Car Rental Akureyri Airport

Enjoy reliable car hire at Akureyri Airport with Hertz. We offer convenient pick-up, a wide selection of vehicles, and hassle-free journeys.

Hertz Car Rental at Akureyri Airport

Akureyri Airport (AEY) is the main air gateway to North Iceland, making it a practical starting point for visitors who want to explore Akureyri, Eyjafjörður, and the wider north without driving all the way from Reykjavík. Unlike renting in town after arrival, Hertz Iceland operates directly inside the Akureyri Airport terminal, and your reserved car is parked in the airport parking lot just outside the building.

With car hire at Akureyri Airport (AEY), you can skip the long south–north transfer and head off on your own schedule as soon as you land. Hertz makes car rental at Akureyri Airport easy, comfortable, and flexible, so your AEY airport car rental feels like a smooth first step to the rest of your North Iceland trip.

• Located inside Akureyri Airport (AEY) terminal
• Cars parked in the airport parking lot just outside the terminal
• About 2.5 miles (4 km) from Akureyri town centre and harbour
• Takes around 10 minutes to reach Akureyri Church (Akureyrarkirkja) in the city centre
• Sits roughly 3.7 miles (6 km) from Akureyri Botanical Garden (Lystigarðurinn)
• Goðafoss waterfall is about 30 miles (48 km) from Akureyri Airport via Route 1

Hertz Car Hire at Akureyri Airport Pickup Location

For Hertz Akureyri Airport, you will find our rental desk inside the Akureyri Domestic Airport terminal at Akureyri Domestic Airport, 600 Akureyri. Once your paperwork is complete, your reserved car is waiting in the airport parking lot just outside the terminal building, only a short walk from the arrivals area.

After you collect your luggage, you can reach the Hertz desk in moments and then walk directly to your car, making Hertz Iceland car rental a simple way to rent a car at Akureyri Airport and get on the road quickly.

Collecting Your Hire Car at Akureyri Airport

Online check-in

With Hertz Iceland, you can take care of key rental details before you arrive in Akureyri, so pickup feels quicker and more convenient from the moment you land at AEY. It is a simple way to save time, move through the process more easily, and start your scenic drives from Akureyri Airport with less hassle – and because Akureyri is a smaller station, we strongly recommend booking your car in advance to secure your preferred vehicle.

Life is better when your journey starts without the wait. Check in your Hertz Iceland rental here.

Faster pickup, more time for your trip

Waiting around after a flight is never ideal. With Hertz Iceland, pickup at Akureyri Airport is designed to feel straightforward and easy, so you can collect your vehicle, get settled in, and head off sooner – whether you are travelling for a short city break in Akureyri, a ski weekend, or a longer stay in North Iceland. From AEY, you can drive into town within minutes or continue towards highlights like Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, Húsavík, and the Diamond Circle route for a full North Iceland road trip.

Pick-Up Your Hire Car at Akureyri Airport

Collecting and Returning Your Hire Car at Akureyri Airport

Akureyri Airport (AEY) is easily accessible by domestic Icelandair flights from Reykjavík and regional services operated by Norlandair to destinations such as Grímsey Island, Þórshöfn, and Vopnafjörður.

In recent years, international travellers have also benefited from selected seasonal routes operated by airlines such as easyJet (for example from London Gatwick or Manchester), Transavia (from selected European cities in winter), and Edelweiss Air (seasonal flights from Zurich), depending on the current schedule.

Choosing to fly into Akureyri and rent a car directly from the airport is a smart alternative if you want to avoid the longer drive from Reykjavík and dive straight into the North Iceland experience. You collect your keys right at Akureyri Airport (AEY) at the Hertz desk inside the terminal and then pick up your rental car in the airport parking lot just outside the building.

Where is the Hertz Akureyri Airoirt (AEY) car hire desk?

You will find our Rental desk INSIDE the AEY airport ARRIVAL hall. Our car rental desk is a 2-minute walk from the Iceland customs clearance exit. When you picked up your luggage from the luggage belt and exit the custom door, you will see Hertz’s rental desk with a Hertz Logo on your left hand side.

To reduce time spent on picking up your car, we advise you to prepare:

• Your reservation confirmation email
• Valid driver’s license (held for a minimum of one year at the time of rental)
• A valid credit card in the main driver’s name

* We DO NOT take any deposit when renting out a car. The credit card information is held only for security purposes.

We offer a ZERO excess rental car coverage package at our AEY airport rental desk. If you would like to maximize your rental car’s protection level, you can ask any of our station staff when picking up your vehicle.

We strongly advise you to read our rental requirements and Car protection coverages and Extras: items and price list before renting a car with Hertz Iceland.

Collecting the Car

• Check in at the Hertz desk: Share your booking confirmation, valid driver’s license, passport or ID, and the credit card in the main driver’s name so we can verify your reservation and driver details.
• Confirm your vehicle: We will assign your car and, if available, talk you through any upgrade options that may suit your trip.
• Review payment and rental terms: Complete any remaining payment or deposit requirements, then review the rental agreement before collecting your keys.
• Find and inspect your car: Head to the Akureyri Airport parking area, locate your vehicle, and take a quick look around to note its condition before you set off.

Drive out and follow exit signs: Once you are settled in, simply follow the airport exit signage and begin your journey with confidence.

How to get from Akureyri Airport to Akureyri town centre

After collecting your Hertz car at Akureyri Airport (AEY), you can head toward Akureyri town centre:

• Continue along this road into town; the drive to central Akureyri and Akureyri Church (Akureyrarkirkja) usually takes around 10 minutes, depending on traffic and weather.
• Exit the airport area and join the main road towards Akureyri, following the signs for the town centre and harbour.

What cars can I hire from Akureyri Airport?

Whether you are staying in Akureyri, heading out for scenic drives around Eyjafjörður, or planning day trips on the Diamond Circle, we offer a fleet that makes it easy to match your car to your plans, luggage, and comfort preferences.

• Economy small cars: A practical, affordable choice for short stays in Akureyri, lighter packing, and easy parking in town or at main viewpoints.
• Compact cars: Well‑suited to solo travellers or couples who want comfort without taking up extra space on the road.
• Mid-size sedans: A balanced option with more room for passengers and bags, ideal for Akureyri day trips and longer drives to places like Goðafoss and Lake Mývatn.
• Full-size sedans: A more spacious choice when you want extra comfort for family travel or relaxed driving across North Iceland.
• SUVs and 4x4s: A 4×4 or SUV rental at Akureyri Airport is a strong fit for winter travel, varied road conditions, and trips where extra confidence and ground clearance matter.
• Electric vehicles: A quieter, more modern way to travel, with options that suit drivers planning mainly paved routes and regular access to charging in Akureyri and larger towns.
• Vans and larger vehicles: Helpful for groups, extra luggage, or anyone who wants to keep everyone travelling together on a North Iceland adventure.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Akureyri?

Prices fluctuate significantly based on season, vehicle type, and how early you book. Here is a general guideline for Akureyri Airport (AEY) rentals:

• Economy car: from 7,500 ISK per day ≈ 54 USD / 50 EUR (approx)
• Mid-sized 4×4: from 11,000 ISK per day ≈ 79 USD / 73 EUR (approx)
• 4×4 SUV: from 16,000 ISK per day ≈ 114 USD / 107 EUR (approx)
• Campervan: from 32,000 ISK per day ≈ 229 USD / 213 EUR (approx)

Rates are usually lower in winter (October–April) and higher in peak summer months (June–August), as well as during holidays and ski season in North Iceland, so booking in advance helps you secure better prices and availability. Longer rentals also tend to bring down the average daily rate compared with very short bookings.

Returning your car at Akureyri airport

When your trip is complete, simply return your car to the same Akureyri airport station where you picked it up. Park your vehicle in the Hertz parking area just outside the building, remove all personal belongings, and return your keys at the desk or follow any self‑service drop‑off instructions provided for returns outside opening hours.

If you are still unsure how to get to the Akureyri airport, you are more than welcome to ask our staff members when you pick up your car, call our service centre during office hours, or send us an email – we are happy to assist you at all times.

How to Extend your Car Hire Booking at Hertz Akureyri Airport (AEY)

To extend your booking, call the Hertz Iceland support, let our team know at pickup if you think you may need more time. 

Availability and any rate changes will depend on your rental dates and vehicle type.

Rental Policies

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.

Your local Akureyri self‑drive travel tips

• Check conditions before every drive: Weather and road conditions in North Iceland can change quickly, so it is worth checking Road.is, Umferdin.is, and SafeTravel before setting off, even for shorter routes from Akureyri.
• Keep your headlights on at all times: In Iceland, headlights must be on day and night, and you should always respect posted speed limits in town and on rural roads around Akureyri.
• Choose the right car for your route: A standard car works well for Akureyri and many sections of Route 1 in summer, but a proper 4×4 is strongly recommended in winter or if you plan to explore more remote areas in North Iceland.
• Plan fuel or charging stops early: Fuel stations and chargers are easy to find in Akureyri and along the Ring Road, but they become more limited as you head towards smaller communities, so it helps to top up before longer stretches.
• Slow down on gravel roads and one‑lane bridges: Single‑lane bridges and gravel sections are common in North Iceland; reduce speed early, stay alert, and give yourself extra space on loose or uneven surfaces.
• Watch for sheep and strong wind: Outside town, livestock may be close to the road and wind can be strong along open fjord and mountain sections; park carefully and hold the car door firmly when getting in or out.
• Stay on marked roads only: Off‑road driving is illegal and damages Iceland’s fragile landscapes; always stay on marked roads and tracks.

North Iceland is known for scenic roads and changing conditions. Here’s what to know before you drive:

Speed Limits

• Residential: 30 km/hr
• City: 50 km/hr
• Gravel Roads: 80 km/hr
• Paved Rual Roads: 90 km/hr

Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel

Traveling east from Akureyri? You’ll likely pass through the Vaðlaheiðargöng tunnel. It’s toll-based and must be paid online either 24 hours before or after driving through. The toll costs 2,152 ISK (~$18 USD/€15) and can be paid at https://mitt.veggjald.is/.

Winter Travel

Winter conditions can include snow, wind, and ice. A 4×4 is recommended during colder months, and we advise checking road conditions at umferdin.is and weather updates at vedur.is before heading out.

Keep in mind that off-road driving is illegal. Iceland’s delicate landscapes are protected. Please stay on marked roads and never attempt off-road driving.

Parking in Akureyri

Akureyri has two main parking zones in the city center, P1 and P2, with paid hours from Monday to Friday, 10:00 to 16:00. As of 2025, parking costs 218 ISK per hour in P1 and 109 ISK per hour in P2. Temporary parking areas within these zones allow a maximum stay of two hours and are marked with street signs. The easiest way to pay is through mobile apps like EasyPark or Parka, though pay stations are also available at Skipagata, Túngata, and Gilsbakkavegur.

Here is a map of the parking zones.

Green parking spaces and electric vehicle charging stations are available for cars powered solely by eco-friendly fuels. These spaces are still subject to parking fees if located within a paid zone, and cars should not be left longer than it takes to fully charge. Parking fines range from 2,071 ISK to 30,000 ISK depending on the violation and when the fine is paid. Full details and appeals information can be found on Akureyri’s official parking website.

Hotels and guesthouses in the city center may or may not include parking, so be sure to check in advance. If you are driving a camper or caravan, always go to a designated campground and stay overnight inside the camping site. Sleeping in a car, campervan, or a caravan is illegal within town limits.

Unsure about what is the best car to rent for your Iceland vacation? Don’t know when the best time to visit Iceland is? Let us share with you our thoufhts:

Unsure about what is the best car to rent for your Iceland vacation? Don’t know when the best time to visit Iceland is? Let us share with you our thoufhts:

Value-Added Services for Your Iceland Car Hire

When you go for the best car rental at Akureyri Airport, you can tailor your journey with practical extras that add comfort, protection, and flexibility from the moment you arrive. 

Whether you want car rental insurance Iceland options for extra peace of mind, GPS car rental Iceland support for easier route planning, or child seat car hire Iceland extras for family travel, we make it easier to match your rental to your trip.

Available add-ons may include:

• MAXCover: Enjoy an unburdened trip with our all-inclusive package that drops your self-excess to ZERO for covered damages (includes CDW, SCDW, Theft, Gravel, Sand & Ash, Tires, and Glass).
• Theft Protection: Lowers your liability if the vehicle is stolen.
• Child seats and boosters: Helpful for safer family travel.
• Collision Damage Waiver: Reduces your liability for damage to the vehicle.

Explore Nearby Locations within 15 miles from Akureyri Airport

Akureyri Town Centre and Harbour

• About 2.5 miles (4 km) from Akureyri Airport (approx)
• Mixed street and car‑park parking available

Shops, cafés, the harbourfront, and Akureyri Church (Akureyrarkirkja) make the compact town centre an easy first stop after picking up your rental car, with plenty of spots to walk, dine, and enjoy fjord views.

Akureyri Botanical Garden (Lystigarðurinn)

• Roughly 3.7 miles (6 km) from Akureyri Airport (approx)
• Free parking area nearby

Open seasonally with extended summer hours, the botanical garden showcases Arctic and alpine plants in a peaceful setting above town, offering paths, benches, and views over Akureyri and Eyjafjörður.

Goðafoss Waterfall

• About 30 miles (48 km) from Akureyri Airport via Route 1
• Dedicated parking area close to the waterfall

Open year‑round, Goðafoss is one of North Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, with marked walking paths and viewpoints that make it a natural first road‑trip stop when you drive east from Akureyri on the Ring Road.

Frequently Asked Questions: Akureyri Car Rentals

• • Do I need a 4×4 in Akureyri?
    A 4×4 is not required in town, but is strongly recommended in winter or for visiting rural/highland areas.

 

• • Can I rent a car at Akureyri Airport?
    Yes. Our Hertz rental desk is located inside the terminal at AEY. Walk-up rentals and pre-booked reservations are both available.

 

• • Can I drive from Akureyri to Reykjavik?
    Yes, the Ring Road (Route 1) connects the two cities. It’s about a 5-hour drive in summer, potentially longer in winter.

 

• • Is fuel expensive in Akureyri?
    Fuel prices are high across Iceland. We recommend budgeting about 3,000–5,000 ISK per day for gas, depending on your route and vehicle type.

 

• • Can I pick up in Akureyri and drop off in Reykjavik?
    Yes, one-way rentals are available. A fee may apply depending on the route.

 

Book Your Akureyri Car Rental Today

Skip the tour buses and tourist lines with a Hertz Iceland rental car in Akureyri, the road is truly yours. Whether you’re flying into AEY or starting your northbound journey here, we’re ready to get you on the road with confidence.

Book your Akureyri car rental today to secure your preferred vehicle and enjoy the freedom to explore Iceland your way.

Book Your Akureryi Car Rental Now