Does Iceland Have Uber? How to Get Around Reykjavik
The question comes up constantly: does Iceland have Uber? The answer is no. Uber, Lyft, and similar ride-hailing apps do not operate in Iceland. The country's taxi market is regulated, and ride-sharing services have not been licensed. But that does not mean getting around is difficult. You just need to know your options.
Taxis in Reykjavik
Reykjavik has several licensed taxi companies, with Hreyfill and BSR being the largest. You can hail them on the street, call for a pickup, or use their apps. Taxi stands are located at Laugavegur, Hlemmir bus terminal, and the domestic airport.
Taxi fares are metered and regulated. A trip within central Reykjavik typically costs 2,000 to 3,500 ISK. From the city centre to the domestic airport (a 10-minute ride) runs around 2,500 ISK. Fares increase after midnight and on weekends.
Taxis accept credit cards. Tipping is not expected.
Airport Transfers
Keflavik International Airport is about 50 km from Reykjavik. Your options:
- Flybus (operated by Reykjavik Excursions): Around 3,500 ISK one way, with door-to-door add-on available. Buses depart after every arriving flight
- Airport Direct: Similar service with comparable pricing
- Taxi: Around 18,000 to 22,000 ISK for a direct ride to Reykjavik. Worth considering for groups of three or four splitting the fare
- Pre-booked private transfer: Several companies offer fixed-price transfers. Convenient but pricier
Public Transport
Reykjavik's public bus system is run by Strætó. It covers the greater capital area with reasonable frequency during the day (every 15 to 30 minutes on main routes) but limited evening and weekend service.
A single ride costs 550 ISK (exact change required if paying cash, or use the Klappid app for digital tickets). A day pass costs 1,920 ISK and a three-day pass 4,080 ISK.
The bus network connects Reykjavik's neighbourhoods, Kópavogur, Hafnarfjordur, and Mosfellsbær. Route 1 along Laugavegur is the most useful for tourists.
Outside the capital, long-distance bus services connect Reykjavik to Akureyri, the south coast, and the Westfjords, but frequencies are low (often one bus per day) and the service is seasonal on some routes.
Car Rental
For most visitors, renting a car is the most practical way to explore Iceland. It gives you complete freedom over your schedule and route.
A small 2WD car costs from 8,000 ISK per day in low season. For highland roads and winter travel, a 4x4 is strongly recommended (from 20,000 ISK per day).
Parking in central Reykjavik is paid (using the Parka app or meters) but free in most of the rest of the country.
Walking and Cycling
Central Reykjavik is compact and walkable. You can cover most of the city centre on foot in 20 to 30 minutes. Many visitors never need transport within the downtown area.
The city has a growing network of cycling paths, and bike rentals are available from several outlets. In summer, cycling is a pleasant way to explore the harbour area, Laugardalur park, and the coastal path to Seltjarnarnes.
E-Scooters
Hopp e-scooters operate in Reykjavik during the warmer months (roughly April to October). Download the Hopp app, scan a scooter, and pay per minute. They are a fun way to zip between neighbourhoods but not practical for longer distances.
The Bottom Line
Iceland does not have Uber, but it does not need it. Taxis, buses, rental cars, and walkable city centres cover all the bases. For anything beyond Reykjavik, a rental car is by far the best option, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.