Your Guide to Car Rental in Iceland with Europcar

Exploring Iceland by car offers the freedom to discover its stunning landscapes at your own pace. To ensure a seamless journey, it is essential to choose the right vehicle and rental partner. This guide provides clear, practical information on selecting a car, understanding local driving conditions, and making the most of your adventure with Holdur-Europcar Car Rental, Iceland's largest and most trusted provider.

Choosing the Right Vehicle for Your Icelandic Itinerary

Your travel plans and the season will determine the best car for your needs. With a fleet of over 8,000 vehicles, we offer a comprehensive selection to match any itinerary.

Travel Plan / Route	Recommended Vehicle Type	Key Benefits
Reykjavík & Golden Circle (Summer)	Economy / Compact 2WD	Excellent for paved roads, short distances, and fuel efficiency. Ideal for city travel and popular routes.
Ring Road Exploration	Estate (Wagon) / SUV	Provides greater comfort, stability, and space for longer drives and varied road surfaces, including gravel.
Highlands / F-Roads (Summer Only)	4x4 / AWD SUV	Legally required for F-roads. Offers high clearance and traction for unpaved mountain tracks and river crossings.
Winter Travel (October - April)	4x4 / AWD SUV	Essential for navigating snow, ice, and unpredictable weather conditions safely across all regions.

How to Select Your Car

• Route: Will you stay on paved roads or venture onto gravel and F-roads?
• Season: Winter conditions demand a 4x4 for safety. F-roads in summer legally require one.
• Group Size & Luggage: Ensure your vehicle has adequate space for all passengers and their belongings.
• Comfort: For long-distance trips like the Ring Road, an SUV provides a more comfortable ride.

Our Diverse Fleet: A Car for Every Journey

Select the vehicle category that best fits your route, group size, and travel style. Our fleet includes options for every need, from eco-friendly models to spacious vans.

 

 

Essential Driving Information for Iceland

Driving in Iceland presents unique conditions. Understanding the rules and preparing for the environment is key to a safe and enjoyable trip.

• Road Conditions: Weather can change rapidly, affecting road safety. Always check the latest road status at umferdin.is and the weather forecast at vedur.is before you travel.
• F-Roads: These mountain roads are only open during the summer and are accessible exclusively to 4x4 vehicles. Off-road driving is strictly illegal and causes significant environmental damage.
• Insurance: Your rental includes a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). We offer additional protection packages to cover common risks like gravel damage, but please note that water and underbody damage are never covered by rental insurance in Iceland.
• Driving in Winter: From October to April, our vehicles are fitted with season-appropriate tires. A 4x4 is strongly recommended for traction and stability on icy or snowy roads.

Why Choose Holdur Europcar for Your Car Rental in Iceland?

As the official franchisee for Europcar in Iceland and the nation’s largest car rental service, Holdur-Europcar combines global standards with four decades of local experience.

• Iceland's Largest Fleet: Over 8,000 modern, well-maintained vehicles to choose from.
• 20 Nationwide Locations: Convenient pickup and drop-off points across the country, including Keflavík International Airport, Reykjavík,  Akureyri and Egilsstaðir.
• Local Expertise: Our team possesses deep knowledge of Icelandic travel and is ready to provide expert advice and support.
• 24/7 Roadside Assistance: Drive with confidence knowing our support team is available around the clock.
• Unlimited Mileage: Explore without limits. Rentals include unlimited mileage and VAT.
• Commitment to Quality: We are dedicated to providing reliable vehicles and exceptional customer service to ensure your trip is a success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What documents are required to rent a car?

You will need a valid driver's license held for at least one year, a credit card in the primary driver's name, and a passport or valid ID. An International Driving Permit is required if your license is not printed in Latin characters.

What is the minimum age for renting a vehicle?

The minimum age is 20 for our economy and compact cars. For larger vehicles, including luxury cars and passenger vans, the minimum age is 23.

Do I really need a 4x4 in Iceland?

A 4x4 is legally required for F-roads and is highly recommended for safety during winter (October-April). For summer travel on the Ring Road and other main routes, a 2WD vehicle is generally sufficient.

What is included in the rental price?

The price includes unlimited mileage, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Personal Accident Insurance (PAI ), Theft Protection (TP) and VAT. You can add extra protection and equipment during the booking process.

Can I pick up and drop off my car at different locations?

Yes, we offer one-way rentals between our 20 locations, providing flexibility for your travel itinerary. Additional fees may apply.

Book Your Icelandic Road Trip Today

Ready to start your adventure? Explore our extensive vehicle selection and book the perfect car for your journey through Iceland.

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