Expat Transport Guide: Getting Around Reykjavik

Transportation Overview

Reykjavik scores 4.0/5 for public transportation, with a cost of living rating of 2.0/5. Budget for approximately 18 transportation-related costs including transit passes and vehicle expenses.

Reykjavik has a compact and functional transportation system designed for a small capital city. The network primarily consists of buses operated by Strætó bs, serving the capital region and connecting to other parts of Iceland. While not as extensive as larger European capitals, the system is reliable and increasingly modernized to meet the needs of residents and tourists.

Quick Stats

Transport Score

4.0 /5

Cost of Living

2.0 /5

Weather Score

2.0 /5

Cost Items

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$8,357

Monthly Costs

$1,832/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

Driving License Conversion $85

Driving License New $850

International Driving Permit $25

Monthly

Public Transport Pass Adult $85/mo

Public Transport Pass Child $42/mo

Car Rental Monthly $850/mo

Showing 6 of 18 costs — sign up to see all

Want to See Your Numbers?

Get personalized transportation costs, timelines, and checklists for your family in Reykjavik.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Practical Tips

Buy Strætó bus pass through the app rather than physical card

digital tickets are cheaper and you can activate them only when needed

Park for free at Mjódd and take bus to downtown

saves both parking fees and time finding parking spots in city center

Use carpooling Facebook groups for trips to Keflavík airport

half the price of FlyBus and often more convenient pickup times

Get winter tires installed in September

tire shops become fully booked by October and prices increase with demand

Useful Links

Strætó - Reykjavik Public Transport

Official public transportation service for Reykjavik and surroundings, with routes, schedules, fares, and the Strætó app information in English.

›

Icelandic Transport Authority

Government agency providing information on driver's licenses, license exchange for foreigners, vehicle registration, and traffic regulations.

›

Reykjavik City Transport

Municipal information about Reykjavik's transportation infrastructure, cycling paths, parking regulations, and sustainable mobility options.

›

Keflavík Airport Transfer (Flybus)

Official airport shuttle service connecting Keflavík International Airport with Reykjavik, with schedule and booking information.

›

Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration

Government agency providing road conditions, traffic information, and winter driving advisories essential for navigating Iceland's unique road system.

›

Explore Other Guides

Immigration Guide Housing Guide Education Guide Healthcare Guide Finance Guide Pets Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Public transportation in Reykjavik includes buses, metro, trams, and other transit options. Coverage and frequency vary by neighborhood. Use ReloPlanner to see detailed transport scores for each area.

Whether you need a car in Reykjavik depends on your neighborhood and lifestyle. Create a free ReloPlanner account to compare transportation costs and options for your specific situation.

There are approximately 18 transportation-related costs to consider when moving to Reykjavik, including both one-time and recurring expenses. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see the full personalized cost breakdown.

Plan Your Entire Move to Reykjavik

Access step-by-step guides, personalized budgets, and expert tips for transportation and 6 other relocation categories across 140+ cities.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Data verified: March 2026

This was the general picture

Your move to Reykjavik looks nothing like this

This guide covers Reykjavik for everyone. Your plan covers your origin country, your kids' ages, your budget, your dog — with real costs, a sequenced task list, and the things most families don't find out until it's too late.

Build your personalised plan — free →

Takes 2 minutes to set up