Taxis in Iceland: Prices, Apps and When a Pre-booked Transfer Is Better

Using a taxi in Iceland is simple once you know how it works: they are clean, safe and professional, but they are not cheap, and distances between towns are long. For short trips in Reykjavík a taxi is often the easiest option. For the airport or longer journeys, it helps to compare it with a pre-booked transfer.

How taxis work

In Reykjavík, taxis are normally ordered by phone or through an app rather than hailed on the street, although you will find taxis waiting at some busy places, such as the main airport or outside hotels. Fares are typically based on a meter, so the final price depends on distance, time and the time of day.

• Ask your hotel, restaurant or bar to call a taxi for you.
• Use a local taxi app or phone number, if you have one.
• Check whether the fare is metered or fixed before you set off.
• Ask about card payment if you have no cash; most taxis accept cards, but ask first.
• Keep the receipt in case you need it later.

Taxi prices: what to expect

Taxi fares in Iceland are generally high compared with many countries, and fares change over time, so we do not quote exact prices here. Please check current prices with the taxi company, and ask for an estimate before a longer trip. A few things push the price up:

• Distance: the airport is roughly 45 minutes from the city centre, so a metered fare covers a long ride.
• Time of day: nights, weekends and holidays may cost more.
• Waiting time: if the driver waits for you, the meter may keep running.
• Luggage and group size: larger groups may need a larger vehicle or more than one car.

Taxis from Keflavík Airport

Keflavík Airport is about 48 km from Reykjavík, which is a long ride for a metered taxi. There are taxis at the airport, but you may wait in a queue after a busy arrival, particularly when several flights land together.

A private transfer works differently. You book in advance, your driver meets you in arrivals with a name sign and the price is fixed per car, not by the meter and not per person. For KEF to Reykjavík it starts from 18,900 kr per car. You also get 45 minutes of free waiting at the airport, which is useful if your bags are slow or the border queue is long. Add your flight number when you book.

Taxi or pre-booked transfer?

• Short city trips: a taxi is usually the easiest option.
• Airport trips: a fixed price per car removes the worry about the meter, and your driver will be waiting.
• Groups and families: a fixed price per car often works well because it does not increase per person; a Van takes 5 to 7 people.
• Early or late flights: pre-booking means you do not need to find a taxi at an unusual hour.
• Sightseeing: a taxi is not a tour; for a day out, book a private tour with a driver.

Our guide on private transfers versus the Flybus compares prices and travel times for the airport. If you are deciding how to get around without hiring a car, read getting around Iceland without a car.

Other airport trips

The domestic airport in Reykjavík is much closer to the city than Keflavík, so a taxi can make sense there. See our guide to Reykjavík domestic airport transfers for the options.

Safety and etiquette

• Use licensed taxis, and check the vehicle for a taxi sign or licence information.
• Tipping is not expected in Iceland; check the fare, round up if you wish.
• Wear a seat belt in the back as well as the front.
• In winter, allow extra time: roads can be icy and traffic slower.

Practical tips for using taxis

• Have the address of your hotel saved on your phone, ideally in both Icelandic spelling and a map link.
• Tell the driver the number of passengers and bags when you order, so the right vehicle arrives.
• Allow extra time at busy moments, such as after concerts, events or on weekend nights.
• Check the weather: in storms, taxis may be harder to find and journeys may take longer.
• For anything beyond the city, ask for a price in advance or consider a private transfer or tour.

Another option for city travel is walking or using local buses, which can be more economical. Central Reykjavík is compact, and many visitors only use a car for the airport and for day trips. When you do need a vehicle, a driver you have booked in advance takes the guesswork out of it.

Finally, remember that nothing replaces planning. A little preparation, such as knowing when your flight lands, what the weather is doing and how many people and bags you have, will save you more time and money than any app.

FAQ

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