Arriving in Reykjavík via Cruise Ship
Reykjavík is a popular destination for cruise travelers, offering a warm welcome, stunning scenery, and easy access to the heart of the city. Whether you're planning a day of exploring or starting a longer Icelandic adventure, it's helpful to know what to expect when you arrive by sea.
There are three cruise ship ports in the greater Reykjavík area—Skarfabakki, Miðbakki, and Hafnarfjörður—each with its own unique location and transport options. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of how to get from your port to the city center, parking availability, car rental info, and more, to help you make the most of your visit.
Skarfabakki
Skarfabakki cruise port is the primary cruise ship terminal in Reykjavík.
How to get from Skarfabakki to the Reykjavík city center?
The Skarfabakki pier is located approximately 4 km from the city center. There are free shuttle buses from the port to Harpa Concert Hall. During summer 2025, the buses will run between 08:00 and 18:00 at approximately 20-minute intervals. Alternatively, you can book a taxi.
You can also use the public bus system by taking bus number 16, which stops close to the cruise ship terminal.
Are there any car rentals at Skarfabakki cruise port?
There are no car rentals at Skarfabakki cruise port, but most car rental companies offer pick-up from the port.
Are there public parking spaces at Skarfabakki cruise port?
There are public parking spaces close to Skarfabakki cruise port, but they are not intended for prolonged parking.
Is there anything else I need to know regarding the pier at Skarfabakki?
Miðbakki
Miðbakki is located at the old harbor in the heart of Reykjavík. The pier is close to major attractions in central Reykjavík, restaurants, and shops, providing easy access for passengers disembarking from their vessels. The old harbour and Grandi areas next to the harbour are home to attractions such as whale watching, museums, experience centres as well as hotels.
Are there any car rentals located at Miðbakki cruise port?
There are no car rentals at Miðbakki cruise port, but most car rental companies offer pick-up from the city center.
Are there public parking spaces at Miðbakki cruise port?
Yes, there are public parking spaces in the vicinity of Miðbakki.
Hafnarfjörður
Hafnarfjörður cruise port is located in the city center of Hafnarfjörður, approximately 12 km from Reykjavík city center.
What are the best things to see and explore in Hafnarfjörður?
How to get from Hafnarfjörður to the Reykjavík city center?
Bus number 1 runs from Hafnarfjörður to the Reykjavík city center. The bus stop in Hafnarfjörður is called Fjörður, and the bus runs every 10-15 minutes during the week and every 30 minutes on weekends.
Are there any car rentals located at Hafnarfjörður cruise port?
Are there public parking spaces at Hafnarfjörður cruise port?
Where can I store my luggage during my stay in Reykjavík?
Self-service lockers from Luggage Lockers are in central Reykjavík, within easy walking distance of most centrally located hotels, restaurants, and attractions. You can choose your own code to open the locker, and they are monitored by video surveillance.