When coming to Iceland, it’s more than likely that you’re going to spend some time in Reykjavik. The country’s capital is usually the first and last place people stop during their vacation. It’s normal to do a little bit of sightseeing, shopping, and taking part in the city’s legendary nightlife. But what’s the best way to get around Reykjavik? Can you call an Uber or is it just best to walk? There are quite a few different modes of transport, and you can use some or a combination of all of them.
The Best Way to Get Around Reykjavik – Walking
Walking is definitely the best way to see Reykjavik. The city center is compact enough that you can walk to most sights in 10 or 15 minutes. To reach things that are farther away, you’ll need 20 or 30. It’s quite easy to get around and is also good exercise. Hallgrímskirkja church is located in the heart of downtown, and the Whale Museum, Harpa Concert Hall, the Sun Voyager Statue, Hlemmur Food Hall, the Settlement Exhibition, Perlan Observatory, Laugavegur Street, and much more are all within walking distance. Plus you’ll find quirky, interesting surprises around every corner. See how many different colors and shades you can name with the painted wooden houses around town.
WOW Citybike – Cycle Around Town
If walking is a little too slow for you, why not participate in the city’s bike sharing program? Reykjavik welcomed WOW citybike in June of 2017, and the environmentally-friendly initiative has steadily grown in popularity since then. Both locals and tourists alike take advantage of the easy-to-use system. With eight bike docking stations scattered all over the city, it’s easy to rent, ride, and return one of their signature purple bikes. Each ride is only 350 ISK ($2.85 or 2,51€) for 30 minutes. If you’d like to extend your time on the bike, it’s 500 ISK ($4.07 or 3,59€) for each additional 30 minutes. Learn more about the program on their website here and view a station map here. You can sign up online, obtain a passcode at one of the bike station kiosks, or use the transit app to rent your bike.
Reykjavik City Bus – Small Yet Efficient
Another great way to get from point A to point B in Reykjavik is by using the city bus. With a ticket costing 460 ISK ($3.74 or 3,30€), public transport is an easy, affordable way to travel around the city center. For those days when it’s just too cold to walk, check out the website for Strætó, the city’s transportation system. You can see bus stops, timetables, and even their handy route planner.
What I Don’t Recommend – Taxis in Reykjavik
While the taxis themselves are just fine, they are an incredibly expensive method of transport. It just doesn’t make sense to take a taxi in Reykjavik when you have so many other options available. Think of taxis as a last resort. Ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft have not yet arrived in Iceland, so if you’re looking for some sort of private vehicle, then taxis are your best bet.
Transport Options in Reykjavik
Whether you decide to go by foot, bike, taxi, or bus, you’re sure to have a great time in Reykjavik. It’s a small, walkable city with a lot of charm and they all enjoy discovering it no matter what method of transport you choose. Let us know your preferred way of getting around Reykjavik.
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