Best Electric Vehicle Routes in Iceland

Iceland has emerged as one of Europe's most electric vehicle-friendly destinations, with nearly 100% renewable energy powering its charging network and dramatic improvements in charging infrastructure over recent years. The country's compact size and well-developed Ring Road make it ideal for EV touring, whilst the abundance of geothermal and hydroelectric power ensures your journey remains genuinely sustainable.

The Golden Circle: Iceland's Premier EV Route

The 230km Golden Circle remains Iceland's most accessible electric vehicle route, offering abundant charging stations and iconic attractions within comfortable range. Start from Reykjavík with a full charge and head northeast on Route 36 towards Þingvellir National Park, just 47km from the capital.

Þingvellir provides your first charging opportunity at the visitor centre, featuring two 50kW CCS/CHAdeMO rapid chargers. The 15-minute stop allows time to explore the dramatic rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates separate at 2cm annually.

Continue 56km northeast to Geysir geothermal area via Route 365. The Geysir Centre operates four charging points, including Tesla Superchargers and universal rapid chargers. Whilst Geysir itself remains dormant, neighbouring Strokkur erupts every 5-8 minutes, shooting water 15-20 metres skyward.

The final 64km leg to Gullfoss waterfall follows Route 35 through golden grasslands (hence the circle's name). Gullfoss Café provides CHAdeMO and Type 2 charging whilst you witness 140 cubic metres of glacial water cascading 32 metres down two-tiered falls every second.

Return to Reykjavík via Route 30 and Route 1, completing the circuit in 4-6 hours including stops. Total charging costs typically run 3,000-4,000 ISK (€20-27).

The South Coast Spectacular

Iceland's south coast offers the country's most dramatic EV touring, with reliable charging infrastructure supporting the 186km journey from Reykjavík to Vík. This route showcases Iceland's volcanic power whilst demonstrating how renewable energy enables sustainable travel through pristine landscapes.

Departing Reykjavík on Route 1, your first major stop arrives after 60km at Selfoss, featuring multiple charging options including N1 petrol stations with 50kW rapid chargers. The town serves as your gateway to the highland adventures beyond.

Continue 68km east to Skógafoss, one of Iceland's most photographed waterfalls. The visitor centre provides Type 2 and CHAdeMO charging whilst you climb the 527 steps alongside the 60-metre cascade for spectacular views across the Westman Islands.

Just 31km further east, Reynisfjara black sand beach near Vík offers your final charging point at the Icewear Vík store. The dramatic basalt sea stacks of Reynisdrangar rise 66 metres from the Atlantic, according to folklore representing three trolls turned to stone at sunrise.

Vík itself, population 291, serves as your natural turning point. The return journey via the same route totals 372km, comfortably within most modern EVs' 400-500km range with strategic charging stops.

The Reykjanes Peninsula Circuit

Often overlooked by visitors rushing to the Golden Circle, the Reykjanes Peninsula provides Iceland's most accessible EV adventure, combining UNESCO World Heritage geology with practical 150km touring range. This southwestern peninsula showcases the Mid-Atlantic Ridge's emergence above sea level through dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Begin in Keflavík, just 3km from the international airport, where multiple charging stations serve rental car customers. Head southwest on Route 425 towards Reykjanesviti lighthouse, Iceland's oldest lighthouse dating to 1878. The 12km journey crosses the Reykjanes Ridge, where ongoing tectonic activity creates new land annually.

Follow Route 427 north to the Bridge Between Continents, a 15-metre footbridge spanning the Álfagjá rift valley. This symbolic crossing between North American and Eurasian plates demonstrates the geological forces powering Iceland's renewable energy grid.

Continue 23km northeast to Gunnuhver geothermal area, named after ghost Gunna who allegedly haunts these 300°C hot springs. The geothermal activity here mirrors the processes generating Iceland's abundant renewable electricity.

Complete the circuit via Route 43 through Grindavík (population 2,827), famous for the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa 8km northeast. The Blue Lagoon offers premium charging facilities for guests, whilst day visitors can access standard charging at Grindavík's N1 station.

Total distance covers 147km, easily manageable for any EV whilst showcasing Iceland's renewable energy sources firsthand.

Practical EV Touring Considerations

Iceland's EV charging network expanded dramatically between 2020-2024, with over 200 public charging points now operational nationwide. The national grid's 99.9% renewable composition (75% hydroelectric, 25% geothermal) ensures genuine environmental benefits from electric vehicle tourism.

Charging costs average 45-55 ISK per kWh (€0.30-0.37), significantly below European averages. Most rapid chargers accept contactless payment or mobile apps, though registering with ON Power or N1 provides discounted rates for extended touring.

Winter EV touring (November-March) requires additional planning, as cold temperatures reduce battery efficiency by 20-30%. However, Iceland's mild coastal climate rarely sees temperatures below -5°C, whilst most charging stations feature heated facilities.

Book EV rentals well in advance, particularly during summer months (June-August). Rental rates start around 12,000 ISK (€80) daily for compact EVs, rising to 25,000 ISK (€167) for premium models with 500km+ range.

Iceland's EV revolution demonstrates how renewable energy and smart infrastructure create genuinely sustainable tourism. These carefully planned routes ensure you experience Iceland's natural wonders whilst contributing to their preservation for future generations.

Getting around Iceland is easiest by car. Compare rental options and find the best deals on Discover Cars — free cancellation available.

Planning your Iceland trip? Don't forget travel insurance — SafetyWing offers flexible Nomad Insurance from $56.28/4 weeks, ideal for Iceland's dramatic terrain and ever-changing conditions. Get covered before you go and explore with confidence.