Planning an epic self-drive trip around Iceland? I couldn’t be more excited for you…road trips are the best way to see the country! 🚙
But, I’m sure you’re wondering about one little detail – Iceland gas stations.
Imagine cruising along the open road, everything’s perfect until—uh-oh—you’re running low on gas and have no clue where the nearest gas station is!
If you’re traveling to smaller villages and off-the-beaten-path places, gas stations can be impossible to find – they’re just not marked on your typical map!
(Thankfully, I’ve got just what you need to remedy that, in this post. 😉)
Some stations are manned, but many are self-service. You’ll also find that amenities can differ from place to place, so it’s important to know what to expect.
And then comes the question of how to pay.
Don’t worry, I’ll explain how you can fill up and pay for gas, plus a few other interesting features of Iceland gas stations that might be new to you. I’ll also cover what to expect if you’re renting a hybrid or electric vehicle, including how EV charging works around the country.
If you’re driving in Iceland, this blog is for you!
Let’s get into it!
Iceland Gas Prices: How Much is Gas in Iceland?
The petrol price in Iceland is currently ISK 218.35 (1.74 USD per liter). And you can expect to pay around ISK 236.25 per liter or USD 1.88 per liter for diesel.
Fuel in Iceland has to be imported, so yeah, it’s generally more expensive than in other countries. A lot of people arrive only to realize they haven’t budgeted for the fuel prices here, so consider yourself warned!
Even though diesel is more expensive than gasoline, keep in mind that it is more fuel efficient, meaning fewer trips to the gas station!
What is the Cheapest Gas Station in Iceland?
Locals love to fill up at Costco because it’s so cheap. Right now, Orkan offers cheap fuel, but usually other cost-effective options are ÓB Gas Station, Dælan, and Atlantsolía.
Whereas stations like N1 and Olís tend to be on the pricier side, though as you’ll see in a bit, you’re often paying for convenience too.
Pro tip: What’s great is that your Costco membership is valid worldwide, so you can get those benefits even when you’re in Iceland!
How to Pay for Gas in Iceland?
Major gas stations, especially in Reykjavík, accept contactless payments like Google or Apple pay. But if you’re going to more remote areas, not all gas stations accept contactless payments. Because of this, make sure you have a chip and PIN card or a prepaid gas card.
Trust me, you do NOT want to find this out the hard way at an unmanned pump in the middle of nowhere!
If you’re not used to pumping gas on your own, it’s a lot simpler than you think. But don’t worry, I’ll walk you through how to do it in a bit… don’t go anywhere. 😊
Fill-Up Options
Pay close attention, because this is important…
When you come up to a pump, you’re going to have the option of choosing different levels of payment.
NEVER choose the “Fill Up Option” on the screen.
You might be thinking, “Why wouldn’t I just let it fill up until my tank is full?”
But here’s the thing: if you choose that option, it doesn’t just fill your tank – it places a huge hold on your card, sometimes up to $250! This is definitely something you’ll want to avoid.
What I typically do is charge between 5,000 and 10,000 ISK at the pump.
You’ll only be charged for the amount you actually use, so you’re not paying for anything extra.
How to Pump Gas in Iceland?
Okay, when you’re ready to refuel, this is what you’ll do: Start by locating the payment terminal next to the pump.
Insert your credit card and follow the on-screen instructions. Enter the amount of fuel you’d like
(This is just a limit, so if your tank fills up before reaching that amount, you’ll only be charged for what you actually used).
Select the correct nozzle, either for petrol or diesel.
Once you’re done fueling, you can re-enter your card to get a receipt if needed.
If it’s your first time filling up in Iceland, it can feel a little confusing. Most of the gas-stations here are self-service, but once you’ve done it, it’s easy-peasy.
What Do the Pump Colors Mean?
If you need diesel, look for pumps with black handles. The pumps with green handles are for petrol.
The green pumps normally have a label with Bensin or Okt 95 on it.
Pro tip: These colors can be the opposite in some countries, so please double-check before you fill up with the wrong fuel. Misfueling will damage the engine, and rental companies usually won’t cover it. It’s a simple mistake to overlook, but can end up costing you a lot of money!
Charging & Driving Electric Cars in Iceland
If you’re renting an electric or hybrid car, you’ll find charging stations across the country. Most of them are concentrated along popular routes like the South Coast and Ring Road.
It’s important to know that there are no EV charging stations in the Highlands.
The EV charging station companies you’ll come across will likely be Ísorka and ON, and I’d recommend downloading their apps.
They’ll show you exactly where the stations are and you can pay via the app by linking your credit card.
(Oh, and while you’re at it, these are the 👉 apps in Iceland I suggest for your trip.)
The weather can affect both charging times and how long your battery will last. Cold temperatures have a way of really zapping your battery life!
If you’ve never taken a road trip with an electric car or camper van, factor in charging times.
You’ll typically find the following:
Fast chargers: This is the one you need for a quick top-up, and by ‘quick’ I mean about 20-40 minutes.
AC chargers: If you’re planning on taking a long hike or staying overnight on your road trip, this is the charging station you’d use.
Iceland is serious about sustainability and the infrastructure is definitely expanding to make sure more areas support electric vehicles in the future.
Planning Fuel Stops on Your Route
Gas stations in Iceland are few and far between. And one of the biggest itinerary mistakes I see first-time visitors make is assuming they don’t need to plan their fuel stops, because they can just fill up whenever they need to along their route.
Now, that might work in a lot of other countries…
But not in Iceland!
You’ll find plenty of gas stations in Reykjavík, however, in more remote areas like the Eastfjords, North Iceland or Westfjords, there are a lot of wide open spaces!
You don’t want to be stranded out in the middle of nowhere without fuel, especially if the weather’s not great.
My advice is to always fuel up when you see an Iceland gas station, even if you think you have enough gas to reach the next town.
Another good rule is to NEVER let your tank drop below half. That way you know you’ll get to the next station – no worries!
Gas Stations on the Ring Road
You won’t have to drive too far before seeing a gas station on the Ring Road. The longest stretch without one is about 62 miles (100 km) between Höfn and Djúpivogur.
That said, you still don’t want to wait until the last minute to fill up, especially if you plan to take detours and visit more remote areas of the country.
Here’s what you need to know about driving the Ring Road:
➡️ READ: How Long Does it Take to Drive Around Iceland? Your Guide to Touring the Ring Road
Snæfellsnes & Golden Circle Stops
If you’re sticking to the major tourist routes like Snæfellsnes and the Golden Circle, you’ll have no trouble finding gas stations.
A couple of options to fuel up on the Golden Circle are Selfoss and Laugarvatn or Borganes and Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Iceland Petrol Stations in the Westfjords
There aren’t that many gas stations here either, so every time I drive through towns like Ísafjörður, I fill up. Always make sure you travel with a full tank!
Bottom line: I can’t stress enough how important it is to plan out your route.
This is one of the reasons why so many travelers rave about my Iceland Travel Map. It’s super convenient because they’re able to plan out their exact route and see all the gas stations along the way!
Petrol Stations in the Highlands
Did you know that you can easily cover over 120 miles (200km) in the Highlands without seeing a single gas station?!
Make sure that your tank is full and you’ve planned out where you’re going.
Please don’t just wing it here!
There are fuel stations at Hrauneyjar and Landmannalaugar, but these are seasonal and are only open from June to September when the F-Roads are open.
If you’re anything like me and have an adventurous spirit, you totally understand the urge to get off the beaten path. It doesn’t get more remote than the Highlands!
This is what you need to know before you go. 👇
➡️ READ: The Highlands of Iceland: Your Ultimate Guide To Explore Like A Pro
What Happens When You Run Out of Fuel in Iceland?
If you run into trouble on an F-Road, or need to be towed, most car rental companies can send roadside assistance.
Heads-up though, every rental company handles this differently, so make sure you read the fine print for the rules (and costs).
Some offer roadside assistance for a daily fee. I know it’s extra, but it can save you from paying a massive bill if something goes wrong.
And one thing’s for sure, you don’t want to be hanging around for hours in the dead of winter waiting to be rescued!
Pro tip: When renting for your road trip, always check they offer 24/7 assistance.
One of my favorite companies offering this is Blue Car Rental.
If you experience a breakdown or emergency, it’s such a relief to know that they’re just a call away.
Their vehicles are equipped to handle Iceland’s extreme weather and terrain, making your drive safer and smoother.
Plus, their convenient online check-in process saves you time, so you can hit the road faster and with less hassle.
Book using this 👉 Blue Car Rental link, and you’ll automatically get 5% off your rental at checkout.
Different Types of Gas Stations in Iceland
If you know me, you know that I love to take road trips all over Iceland. But I quickly found that fueling up here is a bit different to what I was used to in the U.S. Not all Iceland gas stations are created equal.
Here’s what I mean:
The Everything-You-Need Gas Station
Some gas stations will have anything from a full grocery store to a little café or restaurant!
I’ve even come across card games, souvenirs, clothing, and automotive supplies. All kinds of things!
This type of gas station also has restrooms. This is important to know, some other types don’t! If I compare them to the washrooms in the U.S., Iceland’s are definitely better maintained and generally feel much cleaner.
These stations are often in the middle of nowhere or in small villages in Iceland, but they’re packed with everything you need.
It’s convenient because the all-in-one nature of these gas stations means you don’t have to make multiple stops.
Take N1 Gas Stations in Iceland, for instance. This popular chain is a great place to stock up on supplies, and they even have full grocery stores.
Pro tip: Even if you can’t seem to find a grocery store in some villages, don’t overlook the gas stations – they might just have what you’re looking for!
If you want the best tips on what not to do on your road trip, check this out. 👇
Iceland Gas Station Hot Dogs
It may sound random to point out, but most petrol stations in Iceland have really good hot dogs!
They’re a big deal here, and they’re not like the ones you’re used to back home (mystery meat… eeew!).
No, the Iceland gas station hot dogs here are delicious and made with real lamb meat. They also come with all sorts of toppings like fried onions, sweet brown mustard, and remoulade.
Pro tip: I always make a point of stopping for the soft serve ice cream too (dipped in chocolate, of course!). It’s SO yummy!
So, aside from the restaurants and grocery stores you’ll find at some gas stations, I highly recommend trying the hot dogs as a great way to save on your food budget!
If you’re looking for more ways to save money on your trip, I did an entire post about that here. 👇
➡️ READ: How to Travel Iceland on a Budget: 25 Tips to Save Money on Your Trip
Stand Alone Pumps with No Station
There will be times when you’re driving out in the middle of nowhere, and literally see one lonely old gas pump – and nothing else.
There’s no inside station.
No toilet.
And no place to pay.
That’s why I always suggest having a credit card with PIN access because it’ll allow you to use these pumps.
Want to make sure you never miss a must-see spot or get stuck in a remote area desperately searching for a gas station?
I found everything I wanted to know as a traveler in Iceland, and put it in my Iceland Travel Map & Guide for you!
From hidden gems to practical travel tips like where to find the restrooms, gas stations and accommodation, it’s all on the digital map.
With over 400 five-star reviews, it’s beloved by many.
Full & Self-Service Stations
While some pumps are manned, you will find that a lot of them, especially in the countryside, are self-service.
Some full and self-service stations include N1, Skeljungur, Olís. While the self-service-only stations are Atlantsolía, Dælan, Orkan, ÓB.
What Are the Major Gas Station Chains in Iceland?
In the small villages, you might find non-chain gas stations, but most of the time, you’ll be filling up at one of these:
N1 gas station: They have the most petrol stations in Iceland. Some of these even offer auto repair. Good to know, especially if something unexpected comes up!
Atlantsolía: This is probably the smallest chain of the lot, and mostly a self-service option. You’ll find them in the capital, but also on the quieter routes, so if you’re in East Iceland and Westfjords, keep an eye out for this one.
Orkan, Iceland: All Orkan pumps are self-service, and they accept Apple and Google Pay.
Olís gas station, Iceland: Both N1 and Olís tend to be more expensive, but they offer more in terms of what you can find there. It’s kind of like a one-stop-shop where you’re paying for convenience.
ÓB gas station, Iceland: If you want to save a few krónur, outside of Reykjavík where there isn’t a Costco, this is your best bet. Most of these stations are unmanned.
FAQs
Here are a few more things you might want to know when it comes to Iceland gas stations:
Is Iceland Gas Station Food Good?
Yes! It’s surprising just how good the food is. Gas stations are a great place to grab a light meal or snack. Plus, the options are usually cheaper, so it’s a win-win!
What if I Don’t Have An Iceland Gas Station Credit Card PIN?
If you can’t get a PIN for your card, you can purchase a prepaid gas card. There are a lot of unmanned Iceland fuel stations, and this will come in handy if there’s any issue with your debit or credit card.
You can buy them at some supermarkets and major manned gas station chains like N1, Olís, Orkan.
Do Gas Stations in Iceland Accept Cash?
Gas stations in Iceland rarely accept cash, and because so many of them are unmanned, I would not count on this as a reliable method of payment at gas stations.
What are Some Gas Stations Near Keflavík Airport?
You can find a lot of options near the airport. Some of those include Orkan Iceland, Atlantsolía, N1 and ÓB.
Are there Electric Car Charging Stations in the Highlands?
No. You won’t find EV charging stations in the Highlands for a couple of reasons:
You need a 4WD for the F-Roads and electric vehicles aren’t suited for these roads.
Another problem is that you might come across river crossings, again, a no-go for electric vehicles.
If you’re not sure whether you need a 2WD or 4WD on your trip, check out this post. 👇
➡️ READ: 2WD or 4WD in Iceland: Which Rental Car Is the Best Option?
What is the Iceland Road Tax?
Before 2026, drivers paid for road maintenance and developing infrastructure through fuel taxes. Now, Iceland charges a tax based on how far you drive.
I know, I know, one more thing to keep track of. But it’s not as complicated as it sounds. Car rental companies will differ in how they charge you for this, but with Blue Car Rental, there’s a fixed 1,550 ISK per day, so you won’t get any surprises on your bill.
What is the Reduced Fuel VAT Rate in Iceland (2026)
Normally, VAT on fuel is 24%, but the government temporarily lowered it to 11% because of the Iran conflict pushing fuel prices up. That means the cost of fuel in Iceland is currently cheaper than usual.
This took effect in May 2026 and should stay in place until the end of August 2026.
So, you’ll save a little every time you fill up at the gas station, which is always welcome on an Iceland road trip!
Iceland Road Trip Series
I’ve put together some super handy tips and resources in my road trip planning series. Check it out below.👇
✅ Part 1: Renting A Car In Iceland: 10 Quick Tips For A Successful Trip
✅ Part 2: Iceland Road Trip: Top 15 Tips How to Plan an Epic Trip
✅ Part 3: How to Travel Iceland on a Budget: 25 Tips to Save Money on Your Trip
✅ Part 4: Road Signs in Iceland You Need to Know Before Hitting the Road
✅ Part 5: Driving In Iceland: Stay Safe On The Roads With These 8 Tips
✅ Part 6: 3 Crucial Iceland Travel Warnings & Top Tips for a Safe Trip
✅ Part 7: Parking in Iceland: The Simple Guide to Paying, Parking and Avoiding Fines
Where Can I Find an Iceland Gas Station Map?
The major gas stations in Iceland like N1, Olis and Orkan have apps you can download to help you find nearby gas stations.
The problem with that is that you’ll need to download each of these apps, which isn’t very convenient.
The Bensin app is handy for comparing prices and locating where you can fill up. BUT it’s only available for iOS. Sorry Android users!
I don’t know about you, but when I’m traveling I like to have all the information I need in one place.
Wouldn’t it be amazing to just climb in your car, pull up a digital map, and see all the hidden gems, accommodations, AND Iceland gas stations nicely laid out on your route?
You won’t be left wandering the F-Roads in the Icelandic wilderness trying to find them on your own!
That’s why I created my 👉 Iceland Travel Map + Guidebook.
With hundreds of 5-star reviews, visitors to Iceland swear by it!
The digital map is a game-changer for planning your itinerary with over 1,500 pinned locations, from waterfalls and hot springs to restaurants, grocery stores, and gas stations.
My guide is packed with must-see sites, detours, planning checklists, suggested itineraries and insider information that’ll save you money on your trip.
And so much more!
You won’t find this level of detail anywhere else.
Get all the planning tools you need for the trip of a lifetime right here 👉 Iceland Travel Map & Guide.
Happy Planning!
Jeannie is the founder of Iceland with a View, an Iceland trip planning resource she launched in 2015 after moving to Iceland. Having lived in Iceland for nearly 11 years, she shares firsthand travel advice through in-depth articles, guidebooks, maps, itineraries, and a YouTube channel with over 110,000 subscribers. Her mission is to help travelers confidently plan unforgettable Iceland trips with practical, experience-based guidance.
