vegagerðin)
Official Iceland road conditions website — essential before any driving outside Reykjavik
Vedur.is
Icelandic Meteorological Office weather app — critical for outdoor and driving safety
Safe Travel Iceland
Register your travel plans and receive safety alerts for outdoor activities
Navigate Capital Region Like a Local
Get our complete transport guide with route planners, fare guides, and essential travel phrases.
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