Car Rental in Akureyri

Arriving in Akureyri

Akureyri Airport (AEY) is the main gateway to North Iceland, served by frequent domestic flights from Reykjavík and seasonal international connections. The terminal is compact and easy to navigate, with car rental desks, a small café, and essential traveller services all within a short walk.

The airport sits roughly 3 km south of Akureyri’s centre, which means your transfer into town usually takes about 5–10 minutes by car. Picking up your Hertz rental at the airport lets you skip extra transfers and head straight towards Eyjafjörður, Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss and other North Iceland highlights as soon as you have your keys.

Weather Conditions for Driving in Akureyri

Akureyri and North Iceland experience real seasonal contrast, with bright, mild summers and long, snowy winters that can quickly change driving conditions. In summer, most main roads, including Route 1 and the routes towards Mývatn and Húsavík, are clear and well maintained, making self-drive journeys straightforward for most travellers.

In autumn, winter and early spring, you should expect snow, ice and occasional strong winds, especially on higher stretches of the Ring Road and in fjord areas around Akureyri. Roads are regularly cleared, but black ice, blowing snow and reduced visibility mean it is important to slow down, keep headlights on at all times, and check road and weather updates before setting off. Choosing a suitable vehicle, such as a 4×4 in the colder months, will make winter driving around Akureyri more comfortable and secure.

Top Tips for Renting a Car in Iceland

• Check Your Driving Licence Before You Arrive: Most international licences are valid in Iceland. However, if yours isn’t in Latin script, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Sort this before you fly, you won’t get far with a car rental in Akureyri without the right documentation.
• F-Roads Require a 4×4, No Exceptions: Planning Akureyri day trips into the Highlands? F-roads are restricted to 4×4 vehicles and are often closed until June or July. Always check with locals or the rental office for live conditions before heading out.
• Know the Speed Limits: Fines are steep, and cameras are common. Stick to 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved highways. Getting a fine will put a damper on exploring Akureyri tourist attractions.
• Headlights On at All Times: It’s a legal requirement to drive with headlights on 24/7 in Iceland, year-round. Most rental cars handle this automatically, but always double-check at pickup.
• Off-Road Driving is Illegal: Iceland’s landscapes are breathtaking, but driving off designated roads is strictly prohibited and carries heavy fines. Whether you’re exploring Reykjavík culture in the city or venturing into the wilderness, stay on marked roads at all times.
• Watch for Single-Lane Bridges, Blind Hills & Sheep: Icelandic roads have quirks that catch foreign drivers off guard. Narrow single-lane bridges, steep blind hilltops, and sheep freely crossing rural roads are common sights. Slow down and stay alert, especially on day trips outside the city.
• Never Let Your Fuel Run Low: Fuel stations get scarce fast once you leave Akureyri. On longer Akureyri day trips or remote routes, there can be 75+ km between stations. Fill up whenever you can, don’t wait for the warning light.

Important reminder when driving in North Iceland

When driving in North Iceland, many travellers use the Vaðlaheiðargöng tunnel east of Akureyri on Route 1, which is the only toll tunnel in the country. There are no toll booths at the tunnel, so you must pay the toll yourself online at the official website using your vehicle’s licence plate and a bank card. If you do not pay within the required time window, the toll is billed to the vehicle owner with an additional collection or service fee that your rental company will charge back to you.

If you prefer to avoid the toll, you can take the alternative free route over the mountain via routes 83 and 84, but this road is longer and more exposed to winter weather.

What to Wear When Exploring Akureyri

Weather in Akureyri can change quickly, so it is best to dress in layers that you can add or remove as needed. In summer, daytime temperatures typically sit around 8–12°C (46–54°F), so a light base layer, warm sweater or fleece, and a windproof, waterproof jacket are usually enough for walking around town and short hikes. In winter, average temperatures often hover around -4 to 0°C (24–32°F), and it can feel colder with wind, so you will want an insulated jacket, hat, gloves, scarf and warm, waterproof footwear. Whatever the season, sturdy shoes and an extra layer in your car are a smart idea when you are driving out from Akureyri to explore waterfalls, viewpoints and coastal routes in North Iceland.

Parking Information in Akureyri

Parking in Akureyri is unique because it uses a Parking Clock system rather than ticket machines.

• The Clock System: In the downtown area (zones P1 and P2), parking is free, but you must display a clock on your dashboard indicating your arrival time. You can pick up a free clock at banks, gas stations, or tourist information centers.
• P1 & P2 Zones: These zones apply Mon-Fri from 10:00 to 16:00. P1 allows 1-2 hours max, while P2 is for longer stays. Outside these hours (and on weekends), parking is unrestricted.

Important: If you don’t have a clock, simply write your arrival time clearly on a piece of paper and place it on the dashboard. Failure to display the time can result in a fine.

North Iceland is fully electrified, and renting an EV in Akureyri is a fantastic way to see the Diamond Circle sustainably. The region has seen a massive investment in infrastructure, meaning you can easily drive to Húsavík or Mývatn on a single charge. The silence of an electric engine perfectly complements the tranquil atmosphere of the fjords.

Electric Car Rental

Akureyri offers around 12 conveniently located EV charging points for your Hertz electric vehicle, making EV charging in North Iceland simple in town and along nearby routes.

• Fast Charging: You will find 150kW+ fast chargers at the ON Power station by the Hof Cultural Center and at N1 stations on the outskirts.
• Tesla Superchargers: There is a Supercharger station at Shopping Center (2 Austursíða Akureyri 603), allowing for a rapid top-up while you grab lunch.
• Apps: We recommend the ON Power and Ísorka apps to access the comprehensive network of AC chargers at hotels, the swimming pool, and public lots throughout the tow

Key Roads & Travel Routes

Akureyri is the gateway to the Diamond Circle and the wilder North.

Key Roads

• Route 1 (Ring Road): Passes directly through Akureyri. Heading East takes you through the Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel (toll applies, pay online at tunnel.is) toward Goðafoss and Mývatn.
• The Arctic Coast Way (Route 82/76): A stunning drive north around the Tröllaskagi Peninsula via Siglufjörður. It features dramatic cliffs, tunnels, and ocean views—perfect for a day trip.
• Route 821: Leads south into the Eyjafjörður valley towards the Christmas House (Jólagarðurinn), a lush agricultural drive that feels vastly different from the volcanic landscapes elsewhere.

Getting from Akureyri to Goðafoss(Godafoss)

With a Hertz car rental in Akureyri, you can turn a simple drive along the Ring Road into a scenic detour to Goðafoss, one of North Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls.

• From Akureyri, follow Route 1 (Ring Road) east towards Goðafoss and Lake Mývatn
• Stay on Route 1 for around 30–45 minutes until you see clear signs for Goðafoss
• Turn off into the signed Goðafoss parking areas on either side of the falls and follow the short paths to the viewpoints

This straightforward drive is roughly 30–45 minutes in normal conditions, and the waterfall sits just beside Route 1, making Goðafoss an easy half-day trip from Akureyri or a natural stop on a longer Ring Road itinerary.

Getting from Akureyri to Dettifoss

With a Hertz car rental in Akureyri, you can turn North Iceland sightseeing into an easy drive to Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls and a highlight of the Diamond Circle.

• From Akureyri, follow Route 1 (Ring Road) east towards Goðafoss and Mývatn
• Stay on Route 1 past Mývatn and follow signs towards Dettifoss
• Turn onto Route 862 (west side access road) and continue south to the Dettifoss car park

This route takes around 2–2.5 hours in normal conditions, depending on weather and stops, and Route 862 is generally preferred as the more comfortable paved access road compared with the rougher gravel Route 864.

Getting from Akureyri to Húsavík

With a Hertz car rental in Akureyri, you can turn your stay in the “Capital of the North” into an easy whale‑watching day trip to Húsavík on Iceland’s north coast.

• From Akureyri, drive east on Route 1 (Ring Road) towards Goðafoss
• Before reaching Goðafoss, turn left onto Route 85 (Norðausturvegur) signed for Húsavík
• Continue on Route 85 and follow the signs into Húsavík for the harbour, whale‑watching departures and town services

The drive usually takes about 1–1.5 hours in normal conditions and follows a scenic route through valleys and along the coast, making Húsavík a comfortable day trip or next stop on a Diamond Circle itinerary from Akureyri.

Driving Tips (Urban + Light Rules)

Akureyri is relaxed, but winter demands respect.

• Snow & Ice: From October to May, streets can be snowy. Our cars come with winter tires, but always reduce speed and brake gently.
• The Tunnel Toll: If you drive east on Route 1, you will pass through the Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel. There are no booths; you must pay the toll online at tunnel.is within 24 hours to avoid a fine.
• Sheep: In rural areas around the fjord, sheep roam freely in summer. Keep your eyes on the road verges.
• Speed Limits: 50 km/h in town, 90 km/h on paved rural roads.
• Lights: Keep headlights on at all times, day and night.
• Weather checks: Review road via road.is and weather updates via vedur.is before you drive and adjust plans if wind, snow, or visibility changes.

Traffic Rules in Akureyri

Traffic rules in Akureyri follow national Icelandic laws, so the key points are simple but important. You must drive on the right-hand side of the road, always wear seatbelts, and keep headlights on at all times, day and night. Speed limits are usually 30–50 km/h in built-up and residential areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads and 90 km/h on paved rural roads, unless signs show otherwise. Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal, off-road driving is strictly prohibited, and Iceland’s legal alcohol limit is very low (0.02%), with heavy fines for any violations.

Road Conditions in the City

Road conditions in Akureyri are generally good, with paved streets in the centre and along main routes to the airport and surrounding neighbourhoods. In summer, driving in the city is straightforward, but you should still watch for pedestrians, cyclists and changing speed limits as you move between residential and central areas. In autumn and winter, snow, ice and occasional strong winds can affect hills, side streets and bridges, so expect slippery surfaces, allow extra braking distance and check local road and weather updates before early-morning or late-night drives.

Fueling Instructions

Akureyri has several fuel stations from major brands such as N1 and Olís, offering petrol and diesel as well as basic services, food and restrooms. Many pumps are self-service and accept credit or debit cards at the pump, so you can refuel outside regular shop opening hours. We recommend filling up in Akureyri before longer drives towards Mývatn, Húsavík, Dettifoss or further along the Ring Road, and topping up again before returning your Hertz rental car to ensure you meet your agreed fuel policy.

Rental policies with Hertz Iceland

Before you pick up the keys, it’s worth familiarizing yourself with Hertz Iceland’s rental policies to ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience. Here are some essentials you need to know before hitting Iceland’s roads:

• Driver’s Licence: A valid, physical licence held for a minimum of one year is required. Licences with English/Latin script are accepted as-is. If yours is in a non-English script, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is also required.
• Minimum Age: The minimum rental age is 20 for standard vehicle groups (economy, compact, intermediate). For most other vehicles, it’s 23, and select prestige/luxury models require drivers to be at least 25. There is no maximum age restriction.
• Additional Driver: Extra drivers can be added for a small daily fee. Any undeclared driver who drives the vehicle automatically voids the insurance coverage.
• Payment & Credit Card: A valid physical credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Amex) in the main driver’s name is required at pickup. Debit cards are accepted under specific conditions.
• One-Way Rentals: One-way rentals are available but subject to a fee and location/vehicle availability restrictions.
• Cancellation Policy: Prepaid bookings cancelled more than 3 days before pickup receive a full refund. Cancellations within 3 days or no-shows are non-refundable. Pay-on-arrival bookings can be cancelled up to the start of the rental.

Vehicle Options for a Car Rental in Akureyri

With Hertz car hire in Akureyri, you can match your vehicle to the way you plan to explore the town, the fjord and longer Ring Road or Diamond Circle drives. Hertz offers practical options for everyday cruising, plus vehicles built for comfort, cargo and all-season travel around North Iceland.

• Economy Small Rental Cars: Great for central Akureyri streets and easy parking. A smart pick for short stays and budget-focused trips, with examples like Toyota Yaris or similar compact hatchbacks.
• Compact Rental Cars: Comfortable for couples or solo travellers with light luggage. Ideal for city driving and quick day routes to Goðafoss or the Christmas House, with models such as VW Golf or similar
• Mid-size Rental Cars: More space for passengers and bags without feeling bulky. A solid choice for longer day trips from Akureyri to Lake Mývatn or Húsavík, with vehicles like Toyota Corolla or similar.
• Full-size Rental Cars: Extra comfort for families or groups who want more room to stretch out on Ring Road drives. Typical examples include larger saloons or estates such as Toyota Land Cruiser or similar.
• Automatic Rental Cars: Simple, familiar driving in and around Akureyri, especially helpful on longer routes and in changing weather conditions. Most Hertz Iceland vehicles are offered with automatic transmission for extra ease.
• EV/PHEV Rental Cars: A quieter, greener way to drive around town and along Eyjafjörður, well-suited for travellers looking for lower-emission options. Example categories include compact EVs and plug‑in hybrids from brands like Hyundai or Kia (or similar).
• Tesla Rental Cars: Premium electric driving with modern features and comfort, ideal for smooth highway stretches between Akureyri, Mývatn and Húsavík. Available models may include Tesla Model 3 or similar long‑range EVs
• Luxury Rental Cars: Elevated comfort and refined interiors for a premium trip, business travel or special occasions in North Iceland. This category can include higher‑end sedans or SUVs from brands like Mercedes‑Benz or similar.
• 4×4 Rental Cars: Built for tougher conditions and seasonal travel, a great match for winter driving and approved highland or rougher gravel routes. Popular examples include Dacia Duster, Land Rover Defender or similar 4×4 SUVs
• Passenger Vans/Minibus:  Practical for larger groups and extra luggage, keeping everyone together for day trips or guided-style touring in the north. These often include 7–9 seat vans such as VW Caravelle or similar.
• Campers and Motorhomes: Combine transport and accommodation in one plan, ideal for multi‑day adventures around North Iceland and the wider Ring Road.
• Mini Vans : Useful for bulky luggage, equipment or business needs, offering extra capacity without compromising driveability. For 9+ seat mini vans, a special D‑type driver’s licence is required under Icelandic regulations.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Akureyri?

The cost of renting a car in Akureyri varies depending on the vehicle type, rental duration and time of year. Prices are generally highest during peak summer months (June–August) and busy holiday or ski periods, and lower in the shoulder seasons and winter. Rates can also change frequently as availability shifts, especially for popular 4x4s and campers at Akureyri Airport (AEY).

If you plan to pick up your car in Akureyri during peak times, it is wise to book at least 2 months in advance to secure the best choice of vehicles and more competitive prices.

Compulsory Equipment in your Hertz Rental Car

Safety on Iceland’s roads isn’t optional, and neither is the right equipment.

Every Hertz Iceland rental car is thoroughly inspected before pickup to ensure it meets all legal and safety standards. For winter rentals, all vehicles come fitted with winter tyres meeting Iceland’s legal tread depth requirements, with studded tyre options available upon request.

Whether you’re navigating icy city streets or venturing beyond Reykjavík, you can drive with confidence knowing your car is fully prepared before it reaches your hands.

Quick Guide to Akureyri (Restaurants, Hotels, Attractions)

Attractions in Akureyri

Akureyrarkirkja (Akureyri Church): við Eyrarlandsveg, 600 Akureyri

The iconic church designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, sits atop a staircase with a commanding view of the city. Parking is available on the street level below.

Akureyri Botanical Garden (Lystigarðurinn):  Eyrarlandsvegur, 600 Akureyri

It is a miracle of horticulture, hosting plants from all over the world just south of the Arctic Circle. It’s a peaceful place to walk, with free parking nearby.

Icelandic Aviation Museum: Akureyrarflugvelli, 600 Akureyri

The Museum is located right next to the airport offers a fascinating look at the history of flight in Iceland, housed in a large hangar with ample parking. Pre-book for visit is required.

Things to do in Akureyri

With a car, the best activities are just a short drive away.

• Whale Watching : From Akureyri or the nearby village of Hauganes (25 min drive) offers calm waters and high sighting rates of Humpback whales.
• Visit Forest Lagoon (Skógarböðin) : Soak in the Forest Lagoon , a new geothermal spa nestled in the Vaðlaskógur forest just across the fjord. It’s accessible via the tunnel or the old scenic road.
• Skiing:Drive up to Hlíðarfjall Ski Resort in winter for the best skiing in Iceland. In summer, the drive offers spectacular views over the entire fjord.

Shopping in Akureyri

• Glerártorg is the region’s only shopping mall, housing international brands, a supermarket, and the Tesla Supercharger station. It has a massive free parking lot.
• Hafnarstræti is the pedestrian main street, lined with bookstores, cafes, and shops selling local wool and design. It has the authentic “small town” feel.
• Christmas House (Jólagarðurinn): For a unique experience, drive 10 minutes south to the Christmas House. Open year-round, it sells festive decorations and traditional Icelandic holiday candy in a fairytale setting.

Frequently Asked Questions – Akureyri Car Rental

• • Do I need a 4×4 in Akureyri?

    If you are visiting in winter (Oct-April), a 4×4 is highly recommended. While the town is plowed, the roads to attractions like Dettifoss or the ski resort can be snowy. In summer, a regular 2WD car is perfectly sufficient for the city and the Diamond Circle.

    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – Whether you choose a compact car or a 4×4, you will be driving a vehicle from our Newer, Reliable Fleet, meaning it is under 2 years old and expertly maintained for local conditions.

• • Is it worth renting a car if I stay only in Akureyri?
    If you plan to stay mostly in the town centre, you can walk to many cafés, shops and attractions, but having a car makes it much easier to visit places like the Christmas House, Hlíðarfjall Ski Resort, Forest Lagoon and nearby villages at your own pace. Even for a short stay, a rental car gives you flexibility if the weather changes or you decide to add a last‑minute day trip to Goðafoss or Lake Mývatn.

• • How do I pay for the Vaðlaheiðargöng tunnel?
    The tunnel between Akureyri and Húsavík/Mývatn is toll-only. There are no payment machines on site. You must pay online at tunnel.is or via the Parka app within 24 hours of passing through (before or after). If you forget, the toll plus a fine will be charged to your rental contract.

• • Is parking free in Akureyri?
    Yes, parking is free in designated zones, but you must use a parking clock in the center (Mon-Fri 10-16). You can get a clock for free at gas stations or banks. Outside the center, parking is generally unrestricted.

• • Can I drive to the Highlands from Akureyri?
    Yes, Akureyri is a prime starting point for the mountain road F-35 (Kjölur) or the route to Askja. However, these are F-roads and strictly require a 4×4 vehicle. Off-road driving is illegal and strictly enforced to protect nature.

• • Can I rent an electric car in Akureyri?
    Yes, Hertz offers electric and plug‑in hybrid vehicles from Akureyri, and the town has multiple fast chargers, a Tesla Supercharger and several AC chargers at hotels and public car parks. This makes it very practical to explore North Iceland in an EV, especially if you plan your charging stops around Mývatn, Húsavík and other Diamond Circle highlights.

• • Can I pick up my car in Akureyri and drop it off in Reykjavík or Keflavík?

    One‑way rentals between Akureyri and other Hertz locations, including Reykjavík and Keflavík International Airport (KEF), are possible on select vehicle categories. These bookings are subject to availability and may include an additional one‑way fee, so it is best to check and reserve early if you are planning a north–south itinerary.

    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – Take advantage of our Prime Location across the country; whether you drop off at our Akureyri Airport (AEY) terminal desk or inside the KEF arrivals hall, your transition will be seamless.

• • What is the speed limit in and around Akureyri?
    In Akureyri and other Icelandic towns, the usual speed limit is 30–50 km/h depending on the street, with clear signs showing any changes. Outside town, the limit is generally 80 km/h on gravel roads and 90 km/h on paved rural roads, but you should always slow down for curves, bad weather or poor visibility.

• • Can I drive the Diamond Circle from Akureyri in one day?
    In summer, many travellers drive the Diamond Circle in a long day from Akureyri, visiting Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss and Húsavík before returning to town. In shoulder or winter seasons, daylight hours and road conditions can limit how much you can comfortably see in one day, so consider splitting the route over two days or focusing on fewer stops.

• • Are fuel stations easy to find outside Akureyri?
    There are several fuel stations in Akureyri, but they become more spread out once you head towards Mývatn, Húsavík or the far north‑east. On longer drives, it is smart to top up your tank whenever you pass a station, especially in winter or when travelling in more remote parts of North Iceland.

• • Why rent a Hertz car in Akureyri?
    Regional expertise matters when driving in North Iceland. By choosing car rental in Akureyri with Hertz Iceland, you get a vehicle perfectly adapted to the local terrain. Our fleet includes winter-tire equipped 4x4s for confident winter driving and fuel-efficient compacts for summer fjord cruising. We are the only international rental brand with a full-service station right at the Akureyri Airport (AEY) terminal, meaning support is always nearby. Whether you are heading East to Egilsstaðir or exploring the Tröllaskagi Peninsula, our flexible rental terms and comprehensive Nationwide Support ensure premium customer service is always just a phone call away.