Parking A Camper Van In Reykjavik: Is It Possible?

If you're planning a trip to Iceland and want to explore the country in a camper van, it's important to be aware of the parking rules to avoid hefty fines. While Iceland is a great place to travel in a camper van, offering stunning scenery and freedom to stop wherever you like, there are strict rules about where you can park overnight.

In recent years, Iceland made it illegal to park and camp outside of designated camping zones. This means that you cannot park and stay overnight in a camper van outside of organised campsites or urban areas. However, there are many campsites across the country, and street parking in Reykjavik is always free before 9 am and after 6 pm, as well as all day on Sundays.

Paid parking zones in Reykjavik

Reykjavik has four different tariff zones with varying pricing and timings. The zones are P1, P2, P3, and P4. The pricing for these zones ranges from 220 kr. to 600 kr. per hour. The maximum time allowed for parking in these zones is 3 hours.

Tickets purchased in P1 are valid in all tariff zones, whereas tickets purchased in P2 are only valid in P2, P3, and P4. Tickets bought in P3 are only applicable to that zone, and the same goes for P4. Resident parking permits are not applicable in P1 and P4.

The tariff zones are colour-coded as follows:

• Light red for Tariff zone 1 (P1)
• Blue for Tariff zone 2 (P2)
• Green for Tariff zone 3 (P3)
• Orange for Tariff zone 4 (P4)

You can pay for parking using parking meters or by registering your vehicle in a payment app. The parking meters accept coins, cards, and phones, and you can also pay online.

It is important to note that street parking in Reykjavik is free before 9 am and after 6 pm, as well as all day on Sundays. Charges apply on weekdays from 9 am to 6 pm, and costs vary depending on the zone.

There are also parking garages in Reykjavik, which have their own rates. The rates for parking garages are typically around 180-260 ISK per hour.

It is worth noting that parking is free on certain holidays, including New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, June 17th, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.

Free parking in Reykjavik

Although there is limited free parking in Reykjavik, there are still some spots where you won't have to pay a penny.

Harbour Car Park

A large car park near the old harbour (or 'Grandi') area of the city offers free parking. Although it is a little rough and ready (gravel and potholes), it is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It is also just a 10-minute walk from the central Reykjavik.

On-Street Parking

Outside of the four parking zones in the city centre, on-street parking is largely free. Any streets that are not covered by the coloured zones (white on the map) should be free to park on. However, always check for additional signage to avoid a fine, as some restrictions may apply.

Hotel Car Parks

Many hotels in Reykjavik offer free parking for their guests. Hotels with free parking include:

• Skuggi Hotel
• Storm Hotel
• Hotel Holt
• Reykjavik Lights
• Hótel Reykjavík Grand

Gròtta Lighthouse

Although not centrally located, there is a free public car park in front of the Gròtta Island Lighthouse. This is a great option if you want to explore the westerly point of the city and the beautiful views across the coastline.

Public Holidays

Parking restrictions are generally relaxed on public holidays in Iceland. These include:

• Independence Day (17 June)
• Commerce Day (first Monday of August)

Additional Information

• Parking in Reykjavik is free before 9 am and after 6 pm on weekdays, before 10 am on Sundays, and all day on Saturdays and Sundays.
• There are four parking zones in Reykjavik, all of which are payable at different rates.
• Multi-storey car parks are available in the city, but they are chargeable 24/7.

Campervan camping in Iceland

Campervan camping is a popular and common way to experience Iceland's stunning scenery. It's a great way to combine your accommodation and transportation, allowing you to explore the country at your own pace. However, there are some important things to keep in mind when planning a campervan trip to Iceland.

Firstly, it is illegal to park and camp outside of designated camping zones. You must find an organised campsite or get the landowner's permission if you plan to stay overnight. There are about 200 campsites across the island, which are inexpensive and easy to find. These campsites offer access to facilities such as showers, toilets, electricity, and even wifi. The cost of camping in Iceland typically ranges from 1375 ISK to 2750 ISK per person, or about €10 to €20.

When it comes to parking your campervan in Reykjavik, the city is divided into different zones with varying rates. Zone 1 (red and pink) is the most central and expensive area, with rates up to 600 ISK per hour. Zone 2 (blue) surrounds the central areas and charges around 220 ISK per hour. Zone 3 (green) is further out and costs 90 ISK per hour. Zone 4 (orange) is primarily for residents, with specific regulations and charges of 220 ISK per hour during weekdays. Free parking options are also available in Reykjavik, especially outside the central zones, before 9 am and after 6 pm on weekdays, and all day on Sundays.

It's worth noting that parking in Iceland can be quite expensive, with rates ranging from 220-600 ISK per hour for metered spots and 180-260 ISK per hour for parking garages. Additionally, parking a campervan comes with specific rules, such as not being allowed to park on the side of the road or stay overnight outside of designated camping zones.

When renting a campervan in Iceland, you'll find a wide variety of options, from small vans to SUV 4x4 rentals. The cost of renting a campervan depends on factors such as size, model, and season, typically ranging from 10,000 to 28,000 ISK per night. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during the high season, to secure the best price.

Overall, campervan camping in Iceland offers a unique and flexible way to explore the country. By following the parking rules and respecting the natural environment, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip while discovering Iceland's breathtaking landscapes and attractions.

Reykjavik's attractions

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a vibrant city with a plethora of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here is a list of some of the must-visit places in the city:

• Hallgrimskirkja Church: This iconic church is the tallest in Iceland and offers a stunning 360-degree view of the city from its tower. It is named after a famous Icelandic poet and minister and features impressive architecture inspired by the country's basalt columns.
• Perlan: Perlan is a unique landmark in Reykjavik, featuring a glass dome and tanks that store hot water for the city using geothermal energy. The museum inside showcases the country's flora and fauna, and there is also a planetarium and a panoramic restaurant.
• Harpa Concert Hall: This impressive concert hall and convention centre is known for its stunning glass building and colourful design. It hosts a variety of events and is home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra.
• Sun Voyager: This striking piece of art on the coast resembles a Viking ship and is made of stainless steel. It represents hope, freedom, and progress and offers beautiful photo opportunities at sunset.
• Laugavegur: This lively shopping street is known for its colourful facades, atmospheric restaurants, and bars. It is a great place to find souvenirs and explore the side streets for more shops and art studios.
• Northern Lights: Reykjavik is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. There are museums dedicated to this phenomenon, such as Aurora Reykjavik, and various tours that take visitors outside the city to spots with less light pollution for a better chance of viewing them.
• Lake Tjörnin and Austurvöllur Square: Lake Tjörnin is a relaxing spot to observe water birds and features a beautiful art installation. Nearby, Austurvöllur Square is the heart of 'Old Reykjavik' and is home to the parliament building and the Dómkirkja church.
• The Settlement Exhibition: This museum, part of the Reykjavik City Museum, showcases the origins of Iceland and the first settlers. It features remains of a 10th-century farm and constructions from the Viking era, providing a glimpse into the country's history.
• National Museum of Iceland: Also known as Thjodminjasafn, this museum showcases the history of Icelandic culture through archaeological finds and photographs. It covers various topics such as lifestyle, traditions, and the Viking era.
• Whale Watching: Reykjavik offers boat trips for whale watching, where you can spot minke whales, porpoises, and dolphins. There is also an exhibition called 'Whales of Iceland' with life-size models and films about these majestic creatures.
• FlyOver Iceland: This immersive attraction takes visitors on a virtual flight over Iceland, combining storytelling, technology, and cinema. It includes pre-shows and a multi-projection experience before the main flight simulation, providing an unforgettable experience.
• Reykjavik City Museum: Maritime Museum: Located in a former fish factory in the old harbour, this museum explores Iceland's fishing history and the country's relationship with the sea. It covers fishing techniques, the processing of fish, and the role of the Coast Guard.
• Höfði House: This historic white wooden villa was the site of a meeting between US President Reagan and Russian President Gorbachev, marking the end of the Cold War.
• Videy Island: A short ferry ride from Reykjavik takes you to Videy Island, where you can see the Imagine Peace Tower, a memorial to John Lennon by his widow, Yoko Ono. The island offers beautiful walking routes and birdwatching opportunities.
• Grotta Lighthouse: A 5-kilometre walk from the city centre leads to the Grotta Lighthouse, which is an ideal spot for Northern Lights viewing. It is recommended to visit at low tide, as access to the lighthouse is restricted during high tide.
• Traditional Food: Reykjavik offers a variety of traditional Icelandic cuisine, including excellent lamb dishes and seafood. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, the city's oldest hot dog stand, is a popular spot among locals. For those feeling adventurous, there are also rarer dishes such as puffin, whale, and fermented shark.
• Laugardalur Park: This park offers a range of recreational activities, including the Laugardalslaug pool, the city's largest geothermal-heated pool. The park also features a free botanical garden, a family park, and a zoo.
• Museums: Reykjavik boasts an extensive array of museums, including the Árbaer Open-Air Museum, the National Gallery of Iceland, the Reykjavik Art Museum, the Punk Museum, and the Einar Jónsson Museum, among others. The Reykjavik City Card provides access to many of these museums and other attractions.

Campervan rental in Iceland

When renting a campervan in Iceland, it's important to keep in mind that you cannot park and camp just anywhere. New legislation prohibits parking overnight outside of organised campsites or urban areas, so be sure to find an approved campsite to spend the night. Campervans also cannot be parked on the side of the road or on private property without explicit permission from the landowner.

There are many companies offering campervan rentals in Iceland, with options to suit different group sizes and budgets. Most companies include standard equipment such as kitchen essentials and bedding, and some may offer additional extras such as WiFi, camping chairs, and portable grills. It's important to do your research and read reviews before choosing a rental company.

When driving a campervan in Iceland, be mindful of the speed limit and road conditions, especially when travelling on the Highland F-roads which require a 4x4 vehicle. Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so it's essential to be prepared for all conditions and follow any road closures or restrictions.

Overall, renting a campervan in Iceland can be a great way to explore the country and experience the beauty of its nature at your leisure. By planning your trip in advance and being mindful of the local rules and regulations, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Frequently asked questions