冰岛旅游方式大对比：自驾 or 跟团？

Related links:

1. 8-day, 7-night Iceland summer island road trip

2. 7-day, 6-night winter road trip on Iceland's southwest coast

3. Iceland Summer 7-Day Classic Sightseeing Package

4. Iceland Winter Selection 7-Day Tour

First, let's take a look at the general transportation situation in Iceland.

Is it possible to travel around Iceland by public transportation? The answer is no.

Iceland, renowned for its spectacular volcanoes, glaciers, and abundant geothermal resources, is known as the "Land of Ice and Fire," with attractions scattered throughout the island. From the famous Golden Circle to the south coast, encompassing waterfalls, black sand beaches (Reynisfjara) , and glacial lagoons; from the less-visited yet magnificent eastern fjords to the mysterious, alien-like Diamond Circle in the north and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula , the inspiration for Journey to the Center of the Earth, tourists want to see as much of Iceland's beauty as possible, requiring them to explore the entire island. However, with a population of only about 370,000, Iceland doesn't have a bustling subway or trains shuttling between major cities. Public transportation consists mainly of buses with very simple routes and infrequent service, along with airplanes, ferries, and taxis. Because Iceland's natural environment is both unique and fragile, the Icelandic people are cautious about any construction projects that might damage its natural beauty, including public transportation infrastructure. Therefore, most Icelandic residents travel by private car, enjoying the freedom and pleasure of exploration.

Iceland's public buses are primarily operated by Strætó. On their official website , you can check timetables, plan routes, download the Strætó app, and purchase tickets. The yellow buses you see in Iceland are Strætó! During the Icelandic summer (June to mid-September), Strætó operates buses to all major towns in Iceland, but service may be limited during the winter due to weather conditions. It's also worth noting that Strætó buses are not as frequent as those in China, running only every few minutes or tens of minutes. Therefore, please plan ahead to avoid long wait times! (For an article on how to use the Strætó app, please see the corresponding section on the top ten essential apps for traveling to Iceland .)

So, some people might ask, can you travel by bus in Iceland?

To put it simply, while Iceland has a comprehensive public transport network, it might not be so convenient for those looking to easily explore its beautiful scenery. The reasons are twofold. First, bus services are infrequent, sometimes only one or two buses a day, which can feel rushed for tourists who want to make the most of their time. Second, Icelandic buses are primarily designed for local residents, so their stops are mostly in towns and villages, not the tourist attractions that visitors typically visit. Iceland's natural wonders are often located in relatively remote areas, and even if you manage to take a bus to a town, the actual attractions are usually quite a distance away! After reading this, I'm sure the answer is obvious.

Ferries are popular between several islands surrounding Iceland, including the Vestmannaeyjar in the south , Grímsey in the north, and Flaty in the west. Ferries are also the primary mode of transport from Stykkishólmur, the town featured in The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland , to the Westfjords. Ferry schedules differ between winter and summer in Iceland, with more services generally available during the summer (June to August) and fewer during the winter.

Many travelers accustomed to domestic travel might think: "I can just take a taxi." However, unfortunately, Iceland doesn't have Uber or Lyft, although taxis are available, it's a bit inconvenient… Why? Let me explain. Icelandic taxis all have a yellow "Taxi" sign on their roofs, making them easy to spot. In October, to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month by the World Health Organization, the sign changes to pink. However, if you want to take a taxi in Iceland, aside from the airport, bus stations, and city centers where there are usually queues of taxis, you can't order one on your phone. Waiting on the street won't work either; the empty taxis you see are usually already booked, and the driver is on their way to pick up another passenger and won't stop to drop off passengers randomly. In these situations, you can only book a taxi in advance by phone. If absolutely necessary, it's recommended to ask the hotel reception staff to help you book a taxi. When booking, you need to provide: 1) departure time; 2) current location; 3) destination address; 4) number of passengers; 5) size and quantity of luggage.

If you need a car while making a phone call, the driver usually arrives within 10 to 15 minutes, so it's important to wait at the agreed-upon location. However, it's important to emphasize that taxis in Iceland operate on meters, and you can pay with cash or a credit card. But don't underestimate the cost of taxis in Iceland. A 5-kilometer ride within the city during the day can cost at least $20, and a taxi from the airport to downtown Reykjavik will likely cost around 25,000 Icelandic krona. Sometimes, if the driver arrives but can't find the passenger, they might not call and will simply wait in the empty car while the meter is already running. In Iceland, travel time is also included in the price, so traffic jams and waiting times will incur additional charges.

PS: The best way to get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is to take the dedicated airport bus . Each bus departs 35-40 minutes after the flight arrives, which is convenient, fast, and very cost-effective.

Flying is a great way to get around Iceland, especially in winter when roads can be impassable due to weather conditions. The main airport for domestic flights in Iceland is Reykjavik Airport, from which you can fly to many destinations in Iceland. Regularly scheduled flights from Reykjavik Airport are typically operated by Icelandair and Eagle Airways.

Icelandair's destinations include: Reykjavík , Akureyri , Egilsstaðir , Ísafjörður , Keflavik , Grimsey, Vopnafjörður, and Sórshöfn. Destinations also include flights to Greenland and the Faroe Islands.

Garuda Indonesia destinations: Vestmannaeyjar, Hofn , Husavik , Bildudalur, Gjögur, and Saudarkrokur.

Those who want to buy domestic flights in Iceland can check and purchase tickets on the Icelandair or Garuda Iceland website .

In summary: Iceland has no subway, no trams, no trains, infrequent bus services, expensive taxis requiring phone reservations, and frequent flights that involve constant travel from one destination to another, missing much of the scenery along the way and also being very expensive. Therefore, the most economical and convenient way to explore Iceland is by renting a car and driving yourself, or by joining a tour group. So, which travel method should you choose? Please continue reading to find out.

When planning a trip to Iceland, the timing of your visit is a crucial factor in deciding whether to rent a car and drive yourself or join a tour. Summer is the best time to drive in Iceland, as the roads are easiest to navigate and campgrounds are open.

Iceland's winters are known for their unpredictable weather, making driving in Iceland very difficult and even dangerous for those without snow driving experience.

When considering a self-drive trip, you also need to understand whether your planned itinerary includes areas with increased driving difficulty, such as northern Iceland, and how much of the route involves F-roads. Iceland's F-roads are mountain and highland roads (F stands for fjalla in Icelandic for mountain). They are generally far from paved ring roads or gravel roads, and can be very narrow, rocky, steep, and full of potholes, which requires a high level of driving skill.

Besides the factors mentioned above, the number of travelers is also crucial, as it directly determines how many cars you need to rent. Generally speaking, a compact sedan with 4 to 5 seats can only accommodate 2 to 3 passengers (including the driver) when carrying a lot of luggage. If the number of passengers exceeds this, plus luggage, the interior space will feel quite cramped. For example, if your group consists of 5 people, you would actually need to rent two cars, so it's worth comparing the cost with that of a group tour.

Iceland's breathtaking natural beauty offers a variety of unique experiences, many of which are seasonally exclusive. If you're looking to experience whale and bird watching, take a boat trip on Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon amidst glaciers, hike in the inland highlands like Þórsmörk and Landmannalaugar , or camp under the midnight sun, then summer is the perfect time to visit Iceland. As mentioned earlier, this is the ideal time to drive (although driving isn't always ideal in the inland highlands; you'll need experienced drivers and a four-wheel drive vehicle. Also, if you're driving to the highlands, the Icelandic Environment Agency has updated its policy, so you'll need to book parking in advance). Conversely, if you want to chase the Northern Lights in this far north, explore blue ice caves with their shimmering blue ice crystals, and experience a vibrant winter Christmas atmosphere, then winter is the time to travel in Iceland. In winter, Iceland experiences shorter daylight hours and a higher probability of extreme weather events such as strong winds and blizzards. Road closures can occur at any time, leading to frequent changes to your travel plans and potentially causing you to miss your next accommodation or even become stranded. In such situations, joining a group tour is a safer option, as group tours usually offer refunds if cancelled.

Recommended experience:

Summer: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon amphibious boat tour , Husavik classic whale watching tour

Winter: A minibus aurora tour departing from Reykjavik , and an amazing exploration experience of the Vatnajökull Blue Ice Cave.

If you're still undecided between joining a group tour or renting a car for self-drive, another factor to consider is how you want to spend your time. If your goal is primarily to experience Iceland's famous attractions, such as the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, then a guided tour will suffice. If you crave adventure, freedom, and flexibility, and are drawn to Iceland's seclusion and isolation, wanting to explore its less-traveled spots, then a self-drive tour might be your best option. Iceland's greatest charm lies in its wild and pristine natural landscapes, often located in remote areas far from populated areas. However, these off-the-beaten-path attractions are often overlooked by guided tours due to the time required to reach them and the lack of nearby amenities like restrooms and restaurants. In this case, renting a car and traveling independently is the best choice. Of course, another option is to join a more expensive super jeep tour or hire a private guide.

Forest Cat Travel also offers private charter tours for a more in-depth Iceland travel experience. Why not check out our services?

1. Iceland Winter Adventure: A 5-Day, 4-Night Private Tour

2. Iceland 7 Days 6 Nights Winter Private Tour: Glaciers, Black Sand Beaches & Northern Lights 3. Iceland Summer Route 1 8 Days 7 Nights Private Tour | Visit Popular Game of Thrones Filming Locations

4. Iceland 10-Day 9-Night Dreamy Summer Adventure: Private Charter Tour Around the Island

If you're unsure whether to join a tour group or drive yourself in Iceland, try answering the following questions. After answering them, you'll likely have a better idea of ​​what to do.

……

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, then renting a car in Iceland is recommended, as a group tour might be a bit restrictive. If you answered no to some of the questions, then you might want to reconsider a group tour.

The following article will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of different travel methods so that you can make an informed decision based on your own circumstances, travel style, and preferences!

Exploring Iceland by car is arguably the best and most convenient way to experience its unique and breathtaking scenery. This mode of travel offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Iceland's natural beauty and diverse attractions at your own pace, giving you a sense of freedom and unbridled exploration. The most famous route for a road trip in Iceland is along the Hringvegur (also known as Route 1), a 1332-kilometer ring road that runs the entire island. Driving along this road, you'll pass most of Iceland's famous landmarks. Furthermore, you can freely decide whether to change your route to less-known attractions, linger by waterfalls to soak up the cool mist, explore historically rich Icelandic churches or museums, hike through hidden valleys and mountains, or even bathe in a former sheep-cleaning hot spring – it's all up to you!

Furthermore, driving in Iceland is not bound by tour groups or public transport schedules, truly embodying the idea of ​​"not rushing the world's schedule." You can spend more time at your favorite attractions and skip over those that don't interest you as much.

1. Freedom and flexibility: You can take control of the tour at your own pace, flexibly arrange the time for visiting each attraction, and freely explore Iceland's hidden gems according to your own wishes, without being bound by the itinerary of a tour group.

2. Affordable: Self-driving tours are generally cheaper than group tours (but the number of people should be considered).

3. Comfort and convenience: When renting a car in Iceland, you can pick it up directly from the rental office at Keflavik Airport. Choose the type of car according to your preferences and actual needs, load your luggage and equipment into the car, and start your self-driving tour in Iceland.

4. Enjoy your time alone: ​​No need to share a ride with strangers, allowing you to relax and enjoy time alone with your companions.

1. No tour guide: There will be no local Icelandic guide to explain the history, culture and background of the places you visit during your self-drive trip.

2. Driving skills required: If you are not familiar with the road conditions in Iceland, it may take longer to find attractions or you may even get lost.

3. Driving is tiring: If there is no suitable travel companion to take turns driving, driving and refueling by yourself is quite tiring, and it is also more difficult to deal with unexpected situations.

If you decide to drive yourself, here are some things to note. It's important to emphasize that driving in Iceland may be very different from the driving rules you're used to in your home country:

1. Road rules may differ significantly from those you are accustomed to. For example, Iceland's speed limits are lower than in many other countries, and speeding fines are very high. Also, off-road driving is prohibited in Iceland; it is not only dangerous and illegal but also damages the Icelandic ecosystem. Please be sure to stick to marked roads and follow the rules. (For more information, see: Things You Absolutely Shouldn't Do When Traveling to Iceland )

2. Iceland has rugged and varied terrain, and its weather is unpredictable. You may suddenly encounter wind, fog, rain, snow... If you're unlucky enough, you might even encounter all four types of weather at once! Therefore, it is essential to pay close attention to road and weather information before you travel.

3. When driving in Iceland, you also need to be constantly aware of wildlife on the road. Icelandic sheep, horses, and even reindeer may appear on the roads. It's best to drive cautiously, especially near hills and blind corners. This is not a joke; there have been numerous cases of people hitting sheep on the road in Iceland.

In addition, here are some tips for your reference:

Thoroughly research your route and plan your accommodations : Before driving, familiarize yourself with the layout of Ring Road 1, determine your main attractions, potential rest and dining locations, and possible detours. This will make your entire trip clear and organized. Some attractions may not be well-known, but that doesn't mean they are less beautiful; you'll discover their hidden charm by exploring them. Also, be prepared for weather changes and stay updated on road closures, especially in remote areas (carrying a map or GPS navigation system is recommended). Finally, regarding accommodation, with the increasing number of tourists visiting Iceland, especially during peak season, many places quickly become fully booked, particularly in popular areas. Please carefully consider the attractions you plan to visit and stay at each day and book in advance.

Choosing the right vehicle and regularly monitoring weather changes: Your choice of vehicle is crucial to a smooth trip, especially considering Iceland's diverse terrain and weather conditions. Your rental car should be well-suited to your itinerary. A sedan is fine in summer, but a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary in winter or when venturing into rugged terrain such as the inland highlands. Additionally, consider the size of your group and luggage space, and purchase appropriate rental insurance for the vehicle. Icelandic weather is unpredictable, often characterized by rapid changes and sudden storms. Strong winds, heavy rain, or icy conditions can all affect driving, requiring caution. Staying informed about weather forecasts and adjusting your travel plans accordingly is essential. It is recommended to utilize reliable information sources such as the Icelandic Meteorological Office to plan your trip, and to wear layers of warm, waterproof clothing and good hiking boots.

Fuel and Supply Preparation: Before heading to your next destination, make sure you have enough fuel, as gas stations are scarce in parts of Iceland and often far apart. You don't want to be stranded in the middle of nowhere with an empty tank! Finding gas stations and supplies can be challenging in remote areas of Iceland. Fill up your tank whenever possible, even if it's not empty. In addition, it's recommended to prepare an emergency kit for your vehicle, including basic tools, first-aid supplies, non-perishable food, and water. (For purchasing supplies, see: Iceland's Most Comprehensive Supermarket Shopping Guide )

For more questions and answers about driving in Iceland, please see our other article: Iceland Driving Guide .

If you're still struggling with these questions, Forest Cat Travel has carefully selected self-drive tour packages for you , including itinerary, car rental, and accommodation. Our professional travel planning team will provide services to help you plan a reasonable self-drive tour itinerary based on your time and what you want to see or do in Iceland, providing a detailed itinerary and booking cost-effective accommodations. If you still have doubts about the existing itineraries on our website, please feel free to contact our team for consultation or personalized customization.

Recommended Itineraries: Iceland Summer 6-Day Selected Self-Drive Tour , Iceland Summer 9-Day 8-Night Popular Island-Wide Self-Drive Tour , Iceland Summer 12-Day Romantic Island-Wide Self-Drive Tour

If you'd like to discover hidden gems and lesser-known attractions in Iceland, be sure to check out our article on those lesser-known Icelandic travel destinations !

"Come with me~ We'll set off at dawn~." In Iceland, group tours are a very common way to travel. Led by a guide, you simply pack your bags, board the bus on time, and a local guide will take you to see Iceland's major attractions. Who knows Iceland's mountains, waterfalls, and even its plants better than the locals? Joining a guided tour in Iceland means entrusting your Icelandic adventure to well-trained professionals. Local Icelandic guides typically have an encyclopedic knowledge of Iceland's attractions and a deep understanding of Icelandic history, culture, customs, and geology. With their guidance, you'll feel the stories of every waterfall, geyser, and lava field come alive.

1. Free your hands: You don't need to drive, and you won't miss the beauty of nature because you're focused on the road conditions, allowing you to focus on the experience itself.

2. Guided Tour: Joining a guided tour means you will have an experienced local Icelandic guide leading the way, providing in-depth information about the attractions you visit, including history, Icelandic customs, and the best of Iceland, while also communicating and interacting with them.

3. Make travel companions: If you are a true e-person who enjoys making friends, you might meet like-minded travelers from all over the world on a group tour.

4. Saves time and effort: You no longer need to spend a lot of time researching tourist attractions and planning your itinerary. Just hop on the bus, follow along, and enjoy the fun of experiencing new attractions.

5. Environmental protection: Group tours mean you will share transportation with more people, which is relatively more environmentally friendly.

6. Safe and reliable: For those who are worried about driving in unfamiliar environments or challenging weather conditions, the drivers and guides on group tours often have extensive driving experience in various road conditions in Iceland, making the trip safer.

1. Fixed Itinerary: Group tours have a fixed and reasonable itinerary, focusing on visiting Iceland's main iconic attractions. Since it is a group trip, this means that you must strictly adhere to the agreed meeting time and it is difficult to decide how much time you spend at each attraction.

2. Group tours may limit your opportunities for close contact with nature. If you suddenly see an interesting restaurant or a beautiful attraction, it may be difficult to leave the group and visit it on your own.

Recommended Itineraries: Iceland Summer 7-Day Classic Sightseeing Package , Iceland Winter 5-Day Value Package , Iceland Winter 6-Day Independent Tour , Iceland Winter Selected 7-Day Tour

Finally, it's important to emphasize that for certain special experiences in Iceland, such as glacier hiking, ice cave visits, whale watching, snowmobiling, and Icelandic horse riding, you must join a tour group led by a qualified professional guide. Do not attempt to do these activities on your own!

Related itinerary:

Solheima Glacier Hiking

Skafta Glacier Trek

Vatnajökull Glacier Crystal Palace Blue Ice Cave Adventure

Langge Glacier Snowmobile Experience

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Amphibious Boat Tour

Reykjavik Classic Whale Watching

...For more unique experiences and day trip itineraries, please see the Day Trips and Multi-Day Trips section on our website.

Ultimately, there's no absolute "right answer" to choosing between self-driving or a group tour when traveling to Iceland. The choice depends on your own circumstances, needs, and personal preferences! After reading the above introduction and pros and cons analysis of travel options, you may have already made your decision. If you have extensive driving experience, love exploring nature, and prefer a spontaneous approach, then a self-driving tour is the best choice. If this is your first time in Iceland and you want to make the most of your time to visit famous attractions, or if you're visiting in winter, then it's best to tour Iceland with a professional local guide.

However you choose whichever way you travel to Iceland, maintaining a positive attitude is crucial! Embrace the unexpected. Sometimes, the most unforgettable moments of a trip are unplanned, and minor setbacks often create unique memories… especially since Iceland is a place full of endless adventures. Enjoy the stunning scenery, savor delicious Icelandic cuisine, embrace new and interesting experiences, and always maintain an "I'm ready! I'm ready!" attitude. The beauty and awe Iceland offers will stay with you forever. But be careful… you might fall in love with this unique Nordic country, and then you'll want to come back again and again!