Arriving in Hafnarfjörður

Hafnarfjörður is part of the Greater Reykjavík Capital Region and is straightforward to reach by public transport from both Keflavík International Airport and central Reykjavík.

If you are arriving from Keflavík International Airport (KEF), the Flybus and other airport coach services connect KEF to Reykjavík’s BSÍ bus terminal, from where you can take a Strætó local bus (route 1 or connecting services) down to Hafnarfjörður. The total journey from the airport takes roughly 45–60 minutes depending on connections.

If you are already in Reykjavík, Hafnarfjörður is served by Strætó bus routes running regularly from the city, with a journey time of around 20–30 minutes. The town is also just a 10–15 minute drive south from central Reykjavík via Route 40.

Once you arrive in Hafnarfjörður, the Hertz Iceland headquarters is located at Selhella 5, 220 Hafnarfjörður, where you can pick up your rental car and head straight out to explore the capital region, the Reykjanes Peninsula or further afield at your own pace.

Weather Conditions for Driving in Hafnarfjörður

Hafnarfjörður sits on Iceland’s south-west coast within the Greater Reykjavík Capital Region, which means driving conditions here are generally more moderate and manageable than in more exposed parts of Iceland. That said, the weather can still change quickly, and knowing what to expect through the seasons will help you plan your drives with confidence.

• • Summer (June–August): The most settled driving season, with long daylight hours and mild temperatures. Brief rain showers are possible at any time, but roads are clear and all main routes are fully accessible. This is the easiest time of year to drive in and around Hafnarfjörður.

• • Autumn (September–October): Wind and rain increase as the season turns. Northern lights become visible on clear nights. Roads remain open and driveable but allow extra time for wet conditions and reduced visibility.

• • Winter (November–March): Snow and ice are less severe than in northern or eastern Iceland, but still possible. Black ice on bridges and shaded streets in the capital region can be hazardous, especially in the early mornings. Winter tyres are standard on all rental cars in season.

• • Spring (April–May): Conditions improve steadily with longer days and milder temperatures. Occasional overnight frost is still possible into May; check vedur.is before early-morning starts.

One thing to be aware of when driving in Hafnarfjörður and the wider capital region: roundabouts are very common throughout the town and on connecting roads to Reykjavík. Take them slowly, yield to traffic already in the roundabout, and follow signs carefully — especially if you are not familiar with driving in Iceland. Always check vedur.is for forecasts and road.is for live conditions before longer drives from Hafnarfjörður.

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 Hafnarfjörður without the right documentation.

• • F-Roads Require a 4×4, No Exceptions: Planning day trips from Hafnarfjörður into the Highlands or the interior? F-roads are restricted to 4×4 vehicles and are often closed until June or July. Always check with the rental office or road.is for live conditions before heading out.

• • Know the Speed Limits: Fines are steep, and speed cameras are common across the capital region. Stick to 50 km/h in urban areas like Hafnarfjörður and Reykjavík, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved highways. Getting a fine will put a damper on exploring the sights and attractions around Hafnarfjörður.

• • 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 Hafnarfjörður’s lava fields or venturing further into the countryside, stay on marked roads at all times.

• • Watch for Roundabouts, Blind Hills & Sheep: Hafnarfjörður and the wider capital region have a high number of roundabouts — always yield to traffic already in the roundabout and follow signs carefully. On rural roads beyond the capital, watch for steep blind hilltops and sheep crossing freely, especially in summer. Slow down and stay alert on day trips outside town.

• • Never Let Your Fuel Run Low: Hafnarfjörður and the capital region have plenty of fuel stations, so running low in town is unlikely. However, once you head south onto the Reykjanes Peninsula or east along the South Coast, stations can become more widely spaced. Top up before longer drives rather than waiting for the warning light.

What to Wear When Exploring Hafnarfjörður

Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, and Hafnarfjörður’s position right on the coast of Faxaflói Bay makes it particularly susceptible to strong winds. The town sits low by the sea, and when south-westerly winds pick up — which they do regularly, even in summer — it can feel noticeably colder than the temperature suggests. A windproof outer layer is genuinely essential here, not just a precaution. Once you’ve picked up your Hertz rental car in Hafnarfjörður, keep a waterproof, windproof jacket within easy reach in the car at all times.

In summer, lightweight but wind-resistant layers you can add or remove throughout the day work best. Mornings along the harbour can feel cool and breezy even in July, so a mid-layer and windproof shell should always be in your bag even on bright days.

In winter, pack thermal base layers, gloves, a warm hat and a windproof outer shell as a minimum. Temperatures in Hafnarfjörður can drop below freezing from November through March, and with the coastal wind chill, it can feel considerably colder near the seafront and in open areas. Waterproof footwear is strongly recommended year-round, especially if you plan to walk the harbour area, explore the lava fields or visit nearby coastal viewpoints.

If you are planning day trips from Hafnarfjörður to the Reykjanes Peninsula, the Golden Circle or the South Coast, pack for changeable conditions regardless of the season — weather can shift quickly once you leave the capital region.

Parking Information

Parking in Hafnarfjörður is simple and stress-free — all street parking within the town is free of charge. Whether you are visiting the harbour, the town centre, the lava fields or local restaurants and services, you can park your rental car without worrying about meters, time limits or paid zones. The town is compact and easy to navigate, so you can usually park close to wherever you want to explore.

Hafnarfjörður Town Centre

Free street parking is available throughout Hafnarfjörður, including near the harbour front, main shopping street, supermarkets and local services. There are no paid parking zones anywhere in the town, making it one of the most relaxed places in the capital region to arrive by rental car.

Driving into Reykjavík

If you drive your rental car into central Reykjavík from Hafnarfjörður, be aware that Reykjavík city centre operates a paid parking zone system. The city is divided into colour-coded zones (P1 to P4), with P1 being the most central and most expensive. Payment can be made via parking meters or the EasyPark or Parka apps, which are the most convenient options for visitors. Always check zone signs carefully before leaving your car, as overstaying or parking in the wrong zone can result in a fine.

General tip: 

If you are visiting central Reykjavík for the day, consider parking on the edge of the paid zone or in a free residential street just outside the centre, and walking or taking a bus the rest of the way to avoid parking fees.

Electric Car Rental in Hafnarfjörður

As part of the Greater Reykjavík Capital Region, Hafnarfjörður is one of the best-connected areas in Iceland for electric vehicle rental. The capital region has the densest EV charging network in the country, with fast chargers at fuel stations, shopping centres and public car parks throughout Hafnarfjörður, Reykjavík and surrounding towns — making it easy to keep your rental car charged whether you are exploring locally or planning longer drives.

Hertz Iceland’s headquarters in Hafnarfjörður offers one of the widest EV rental selections in Iceland, including:

• • Volkswagen ID.3 – A compact, practical electric hatchback ideal for city driving and day trips around the capital region.

• • Volkswagen ID.4 – A spacious electric SUV with strong range, well-suited for longer drives to the South Coast, the Golden Circle or the Reykjanes Peninsula.

• • Tesla Model Y – A premium electric SUV with impressive range, modern features and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.

• • Tesla Model 3 – A sleek, performance-focused electric sedan, perfect for covering longer distances in comfort and style.

Charging in and around Hafnarfjörður

The capital region has a wide network of AC and DC fast chargers, including Hertz’s own charging points, public ON Power stations, N1/Olís chargers and Tesla Superchargers in Reykjavík. For day trips to the Reykjanes Peninsula, the Golden Circle or the South Coast, use apps like PlugShare or ON Power to plan charging stops in advance.

Tips for EV drivers from Hafnarfjörður

• • Start every longer drive with a full charge — Hertz’s Hafnarfjörður base has charging facilities available at pickup.

• • In winter, allow extra range buffer as cold temperatures can reduce battery performance.

• • EVs are not permitted on F-roads or Highland routes; plan any Highland detours with a 4×4 instead.

Key Roads & Travel Routes

Hafnarfjörður’s location within the Greater Reykjavík Capital Region gives you excellent road access in every direction — north to central Reykjavík, south-west to Keflavík Airport and the Reykjanes Peninsula, and east towards the South Coast and the Ring Road. With a Hertz rental car from Hafnarfjörður, you can reach some of Iceland’s most popular destinations quickly and without navigating through central Reykjavík traffic.

Key Roads

• • Route 40 (Suðurlandsvegur): The main road heading north from Hafnarfjörður directly into Reykjavík, and east to connect with Route 1 (the Ring Road) towards the South Coast. Your primary route for most destinations beyond the capital area.

• • Route 41 (Reykjanesbraut): Runs south-west from Hafnarfjörður towards Keflavík International Airport and along the Reykjanes Peninsula coastline. Well-maintained and fast, with lava field scenery on both sides.

• • Route 1 – The Ring Road: Join via Route 40 heading east for the South Coast, connecting to Selfoss, Hvolsvöllur, Vík, Jökulsárlón and beyond.

• • Route 43 / 42: Local Reykjanes Peninsula roads useful for reaching the Blue Lagoon, Grindavík and geothermal areas south of Hafnarfjörður.

Hafnarfjörður to Reykjavík city centre

Around 10–15 km, approximately 15–20 minutes.

• • From Hafnarfjörður head north on Route 40 (Suðurlandsvegur)

• • Follow signs for Reykjavík; Route 40 connects directly into the capital’s main ring roads

• • Allow extra time during weekday morning and evening rush hours

Hafnarfjörður to Keflavík International Airport (KEF)

Around 35–40 km, approximately 30–40 minutes.

• • From Hafnarfjörður take Route 41 (Reykjanesbraut) south-west

• • Stay on Route 41 all the way to the airport turn-off (signed KEF / Keflavík)

• • Follow airport signs to the terminal and car rental return areas

Hafnarfjörður to the Blue Lagoon

Around 45–50 km, approximately 40–50 minutes.

• • Head south-west on Route 41 towards the Reykjanes Peninsula

• • Turn onto Route 43 and follow signs for Grindavík / Blue Lagoon (Bláa Lónið)

• • The Blue Lagoon is clearly signed from the main road

Hafnarfjörður to Reykjanes Lighthouse (Reykjanesviti)

Around 50–55 km, approximately 45 minutes.

• • Take Route 41 south-west towards Keflavík

• • Continue on Route 41 / 425 towards Reykjanestá at the tip of the peninsula

• • Follow signs for Reykjanesviti lighthouse and the surrounding geothermal area

Hafnarfjörður to Þingvellir (Golden Circle)

Around 50–55 km, approximately 45–55 minutes.

• • Head north on Route 40 towards Reykjavík, then follow Route 36 east towards Þingvellir

• • Follow signs for Þingvellir National Park; the road is paved and well-signed throughout

Hafnarfjörður to Vík
Around 185 km, approximately 2–2.5 hours.

• • Head north on Route 40 to join Route 1 heading east

• • Stay on Route 1 past Selfoss, Hvolsvöllur and the South Coast waterfalls

• • Follow Route 1 and local signs into Vík

Driving Tips

• • Speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas like Hafnarfjörður and Reykjavík, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved rural highways. Speed cameras are common across the capital region, so always follow posted signs — limits can change without much warning.

• • Capital region driving: Expect frequent roundabouts throughout Hafnarfjörður and surrounding towns. Always yield to traffic already in the roundabout, follow signs carefully and reduce speed on approach. Rush hour on Route 40 between Hafnarfjörður and Reykjavík can cause delays on weekday mornings and evenings.

• • Winter awareness: Ice and snow are less severe here than in northern Iceland but still occur. Watch for black ice on bridges and shaded streets, particularly on early mornings from November through March. Winter tyres are standard on all Hertz rental cars in season.

• • Coastal winds: Hafnarfjörður is a seafront town exposed to south-westerly winds off Faxaflói Bay. Wind gusts can be strong and sudden, especially in autumn and winter — keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and be cautious when opening car doors in exposed areas.

• • Gravel roads and pull-offs: Most roads around Hafnarfjörður and the capital region are paved, but some scenic viewpoints and rural detours on the Reykjanes Peninsula involve gravel surfaces. Reduce speed and watch for loose stones.

• • Lights: Keep headlights on at all times, day and night, as required by Icelandic law. Most rental cars handle this automatically.

• • Weather checks: Always check vedur.is for forecasts and road.is for live road conditions before longer drives, particularly heading south on the Reykjanes Peninsula or east along the South Coast.

Traffic Rules in Hafnarfjörður

Hafnarfjörður is a straightforward town to drive through, with clear road markings and manageable traffic outside of peak hours. The same national rules apply here as across all of Iceland: drive on the right, wear seat belts in all seats at all times, and use a legal hands-free setup for phone calls. Headlights must remain on 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

In Hafnarfjörður, pay particular attention to the many roundabouts around the town — they are the primary way intersections are managed here and throughout the capital region. Always yield to traffic already circulating in the roundabout before entering. Watch for pedestrian crossings near the harbour, schools and shopping areas, and slow down in residential streets. Off-road driving is strictly illegal across all of Iceland and carries heavy fines — stay on marked roads at all times.

Road Conditions in and around Hafnarfjörður

Roads in Hafnarfjörður and the wider capital region are paved and well-maintained year-round. Main routes including Route 40 and Route 41 are cleared quickly in winter and are generally reliable even in poor weather. Conditions can deteriorate more noticeably if you venture south onto the Reykjanes Peninsula in strong winds, or east along the South Coast in winter storms. Always check road.is before setting out on longer drives, and allow more time than map estimates suggest if weather is unsettled.

Fueling Instructions

Hafnarfjörður and the surrounding capital region have multiple fuel stations, including Olís, N1 and Orkan outlets, making it easy to top up before any drive. Running low on fuel within the town is unlikely. Before heading south onto the Reykjanes Peninsula or east along the Ring Road towards the South Coast, always fill up in Hafnarfjörður as stations can become more widely spaced once you leave the capital area. Most stations are self-service and accept credit cards at the pump; always carry a physical credit card with PIN as a backup.

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 Hafnarfjörður

With Hertz car hire from our headquarters in Hafnarfjörður, you can match your vehicle to the way you plan to explore the capital region, the Reykjanes Peninsula and beyond. As Hertz Iceland’s main base, Hafnarfjörður offers one of the widest vehicle selections in the country — from compact city cars and the latest electric vehicles to rugged 4×4s and spacious campervans for longer adventures across Iceland.

• Economy Small Rental Cars: A budget-friendly option for getting around Hafnarfjörður, Reykjavík and short day trips. Easy to park in town and ideal for travellers keeping costs low.
• Compact Rental Cars: Comfortable for couples or solo travellers with light luggage. A smart pick for the Golden Circle, the Reykjanes Peninsula and straightforward paved road itineraries.
• Mid-size Rental Cars: More space for passengers and bags without feeling bulky. A great all-round choice for families or those planning longer South Coast drives.
• Full-size Rental Cars: Extra comfort for groups or travellers who want more room to stretch out on multi-hour Ring Road journeys.
• Automatic Rental Cars: Simple, familiar driving around town and beyond. Particularly helpful in Hafnarfjörður’s roundabout-heavy road network and on longer highway stretches.
• EV/PHEV Rental Cars: A greener, quieter way to explore the capital region and beyond. The dense charging network around Hafnarfjörður and Reykjavík makes EV driving especially practical here. Options include the VW ID.3, VW ID.4, Tesla Model Y and Tesla Model 3.
• Tesla Rental Cars: Premium electric driving with modern features and long range. A strong option for Ring Road routes with reliable Supercharger access throughout Iceland.
• Luxury Rental Cars: Elevated comfort and refined interiors for a premium trip. Ideal for business travel, special occasions or travellers who want to arrive in style.
• 4×4 Rental Cars: Built for Iceland’s tougher conditions, including Highland F-roads (in season), gravel routes and winter driving. Essential if you plan to venture beyond paved roads.
• Passenger Vans/Minibus: Practical for larger groups and extra luggage. Keeps everyone together for Golden Circle tours and South Coast day trips.
• Campers and Motorhomes: Combines transport and accommodation in one. Perfect for multi-day adventures using Hafnarfjörður as your starting base.
• Mini Vans: Useful for bulky luggage, equipment or business needs. Extra capacity without compromising driveability. Special D-type driver’s licence is needed for 9+ seat mini vans.

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

The cost of renting a car in Hafnarfjörður varies depending on the vehicle type, rental duration and time of year. As the home of Hertz Iceland’s headquarters, Hafnarfjörður benefits from one of the largest and most diverse rental fleets in the country — which means more choice across all vehicle categories and generally better availability than smaller regional depots.

Prices are highest during peak summer months (June–August), when demand across Iceland reaches its peak and popular vehicle categories such as 4×4s, campervans and EVs book up quickly. Daily rates during this period can be considerably higher than in the quieter off-season. From November through March, prices typically drop and availability improves, making it a good window for budget-conscious travellers who are comfortable with winter driving conditions.

Unlike remote locations around Iceland, Hafnarfjörður’s large fleet and central capital region position means last-minute bookings are more often possible here than elsewhere. However, for the best rates and the widest vehicle selection — especially for peak summer travel or specific vehicle types like Tesla or luxury models — booking in advance is always recommended.

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 Hafnarfjörður (Restaurants, Hotels, Attractions)

Attractions in Hafnarfjörður

Hellisgerði Park
Hellisgerðisgata, 220 Hafnarfjörður, Iceland

A beautiful lava garden in the heart of the town, with winding paths, moss-covered rocks and bubbling springs. Locals believe Hellisgerði is home to huldufólk — Iceland’s hidden people and elves — giving it a quietly magical atmosphere that is unlike anywhere else in the capital region. Free to enter and easy to walk from the town centre

Hafnarborg – Centre of Culture and Fine Art
Strandgata 34, 220 Hafnarfjörður, Iceland

Hafnarfjörður’s main cultural venue, showcasing contemporary Icelandic art alongside international works in a calm, well-curated space. A worthwhile stop for art lovers and anyone wanting to explore the town’s creative side beyond its Viking and folklore heritage.

The Viking Village & Viking Festival
Strandgata 55, 220 Hafnarfjörður, Iceland

Hafnarfjörður is known as one of Iceland’s centres of Viking culture, and the Viking Village is its most well-known expression — a Viking-themed complex hosting the annual Viking Festival each June, with costumed re-enactors, traditional food and live entertainment. The Viking-inspired Hotel Viking is based here, making it a central point for the town’s Norse heritage.

Things to do in Hafnarfjörður

• Walk the Heart of Hafnarfjörður Trail – A scenic 4 km loop through the town’s harbour, lava parks, historic streets and Hellisgerði, with fjord views and benches along the way.​
• Explore Hellisgerði Park – Stroll the lava paths and learn about the town’s famous elf and hidden people folklore; guided elf walks are also available seasonally.
• Visit Hafnarborg Art Centre – Browse contemporary Icelandic and international art in the town’s main cultural hub, right on Strandgata.​
• Watch for Northern Lights (September–April) – Hafnarfjörður’s harbour and lava field areas offer good dark-sky viewing on clear nights away from the brightest city lights.
• Attend the Viking Festival (June) – One of Iceland’s most popular cultural events, held annually in Hafnarfjörður with Viking re-enactments, food and entertainment.
• Drive the Reykjanes Peninsula – Use Hafnarfjörður as a base for a half-day or full-day drive to the Blue Lagoon, Reykjanesviti lighthouse and active geothermal and volcanic areas to the south-west.
• Swim at Suðurbæjarlaug – The town’s local geothermal swimming pool, a great way to experience everyday Icelandic life at an affordable price.

Shopping in Hafnarfjörður

• Fjörður Shopping Centre: The main indoor shopping centre in Hafnarfjörður, with a mix of Icelandic and international retailers, a supermarket and food options all under one roof. A practical stop for stocking up before day trips or longer drives.
• Strandgata & Harbour Area shops: The town’s main street along the harbour front has a selection of small boutiques, gift shops and cafés where you can pick up Icelandic souvenirs, handmade items and locally made products — a pleasant browse before or after exploring the harbour and lava paths.

Frequently Asked Questions – Hafnarfjörður Car Rental

• • Do I need a rental car in Hafnarfjörður?
    Having a rental car in Hafnarfjörður makes exploring the wider capital region and beyond much easier and more flexible. While the town centre is walkable and well connected by Strætó bus to Reykjavík, a rental car lets you reach the Reykjanes Peninsula, the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon and the South Coast at your own pace — and on your own schedule, without relying on tours or timetables.

    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – Start your trip off right with our Prime Location. You can pick up your vehicle directly from our Hafnarfjörður headquarters, getting you on the road quickly and away from the busy airport crowds.

• • What do I need to rent a car in Hafnarfjörður?
    To complete your Hertz rental car booking in Hafnarfjörður, you will need a valid physical driving licence held for at least one year, a credit card in the main driver’s name, and a passport or national ID. If your licence is not in Latin script, you must also bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your original licence.

• • Is car rental in Hafnarfjörður worth it?
    Absolutely. Hafnarfjörður is home to Hertz Iceland’s headquarters, meaning you have access to one of the largest and most diverse fleets in Iceland right here. With a rental car you can explore the town’s lava fields and elf trails, drive to the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle or the South Coast, and use Hafnarfjörður as a convenient and well-connected base for a full Icelandic road trip.

    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – Because Hafnarfjörður is our national headquarters, you get first access to our Newer, Reliable Fleet, ensuring your vehicle is under 2 years old, meticulously maintained, and ready for any adventure.

• • Can I drive from Hafnarfjörður to Reykjavík with a rental car?
    Of course. Hafnarfjörður is just 10–15 km from central Reykjavík via Route 40, around 15–20 minutes’ drive. You can drive into Reykjavík freely with your rental car, but note that central Reykjavík operates a paid parking zone system — use the EasyPark or Parka apps to pay for parking in the city centre.

• • Are there electric vehicle options available to rent in Hafnarfjörður?
    Yes — and Hafnarfjörður is one of the best places in Iceland to pick up an EV rental. As Hertz Iceland’s headquarters, the Hafnarfjörður depot offers a wide EV selection including the VW ID.3, VW ID.4, Tesla Model Y and Tesla Model 3. The capital region has the densest EV charging network in Iceland, making electric driving especially practical here.

• • What are the speed limits when driving around Hafnarfjörður?
    Speed limits are 50 km/h in built-up areas like Hafnarfjörður and Reykjavík, 80 km/h on gravel roads and 90 km/h on paved highways like Route 40 and Route 41. Speed cameras are common across the capital region, so always follow posted signs and slow down at roundabouts and pedestrian crossings.

• • Can I drive the Ring Road starting from Hafnarfjörður?
    Yes. From Hafnarfjörður, take Route 40 north to join Route 1 (the Ring Road) heading east. From there you can follow the South Coast all the way around Iceland. Allow plenty of time, plan fuel stops and check road conditions before setting out on longer Ring Road stretches.

    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.

• • What are the driving rules in Hafnarfjörður?
    The standard Icelandic rules apply: drive on the right, wear seat belts in all seats at all times, keep headlights on day and night and use only a hands-free setup for phone calls. In Hafnarfjörður specifically, be prepared for frequent roundabouts throughout the town — always yield to traffic already in the roundabout. Watch for pedestrian crossings near schools, the harbour and shopping areas.

• • Is fuel easy to find in and around Hafnarfjörður?
    Yes — the capital region has plenty of fuel stations including Olís, N1 and Orkan outlets in and around Hafnarfjörður. Running low on fuel within the town or greater Reykjavík area is very unlikely. Before longer drives south onto the Reykjanes Peninsula or east along the South Coast, always top up as stations become more widely spaced once you leave the capital region.

• • What is the best time of year to rent a car in Hafnarfjörður?
    June to August is the most popular season with the best weather, long daylight hours and access to all roads and attractions. September and October bring autumn colours, the first northern lights and quieter roads. Winter (November–March) is ideal for aurora hunting and experiencing Iceland’s dramatic landscapes in the snow, though driving requires extra care. As Hertz Iceland’s main depot, Hafnarfjörður has strong fleet availability year-round — but booking ahead is still recommended for peak summer travel.