Download an app, scan the QR code, step on, and ride away into the sunset. For a few years, there is a new mode of transport in Reykjavík, and it is crazy popular: electric scooters! In this article, we will tell you all you need to know about riding an electric scooter in Reykjavík- one of the best ways to get around in Iceland. We will also tell you where to go for an electric scooter Reykjavík sightseeing tour.
Electric scooters are perfect to get around in Reykjavík
Some say Reykjavík is perfect for electric scooter use because it is difficult to find parking downtown – and it can be expensive. Renting an electric scooter means you can leave it whenever you are done with it without having to worry about parking (but be considerate and don’t leave your scooter in the middle of the sidewalk). Plus, you use it on pavements and bike lines, so you always skip traffic.
Next to this, Reykjavík has a couple of sizeable hills and windy and rainy weather. So a scooter can be preferable to walking in these conditions!
Instructions for downloading the app and using it should be on the scooters themselves.
Reykjavík electric scooter sightseeing tour
Reykjavík has the perfect size for an electric scooter sightseeing tour because the city is spread out over a large area. Walking between all the sights would take a lot of time, but riding a scooter gets you from A to B much faster. There are plenty of good pavements and biking paths around the city, ensuring a comfortable tour.
The following sightseeing tour is 12+km and takes you past the coast and the old harbour area to the downtown area and Hallgrímskirkja church, up to Perlan and back down to Höfði house.
The starting point of the tour is the Sun Voyager sculpture, from where you have a beautiful view over Mt. Esja and the bay. Then, you continue to the impressive Harpa concert hall and follow the road to Grandi, the old harbour area filled with coffee shops and small stores. Don’t forget to stop at the Omnom chocolate factory and ice cream shop for a tasty snack.
After this, you head to the University of Iceland offering a beautiful viewing angle of downtown Reykjavík and Hallgrímskirkja church. Then, head down to Tjörnin, the city pond, and take a moment to watch the swans and ducks. Make your way to Hallgrímskirkja church and take the elevator up to the bell tower for an amazing view over downtown Reykjavík with all its colourful houses.
Continue your way up the hill to Perlan, hosting great exhibition halls, a viewing deck, and a coffeehouse. For a historical touch, ride to Höfði house, where in 1986 a summit meeting of President Ronald Reagan and General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev took place, contributing to ending the Cold War.
Speed back to the Sun Voyager along the coastal road and enjoy the mountain views.
A quick guide to riding an electric scooter in Reykjavík
- Scooters may not be ridden on roads.
- You do not need a driver’s license to ride an electric scooter.
- Riders of scooters must follow the same rules as cyclists when it comes to safety equipment and riding on pavements.
- You need to be 18+ to rent a scooter.
- Electric scooters are designed for speeds from 6kmh to 25kmh.
- Only one person at a time is allowed on a scooter.
- Park responsibly, and do not block paths and sidewalks.
- Be considerate of other road users.
- You are not allowed to ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Visit our tourist information centres for more tips and info!
