Car Rental at Reykjavík Downtown

Exploring Iceland by car is one of the best ways to make the most of your trip, and picking up your car rental in Reykjavík Downtown gives you a smooth, flexible start to your journey.

Hertz Car Rental at Reykjavík Downtown

Reykjavík is Iceland’s vibrant capital and the main base for many visitors, making our Reykjavík Downtown car rental station a practical starting point for both city exploring and self‑drive day trips across the southwest. Unlike airport‑only rental services, Hertz Iceland operates right in the city, so you can pick up your car close to your accommodation, skip shuttle transfers, and start driving on your own schedule.

With car hire in Reykjavík Downtown, you can easily reach the city’s landmarks, coastal viewpoints, and the main roads leading out of town. Hertz makes car rental in Reykjavík easy, comfortable, and flexible, so your downtown pickup feels like a smooth first step before you head to Iceland’s nature, hot springs, or the Ring Road.

• About 1.2 miles (2 km) from Hallgrímskirkja Church
• Around 1.9 miles (3 km) to Harpa Concert Hall
• About 1.8 miles (3 km) from Perlan
• Roughly 30 miles (48 km) from Keflavík International Airport (KEF)

Hertz Car Hire at Reykjavík Downtown Pickup Location

Hertz Reykjavík Downtown is located at Flugvallarvegi 5, 101 Reykjavík, placing you close to key city attractions and the main routes leading out of the capital.

After you arrive in Reykjavík, you can reach our downtown station with a short taxi or bus ride and pick up your reserved vehicle right in the city, without needing to return to the airport.

Hertz Reykjavík Downtown is located at Flugvallarvegi 5, 101 Reykjavík, placing you close to key city attractions and the main routes leading out of the capital.

Collecting Your Rental Car at Reykjavík Downtown

Online check‑in

With Hertz Iceland, you can take care of key rental details before you arrive, so pickup feels quicker and more convenient from the moment you reach our Reykjavík Downtown station. It is a simple way to save time, move through the process more easily, and start your scenic drives from Reykjavík with less hassle.​

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 at the start of your holiday is never ideal. With Hertz Iceland, pickup 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 or a longer stay. From Reykjavík Downtown, you can quickly reach the city centre, connect to Route 41 towards Keflavík, or join the Ring Road for longer self‑drive adventures.

Pick-Up Your Hire Car at Reykjavik Downtown

Collecting and Returning Your Rental Car at Reykjavík Downtown

Where is the Hertz Reykjavík Downtown car hire desk?

You will find our rental desk at our Reykjavík Downtown station, located at Flugvallarvegi 5, 101 Reykjavík. When you arrive, simply enter the building to meet our team at the Hertz Iceland counter and finalise your Reykjavík car rental pickup.

All Hertz Iceland vehicles for this station are parked just outside the Reykjavík Downtown building, so once your paperwork is complete, you can walk straight to your car and start your journey.

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

• Your reservation confirmation email
• Valid driver’s licence (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.

You car is parked here:

We offer a ZERO excess rental car coverage package at our KEF 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 licence, 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 from Reykjavík.
• Review payment and rental terms: Complete any remaining payment requirements, then review the rental agreement before collecting your keys.
• Find and inspect your car: Head outside the Reykjavík Downtown building, locate your vehicle in the Hertz parking area, and take a quick look around to note its condition before you set off.
• Drive out and follow city signs: Once you are settled in, simply follow the local road signs towards Reykjavík city centre, Route 41, or the Ring Road to begin your journey.

How to get from Reykjavík Downtown to the Ring Road and city centre?

After collecting your Hertz car at Reykjavík Downtown, you can easily reach both the city centre and Iceland’s main roads:

• From Flugvallarvegi 5, follow local signs towards Reykjavík city centre / Miðborg or your hotel area.
• To start a longer road trip, follow signs towards Route 41 (Reykjanesbraut) or join Route 49/Route 1 to connect with the Ring Road around Iceland.
• The drive into the central downtown area usually takes around 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.

What cars can I hire from Reykjavík Downtown?

Whether you are staying in Reykjavík, planning scenic drives along the coast, or starting a longer Ring Road adventure, 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 city stays, lighter packing, and easy parking in Reykjavík.
• 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 Reykjavík day trips and longer drives in southwest Iceland.
• Full-size sedans: A more spacious choice when you want extra comfort for family travel or a relaxed drive between Reykjavík and other regions.
• SUVs and 4x4s: A 4×4 or SUV rental in Reykjavík is a strong fit for seasonal travel, varied road conditions, and trips where extra confidence behind the wheel matters.
• Electric vehicles: A quieter, more modern way to travel, with options that suit drivers looking for a lower‑emission alternative while exploring Reykjavík and nearby areas.
• Vans and larger vehicles: Helpful for groups, extra luggage, or anyone who wants to keep everyone travelling together from Reykjavík Downtown.

Returning your car at Reykjavík Downtown

When your trip is complete, simply return your car to the same Reykjavík Downtown station where you picked it up, at Flugvallarvegi 5, 101 Reykjavík. Park your vehicle in the Hertz parking area just outside the building, remove all personal belongings, and then bring the keys back to our desk or follow the self‑service drop‑off instructions if you are returning outside regular opening hours.

How to extend your car hire booking at Hertz Reykjavík Downtown

To extend your booking, call the Reykjavík Downtown branch or Hertz Iceland support, or 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 Iceland self-drive travel tips

• Check conditions before every drive: Iceland’s weather and road conditions can change quickly, so it is worth checking Road.is and SafeTravel before setting off, even for shorter routes from Keflavík.
• Keep your headlights on at all times: In Iceland, headlights must be on day and night. You should also watch the speed limits, which are typically 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on rural gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved rural roads unless signs say otherwise.
• Choose the right car for your route: A standard car works well for Reykjavík and many main roads, but Highland F-roads require a proper 4×4 and are only open seasonally.
• Plan fuel or charging stops early: Fuel stations are easy to find in towns and along Route 1, but they are more limited in remote areas. Many rural pumps are self-service, so it helps to keep your card ready and top up before longer stretches.
• Slow down on gravel roads and one-lane bridges: Single-lane bridges are common in Iceland, including on major routes. Reduce speed early, stay alert, and give yourself extra space on loose or uneven surfaces.
• Watch for sheep and strong wind: Livestock often wander close to the road, especially in rural areas. In windy conditions, park carefully and hold the car door firmly when getting in or out.
• Stay on marked roads only: Off-road driving is prohibited in Iceland because it can seriously damage the landscape. It can also lead to fines and unnecessary vehicle risk.

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:

Iceland Facts Guide: Everything to Know Before Visiting

Best Time to Visit Iceland: Insider Tips from Locals

Do You Really Need One? Best 4WD Options for Your Trip

Value-Added Services for Your Iceland Car Hire

When you go for the best car rental at Keflavík International 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 Reykjavík Downtown

Hallgrímskirkja Church

• 0.8 miles from Reykjavík Downtown (approx)
• 40+ paid parking spots nearby (approx)
• 4 active charging points nearby (approx)
• Open daily, hours vary by season

Hallgrímskirkja is Reykjavík’s iconic landmark church, known for its tower views over the city and unique basalt‑inspired design, making it an easy first stop after picking up your car in Reykjavík.

Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre

• 1.6 miles from Reykjavík Downtown (approx)
• 60+ paid parking spots nearby (approx)
• 6 active charging points nearby (approx)
• Open daily, hours vary by events and facilities

Harpa sits on Reykjavík’s waterfront and is known for its glass façade, harbour views, and regular concerts and cultural events, offering a convenient mix of architecture, culture, and scenery close to the city centre.

Perlan – Wonders of Iceland

• 1.2 miles from Reykjavík Downtown (approx)
• 80+ parking spots nearby (approx)
• 8 active charging points nearby (approx)
• Open daily, typically from late morning to evening

Perlan combines an observation deck with panoramic views over Reykjavík, interactive nature exhibitions, and a man‑made ice cave, making it a family‑friendly stop that connects city sightseeing with an introduction to Icelandic nature.

Frequently Asked Questions – Reykjavík Downtown Car Rental

• • Where do I pick up my rental car in Reykjavík Downtown?
    You can pick up your car with us at the Hertz Reykjavík Downtown station, located at Flugvallarvegi 5, 101 Reykjavík. Our team is ready to assist you at the rental desk inside the building, and the cars are parked just outside, which makes collection simple and quick once your paperwork is complete. That setup helps you move from the city to the road without extra transfers or shuttle buses.
    
    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – Take full advantage of our convenient downtown location; because our desk and cars are in the same place, you can go from check‑in to driving in just a few steps.

• • What documents should I bring when collecting the car?
    Please bring your valid driver’s licence, a physical credit card in the main driver’s name, and your booking confirmation. If you are arriving from Keflavík Airport and shared your flight number when booking, that also helps us understand your arrival time if there are delays on the way into Reykjavík. Having everything ready at the desk makes your pickup quicker and more straightforward.

• • How old do I need to be to hire a car from Hertz in Reykjavík?
    Most vehicles can be rented from age 20, while larger SUVs, vans, and luxury car rentals from Reykjavík usually require drivers to be 23 to 25, depending on the category. Hertz Iceland also notes there is no maximum age limit. If you are choosing a larger vehicle for an Iceland road trip starting in Reykjavík, it is worth checking the age requirement for that class before booking.
    
    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – Whether you are 20 renting a compact car or 25 renting a luxury SUV, you are guaranteed a vehicle from our Newer, Reliable Fleet, meaning your car will be under 2 years old and expertly maintained.

• • Do I need an international driving permit in Iceland?
    Not always. If your licence is valid, printed in the Latin alphabet, and has been held for at least 12 months, it is generally accepted. If your licence uses another script, you should bring an International Driving Permit as well. This is one of the most useful details to know before a Reykjavík car rental pickup.

• • What driving rules should I know before driving from Reykjavík?
    In Iceland, you drive on the right. Headlights must stay on at all times, seat belts are required for all passengers, and using a mobile phone while driving is only allowed with hands‑free equipment. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural gravel roads, and 90 km/h on rural paved roads unless signs say otherwise.

• • Do I need a 4×4 rental in Reykjavík or winter tyres in Iceland?
    For Reykjavík and popular main routes in summer, a 2WD is often enough. In winter, and for more remote travel, a 4×4 is the better choice. F‑roads in the Highlands require a 4×4 by law, and driving a non‑4×4 vehicle there can void insurance. Hertz also states that winter tyres are included when required seasonally.
    
    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – Whether you opt for an efficient 2WD or a rugged 4×4, you can explore Iceland with confidence knowing our comprehensive Nationwide Support and customer service are always just a phone call away.

• • What should I know about fuel and returning the car?
    Hertz Iceland operates a full‑to‑full fuel policy, so you receive the car with a full tank and should return it full unless you bought a prepaid fuel option. For Reykjavík Downtown, simply drive back to Flugvallarvegi 5, park in the Hertz parking area outside the building, and return your keys at the desk or use the self‑service drop‑off if available.