When planning a trip to Iceland, one of the first questions every traveler faces is how to get around. This might sound like a simple detail, but transportation can shape the entire rhythm of your trip.

Unlike many destinations in Europe where trains and buses connect every corner, Iceland is different. Vast distances, unpredictable weather, and a low population density make public transport sparse. At the same time, Iceland’s natural wonders—volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, fjords, and black sand beaches—are scattered across the countryside, far from city centers.

That leaves you with two main options: renting a car or relying on buses. Both have their advantages, but they create very different travel experiences.

In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each, help you decide what fits your trip, and explain why for most travelers, renting with Zero Car is the key to a smoother and more adventurous journey.

What traveling by bus in Iceland is really like

Public transport in Iceland is mostly limited to local buses around Reykjavík, plus long-distance routes run by companies like Strætó or Reykjavik Excursions. These can get you to certain tourist hotspots, like the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, or the South Coast.

Advantages of taking the bus

For some travelers, buses do have appeal:

• Lower upfront cost: A solo traveler may find bus tickets cheaper than car rental, especially for very short trips.
• No driving worries: If you’re nervous about Iceland’s winter weather, buses remove the responsibility of handling icy or gravel roads.
• Eco-conscious travel: Per passenger, buses generally have a lower carbon footprint than cars.

The limitations of buses

But as soon as you try to explore beyond Reykjavík or a few day tours, the downsides become clear:

• Sparse schedules: Many routes run only once a day, meaning you have little flexibility.
• No spontaneous stops: See a waterfall or a hot spring by the roadside? The bus won’t wait for you.
• Limited destinations: Whole regions of Iceland—like the Eastfjords, Snæfellsnes, or the Highlands—aren’t served by public buses.
• Winter disruptions: Bad weather can cancel services, leaving you stranded.
• Less convenient for groups: Families or friends often find that multiple tickets cost more than renting.

So while buses work if you’re in Reykjavík and only plan a guided day tour, they simply don’t unlock the Iceland that most visitors dream of experiencing.

Renting a car: freedom to explore Iceland

A rental car in Iceland is more than transportation—it’s a passport to freedom. It lets you design your own itinerary, take detours, and reach the remote corners of the island that make it unforgettable.

Benefits of renting with Zero Car

Not all car rental companies in Iceland are the same. With Zero Car, you don’t just get a car—you get a stress-free experience designed for travelers. Here’s what sets Zero apart:

• Seamless pickup and drop-off: 24/7 keybox pickup and drop-off at KEF Airport and Reykjavík, with staff always present at KEF for assistance.
• Zero excess, no deposit: Insurance covers gravel, ash, sand, and roadside assistance. No hidden fees, no surprises.
• Unlimited mileage: Drive as far as you want without calculating costs.
• Diverse fleet: Compact cars for city trips, 4x4s for winter or the Highlands, EVs for eco-friendly travel.
• Roadside assistance included: Help is always a call away, at no extra cost.

This means less time worrying about logistics, and more time enjoying Iceland’s landscapes.

Car rental vs. bus: real-life scenarios

To really see the difference, let’s look at common traveler situations:

A couple on a romantic getaway

They want to see waterfalls, glaciers, and maybe catch the Northern Lights. With a rental car, they can drive out of Reykjavík at night to a dark-sky location. With buses, they’re stuck in the city.

A group of friends

Four friends traveling together often find that the cost of a rental is actually cheaper per person than bus tickets. Plus, they get the fun of road tripping together.

A family with kids

Children and strict timetables rarely mix. Having a rental car means stopping whenever needed—whether for a bathroom break, a snack, or a quick walk. Buses don’t allow for that kind of flexibility.

Solo backpacker

Here, buses can sometimes make sense, especially if the traveler only plans to stay in Reykjavík or take a guided day tour. But if they want to do the Ring Road, even a solo traveler benefits from a rental’s flexibility.

Seasonal differences: bus vs. car

Iceland changes drastically with the seasons, and your transportation needs change too.

Summer (June–August)

Bus travel: More frequent routes operate, especially for tourist areas.

Car rental: The best option for the full Ring Road or Highland adventures. Campsites are open, making road trips ideal.

Autumn (September–October)

Bus travel: Services start winding down, making schedules thinner.

Car rental: A car lets you chase the Northern Lights and avoid tourist crowds. Planning ahead is key here.

Winter (November–March)

Bus travel: Weather disruptions are common. Some routes close.

Car rental: With a 4x4 and winter tires, you can still reach frozen waterfalls, hot springs, and snowy landscapes. Driving requires caution, but it’s worth it.

Spring (April–May)

Bus travel: Still limited until summer schedules begin.

Car rental: Perfect time for road trips, with fewer tourists and longer daylight.

No matter the season, a rental car gives you flexibility buses simply can’t.

Preparing for a road trip in Iceland

Driving here isn’t difficult, but it does require preparation:

• Check road conditions: road.is provides updates on closures, gravel sections, and snow.
• Monitor weather: Forecasts change quickly. Check vedur.is daily.
• Know your route: Download offline maps in case of poor signal.
• Pack smart: Warm layers, snacks, and a thermos can make long drives easier.

Choose the right car: Unsure? See our guide to the best cars for every trip.

The real cost comparison

Many travelers assume buses are always cheaper. But let’s break it down.

A one-way bus ticket from Reykjavík to Akureyri is around €70 per person. For a family of four, that’s €280—one way.

Renting a car for a day may cost the same or less, but gives you the ability to stop wherever you want, carry luggage, and return on your schedule.

Over a week, buses can actually cost more than renting, especially when factoring in day tours for places buses don’t reach.

When you consider flexibility, hidden costs of tours, and group size, a car often provides better value.

When does the bus make sense?

To be fair, there are moments when buses are a good choice:

•  Short city breaks: If you’ll spend most of your trip in Reykjavík.
•  Guided tours: If you prefer to have a driver and guide explain everything or you are no confident with the road ahead (think the highlands in summer and river crossing)
•  Solo travelers on a budget: If sticking to the city and one or two excursions.

But beyond these cases, most travelers regret not having a car.

Final takeaway

For most travelers, renting a car is not just convenient—it’s the only way to fully experience Iceland’s beauty. Buses may suit short city trips, but a rental gives you freedom, flexibility, and access to the country’s most unforgettable landscapes.

And when you choose Zero Car, you get more than a car. You get peace of mind, fair pricing, and a team that has your back. With no deposit, zero excess insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and seamless pickup at KEF and Reykjavík, your Iceland adventure becomes stress-free from start to finish.

👉 Ready to hit the road? Discover why renting with Zero is the smarter choice for Iceland travel.