Your Iceland Self-Drive Base

A self-drive trip is one of the best ways to explore Iceland. The open roads, dramatic landscapes, and freedom to stop whenever you like make it unforgettable. Reykjavík offers everything travelers need before setting out, and ODDSSON serves as a great Iceland self-drive hotel.

Why Reykjavík Is the Ideal Base for an Iceland Self-Drive Trip

Reykjavík is the gateway to every major route in Iceland. The city sits close to Route 1, also known as the Ring Road, which circles the island. From here, travelers can easily reach the Golden Circle, the South Coast, or the remote Highlands.

Choosing Reykjavík as your travel base means access to car rentals, supermarkets, and outdoor gear shops. For late arrivals, staying in the city allows rest before tackling Iceland’s long drives and shifting weather.

The Best Iceland Self-Drive Hotel Bases

ODDSSON Hotels make ideal bases for any Reykjavík self-drive trip. Both hotels combine comfort with practicality, making them excellent Iceland self-drive hotel options.

ODDSSON Midtown offers quick access to main highways and early departures toward the Golden Circle or the South Coast. It provides parking, spacious rooms, and efficient self-check-in. Meanwhile, ODDSSON Downtown suits those who want to explore the best things to do in Reykjavík first. Located in a lively area near restaurants and shops, it’s convenient for a night before or after your road trip.

Planning Your Reykjavík Self-Drive Trip

Before hitting the road, take time to plan your route. The best itinerary depends on how long you have and what kind of experience you want.

1. Time availability

3–4 days: Focus on short routes such as the Golden Circle or South Coast.
7–10 days: Drive the full Ring Road for Iceland’s major highlights.
2 weeks or more: Include remote areas such as the East Fjords or the Highlands.

2. Interests and travel style

Nature and photography: Prioritize waterfalls, glaciers, and scenic coasts.
Hiking and hot springs: Choose regions like the Highlands or North Iceland.
Culture and food: Spend more time in Reykjavík and smaller towns along the Ring Road.

3. Budget and logistics

Fuel and accommodation costs increase with distance and remoteness.
Plan fuel stops, grocery breaks, and parking ahead of time.

4. Season and driving confidence

Summer: Long daylight hours and easy access to most routes. Best for hiking, whale watching, puffins, and waterfalls.
Winter: Shorter days and icy roads; 4x4 vehicles are recommended. Best for northern lights and glacier hikes.
Avoid unpaved F-roads unless you’re experienced with mountain driving.

Plan flexible stops and allow extra time for photos, rest, and weather changes. Good preparation ensures a smoother and more enjoyable self-drive trip.

Top Day Trips from Reykjavík on Your Road Trip

Reykjavík’s location makes it easy to explore Iceland’s most scenic regions. Here are some of the best day trips to add to your itinerary.

Golden Circle – Includes Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss Waterfall. Ideal for first-time visitors.
South Iceland – Covers Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara Beach. Perfect for a full-day drive.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Known for cliffs, lava fields, and Kirkjufell Mountain. Best as a long day trip.
Reykjanes Peninsula – Close to the airport, with geothermal areas and the Blue Lagoon. Ideal for either the first or last day of a trip.
Icelandic Highlands – Summer-only 4x4 routes to Landmannalaugar or Þórsmörk for rugged scenery and hiking.

Must-See Stops on the Iceland Ring Road

For those planning a full self-drive Iceland itinerary, the Ring Road links the country’s most diverse landscapes. Here are some of the most iconic self-drive Ring Road travel stops:

Southwest Iceland – Reykjadalur Valley, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara Beach, and Dyrhólaey
Southeast Iceland – Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, Skaftafell Nature Reserve, Hofskirkja Church, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and Diamond Beach
East Iceland – Hengifoss, Stuðlagil Canyon, Seyðisfjörður, Vök Baths, and Rjúkandi Waterfall
North Iceland – Dettifoss, Mývatn Nature Baths, Grjótagjá Hot Spring, Hverfjall Volcano, Goðafoss, and Akureyri
West Iceland – Grábrók Volcano, Borgarnes, Deildartunguhver Hot Spring, Krauma Spa, Hvammsvík Hot Springs, and Mount Esja

Practical Tips for a Smooth Self-Drive Adventure

Iceland’s roads can be both beautiful and unpredictable. A few smart habits before and during your drive can make the journey safer and far more enjoyable.

Know road signs and driving rules: Learn markings for gravel roads, one-lane bridges, and speed limits.
Drive counterclockwise: This route covers major sights early in the trip.
Check conditions daily: Use vedur.is for weather forecasts and road.is for road conditions and closures.
Register your route: Submit plans on safetravel.is for safety tracking.
Watch the wind: Keep car doors closed and drive carefully, as gusts can be strong.
Refuel or recharge often: Keep the tank half full; use ON Charging for EV stations.
Plan parking: Use EasyPark or Parka for paid parking.
Respect nature: Stay on marked roads and park only in designated areas.
Pack smart: Bring layers, waterproofs, and snacks; the weather changes quickly.

Begin Your Iceland Road Trip at ODDSSON in Reykjavík

Starting a self-drive adventure from Reykjavík ensures a smooth, well-equipped start. ODDSSON Midtown and ODDSSON Downtown provide travelers with comfort, convenient locations, and easy access to Iceland’s main routes.

Whether planning a short Reykjavík self-drive trip or a complete Ring Road journey, ODDSSON serves as a convenient Iceland self-drive hotel for exploring the best of the island.