Staying in Reykjavik Without a Car

Reykjavik is one of the few places in Iceland with its own public transport network, making it convenient to explore. The city is compact, and many major sights are within walking distance. So, you can see a lot in a single day.

Getting around is simple thanks to several easy options:

• Public buses: Reliable and affordable, covering the entire city and its suburbs.

• Taxis: Readily available and best for short rides or late-night trips.

• Boats and ferries: Perfect for whale watching, aurora cruises, or trips to Viðey Island.

• Bicycles and e-scooters: Great for sunny days and quick sightseeing.

These options keep travel costs low and your carbon footprint smaller, helping promote sustainable travel in Reykjavik. For added convenience, consider the Reykjavik City Card, which includes unlimited bus rides and free entry to museums and pools.

Local Buses in Reykjavik

Reykjavik’s local buses, operated by Strætó, are the easiest way to travel around the city without a car. They connect all main neighborhoods, landmarks, and nearby suburbs. Bus routes run from early morning until late evening, with reduced service at night and on weekends.

Most routes pass near major attractions such as Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa, and Laugardalur Park. Buses are clean, reliable, and equipped with free Wi-Fi.

Tips for using the local buses:

• Tickets: Buy digital tickets on the Klapp app, or use a Klapp card available at convenience stores.

• Payment: You can also tap your contactless debit or credit card when boarding.

• Transfers: One ticket is valid for 75 minutes, allowing unlimited transfers within that time.

• Schedules: Check routes and real-time arrivals using the KLAPP app or the screens at main stops.

Staying at ODDSSON Midtown or ODDSSON Downtown makes bus travel even easier, as both hotels are within walking distance of several key bus stops that connect directly to central Reykjavik and popular tour departure points.

Why Staying in Central Reykjavik Makes Getting Around Easy

If you stay in central Reykjavik, almost everything is within easy reach. Downtown connects directly to the main Reykjavik public transport routes and tour pick-up points. Landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager are all within walking distance. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants, museums, and grocery stores nearby. Choosing a central location saves time and helps you enjoy the city like a local.

ODDSSON Hotels Near Bus Stops in Reykjavik

Both ODDSSON Midtown and ODDSSON Downtown are excellent choices for travelers exploring Reykjavik without a car. ODDSSON Midtown is within walking distance of several bus stops and the main road, offering easy connections across the city. ODDSSON Downtown provides the same convenience, with public transport, cafés, and attractions just steps away.

Both hotels can connect guests with trusted local tour operators and serve as pick-up and drop-off points for many excursions. Combining comfort, design, and easy access to Reykjavik's public transport, ODDSSON hotels are a smart base for car-free travelers.

Getting Around Reykjavik Using Public Transport

Reykjavik’s transport network makes it easy to explore without a car. The city’s system is safe, clean, and simple to navigate, whether you prefer to travel by bus, taxi, or ferry.

By Public Bus

Strætó operates the city’s yellow buses, which run from early morning to late evening. They cover most of the capital area, including top sights like Perlan and Laugardalur Park.

There are several easy ways to pay your fare:

• KLAPP app (Klappid.is): Buy and scan digital tickets on your phone

• KLAPP ten: Prepaid option with 10 single-ride tickets

• KLAPP card: A refillable card you can top up online

• Contactless payments: Tap your debit or credit card when boarding

A single ticket is valid for 75 minutes, allowing unlimited transfers using the same payment method.

By Taxi

Taxis are easy to find near hotels and major attractions. The main companies are Hreyfill and Taxi Reykjavik, both known for reliable service. While pricier than buses, taxis are convenient for short rides or nights out. Uber and other ride-sharing services do not operate in Iceland, so licensed taxis are your only on-demand option.

By Boats and Ferries

Reykjavik’s seaside setting makes travel by water part of the fun. Regular ferries connect the city to Viðey Island. Likewise, boat trips in Iceland that depart from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour offer whale watching, puffin spotting, and northern lights tours. It’s a scenic way to see the coastline and the surrounding mountains.

Other Options: Bicycle and Scooter Rentals

For short trips, bicycle and e-scooter rentals are popular and eco-friendly. You’ll find stations and parking zones across the city, especially downtown and along the waterfront. Dedicated bike paths make riding safe and enjoyable, offering a flexible and fun way to explore at your own pace.

Joining Guided Day Tours and Multi-Day Tours from Reykjavik

Want to travel in Iceland without a car? It’s easy and convenient, thanks to the many tours departing from Reykjavik. Local operators offer everything from half- or full-day excursions to multi-day adventures.

Popular choices include:

• Golden Circle – visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall.

• South Coast – see Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara black sand beach

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach – marvel at floating icebergs and glistening black sands

• Snæfellsnes Peninsula – explore Kirkjufell Mountain, Arnarstapi cliffs, Selvallafoss, and Ytri Tunga beach

• Blue Lagoon – relax in Iceland’s famous hot spring

• Icelandic Highlands – discover colorful rhyolite peaks and hiking trails in Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk.

• Ring Road – a multi-day trip around Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders.

Top Attractions to Visit Without Renting a Car

Reykjavik can be enjoyed and explored car-free, as many highlights are within walking distance or a short bus ride away:

• Hallgrímskirkja Church – climb to the top for sweeping city views

• Harpa Concert Hall – admire its glass façade by the harbor

• Sun Voyager – a striking sculpture along the waterfront

• Perlan Museum – learn about Icelandic nature with panoramic views

• Whales of Iceland – walk among life-sized models of marine giants

• FlyOver Iceland – enjoy a virtual flight over Iceland’s landscapes

• Saga Museum – experience Iceland’s Viking past through lifelike exhibits

• Laugardalur Park – home to a swimming pool, zoo, and botanical garden

• Sky Lagoon – relax in a geothermal spa minutes from downtown

Tips for Planning a No-Car Reykjavik Trip

Exploring Reykjavik without driving is simple, but a few smart choices can make your trip smoother. Keep these quick tips in mind to save time and effort.

• Download the KLAPP app – buy bus tickets, check schedules, and plan routes easily

• Use Google Maps – find nearby bus stops, attractions, and walking paths

• Get the Reykjavik City Card – enjoy free access to bus rides, museum entries, and Iceland pool access

• Dress in layers – Iceland’s weather changes quickly, even within a single day

• Wear waterproof shoes – perfect for city walks and light rain

• Bring a reusable water bottle – Reykjavik tap water is pure and safe to drink

• Look for a hotel near a bus stop in Reykjavik – most tours stop near central hotels or bus stations

Enjoy a Stress-Free Reykjavik Stay at ODDSSON

Exploring Reykjavik without a car is convenient, eco-friendly, and surprisingly relaxing. With walkable streets, reliable Reykjavik public transport, and easy access to tours, you can see everything the city offers with minimal effort.

Staying at ODDSSON Hotels puts you close to it all — bus stops, cafés, and Reykjavik’s top architectural sites. That alone allows you to enjoy Iceland’s capital at your own pace.