Our Selection of Rental Cars in Iceland

It depends on where and when you’re going. If you plan to stick to Reykjavík and the Golden Circle during summer, a regular car will usually do the job. But if you’re visiting during winter or plan on seeing the highlands, a 4x4 is highly recommended and in some cases, required by law.

F-roads, which are mountain roads in Iceland’s interior, are only open in summer and legally require a 4x4 vehicle. These roads are rough, sometimes include river crossings, and are completely off-limits to standard cars. Even on paved roads, Iceland’s weather can shift fast. A 4x4 gives you better traction and peace of mind in snow, rain, and wind.

So, while you might not always need one, having a 4x4 rental gives you the freedom to explore more and handle changing road conditions safely.