Ultimate Guide to Gas Stations in Iceland
Iceland’s gas stations are truly one-of-a-kind. On top of dispensing fuel, petrol stations here are a combination of coffee shops, restaurants, grocery stores, retail stores, and community centers. Unlike regular grocery stores and shops that operate on limited hours, gas stations are open for much longer, catering to the needs of locals and even becoming a popular place for Icelanders to gather.
If you’re planning on a road trip around Iceland anytime soon, this comprehensive guide has all the information you need about gas stations in this Nordic country.
How Do Gas Stations in Iceland Work?
Most gas stations in Iceland are full-service and you have the option of either filling up your car yourself or having staff on-site do it for you. If you’re using a self-service station, you’ll need a credit or debit card with a PIN to fill up your car.
Gasoline
Your rental car in Iceland will be designed for a specific kind of fuel, so you need to be mindful of that when filling up your vehicle. Unlike the U.S., in Iceland, the petrol pump is green and the diesel one is black.
EV Charging Stations
With Iceland being a pioneer of sustainability, electric vehicle charging stations are found throughout the country, even in the remote parts. There are two main electric car charger providers: Ísorka and ON (Orka náttúrunnar). You can recharge your car using the smartphone app with either provider. You can even download the English language apps before you arrive so you’re familiar with the process.
Car Wash
A lot of gas stations in Iceland have car wash facilities, if you need one. If you’ve been driving on muddy roads, having a car wash at a petrol station is quite convenient. Always wait for the driver before you finish up. It’s common etiquette in Iceland to clean up the car wash area with some water after you’re done.
How to Pay at Iceland’s Gas Stations
Full-service stations accept multiple modes of payment. But there are also a few self-service gas stations that only accept credit cards with PINs, for example, the gas stations at Keflavík. Either way, you need to enter the number of the petrol pump you’re using at the kiosk and pay using your credit card.
Discount Programs
Iceland’s car rental companies have partnered with fuel companies to create a loyalty discount program for customers. In addition to saving a few bucks of Icelandic Krona per liter, you also get discounts on food and other items as well as free coffee for signing up.
Gas Stations in Iceland
Knowing where the nearest petrol station is crucial when going on a self-drive in Iceland. Getting familiar with the gas station brands helps, so we’ve covered the major ones below:
N1 Gas Stations
The N1 is a popular gas station chain with 95 locations dotted throughout Iceland, especially on the Ring Road. Additionally, there are also stops in more remote regions such as the Westfjords.
Some N1 stations offer oil changes, auto repair, and tire services as well. You can also get a prepaid card with a PIN here, which makes paying for fuel easy.
Costco Gas
For American travelers, it’s a comfort knowing there’s a Costco in Iceland. It’s located in the town of Gardabaer, which is a 15-minute drive from Reykjavík airport. And your Costco membership is valid worldwide, which means you can seize those discounts wherever you are.
Orkan Gas Stations
Orkan is one of the cheapest gas station companies in the country. There are 65 self-service stations (mostly along the Ring Road) and they’re open 24/7!
Olis Gas Stations
Olis has 50 stations in Iceland. The Olis Discount Card gives you 5 ISK off every liter of fuel, free WIFI, discount coffee, a 10% discount at their restaurants, and lots more offers.
Gas Prices in Iceland
The cost of fuel in Iceland fluctuates constantly. From 1998 to 2023, the average was 2.50 ISK (1.80 US $)* per liter. In June 2023, gas prices soared to an all-time high of 3.60 ISK (2.60 US $)*. Fuel prices also vary throughout the country, so it’s best to plan ahead for your trip if you want to budget the costs of refilling your tanks.
Iceland’s gas stations are not just stops to fill up your cars, they’re are a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you’re stocking up on essentials at the grocery stores on-site or fuelling up for the next leg of your journey, gas stations in Iceland are convenient places for a range of things. Before you hit the road, make sure to check out our guide to driving in Iceland so you’re well-versed in the country’s driving etiquette. Safe travels!
(*All prices are approx. as of April 2024)