Not sure how to use public transportation in Reykjavik? It’s easy on foot when the weather allows, but during the colder months in Iceland it doesn’t feel entirely inviting, or when pulling luggage or carrying packages.
The main form of transportation in Reykjavík is the bus, or Strætó as the locals call it. There is no metro, train or ferry service in Reykjavik. Luckily, the bus service is both accessible and affordable.
Need help getting around Reykjavik? Here’s how to use public transport in the Icelandic capital:
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Bus
Strætó
Strætó (or Straeto for simplified spelling) is the Reykjavik bus service and offers an extensive coverage of the city, with every corner and neighborhood of Reykjavik on its route, running seven days a week.
The regular buses run between approximately 6:30 am and midnight, with night buses running a few times throughout the wee hours of the morning. For exact times, see the bus route timetables.
How much does a Strætó bust ticket cost in Rejkjavik?
Strætó tickets cost 470 ISK (25 DKK/3.40 EUR) per ride.
How to buy a Strætó Bus ticket in Reykjavik?
We highly recommend downloading the Strætó app before you hop on that brighter-than-the-sun yellow bus. The website is convenient as well, but the app includes a payment method using Visa or Mastercard, so you can forgo worrying about having 470 ISK in your pocket.
You can buy a bus ticket onboard, but you need to have the exact amount of cash available. Please note that the bus drivers cannot accept credit cards nor give change if you have bigger bills. That’s why we recommend using the app.
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Reykjavik bus zones and routes
There are no zones for taking buses in Reykjavik; there’s just one standard fare.
Strætó’s network consists of 27 routes in Reykjavik and 21 additional routes throughout the country. You can plan and map your trip by simply putting in a start and end point on the Strætó website. All information is easily found on either the website or app, including timetables and a real time map showing where your anticipated bus is currently located.
Strætó app
You can purchase both bus cards and single rides on the app.
It’s preferred to activate your ticket on the app before entering the bus. Activation lasts for 75 minutes.
When traveling outside the capital via Strætó purchase Country Ticket
Download the Strætó app here.
FAQS
Are bikes allowed on the bus?
Bikes are permitted on the bus, if room allows. There’s a designated area for bicycles, baby carriages, and wheelchairs in the center of the bus. Baby carriages and wheelchairs have priority access and therefore bikers can expect to kindly give up their space and wait for the next bus.
Are pets allowed on the bus?
Strætó welcomes pets, but all furry friends must enter through the back door of the bus and stay in the back during the ride. Pets are not allowed during peak hours (between 7 – 9 am and 3 – 6 pm) due to passengers with allergies. Dogs must be on a tight leash or in a secure bag or carrier.
Is there a metro in Reykjavik?
There is currently no metro in Reykjavik.
Is there a railway system in Reykjavik?
There is currently no railway system in Reykjavik. A light railway system has been proposed and the municipality is now exploring this option.
What are the other forms of public transportation in Reykjavik?
Strætó is the main form of public transportation in Reykjavik. There are also taxis available, as well as private coach lines in vario
Good to know
– There’s free WIFI on the bus
– Schedules tend to be minimized on holidays
– Double check your scheduled route when traveling at night and weekends
– There’s a Strætó route from Keflavik International Airport to Reykjavik
– There’s no fee for children under 6 yrs old
– There’s a discounted fee for children 6 – 17 years old, disabled, and elderly people (over 67 yrs old).
A bit of fun
The former main Strætó terminal, Hlemmur, has been repurposed as a gourmet food hall with a variety of market-driven vendors. It’s an entirely different world than the depressing vibe Hlemmur had for decades prior to the welcomed transformation in 2017! Go get a bite or a drink.
Want more information on Reykjavik? Check out our monthly calendar of events.