Master Your Reykjavik Visit: Top Tips for Stress-Free Parking in Reykjavik

Ever dreamt of exploring the stunning landscapes of Iceland, starting with its vibrant capital, Reykjavik? Well, you’re not alone. But, here’s a pro tip: To enjoy your visit to the fullest, you’ll want to master the art of parking in Reykjavik. Believe it or not, a little knowledge of the local parking system can make your journey a breeze. Let’s get started!

Key Takeaways

• Navigate Reykjavik’s 4 parking zones to find the best spot and avoid fines.
• Save money on parking with multi-storey car parks, free weekend/evening options & discounts from accommodation bookings.
• Electric/eco vehicles can get up to 90 minutes of free or discounted parking plus charging stations (fees start Aug 17, 2023).

Understanding Reykjavik's Parking Zones

Imagine you’re navigating Reykjavik in your rental car, seeing signs for P1, P2, P3, and P4. No need for confusion! These signs indicate the city’s four parking zones, each with unique rules and fees. Understanding these four parking zones is key to evading parking fines and securing the ideal parking spot. Fear not, we have all the information you need!

Zone Charges and Locations

Here’s the breakdown: P1 costs 250 ISK per hour, marking it as the most expensive. P2 and P4 are more affordable, at 125 ISK per hour. P3 is the cheapest at 90 ISK per hour.

But remember, P4 charges only apply on weekdays. So, whether you’re looking for a quick stop in the city centre or planning a lengthy visit, there’s a zone for every pocket!

Parking Zone Timings

Alright, got your zones and rates sorted? Great! Now, let’s talk timings. In zones P1, P2 and P3, you’ll need to pay during the following times on weekdays: 09:00-18:00. On Saturdays, you’ll need to pay from 10:00-16:00. P4 charges are applicable only Monday-Friday during the timings 08:00 to 16:00. No charges apply outside this time range..

But here’s the good news: outside these hours, parking is absolutely free! And yes, that includes public holidays too.

Navigating Multi-Storey Car Parks

Endlessly searching for street parking, especially when you’re keen to sightsee, can be frustrating. Multi-storey car parks, conveniently located at places like City Hall and Vesturgata, are the remedy. They not only save you time but also protect your car from Iceland’s unpredictable weather. However, bear in mind that their fees and operating hours may differ, so be ready with coins and cards.

Pricing and Payment Methods

So, how much do these multi-storey car parks charge, you ask? Typically, you’re looking at 240 ISK for the first hour and 120 ISK for every hour after that. And the best part? They accept both cash and card.

No matter if your plan is a brief stopover or an extended day out, parking in Reykjavík is made easy with the city’s car park facilities, including multi-storey car parks and parking garage, cater to your needs.

Overnight and Weekend Parking

If you plan to spend the night out, certain multi-storey car parks offer overnight parking. Just remember to check the operating hours as some might close at night. Weekend parking is also available, but rates might differ.

So, whether you’re planning to catch the Northern Lights or explore Reykjavik’s vibrant nightlife, rest assured your car has a safe spot to spend the night.

Finding Free Parking in Reykjavik

Everyone loves a good deal, right? In terms of parking, Reykjavik has some up its sleeve. Select hours and days offer the perk of free parking. However, keep in mind that these times can differ across zones and might be elusive during busy periods. Rest assured, we have you covered with all the specifics.

Weekday Evenings and Weekends

Here’s the deal: parking in most zones is free after 6 pm on weekdays and on weekends. That’s right, you can spend your evenings and weekends exploring Reykjavik without worrying about parking charges. But remember, this doesn’t apply to multi-storey car parks, so plan accordingly.

Public Holidays and Special Events

Now, let’s talk about public holidays. If you’re visiting Reykjavik during a holiday, the city gifts you with free parking throughout. But remember, some multi-storey car parks might still charge, so it’s always best to double-check. And yes, some special events might affect parking rules, so keep an eye out for any announcements.

Parking at Accommodations

One of the perks of staying in a hotel or hostel in Reykjavik is the possibility of free or discounted parking. These establishments understand the importance of convenience for their guests and often offer parking facilities.

So, whether you’re planning to book a cozy hostel or a luxurious hotel, rest assured that your car will have a secure spot.

Hotels with Free Parking

Now, wouldn’t it be great if your hotel parking was free? Good news: many hotels in Reykjavik offer free parking, including:

• Hótel Reykjavk Grand
• Skuggi Hotel
• Storm Hotel
• Hotel Holt
• Reykjavik Lights

So, you can spend more on that delicious Icelandic cuisine and less on parking fees.

Hostels with Parking Options

And if you’re a backpacker planning to stay in a hostel, don’t worry - many hostels in Reykjavik provide parking options, sometimes even for free! Bus Hostel Reykjavik and Start Hostel are just a couple of examples.

So, whether you’re planning a budget trip or backpacking adventure, rest assured that your parking needs will be taken care of.

Paying for Parking: Meters, Apps, and More

When it comes to paying for parking in Reykjavik, you have multiple options, from parking meters and ticket machines to convenient mobile apps. Whether you’re a fan of cash or digital payments, Reykjavik caters to your preference.

Shall we examine these options more closely?

Using Parking Meters and Ticket Machines

Parking meters and ticket machines are your traditional go-to options for paying for parking in Reykjavik. They’re conveniently located in all paid parking zones and accept both coins and cards. Just remember to keep your license plate number handy when using a ticket machine.

Popular Parking Apps

In the age of digital convenience, why not pay for parking through your smartphone? Apps like EasyPark and Parka are popular among locals and tourists alike for their ease of use. They even let you extend your parking remotely, saving you from running back to the parking meter.

Now, isn’t that handy?

Reykjavik Parking Fines and Regulations

A word of caution: Reykjavik is strict about its parking rules. Parking fines can spoil your holiday spirit, hence it’s prudent to be aware of them. Let’s examine the types of fines and how to deal with them if you happen to receive one.

Types of Parking Fines

There are two main types of parking fines in Reykjavik: extra parking tariffs and parking violation charges. The extra parking tariffs cost 4,500 ISK, and the parking violation charges cost 10,000 ISK.

So, always make sure you’ve paid for your parking and that you’re not violating any rules, especially when using a marked handicapped parking space, as a parking attendant may be monitoring the area.

How to Pay or Dispute a Parking Fine

Received a fine you think you don’t deserve? You have 14 days from the issue date to dispute it. But if the fine is valid, it’s best to pay it as soon as possible to avoid extra charges.

You can pay parking fines at a local bank or contact the Parking Service of Reykjavik City for more information.

Parking Tips for Electric and Eco-Friendly Vehicles

Do you drive an eco-friendly vehicle in Reykjavik? There are some advantages waiting for you – such as free or discounted parking and charging stations. However, these benefits come with certain terms and conditions. Let’s examine them.

Free or Discounted Parking

If you drive an electric or eco-friendly car, you can enjoy free parking for up to 90 minutes in certain zones with a special sticker. But don’t forget, you’ll need to pay for parking if you plan to stay longer, as parking restrictions still apply.

Charging Stations and Locations

When it comes to charging your eco-friendly vehicle in Reykjavik, you’re well catered for. With 91 charging stations across the city, you won’t have to worry about running out of juice. Just remember that there will be fees for using the charging stations in Reykjavik City parking garages from August 17, 2023.