The unspoilt Icelandic destination of Egilsstaðir lies 8 hours northeast of the capital, Reykjavik. Getting from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir is easy – and with hot springs, scenic mountains with wild horses, hiking and biking trails, and winter cross-country skiing, it’s a paradise for nature lovers. Several festivals take place in the town each year, including electronic music and jazz festivals, and there are abundant regional celebrations throughout the year. There are many ways to reach Egilsstaðir from Reykjavik – by air, ferry, car and taxi, just take your pick!
Flying from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir
Egilsstaðir is the capital of the Eastern region of Iceland – with stunning fjords, traditional architecture, and breathtaking outdoor landscapes. Air Iceland Connect offers non-stop daily flights from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir with a journey time of around one hour. The cost for one person each way starts at approximately $99 USD, however this does vary throughout the year depending on travel dates. You can carry up to 6kg of hand luggage with you and check a bag up to 20kg in total.
Driving from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir
Even first-timers to the country will enjoy driving in Iceland! The island has a countrywide ring-road – Route 1, which traverses the entire coastal route, making it easy for drivers and tourists seeking out lesser-known destinations. Although it does take just over 8 hours to drive from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir, you can stop en-route at varying points of interest. Drive clockwise on the northern ring-road to break at beautiful Mytavn Lake and the waterfalls of the Diamond Circle, or venture to Húsavík for a spot of whale watching. Alternatively, drive counter-clockwise on the southern route to Egilsstaðir and take in the famous Gullfoss waterfall, jet-black sands and towering cliffs of Vik, and the dancing Northern Lights of East Iceland. It’s possible to hire a car from your Reykjavik hotel or Keflavik Airport, and some companies allow you to drop the car off at another location on the island!
Bus from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir
Many visitors enjoy traveling by bus from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir. The journey time is around 10.5 hours, via the bustling port town of Akureyri on the northern shores of Iceland. This route may be slightly longer; however, it does allow ample opportunity to relax and enjoy the captivating Icelandic landscapes throughout your journey. If you plan to stay for a day or two in Akureyri, there are buses to Egilsstaðir 4 times a week, so you can hop on and off if you choose. The compact city has great walks along the Arctic Coast Way, impressive traditional architecture, botanical gardens, and exceptional dining options. It’s worth noting that buses can cost almost the same as flights and car hire in Iceland if you’re traveling long distances, but if you want to see the unspoiled countryside and other-worldly terrain and don’t wish to drive, it’s the perfect travel option.
Taxi from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir
If you can find a taxi company willing to make the journey, be prepared – it’s going to cost a lot more than any other mode of transport. Your best bet is to break up your journey using local taxi companies for each leg of the trip. This can help to keep costs down and it allows you the opportunity to stay in different regions of Iceland en-route. Being chauffeured is a wonderful way to see Iceland, but for a journey of this distance, you could be looking at several hundred dollars to get from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir.
Multi-Day Tours from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir
If you want to see Iceland’s iconic landmarks in all their glory, without any stress, book a multi-day tour from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir. Explore the highlights in comfort, including the famous Golden Circle and Gullfoss waterfall, glaciers of Vatnajökull National Park, the East Fjords, Egilsstaðir, Myvatn Lake, and much more!
