If you are traveling in Iceland by car, knowing where and when you can park in Reykjavik is essential, as parking fines are a surefire way of souring a great day.
When you arrive in Iceland, ready to explore the beautiful things the country has to offer, navigating parking regulations might not be at the top of your mind. While parking might not be quite as exciting as the northern lights, it's definitely something you need to keep in mind, especially if you plan on staying within the capital of Reykjavik.
Coming down from breathtaking views at Hallgrimskirkja Church or Perlan Museum to find a ticket on your car can quickly ruin a great day.
If you're renting a car while staying in accommodations in Reykjavik, understanding parking rules will save you time and trouble. This guide covers everything about parking in Reykjavik, whether you're embarking on self-drive tours or leaving your vehicle while you travel elsewhere.
Key Takeaways About Parking in Reykjavik
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Understand the color-coded zones: Reykjavik's parking system is divided into four color-coded zones (P1, P2, P3, P4), each with different rates and time restrictions. Be sure to check the rates and hours to avoid fines.
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Know the parking hours and maximum limits: Each parking zone has specific hours and maximum parking durations. Be mindful of these to avoid fines, especially in the more expensive central areas with strict time limits.
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Use mobile apps to pay for parking: You can use apps like Parka or EasyPark to pay for parking directly from your phone. These apps also help track your time and let you extend your session if needed. Just remember to disconnect the rental car license plate once you head back home.
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Alternative to parking: Guided multi-day tours avoid the hassle of parking altogether, as you won't need a rental car. This way, you can explore Iceland without worrying about finding parking spots.
- See also: Driving in Iceland: The Ultimate Guide to Road Trips
- See also: Travel Etiquette in Iceland
Reykjavik Parking Zones
Parking in central Reykjavik is divided into four zones with different rates. Parking fees are typically applied between 9 AM and 9 PM on weekdays and Saturdays and between 10 AM and 9 PM on Sundays, with some exceptions (see below).
The four color-coded zones are as follows:
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P1 (Red and Pink): The most central and expensive parking area, costing 4.64 USD (630 ISK)/hour. Parking fees apply from 9 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 9 PM on weekends. The maximum parking duration is 3 hours.
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P2 (Blue): Parking costs 1.70 USD (230 ISK)/hour. Fees apply from 9 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 9 PM on weekends.
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P3 (Green): The rate is 1.70 USD (230 ISK)/hour for the first two hours, then 0.52 USD (70 ISK)/hour after that. Fees apply from 9 AM to 6 PM on weekdays.
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P4 (Orange): Parking costs 1.70 USD (230 ISK)/hour, but fees only apply on weekdays between 8 AM and 4 PM.
During certain national holidays, parking within the zones is also free. On these days, you will not be charged when attempting to pay for a parking space, whether you're using a regular parking meter or the Parka mobile app.
Car Parks in Reykjavik
Several multi-story car parks are located near the city center. These car parks are generally less expensive than the parking zones but charge 24 hours, every day of the week. The rates between car parks can vary, so make sure you know what you're paying before you leave your car there.
Be mindful of the opening times of parking garages as some may be closed overnight, meaning you can get your car stuck in one if you're not careful. This can spell disaster if you need to catch an overnight flight.
The car park options include:
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Stjornuport Parking Garage - Great for Laugavegur Street and Hlemmur Square.
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Kolaport Parking Garage - By Harpa Concert Hall and Arnarholl Hill.
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Tradarkot Parking Garage - On Hverfisgata Street, by the National Theatre of Iceland.
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Bergstadir Parking Garage - By Skolavordustigur Rainbow Street.
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City Hall Parking Garage - In Reykjavik City Hall, next to Tjornin Pond.
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Hafnartorg Parking Garage - Great for downtown Reykjavik and the Old Harbor.
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Vesturgata Parking Garage - Near Ingolfstorg Square.
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Vitatorg Parking Garage - Close to Sun Voyager Sculpture.
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Harpa Concert Hall Parking - Underneath Harpa Concert Hall.
Hotel Parking in Downtown Reykjavik
If you're staying in a hotel in downtown Reykjavik, be aware that hotel parking can be limited, and some hotels may not have designated parking spaces.
If your hotel does not have parking included, we recommend using one of the many car parks downtown.
Hotels outside the city center usually have more spaces to work with, so talk to your hotel about parking if you plan on using a car during your trip to Iceland.
Parking for People with Disabilities in Reykjavik
Parking spaces designated for people with disabilities are plentiful in Reykjavik, marked with the international wheelchair symbol. To use these parking spaces, you need to have a Parking Card placed in the front window of your card.
Using a Parking Card from outside Iceland is fine, but you must print out and display an international notice next to your parking card. You can find more information on the International Transport Forum website.
Remember not to park in any space marked with a name or a license number. Some car parks allow a vehicle with that Parking Card to park free of charge, but always check the car park notices or ask an attendant.
How to Pay for Parking in Reykjavik
There are several ways to pay for parking in Reykjavik. The most convenient way to pay for parking is using a dedicated mobile app. The significant advantage here is paying and extending your parking remotely.
EasyPark is an excellent app that allows you to manage parking times easily and uses GPS technology to always know when you're located within a parking zone. Another mobile app option for parking is Parka, which is functionally very similar and is very often used in Iceland.
The traditional method is parking machines found throughout the city, usually on every corner of a street within one of the parking zones. These machines accept coins and credit cards, so follow the instructions listed.
The payment methods can differ slightly when using a parking garage, but there will be a similar machine where you can pay by card. Some parking garages charge on entry, while others also allow you to pay upon leaving the garage.
- Read more: Top 10 Apps for Traveling in Iceland
Parking Fines in Iceland
There are two types of parking citations in Iceland. Extra parking tariffs are imposed on vehicles where paid parking has been paid only partially or not at all. Additionally, parking violation charges are applied to vehicles that are parked illegally.
The standard extra parking tariff is 33 USD (4,500 ISK), but if paid in full within three business days of the citation, there is a cash discount of 8 USD (1,100 ISK). Please note that prices are subject to change.
If the charge is not paid within 14 days after the citation date, the cost increases from 33 USD (4,500 ISK) to 50 USD (6,750 ISK). Charges that remain unpaid after 28 days following the date of citation increase to 66 USD (9,000 ISK).
The parking violation charge is 74 USD (10,000 ISK) and is imposed on a car when stopped or parked under a prohibition sign, on a sidewalk, on a pedestrian street, too close to a pedestrian crossing, or in other situations where parking is not allowed.
If the parking violation charge is paid in full within three business days of the citation, there is a cash discount of 8 USD (1,100 ISK). If the charge is not paid within 14 days after the citation date, the cost increases to 111 USD (15,000 ISK).
Charges that remain unpaid after 28 days following the date of citation increase to 147 USD (20,000 ISK). These charges double when illegally parking in a parking space for people with disabilities.
- See also: 24 Things Not to Do in Iceland
How to Pay a Parking Fine in Iceland
If you have received a parking fine, the easiest way to pay for it is to bring the ticket to any of the local banks and pay it there. If you receive a parking fine when using a rental car, your rental provider can match the ticket and charge you if you leave the country without paying the citation.
The fees ramp up quite quickly, so the faster, the better. If you believe you have been wrongly issued a parking citation, you can read more about how to appeal the charge here.
Parking Outside of Reykjavik
Outside the capital, certain locations in Iceland will also require you to pay for parking. The northern town of Akureyri has parking meters for certain areas in the town center. EasyPark and Parka's mobile apps can be used if you're staying in Akureyri accommodation.
In rural areas, some parking lots near popular natural attractions are privately owned and will require you to pay for parking, such as Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and Kerid Crater. Using the Parka app is the most popular way to pay for these parking spots.
The rates for these parking lots are typically not very high and are often used to maintain the facilities and trails near the attractions.
When driving around Iceland, it may be tempting to park your car by the side of the road to take pictures. This is not allowed, so only park your car in designated parking lots, often just around the corner from your picturesque view.
FAQ About Parking in Reykjavik
Here are some of the most common questions about parking in Reykjavik.
Does it Matter in Which Direction I Park?
Yes, always park in the same direction as the street's traffic. Parking in the opposite direction of the street in Reykjavik may result in a fine.
Is There Any Free Parking in Reykjavik?
Parking outside the colored zones is usually free, but remember that certain marked areas may be private. If you ever encounter the Icelandic word "Einkastaedi," meaning "Private Parking," you should look for another spot.
Are There EV Charging Stations in Reykjavik?
Yes, Reykjavik has designated parking spots with electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. These are usually marked, and some require separate payment for charging in addition to parking fees.
How Much is Parking in Reykjavik?
Parking in Reykjavik costs between 1.70 USD (230 ISK)/hour and 4.64 USD (630 ISK)/hour, depending on the zone. Rates apply from 9 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 9 PM on weekends, with some areas having maximum parking durations.
Maximize Your Reykjavik Experience
Navigating parking in Reykjavik can be a bit tricky, but with the right information, you can easily avoid fines and enjoy your stay in Iceland's vibrant capital. You can also avoid dealing with parking by opting for guided day tours from Reykjavik.
For more helpful tips on your trip to Iceland, check out our guide to downtown Reykjavik or explore top vacation packages. By planning ahead, you can make the most of your time in Reykjavik and beyond without worrying about parking.
That's all you need to know when it comes to parking in Iceland. What is your experience when parking in Iceland? Do you have other questions about parking in Iceland? Let us know in the comments below!
