Reykjavík, Iceland - Cruise Port
Independent Driving Excursion

Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital, is more than just a gateway to breathtaking landscapes—it’s a destination in itself. With limited time on our hands during an overnight cruise stop, we opted for a DIY approach to explore the city and embark on the famous Golden Circle tour. Was it worth it? Absolutely—but not without some surprises

Resources and links:

Blue Car Rental

HARPA Concert Hall

Reykjavik Taxis

Hreyfill (+354 588 5522)

BSR (+354 561 0000)

Updates:

Arriving in Reykjavik: Ports & Transport

Reykjavik has two main cruise ports: Miðbakki, centrally located for smaller ships, and Skarfabakki, an industrial dock about 5 km from downtown, where most larger ships, including ours, dock. While Skarfabakki lacks amenities, it serves as a transport hub with taxis, tour buses, and a free shuttle that drops passengers off at HARPA Concert Hall, Reykjavik’s cultural centerpiece. The shuttle is a time-saver, but expect long lines.

DIY Car Rental for the Golden Circle

Wanting flexibility, we rented a car for a 24-hour self-drive tour of the Golden Circle. Car rental offices are scattered across the city, and we chose Blue Car Rental, a short walk from HARPA. Booking in advance through carsiceland.com secured us a rate of 38,284 ISK (~$280 USD) plus 3,971 ISK (~$30 USD) for gas, making it a budget-friendly option at about $120 per person.

Golden Circle Highlights

  1. Þingvellir National Park (45 min drive): Home to the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates separate. Surreal hiking trails, Öxarárfoss waterfall, and top-notch facilities made this stop a highlight. Prepare for cold, windy weather and aggressive flies near the falls!

  2. Gullfoss Waterfall: A massive, roaring cascade with well-marked trails and viewing platforms. Free entry, ample parking, and a decent restaurant offering local stew and fish & chips. Beware of pickpockets and stay within designated safety zones.

  3. Geysir: We skipped this stop due to crowds and its touristy feel, but it’s another popular sight along the route.

Driving back, we enjoyed the freedom to stop at random roadside attractions—Icelandic horses, geothermal plants, and even a brief detour to Selfoss.

The Parking Dilemma & Late-Night Logistics

Returning to Reykjavik, we assumed we could park overnight near the port. Wrong. The port parking lot had some unregulated overnight parking, but space was limited, and official policies were unclear.

With no port parking available, we opted to return the car, but this meant extra transport back to the ship. Unfortunately, the shuttle had stopped running, and Reykjavik has no rideshare services. After some scrambling, we secured a cab thanks to fellow cruisers.

Tips:

  1. Since there is no Uber and public transport is limited to the port, make sure to have a local taxi number.

  2. If you plan to drive, make sure to read up about Iceland Roundabouts since they work slightly different than the rest of Europe

  3. Practically everyone speaks fluent English

Reykjavik’s Walkable Delights

The next morning, we used the free shuttle back to HARPA to explore the city on foot. Reykjavik is one of the most walkable cities in the world, offering a delightful mix of history, culture, and local charm. Some must-see spots:

  • Hallgrímskirkja Church: Iconic landmark, free to enter, and sometimes hosts live music. The panoramic view from the tower is worth the climb.

  • Laugavegur Street: Reykjavik’s main shopping street, brimming with boutiques, bookstores, and quirky souvenir shops. Keep an eye out for stunning murals and street art.

  • Museums: From Viking history to a quirky punk rock museum in an old toilet, Reykjavik’s museums are full of surprises.

  • HARPA Concert Hall: More than an architectural marvel—it features art exhibits, performances, and even VR experiences.

  • Old Harbor Area: A lively district filled with seafood restaurants, whale-watching tours, and artisan coffee shops

  • Colorful Reykjavik Homes: The city’s bright, tin-clad houses add a cheerful pop to the skyline. Exploring side streets will lead you to some of the most photogenic spots.

  • Funky shops & eateries: Reykjavik’s eclectic charm shines through its cozy cafés, craft breweries, and unique restaurants, including famous spots for Icelandic hot dogs.

Final Thoughts: DIY vs. Tours

While guided tours offer convenience, renting a car gave us freedom, flexibility, and an authentic Icelandic road trip experience. Driving in Iceland is a pleasurable experience with excellent road quality. Reykjavik’s compact layout makes walking a joy, and public shuttles help bridge longer distances.