Getting Around Iceland Without a Car: Buses, Ferries & Flights

Getting around Iceland without a car is entirely possible — and for many travellers, a combination of buses, ferries, and domestic flights opens up corners of the country that a hire car alone might miss. This guide covers every public transport option available in Iceland, from the Strætó city buses of Reykjavík to the scenic ferries crossing Breiðafjörður, so you can plan your journey with confidence.

Whether you are travelling solo on a tight budget, exploring the Ring Road by coach, or hopping between regions by air, Iceland's transport network is more connected than most visitors expect. Read on for everything you need to know.

Strætó: Getting Around Reykjavík by Bus

The Reykjavík city bus network, operated by Strætó, is the backbone of urban travel in the capital and the most affordable way to get between the city centre, the suburbs, and nearby attractions. Services run daily from early morning until midnight, with reduced frequency on weekends and public holidays.

A single Strætó ticket costs around 560 ISK (approximately €3.80) and is valid for 75 minutes of travel, including free transfers between buses within that window. Tickets can be purchased directly on the bus using exact change, via the Strætó app, or at selected bus stations around the city.

Discounted fares are available for children under 18, registered students, and senior citizens. If you are spending several days in Reykjavík, the Reykjavík City Card is worth considering: it bundles unlimited Strætó travel with free entry to museums and geothermal pools, and is available in 24, 48, and 72-hour versions.

Keflavík Airport Transfers

Arriving at Keflavík International Airport, located roughly 50 kilometres southwest of Reykjavík, your first transport decision in Iceland is how to reach the capital. There are two main options.

The Flybus (operated by Reykjavík Excursions) and the Airport Express both offer scheduled coach services from the terminal directly to the BSÍ bus terminal in central Reykjavík, with optional hotel drop-off available at a small surcharge. Journey time is approximately 45 to 60 minutes depending on your final stop, and tickets can be booked in advance online or purchased at the airport on arrival.

Private transfers and shared taxis are also available for those arriving with heavy luggage, families, or on an early morning schedule when coach frequency is reduced.

Intercity Buses: Exploring Iceland Beyond Reykjavík

Iceland's intercity bus network connects Reykjavík to major towns, national parks, and attractions across the country. The primary operators are Reykjavík Excursions, Sterna Travel, and Strætó, each covering different routes and regions.

Intercity services run predominantly from May to September, with very limited options outside of peak season. Key routes include the Golden Circle, the South Coast, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the Ring Road corridor. If you are planning to travel the Ring Road by public transport, it is possible in summer using a combination of scheduled coaches and the Strætó regional buses.

Bus Passports (also called Fly Bus Passports) offer flexible multi-trip options for travellers planning to cover several routes. These passes allow unlimited travel within specific zones or over a set number of days, and represent excellent value for those without a hire car. For more context on whether a rental car makes more sense for your itinerary, our guide to renting a car in Iceland is a useful companion read.

Ferry Services: Reaching the Westfjords and Westman Islands

Iceland's ferry network is a practical and scenic way to reach destinations that would otherwise require long drives or expensive domestic flights.

The main routes to know are:

• Landeyjahöfn to Heimaey (Westman Islands) — the fastest crossing at roughly 35 minutes; runs multiple times daily in summer, weather permitting
• Stykkishólmur to Flatey and Brjánslækur (Westfjords) — operated by Sæferðir, this is a beautiful 2.5-hour crossing through the islands of Breiðafjörður and one of the most scenic ferry journeys in Iceland
• Reykjavík to Akranes — a short 15-minute crossing that saves the 50-kilometre drive around the bay

Reservations are strongly recommended in summer, particularly if you are travelling with a vehicle. Fares vary by route and season; booking directly through the ferry operator websites is generally the most economical option.

Domestic Flights: Connecting Iceland's Regions Quickly

For travellers short on time or heading to destinations like Akureyri, Ísafjörður, or Egilsstaðir, Iceland's domestic flights offer a fast and surprisingly affordable alternative to long drives.

The two primary domestic carriers are Air Iceland Connect and Eagle Air, both operating out of Reykjavík Domestic Airport (RKV), situated just minutes from the city centre. Flight times are short — Reykjavík to Akureyri takes around 45 minutes compared to a 4.5-hour drive — and prices are competitive when booked in advance.

Note that some regional airports require an additional taxi or bus connection to reach the nearest town. Factor this into your journey time when planning connections.

Planning Your Trip Without a Car

Iceland without a car requires more advance planning than a self-drive itinerary, but it is entirely achievable — especially in summer when bus and ferry frequencies are highest. A few practical tips:

• Book intercity buses and ferries as early as possible in summer; popular routes sell out weeks ahead
• Download the Strætó app before you arrive for real-time bus tracking in Reykjavík
• Consider a hub-and-spoke approach based in Reykjavík for day trips rather than trying to circumnavigate the Ring Road entirely by coach. This approach works especially well for solo travellers
• The FAQs for first-time travellers to Iceland covers broader planning considerations, including accommodation and budgeting

Frequently Asked Questions About Public Transport in Iceland

Does Iceland have good public transport?

Iceland's public transport is reliable within Reykjavík and along main tourist routes in summer, but coverage becomes very limited in rural areas and during winter. Most travellers combine public buses with hire cars for maximum flexibility.

Can you do the Ring Road without a car?

Yes, but it requires planning. Intercity bus services cover much of Route 1 in summer, and several tour operators offer scheduled coach circuits around the Ring Road. Outside of June to September, this becomes significantly more difficult.

How much does the Strætó bus cost in Reykjavík?

A single Strætó ticket costs approximately 560 ISK (around €3.80) and is valid for 75 minutes including transfers. The Reykjavík City Card offers unlimited travel bundled with museum entry.

How do I get from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík by public transport?

The Flybus and Airport Express coaches run directly from the airport terminal to central Reykjavík. Journey time is 45 to 60 minutes; tickets can be booked online or purchased on arrival.

Are there buses to the Golden Circle?

Yes. Reykjavík Excursions and other operators run scheduled day-trip coaches to Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss throughout summer. Seats can be reserved directly through their websites.

Can you get to the Westfjords by public transport?

Yes, via the Sæferðir ferry from Stykkishólmur to Brjánslækur combined with bus connections. The ferry passes through Flatey Island and is one of Iceland's most scenic journeys. Note that the Westfjords themselves have very limited onward bus services, so some flexibility or a hire car at the destination end is recommended.