Parking Fees in Iceland: The Popular Attractions You’ll Need to Pay for in 2025
Parking fees are becoming increasingly common in Iceland. Here’s a complete list of where you’ll need to pay for parking.
Gone are the days when parking in Iceland was completely free. While you can still park at a lot of attractions on the Ring Road without paying a króna, a lot of Iceland's most popular attractions now charge for parking to help manage the increasing number of visitors to these spectacular locations.
We've noticed more and more parking meters popping up across the country in recent years. Reykjavik leads the charge with parking fees of up to 600 ISK ($4.20 USD) per hour in the busy downtown zones. Even the natural wonders aren't exempt anymore – you'll need to shell out 1000 ISK ($7 USD) at Thingvellir National Park for a day's parking and another 1000 ISK to visit the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall.
In this guide to parking fees in Iceland, we'll explain exactly where you'll need to pay in 2025. We'll cover everything from city center zones to remote waterfall parking lots, breaking down the rates and payment methods and sharing our tips to help you avoid any surprise charges during your Icelandic adventure.
| Price in ISK | Price in $ | Price in € |
| 1500 | 10.69 | 10.22 |
| 1200 | 8.55 | 8.18 |
| 1000 | 7.13 | 6.82 |
| 750 | 5.35 | 5.11 |
| 700 | 4.99 | 4.77 |
| 650 | 4.63 | 4.43 |
| 600 | 4.28 | 4.09 |
| 450 | 3.21 | 3.07 |
| 250 | 1.78 | 1.70 |
| 200 | 1.43 | 1.36 |
Parking Fees on the Golden Circle
Iceland’s most famous day trip from Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, is packed with some major sights in a small area, giving you plenty of bang for your buck. There are a few parking fees to consider when planning your trip.
Thingvellir National Park
1000 ISK paid on site or via checkit.is.
Iceland’s most historically important national park has a parking fee, which gives you access for the whole day. Considering this money goes towards an impressive visitor’s center, several toilet blocks around the park, and maintenance of the walking paths, it’s a fair price to pay.
Brúarfoss Waterfall
750 ISK paid via the Parka app.
This waterfall used to be accessed via a bit of a hike along the river, but a new parking area has made it far more accessible. They do charge for the easy access though, paid via the Parka app.
Geysir
1000 ISK paid via the Parka app.
The explosive Geysir on the Golden Circle now has a parking fee of 1000 ISK per vehicle, but there are lots of services to maintain here, including a handy food court and walking trails throughout the whole area.
Brúarhlöð Canyon
1000 ISK paid via the Parka app.
A little-known canyon south of Gullfoss, this stop now charges for parking. No facilities.
Faxafoss
700 ISK paid on site.
A small waterfall on the Golden Circle, skipped over by tour buses. Note that you can reclaim the parking fee if you order something at the nearby restaurant.
Kerið Crater
600 ISK per person, paid at the entry kiosk.
While technically an entrance fee (like Stokksnes Peninsula in the southeast), we’ve included this on the list so you can decide whether it’s worth it or not to see this volcanic crater near Selfoss.
Parking Fees in South Iceland
The south coast of Iceland is one of the country’s most popular areas and has the highest concentration of parking fees to help manage the crowds.
Big changes are also coming to Skógafoss – parking fees will kick in from September 2025. They've moved the parking area a bit further back and made it twice as big.
Reykjadalur Hot Spring River
200 ISK for the first hour, then 250 ISK per hour, paid via the Easy Park app.
One of the most famous natural hot springs in the country is the Reykjadalur Hot Spring River. At the trailhead, you’ll pay an hourly fee – we generally expect the whole hike and a soak to take about 3–4 hours, putting this cost on par with most other locations.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
1000 ISK paid via checkit.is.
A favorite waterfall in Iceland, Seljalandsfoss has had one of the longest running parking fees in the country. The money goes towards keeping the paths maintained and the facilities clean.
DC-3 Plane Wreck (Eyvindarholt)
1000 ISK paid via the Parka app.
Not to be confused with the DC-3 Plane Wreck on Sólheimasandur Beach, this is another plane wreck in a farmer’s field, a bit up the road from Seljalandsfoss.
Gluggafoss Waterfall
1000 ISK paid via the Parka app.
Just down the road from Seljalandsfoss, Gluggafoss Waterfall asks for 1000 ISK through the Parka app.
Rútshellir Caves
1000 ISK paid via the Parka app.
A small turf house built into the cliff face just before you reach Skogafoss. Not worth the cost unless you’re really interested in history.
Kvernufoss waterfall
750 ISK paid via the Parka app.
Next to Skogafoss Waterfall is a quieter, lesser-known waterfall called Kvernufoss. Although since they’ve started charging for here, word has spread, and people now know about one of the coolest waterfalls on the south coast. If you’re going to Kvernufoss right after visiting Skógafoss and don’t want to pay two parking fees, you can walk from one waterfall to another. It takes 42 minutes one way.
DC-3 Plane Wreck (Sólheimasandur)
750 ISK paid via the Parka app.
Parking at Sólheimasandur, the beach with the famous plane wreck, will set you back 750 ISK. There is also a shuttle bus that runs to and from the wreckage site, which is paid for separately (2000 ISK one way). Otherwise, the walk to the wreckage site takes about one hour.
Sólheimajökull Glacier
750 ISK paid via the Parka app.
Over at Sólheimajökull glacier, north of the ring road after Skogafoss, parking runs 750 ISK through the Parka app.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
1000 or 750 ISK paid via the Parka app.
The famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach has two different parking areas with different prices:
- Lower parking area: 1000 ISK (closer to the beach)
- Upper level: 750 ISK (a bit of a walk, but cheaper)
Hjörleifshöfði (the Yoda Cave)
1000 ISK paid via the Easy Park app.
On the eastern side of Vik, there’s a turnoff that takes you to this cave, where the opening looks a bit like Yoda from Star Wars if you’re looking out from the inside.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
1000 ISK paid via the Parka app.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon charges 1000 ISK through the Parka app. They've got cameras watching the parking lot, so don't try to skip the payment.
Landmannalaugar
450 ISK paid via the Parka app.
Reservations to park your campervan in the beautiful Landmannalaugar area in the Highlands are necessary if you plan to arrive between 9 AM and 16 PM any day between June 20th to September 14th (both days included).
Parking Fees at Vatnajökull Glacier
The southeast corner of Iceland is dominated by the vast Vatnajökull Glacier, protected by the national park of the same name, where you’ll find a few paid parking areas at the most famous sights.
Skaftafell & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
1000 ISK paid via the Parka app.
Since June 2023, parking at the incredible Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon costs 1000 ISK. The good news? Your ticket is valid until midnight, so you can come and go as you please after you’ve paid.
But before you get to the Glacier Lagoon, you might want to stop at Skaftafell as well. Here, there’s also a 1000 ISK fee for this area filled with beautiful hiking trails, but if you visit both locations on the same day, you’ll get 50% off the parking at your second location. It will apply automatically in the app when you go to pay.
Stokksnes Peninsula
1000 ISK per person paid upon entry.
Although not a part of the glacier per se, Stokksnes Peninsula is a short distance away (plus, the icecap is still visible from here). While technically not paid parking, you do have to pay entrance fees to get onto this peninsula for its dramatic views.
Parking Fees in East & North Iceland
Once you’ve entered East Iceland, your wallet will thank you; there aren’t many places with parking fees in this region. Still, they have been increasing. Here’s what you need to know before heading out here as well as in North Iceland.
Stuðlagil – Eastern Side of the Canyon
1000 ISK paid via the Parka app.
East Iceland’s most famous glacial canyon now charges for parking on its eastern side. This parking area lets you walk down into the canyon itself, while the western edge (free parking) instead has viewing platforms.
Hengifoss waterfall
1000 ISK through onsite or via checkit.is
One of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls and an East Iceland gem, Hengifoss, has recently started charging for parking at its base. However, it’s worth every króna, as the money helps maintain the excellent viewing platforms and hiking trail.
Hverir Geothermal Area
1200 ISK paid via the Parka app.
This is one of the most expensive areas to park in Iceland. It’s an awesome place, where bubbling hot springs and mud pots belch and steam, and the landscape looks a bit like an alien world.
Hverfjall Crater, Lake Mývatn
1000 ISK paid via the Parka app.
The giant crater of volcanic ash rising on the eastern edge of Lake Mývatn now charges 1000 ISK for parking at the trailhead.
Reykjafoss & Fosslaug
1500 ISK paid in cash
This waterfall and hot spring combo used to fly under the radar, but the introduction of a parking fee by the landowners tells us that it is growing in popularity. It’s an expensive fee as well – maybe it's best to avoid it.
Illugastaðir Seal Watching, Vatnsnes Peninsula
1000 ISK paid via the Parka app.
Another area that charges for parking is Illugastaðir in the north, where you can often see seals lazing on the rocks.
Parking Fees in Akureyri
There are also some parking fees to consider when visiting Akureyri. The city has published a map of the small area, which you’ll need to pay for.
On top of that, east of Akureyri on the ring road is the only place where you’ll need to pay a toll in Iceland: the tunnel Vaðlaheiðargöng. The price is 2,110 ISK ($14.85 USD) for a single trip, which you can pay via their website.
Parking Fees in West Iceland and the Westfjords
The western parts of Iceland are some of our favorite regions to explore. While the landscapes here are just as dramatic as the south coast, you'll find fewer crowds and plenty of open roads.
Glanni Waterfall
1000 ISK paid via the Parka app.
A small waterfall just off the ring road near Bifröst. A beautiful and calm area that doesn’t see much traffic.
Kirkjufell
1000 ISK paid via the Easy Park app.
You’ve likely already seen pictures of the beautiful mountain with a rushing waterfall in the foreground. Parking here for a campervan will set you back 1000 ISK, with the parking area controlled by security cameras. There is also a smaller, free parking area back down closer to Grundarfjörður, but you’ll need to walk further to reach the viewing point.
Ytri-Tunga (Seal Beach)
650 ISK paid via checkit.is.
The fee might seem annoying but trust us – watching these playful creatures is worth the price of admission.
Dynjandi Waterfall
750 ISK paid via the Glaze app.
The crown jewel of the Westfjords now charges 750 ISK for parking. It’s operated via the new app called Glaze.
Reykjanes Peninsula Parking Locations
This Peninsula in the southwest tip of the country is home to many cool sights, especially volcanic. It's very close to Reykjavik, and the Blue Lagoon is located there, so it's definitely worth a visit.
Fagradalsfjall Volcano
1000 ISK paid via the Parka app.
You've got two parking options – P1 and P2, both charging 1000 ISK per day. Your ticket lasts 24 hours, and the money goes towards making the eruption site safer and more accessible for everyone.
Word of warning – they've got cameras watching both lots.
Reykjavik City Parking Zones
Parking in Reykjavik might seem complicated at first glance, but don't worry – we've got you covered. The city uses a clever color-coded system that, once you understand it, makes perfect sense.
The city has also published a handy map of the parking zones.
Downtown Reykjavik Parking Rates
Here's how the zones break down:
| Zone | Color | Rate per hour |
| P1 | Red/Pink | 630 ISK ($4.45 USD), maximum of 3 hours |
| P2 | Blue | 230 ISK ($1.60 USD) |
| P3 | Green | 230 ISK (first 2 hours), 70 ISK ($0.50 USD) after |
| P4 | Orange | 230 ISK |
Looking for a better deal? The city’s parking garages offer cheaper prices and are open from 7am until midnight.
Reykjavik Parking Zone Hours
Each zone dances to its own rhythm. Here's the breakdown:
P1 and P2 zones (the busy ones):
- Weekdays 09:00 to 21:00
- Weekends: 10:00 to 21:00
P3 zones are a bit more relaxed:
- Weekdays: 09:00 to 18:00
- Weekends: Free
P4 zones are the easiest:
- Weekdays: 08:00 to 16:00
- Weekends: Free
Parking is also free on all those lovely public holidays – New Year's Day, Easter, Christmas, you name it.
Parking Payment Methods in Iceland
Luckily for travelers, paying for parking in Iceland is quite simple. There are three main methods that you’ll need to be familiar with.
Iceland Parking Apps (Parka, Easy Park, and Checkit.is)
We recommend downloading Parka and Easy Park before your trip – these apps will be your best friends regarding parking payments in Iceland. Between them, both apps cover almost all the attractions in the list below.
They follow the same straightforward process:
- Download and install the app
- Register your rental car's license plate
- Add your payment method
- Start parking sessions as needed
The best part about these apps? You can extend your parking time without having to trek back to your car.
The other option that has emerged recently is the website Checkit.is. This covers Thingvellir National Park, Seljalandsfoss, Hengifoss, and Seal Beach (Ytri-Tunga) on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
On-site Payment Machines and Terminals
If you're not keen on using apps (or your phone battery is running low), you'll find payment machines in most parking areas. Just punch in your license plate number, and you're good to go. The system automatically tracks your parking time—handy for the parking attendants but not so much for those trying to bend the rules.
Credit Card and Cash Payment Options
Good news for card carriers – payment terminals take all major credit cards, including contactless payments. If you're old school and prefer cash, you can use coins, but make sure you've got exact change.
One last tip: while it's good practice to keep your receipt, most places now track everything through license plates rather than paper tickets. You won't have to race back to your car to display a ticket on the dashboard.
Reykjavik Parking Payment Methods
Parking in Reykjavik is handled by parking meters. These meters accept cash and cards, and you must enter your vehicle’s license plate number.
Parking Fees in Iceland
While you can still find plenty of free spots along the Ring Road (thank goodness for that!), most of the popular attractions now charge between 400 ISK and 1500 ISK for parking, with even more likely on the horizon.
Before your trip to Iceland, we recommend downloading both Easy Park and Parka. They're absolute lifesavers when you're bouncing between Reykjavik's color-coded zones and remote waterfall parking lots.
Nobody likes paying for parking – we get it. But when you're staring up at a magnificent waterfall or watching seals play on a black sand beach, that 1000 ISK fee doesn't seem so bad. Think of these parking fees as your contribution to keeping Iceland's natural wonders pristine for future travelers.