Explore
Iceland by Car
Your Road Trip
Starts Here
From winding coastal roads and dramatic fjords to glaciers, waterfalls and volcanic landscapes, Iceland is one of the world’s greatest road trip destinations.
Travel with Norröna from Denmark to Iceland in your own car and experience one of the world’s greatest road trips in a car you already know. Whether you’re setting off from Denmark or driving across Europe to catch the ferry, your Iceland adventure begins the moment you drive onboard.
Made for Road Trips
Some destinations are best explored on foot. Others reveal themselves from the window of a train. Iceland is different.
Driving is part of the experience. As you follow the road, the landscape changes constantly – from colourful fishing villages and peaceful fjords to black sand beaches, glaciers, lava fields and steaming geothermal areas. Along the way, you’ll encounter geysers, waterfalls and volcanic landscapes, each offering a different perspective on the country’s remarkable geology.
It’s this remarkable variety that makes Iceland a destination unlike anywhere else to explore by road. Around almost every bend, there’s a reason to stop, take a photo or simply enjoy the view. The journey between destinations becomes just as memorable as the places themselves.
Why Bring
Your Own Car?
One of the greatest advantages of travelling to Iceland by ferry is arriving with the vehicle you already know and trust. From the moment you leave Norröna in Seyðisfjörður, you can begin your road trip and explore Iceland at your own pace.
Bringing your own car also gives you the freedom to pack exactly what you need. Whether it’s hiking boots, outdoor equipment, a picnic for scenic stops or extra luggage for a longer holiday, everything travels with you, so you’re ready for whatever the journey brings.
How Long
Will You Stay?
Most travellers spend between one and three weeks exploring Iceland by car. However long you stay, every extra day opens the door to new experiences. Here are a few ideas to inspire your journey.
One Week
Perfect for First-Time Visitors
Discover some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, from the Eastfjords and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon to the waterfalls of the South Coast and the Golden Circle. It’s an ideal introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders.
Ideal for:
- First-time visitors
- Couples
- Families
Two Weeks
See More, Rush Less
With two weeks, you’ll have time to experience the Ring Road at a more relaxed pace. Discover the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, enjoy scenic detours and spend longer exploring the places that interest you most.
Ideal for:
- Returning visitors
- Nature lovers
- Photography
- Hiking
Three Weeks
Complete Iceland Experience
Three weeks gives you the freedom to venture beyond the classic sights. Explore the Westfjords, discover quieter regions and enjoy the flexibility to take the scenic route wherever it leads.
Ideal for:
- Returning visitors
- Travellers with time to explore
- Couples enjoying an extended holiday
- Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts
- Travellers who prefer slow travel
Discover Iceland
From breathtaking landscapes to relaxing baths – find your perfect Icelandic adventure.
Start in East Iceland
Your holiday starts onboard Norröna. Your Iceland adventure begins in East Iceland, a different way to experience Iceland from the very first day.
As you leave the ferry in Seyðisfjörður, you’re immediately surrounded by towering mountains, colourful houses and spectacular fjord landscapes. Here, the pace slows, giving you the opportunity to discover a quieter side of Iceland before continuing around the island.
East Iceland offers a gentle introduction to Iceland, where quiet roads, dramatic scenery and welcoming villages allow you to settle into the journey from the very beginning. It’s the kind of start that reminds you a road trip isn’t just about reaching the destination. Some of the most memorable moments are found along the way.
Planning
Your Trip
Best Time to Visit
Every season offers something different.
Driving Distances
Roads may look short on a map, but allow plenty of time for sightseeing.
Weather
Conditions can change quickly.
Fuel & Charging
Easy to find along the Ring Road.
Roads
The Ring Road is suitable for standard passenger cars.
What to Pack
· Layers
· Swimwear
· Waterproof clothing
· Good walking shoes
Why Travel by Ferry?
Travelling with Norröna is about more than reaching your destination. The crossing becomes part of the holiday, giving you time to relax, enjoy life onboard and arrive refreshed for the experiences ahead. Stay in comfortable cabins, enjoy good food and panoramic sea views – and, if you choose, include a stop in the Faroe Islands along the way. Arrive in Seyðisfjörður ready to continue your road trip through Iceland.
FAQ
Travelling with your car
Can I bring my own car to Iceland
Yes. Travelling with Norröna allows you to bring your own car to Iceland, so you can begin your road trip as soon as you arrive in Seyðisfjörður. Travelling in your own vehicle also gives you the flexibility to pack everything you need for your holiday.
Can I bring an electric vehicle to Iceland?
Yes. Iceland has a well-developed and expanding charging network, particularly along the Ring Road and in larger towns. Travelling by electric vehicle is becoming increasingly popular and charging stations are easy to find in most parts of the country.
Can I bring a trailer or roof box?
Yes. Many travellers bring trailers, roof boxes or bicycles when travelling to Iceland. Simply include your vehicle dimensions when making your booking so we can reserve the appropriate space onboard.
Are there any vehicle size restrictions?
Norröna accommodates a wide range of vehicles, including cars, campers, motorcycles and trailers. Vehicle dimensions are required when booking so the correct space can be allocated onboard.
Driving in Iceland
Is the Ring Road suitable for ordinary cars?
Yes. Iceland’s Ring Road, Route 1, is paved and suitable for standard passenger cars. It connects most of the country’s major attractions and is well maintained throughout the travel season.
Do I need a 4×4 to explore Iceland?
No. Most travellers can comfortably explore Iceland’s main attractions in a standard passenger car. A 4×4 is only required if you plan to drive on designated F-roads in the Highlands, which are generally open during the summer months.
Are fuel stations easy to find?
Yes. Fuel stations are located throughout Iceland, particularly along the Ring Road and in towns and villages. When travelling through more remote regions, it’s a good idea to fill up whenever fuel is available.
What are the speed limits in Iceland?
Unless otherwise signposted, the speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads and 90 km/h on paved rural roads. Always follow local speed limits and adjust your driving to the road and weather conditions.
Before you travel
Do I have to pay a road fee in Iceland?
Yes. Iceland has introduced a road usage fee for vehicles entering the country. The fee depends on the type of vehicle and the length of your stay. As the rules and rates may change, we recommend checking the latest information on the official website of Skatturinn (Iceland Revenue and Customs) before you travel.
Plannning your trip
How long should I spend in Iceland?
Most travellers spend between one and three weeks exploring Iceland by car. One week is ideal for experiencing many of Iceland’s highlights, while two or three weeks allow you to explore the Ring Road at a more relaxed pace and discover quieter regions beyond the main attractions.
When is the best time for an Iceland road trip?
The best time for an Iceland road trip depends on the experience you’re looking for. Spring and autumn offer quieter roads, beautiful seasonal colours and, from September to early November, the chance to see the Northern Lights. During summer, you’ll enjoy long daylight hours, making it easy to explore more of the country each day.
Should I book accommodation in advance?
We recommend booking accommodation well in advance if you’re travelling during the summer months, when demand is highest. During spring and autumn, you’ll often have greater flexibility, although popular areas can still fill up quickly.
How much driving should I plan each day?
Driving distances in Iceland may appear short on a map, but scenic stops, winding roads and changing weather often mean journeys take longer than expected. Many travellers find that 200 to 300 km per day allows enough time to enjoy the scenery and attractions along the way.
Travelling with Norröna
Where does the ferry arrive in Iceland?
Norröna arrives in Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque town in East Iceland. From here, you can begin exploring the Eastfjords before continuing your journey around the island.
What facilities are available onboard?
Norröna offers a range of facilities to make your journey comfortable, including restaurants, cafés, comfortable cabins, a cinema, children’s play areas, a fitness centre, hot tubs and onboard shopping.
Can I include a stopover in the Faroe Islands?
Yes. Many travellers choose to include a stopover in the Faroe Islands either on their way to Iceland or on the return journey. It’s a great opportunity to experience two unique North Atlantic destinations in one holiday.
Why travel to Iceland by ferry?
Travelling by ferry allows you to bring your own car and begin your road trip as soon as you arrive in East Iceland. Your holiday starts onboard Norröna, and the journey across the North Atlantic becomes part of the overall travel experience.
Start Your
Iceland Road Trip
Every journey through Iceland is different. Whether you’re visiting for one week or three, travelling with your own car gives you the freedom to experience the country at your own pace.
Board Norröna in Denmark, wake up surrounded by the mountains of East Iceland, and let the road lead you to unforgettable landscapes, welcoming villages and experiences you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home.
