Seasonal Car Rental Tips for Iceland’s Summer Festivals

Explore Iceland's summer magic with the freedom of a rental car from Höldur

When the midnight sun bathes Iceland in golden light and the air is filled with music, laughter, and tradition, there's truly no better time to explore this wild and beautiful land. Summer festivals in Iceland—from music-filled valleys to traditional cultural gatherings—are where Icelandic energy comes alive. But to truly embrace the spirit of summer here, you’ll want the freedom to roam, discover, and stop where the road pulls you.

That’s where Höldur Car Rental comes in. As Iceland’s largest car rental operator, with over 8,000 vehicles and a wide-reaching service network across the country, we’re here to make sure your festival road trip is as seamless as it is unforgettable.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through smart car rental tips tailored for Iceland’s summer festival season—so you can plan like a pro and travel like a local.

Why Renting a Car in Iceland for Summer Festivals Is a Game-Changer

There’s no better way to experience Iceland in summer than behind the wheel. Unlike scheduled buses or tour groups, a rental car offers:

• Complete freedom to explore at your pace

• Flexibility to visit multiple festivals or off-route attractions

• Easy access to remote festival sites and breathtaking nature stops

• Comfort and convenience for storing gear, picnic kits, or extra layers

Whether you’re driving from Reykjavík to the Þjóðhátíð festival in the Westman Islands or heading up north for Eistnaflug in Neskaupstaður, having your own wheels means fewer compromises and more magical moments.

 

Top Summer Festivals Worth the Drive

Iceland’s summer festival season is a celebration of music, culture, and connection — all set against some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Whether you’re soaking in live music beneath the midnight sun or dancing by the sea in a remote fishing village, these are experiences you’ll never forget. And with your own rental car, getting there becomes part of the adventure.

Secret Solstice – Reykjavík

Set in the heart of the capital, Secret Solstice is one of Iceland’s most iconic music festivals. Global acts take the stage under endless daylight in a setting that fuses modern energy with Viking roots. Easy to access and full of urban comforts, it’s the perfect starting point for any summer road trip.

Þjóðhátíð – Westman Islands

Iceland’s most beloved national festival takes place in a volcanic amphitheatre on Heimaey. Þjóðhátíð is an unforgettable weekend of bonfires, fireworks, and singing — deeply rooted in Icelandic tradition. Getting there involves a scenic drive and ferry ride, making it ideal for a rental car journey.

Eistnaflug – Neskaupstaður, Eastfjords

For lovers of heavy music and raw natural beauty, Eistnaflug delivers. This metal and rock festival in the remote Eastfjords combines a hardcore lineup with fjord-front camping and a surprisingly tight-knit community spirit. Driving here takes you through some of Iceland’s most spectacular — and less-travelled — scenery.

Bræðslan – Borgarfjörður Eystri

An intimate concert held in an old fish factory turned music venue, Bræðslan feels like a secret shared among friends. With just a few hundred tickets, it’s a rare chance to experience top Icelandic and international artists in one of the country’s most stunning and off-the-grid villages. This one truly rewards those who choose the open road.

Menningarnótt (Culture Night) – Reykjavík

Held every August, Culture Night is a city-wide celebration of Icelandic creativity. Expect street performances, art installations, concerts, and fireworks — all free and open to the public. It’s a fantastic way to wrap up a summer road trip before returning your car and heading home.

Folk Music Festival – Siglufjörður

Nestled in the north, this charming town hosts a beloved festival dedicated to traditional Icelandic and Nordic folk music. It's family-friendly, deeply cultural, and beautifully set along the fjord — and you’ll definitely want your own car to make the most of the northern route.

Car Rental Planning Tips for Festival Season

Planning ahead ensures your festival journey is smooth, scenic, and safe. Here’s how:

1. Book Early – Summer Is Peak Season

Rental demand skyrockets from June to August. Booking in advance ensures the best rates and vehicle choice—especially if you're flying into Keflavík Airport, Iceland’s main arrival hub.

Tip: Use our Keflavík Airport car rental service for instant pickup when you land.

2. Choose the Right Vehicle for Your Route

• Compact cars: Ideal for city festivals and budget travellers

• 4x4 SUVs: Perfect for festivals off the beaten path like Bræðslan

• Vans and MPVs: Great for groups heading to events together

3. Check Your Festival Destination’s Terrain

Some festivals—especially those in the East or Highlands—require driving gravel roads or crossing mountain passes. A 4x4 vehicle may be necessary.

4. Plan for Ferry Crossings or Mountain Roads

Heading to the Westman Islands? You’ll need to book a ferry in advance. Höldur offers car ferry-ready vehicles with flexible drop-off options.

5. Pack Smart for Icelandic Weather

Even in summer, Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Pack warm layers, rain gear, and don’t forget sunscreen—yes, really!

6. Use Our Country-Wide Network for Peace of Mind

No matter where your festival journey takes you, we’ve got your back with pickup, return, and roadside assistance locations across Iceland.

 

Festival Driving Do’s and Don’ts

Do:

• Use road.is or safetravel.is to check road conditions.

• Fill your tank before long drives—rural stations can be sparse.

• Bring your driver’s licence and credit card (for vehicle security).

• Get our Travel App for real-time weather alerts, a detailed driving guide, and safety tips.

Don’t:

• Drive after festival drinks—Iceland has strict DUI laws.

• Camp or park off-road at festivals—respect the land.

• Underestimate travel time. Roads can be scenic but slow.
  
  

FAQs: Summer Car Rentals in Iceland

Can I rent a car in Iceland with a UK or US driver’s licence?

Yes! As long as your licence is in Roman alphabet and valid for the rental period.

Do I need a 4x4 for Iceland summer travel?

Not always. If you’re sticking to paved roads, a compact or midsize car is great. For more rugged festivals or Highlands, we recommend a 4WD.

How old do I need to be to rent a car in Iceland?

The minimum age is typically 20 years old, but some 4x4s or vans require drivers to be 23+.

Can I pick up my rental car at Keflavík Airport?

Absolutely. Höldur offers convenient pickup at Keflavík Airport so you can hit the road straight away.

What’s included in the rental price?

Standard insurance, unlimited mileage, and 24/7 emergency support. Optional extras like GPS or Wi-Fi can be added during booking.

Can I return the car in a different location?

Yes! Höldur supports one-way rentals between key locations like Reykjavík, Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and more.

Is it safe to drive in Iceland in the summer?

Yes. Summer is the safest season to drive, with dry roads and long daylight hours. Still, be cautious of sheep, gravel roads and one-lane bridges!

Are festivals accessible by public transport?

Some are, but not all. Many of Iceland’s best festivals are in rural or remote areas where buses don’t reach. Renting a car offers maximum flexibility.

Can I sleep in my rental car at festivals?

Not recommended unless you’ve booked a camper van. Wild camping in vehicles is restricted in many areas.

How do I get from the airport to my first festival?

Simple. Pick up your Höldur rental at Keflavík and drive toward your first stop—whether that’s Reykjavík or a countryside detour.

Ready to Hit the Road?

At Höldur, we’re more than just a rental company—we’re your trusted travel companion. With over 8,000 vehicles, decades of local expertise, and a strong commitment to sustainability, we’re here to make your Icelandic summer adventure unforgettable.

Whether you're chasing rhythms at Secret Solstice or singing under the stars in the Eastfjords, we’ve got the perfect car to get you there—reliably, comfortably, and on your terms.

Your Icelandic adventure starts here — and we’ll be right by your side.

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