Car Rental in Egilsstadir

Arriving in Egilsstaðir

Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS) is the main gateway to East Iceland, with frequent domestic flights connecting the region to Reykjavík and other parts of the country. The airport sits just outside town, and the drive from the terminal to the Egilsstaðir centre is usually around 5–10 minutes, covering roughly 3–4 km along straightforward paved roads.

If you are planning to start your East Iceland road trip or Ring Road journey from here, picking up your Hertz rental car at Egilsstaðir Airport keeps your arrival simple. With the rental desk located inside the terminal, clear pick‑up instructions and a short transfer into town or directly onto Route 1, you can step off your flight and be on the road towards the fjords, forests and waterfalls of the east in just a few minutes

Weather Conditions for Driving in Egilsstaðir

Egilsstaðir and East Iceland see real seasonal contrasts, with relatively mild summers and cold, often snowy winters that can quickly change driving conditions. In summer, the Ring Road through Egilsstaðir and main routes such as Route 1 and Route 931 are usually clear and well maintained, making it straightforward to drive between the town, Hallormsstaðaskógur, Hengifoss and nearby fjords.

From late autumn to early spring(Late Sep – April) , snow, ice and strong winds are common on higher sections of the Ring Road and especially on mountain passes like Route 93 to Seyðisfjörður, where conditions can shift from clear to foggy or snowy in a short time. Roads are ploughed regularly, but black ice, drifting snow and reduced visibility mean you should slow down, allow extra braking distance and always check the latest updates on road.is and weather.is before setting off, particularly if you plan to cross the passes or drive long distances between Egilsstaðir and places like Höfn or Akureyri.

In winter (November to March), storms in East Iceland – especially around the fjords and higher passes – can be sudden, strong and sometimes last for many hours. During these periods, driving conditions can be very challenging for anyone without experience on snow and ice, with poor visibility, strong gusts and quickly changing surfaces making even short journeys difficult. For that reason, winter is not the ideal season for a long road trip unless you are confident in winter driving, choose a suitable 4×4 vehicle and are prepared to delay or change plans if the forecast worsens.

Top Tips for Renting a Car in Iceland

• Check your driving licence before you arrive: Most international licences are valid in Iceland, but if yours is not in Latin script you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Make sure you bring the physical licence (and IDP if needed), as you will not be able to rent a car without the correct documentation.
• F‑roads require a 4×4, no exceptions: Highland F-roads are restricted to 4×4 vehicles and are often only open from around June or July, depending on snow conditions. Always check road.is or ask the rental office for live updates before you set out on any F-road adventure.
• Speed Limits: Fines are steep and cameras are common, so stick to 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads and 90 km/h on paved rural highways unless signs show otherwise.
• Headlights On at All Times: It is a legal requirement in Iceland to drive with headlights on 24/7, all year round. Many rental cars handle this automatically, but it is still worth double-checking when you start your journey.
• Off-Road Driving is Illegal: Driving off marked roads and tracks is strictly prohibited in Iceland and carries heavy fines because it damages fragile nature. Even when exploring remote areas, always stay on signed and approved routes.
• Watch for Single-Lane Bridges, Blind Hills & Sheep: Icelandic roads often include narrow single‑lane bridges, steep blind crests and free‑roaming sheep on rural stretches. Slow down, keep right and be prepared to yield or stop when visibility is limited.
• Never Let Your Fuel Run Low: Fuel stations become sparse once you leave towns and larger villages, and it can easily be 70–100 km or more between stations in some parts of the country. On longer day trips or when driving remote routes, fill up whenever you have the chance rather than waiting for the warning light.

What to Wear When Exploring Egilsstaðir

Weather around Egilsstaðir can shift quickly between the town, lake and nearby fjords, so the best approach is to dress in layers you can add or remove as conditions change. A moisture‑wicking base layer, warm mid‑layer (like fleece or wool) and a windproof, waterproof shell will keep you comfortable in most seasons, whether you are walking around town or driving out to Hallormsstaðaskógur and Hengifoss.

In summer, daytime temperatures in East Iceland are often in the 8–14°C range, so a light jacket and sturdy shoes are usually enough for short hikes and sightseeing. In autumn, winter and early spring, colder air, wind and snow mean you should bring an insulated jacket, hat, gloves, scarf and waterproof boots with good grip, especially if you plan to drive over mountain passes like Route 93 to Seyðisfjörður or visit viewpoints in icy conditions. Whatever the season, keeping an extra layer, water and snacks in your rental car is a simple way to stay comfortable if the weather changes while you are out exploring East Iceland.

Parking Information

Parking in Egilsstaðir is refreshingly simple compared with larger Icelandic towns.

• Street Parking: Virtually all street parking and public car parks in the town centre are free of charge, so you can leave your car outside supermarkets like Bónus and Nettó or near cafés and restaurants without worrying about ticket machines or time‑limited zones
• Airport Parking: The main exception is Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS), which uses an automatic licence plate recognition system (Autopay) for its car park. If you leave your vehicle at the airport while dropping off a rental or meeting a flight, you must pay for parking via the Autopay app or at the terminal kiosk before exiting the car park to avoid receiving an invoice with an added service fee

Electric Car Rental in Egilsstaðir

The Eastfjords are increasingly accessible for electric vehicles, and renting an EV in Egilsstaðir is a smart, low‑emission way to explore this quieter region of Iceland. Driving distances between fjord villages are manageable, and the near‑silent motor of an electric car suits the peaceful landscapes around Lagarfljót, Hallormsstaðaskógur and the coastal roads.

Charging Points

Egilsstaðir acts as the main charging hub for East Iceland, with high‑power fast chargers available at the N1 station in town and at ON Power chargers near the campsite and main services. These are ideal for quick top‑ups before crossing mountain passes or continuing along the Ring Road. Many hotels and guesthouses, including options in and around Egilsstaðir such as Hótel Hérað, offer Type 2 “destination” charging so you can plug in overnight.

As you drive out to fjords like Seyðisfjörður or Eskifjörður, apps such as ON Power and Ísorka make it easy to locate AC and DC chargers at local harbours, community centres and public car parks. With a bit of planning, you can complete classic East Iceland routes – including the “Ring of the East” and parts of the Ring Road – in an electric vehicle without range anxiety.

Key Roads & Travel Routes

Egilsstaðir sits where the Ring Road meets several important mountain and fjord routes, so a rental car makes it easy to link key roads, passes and scenic detours across East Iceland.

Key Roads

• Route 1 (Ring Road): The main artery running straight through Egilsstaðir. Heading north takes you towards Stuðlagil Canyon and Lake Mývatn, while driving south leads you through the Eastfjords and eventually towards Höfn and the south‑east coast.
• Route 93 (Seyðisfjarðarvegur): A spectacular mountain road climbing over Fjarðarheiði heath before dropping into the colourful town of Seyðisfjörður, famous from “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” and known for its steep sections, waterfalls and winter snow.
• Route 931: A scenic loop around Lagarfljót that passes through Hallormsstaðaskógur forest and continues to the Hengifoss trailhead, giving easy access to lakeside viewpoints, picnic spots and hiking routes.

Getting from Egilsstaðir to Akureyri

With a Hertz car rental in Egilsstaðir, you can follow the Ring Road northwest to Akureyri, combining East Iceland views with the volcanic landscapes around Mývatn on one of the classic long driving days in Iceland.

• From Egilsstaðir, join Route 1 (Ring Road) heading northwest towards Möðrudalur and Mývatn
• Stay on Route 1 all the way past the Dettifoss/Mývatn area, following signs for Akureyri
• Continue on Route 1 into Akureyri and follow local signs into the town centre, harbour and main hotels

In normal conditions, the drive is around 245–270 km and typically takes about 3–3.5 hours without long stops, but you should allow extra time for viewpoints, fuel and any weather-related slow-downs, especially in winter.

Getting from Egilsstaðir to Hofn

With a Hertz car rental in Egilsstaðir, you can follow the Ring Road south through the Eastfjords to Höfn, enjoying one of Iceland’s most scenic coastal drives.

• From Egilsstaðir, take Route 1 (Ring Road) south towards Reyðarfjörður and the Eastfjords
• Stay on Route 1 as it winds in and out of the fjords, passing towns like Fáskrúðsfjörður, Djúpivogur and Berufjörður
• Continue following Route 1 along the coast until you reach Höfn, then follow local signs into the town centre and harbour area

In good conditions, the direct Ring Road route between Egilsstaðir and Höfn is roughly 185–250 km and usually takes around 3–3.5 hours of pure driving, but you should plan extra time for photo stops, fuel and slower speeds on curvier coastal sections, especially in bad weather or if any stretches are still gravel.

Driving Tips 

• Speed limits: 50 km/h in Egilsstaðir , 80 km/h on gravel roads, 90 km/h on paved rural highways. Always follow posted signs.
• City driving: Expect roundabouts, lower speeds, and speed monitoring, especially near busy areas.
• Winter awareness: In Egilsstaðir in winter, look out for ice on bridges, shaded streets, and hilltops. Winter tires are common, and studded tires may be available in seasons where permitted.
• Rural roads: Fewer signs, narrow sections, and quick shifts from paved to gravel. Slow down and keep extra distance.
• Lights: Keep headlights on at all times, day and night.
• Weather checks: Review road and weather updates before you drive and adjust plans if wind, snow, or visibility changes.

Traffic Rules in Egilsstaðir

Egilsstaðir is easy to navigate, but stick to posted limits and watch for frequent roundabouts and pedestrian crossings. Seat belts are mandatory, mobile phone use needs to be hands-free, and headlights must stay on day and night.

If you’re using Hertz car rental in Egilsstaðir, build in a few extra minutes for central parking zones and signed one-way streets.

Road conditions in the city

Most city roads are paved and well-maintained, with clear lane markings and signage. In Egilsstaðir winters, expect occasional ice on bridges, shaded streets, and quieter residential lanes, plus strong winds near the waterfront.

For car hire in Egilsstaðir , choose a rental vehicle that matches your plans, then check local weather updates before longer drives beyond town.

Fueling Instructions

Fuel stations are easy to find in Egilsstaðir, and most accept chip-and-PIN cards at the pump. If you’re heading out for day trips from Egilsstaðir, top up before leaving the city since stops can be farther apart on Route 1.

With Hertz, confirm your fuel policy at pick-up, then refuel close to return time to keep drop-off simple.

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 Egilsstaðir

With Hertz car hire in Egilsstaðir, you can match your vehicle to the way you plan to explore the city, the coast, and longer Route 1 drives. Hertz offers practical options for everyday cruising, plus vehicles built for comfort, cargo, and all-season travel.

• Economy Small Rental Cars: Great for central Egilsstaðir streets and easy parking. A smart pick for short stays and budget-focused trips.
• Compact Rental Cars: Comfortable for couples or solo travelers with light luggage. Ideal for city driving and quick day routes.
• Mid-size Rental Cars: More space for passengers and bags without feeling bulky. A solid choice for longer day trips from Egilsstaðir.
• Full-size Rental Cars: Extra comfort for families or groups. Better for longer drives when you want more room to stretch out.
• Automatic Rental Cars: Simple, familiar driving across Egilsstaðir and beyond. Helpful on longer routes and changing conditions.
• EV/PHEV Rental Cars: A quieter, greener way to drive around town. Well-suited for people looking for ‘greener’ alternatives.
• Tesla Rental Cars: Premium electric driving with modern features and comfort. A strong option for longer highway stretches.
• Luxury Rental Cars: Elevated comfort and refined interiors for a premium trip. Ideal for business travel or special occasions.
• 4×4 Rental Cars: Built for tougher conditions and seasonal travel. A good match for winter driving and approved highland routes.
• Passenger Vans/Minibus: Practical for larger groups and extra luggage. Keeps everyone together for day trips and tours.
• Campers and Motorhomes: Combines transport and accommodation in one plan. Ideal for multi-day adventures around Iceland.
• Mini Vans : Useful for bulky luggage, equipment, or business needs. Extra capacity without compromising driveability. Special D-type driver’s license is needed for 9+ seats mini vans.

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

The cost of renting a car in Egilsstaðir varies depending on the vehicle type, rental duration, and time of year. Prices are generally higher during peak summer months (June–August) and lower in the off-season.

Hence, booking a car rental in advance is the best way to secure competitive rates.

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 Egilsstaðir, you can drive with confidence knowing your car is fully prepared before it reaches your hands.

Quick Guide to Egilsstaðir (Restaurants, Hotels, Attractions)

Attractions in Egilsstaðir

• Vök Baths: is a standout attraction, a geothermal spa with floating pools on Lake Urriðavatn just a short drive from town. Hengifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, is famous for its red clay layers and is reached from a well‑marked trailhead about 30 minutes’ drive along Lagarfljót.
• Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland’s largest forest, offers something rare in Iceland – tall trees, shaded paths and family‑friendly picnic spots – all easily accessed by car from Egilsstaðir.

Things to do in Egilsstaðir

• Visit Seyðisfjörður town: Drive over Route 93 to Seyðisfjörður to stroll the Rainbow Street, photograph the blue church and enjoy one of East Iceland’s most picturesque fjords.
• Visit Stuðlagil Canyon: Head west to Stuðlagil Canyon, about 50–60 minutes away, where impressive basalt columns tower above bright glacial water; having your own car lets you choose the access side and timing that suits you best.
• Visit Óbyggðasetrið: For a deeper cultural experience, visit the Wilderness Center (Óbyggðasetrið) in the nearby valley to learn about life in the highlands and join guided hikes or riding tours.

Shopping in Egilsstaðir

Egilsstaðir is the commercial hub of East Iceland, so it is the best place to stock up before heading into more remote areas.

• Hús Handanna: In the town centre, Hús Handanna showcases local crafts, reindeer leather products and design pieces from East Iceland artists, making it a great stop for gifts.
• Miðvangur: Around Miðvangur you will find the main grocery stores, including Nettó and Bónus, plus a pharmacy and other everyday services, ideal for picking up supplies before continuing your Ring Road or cabin stay.

Frequently Asked Questions – Egilsstaðir Car Rental

• • Is it safe to drive to Seyðisfjörður in winter?

    The road to Seyðisfjörður (Route 93) is a high mountain pass that is ploughed regularly but can be challenging in snow and storms. In winter we strongly recommend a 4×4 vehicle, checking vedur.is and road.is before you drive, and being ready to delay or turn back if conditions worsen.

    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – To tackle mountain passes safely, you will be driving a meticulously maintained 4×4 from our Newer, Reliable Fleet (all vehicles are under 2 years old with low mileage).

• • Where can I see puffins near Egilsstaðir?
    The best place to see puffins near Egilsstaðir is Borgarfjörður Eystri, about a 1‑hour drive (around 70 km) north of town. In season (roughly mid‑April to mid‑August), you can use the safe viewing platforms right next to the colony for close but respectful observation.

• • Do I need to pay for parking in Egilsstaðir?
    Parking in Egilsstaðir town centre is generally free, including most street spaces and public car parks. At Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS), however, parking is paid via an Autopay system that scans your licence plate, so you must pay at the kiosk or in the app before leaving the car park to avoid an invoice and extra fees.

• • Can I drive the Ring Road from Egilsstaðir?

    Yes, Egilsstaðir is one of the key stops on the Ring Road (Route 1) and a natural base between Höfn in the south‑east and Mývatn/Akureyri in the north. Many travellers refuel, restock groceries and stay overnight here before continuing their journey around Iceland.

    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – As you embark on the Ring Road, enjoy total peace of mind knowing our comprehensive Nationwide Support and premium customer service are always just a phone call away.

• • Do I need a 4×4 to explore East Iceland from Egilsstaðir?
    In summer, a 2WD car is usually enough for main routes such as the Ring Road, Route 931 around Lagarfljót and paved roads to most fjord towns. In autumn and winter, or if you plan to drive mountain passes like Route 93 to Seyðisfjörður or rougher side roads, a 4×4 is strongly recommended for extra clearance and traction.

• • Can I pick up a car in Egilsstaðir and drop it off in Reykjavík or Keflavík?

    One‑way rentals from Egilsstaðir to other Hertz locations, including Reykjavík and Keflavík International Airport (KEF), are possible on selected vehicle groups. These are subject to availability and one‑way fees, so it is best to book early and check the exact conditions when making your reservation.

    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – Take advantage of our Prime Location network; you can pick up your vehicle directly inside the Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS) terminal and effortlessly drop it off inside the Keflavík Airport (KEF) arrivals hall.

• • Are fuel stations easy to find outside Egilsstaðir?
    Egilsstaðir has several fuel stations, but they become more spread out once you head into the more remote fjords or along the Ring Road towards Höfn or Mývatn. On longer drives, top up whenever you pass a station rather than waiting for the tank to run low, especially in winter or in less populated areas.

• • Is it possible to drive the Eastfjords in winter?
    The Ring Road and main fjord routes are kept open as much as possible in winter, but strong winds, snow and ice can close certain sections or make driving slow. If you plan to tour the Eastfjords between roughly November and March, choose a suitable 4×4, check conditions daily and be prepared to shorten or adjust your route if the weather deteriorates.