Top Gas Stations in Iceland With Food, Coffee, and Restrooms

An Icelandic road trip is the ultimate way to experience the country’s spectacular wonders. However, it requires more careful planning than your average drive. As the landscape is vast and rugged, gas stations in Iceland are more than just refueling points; they’re essential traveler hubs. These are your lifeline on the road, whether you need a coffee, a clean restroom, or an Icelandic hot dog.

For those cruising the Ring Road or navigating more remote areas, understanding local gas stations is a practical necessity. This guide outlines what you need to know to refuel, recharge, and stay supplied while exploring Iceland in your car rental.

What to Know About Gas Stations in Iceland

Before you hit the Ring Road, it’s important to know the basics about pumping fuel in Iceland.

• The 2026 Road Tax and Price Shift: As of January 1, 2026, Iceland replaced traditional fuel taxes with a distance-based kilometer fee. Car rental companies will typically track this via your odometer. Fuel prices at the pump dropped significantly after the change, although drivers now pay a separate kilometer-based road usage fee.
• Self-Service Is the Standard: Outside of Reykjavik and Akureyri, the vast majority of stations are unmanned, automated pumps. While these are open 24/7 for fuel, the attached convenience stores and restrooms usually have standard retail hours.
• PIN Codes Are Mandatory: To use any automated pump, you must have a 4-digit PIN for your credit or debit card. "Chip and signature" cards will not work at the pump. If your card doesn’t have a PIN, buy a prepaid gas card inside a staffed station during business hours.
• How to Use the Pump: Insert your card and enter your PIN first. The screen will ask you to select a maximum amount. Once authorized, remove your card, select the correct nozzle and begin fueling. The pump will stop automatically once you reach your selected amount or the tank is full.

The Best Gas Stations for a Mini-Break

Many stops in Iceland are purely functional, but some major chains have transformed their locations into full-service rest areas. These mini-break stations are essential for long-haul drives. It gives drivers and passengers a chance to stretch their legs, recharge electronics, and grab a warm meal. Each brand has a slightly different experience.

N1 Gas Station

Best for: Wide availability in remote areas, EV charging, and full-service dining.

N1 is the most extensive network in the country, with around 90 locations across the island. For those driving the full Ring Road, N1 is often the most reliable choice. Many larger branches feature Nesti convenience stores and full-scale restaurants. Locations like Staðarskáli, Vík, and Egilsstaðir are famous for their traditional Icelandic meat soup (kjötsúpa), fresh pastries, and high-quality burgers.

Even beyond the food, N1 has a wide range of services catering to travelers passing through. Free self-service car washes are available, along with a large network of fast-chargers for electric cars. If your credit card lacks a 4-digit PIN, you can purchase a prepaid N1 card inside any staffed station. However, because N1 provides the most extensive facilities and staff, their pump prices are typically among the highest in Iceland.

Olís and ÓB

Best for: Comfortable sit-down breaks and loyalty discounts.

Known for its more homey atmosphere, Olís is a favorite of travelers who want a high-quality rest stop. These stations often feature cozy seating areas, free Wi-Fi, and clean restrooms. They often share a lot with their budget-friendly, unmanned sister brand, ÓB. While ÓB is strictly for quick refueling, Olís typically provides the full experience: convenience stores, car wash facilities, and dining options.

The Traveler’s Key is a must-have discount chip. It grants you a discount on every liter of fuel at both Olís and ÓB. Even coffee and food at select restaurants are discounted.

Costco in Iceland

Best for: Bulk savings before leaving the Capital Region.

Located in Garðabær, just south of Reykjavík, Costco remains the cheapest gas station in the country. Since the 2026 tax overhaul, their prices have remained aggressively competitive, often sitting significantly lower than the national average. However, there is only one location in the entire country. More importantly, you must have a valid Costco membership to activate the pump.

Note that the gas island is roughly 985 feet (300 meters) from the Costco main building. Inside the warehouse, which functions like a massive grocery store, you can stock up on snacks, water, and outdoor gear. Drop by the food court for a budget-friendly hot dog and coffee.

Other Stations for Quick Stops

For travelers prioritizing speed and price over amenities, smaller automated chains like Orkan and Atlantsolía are excellent choices. These stations are typically unmanned and open 24/7, offering a streamlined "tap and go" experience. Orkan has expanded its network of fast EV chargers at several locations across Iceland.

While these stations are generally cheaper than the major brands, they rarely provide restrooms or indoor facilities. If you need to rest and stretch your legs, these may not be the best options.

Essential Tips for Fueling Up in Iceland

Driving in Iceland requires a different mindset than in most countries. To avoid any logistical headaches on the Ring Road, keep these practical tips in mind:

• The Half-Tank Rule: In remote areas, such as the Westfjords or the Eastfjords, you may drive for over an hour without seeing a single pump. Never let your tank drop below half. If you see a station and you’re at 50%, pull over and top up.
• Try the Icelandic Hot Dog: Gas stations are often the only places to find a quick, affordable meal outside of major towns. Don't leave without sampling the iconic Icelandic hot dog (pylsa). Made with a blend of Icelandic lamb, beef, and pork, it’s a reliable, high-quality, and budget-friendly meal.
• Know Your Fuel Type: Always double-check the pump. In Iceland, petrol pumps are usually green, while diesel pumps are typically black. Putting the wrong fuel in a rental is an expensive mistake that car rental insurance rarely covers.
• Avoid the Authorization Hold: Selecting “Fill Up” (Fylla) triggers a temporary authorization hold on your card, which can be as high as 30,000 ISK. To avoid this large pending charge, select a specific amount on the screen. If your tank gets full before you hit that amount, you will only be charged for what you actually used.
• Download Gas Station Apps: Most major brands (N1, Olís, Orkan) have smartphone apps. These are useful for locating the nearest station, checking real-time gas prices in Iceland, and accessing app-only discounts.
• Grab a Prepaid Gas Card: If you don't have a four-digit PIN for your credit card, buy a prepaid card inside a staffed N1 or Olís. This is the ultimate fail-safe for 24/7 pumping without needing a bank-authorized PIN at the terminal.
• Know the Cheapest Gas Prices in Iceland: Generally, the cheapest gas stations are in and around Reykjavík and Akureyri. As you drive into the countryside and more remote areas, prices at the pump increase. To keep your budget in check, make it a habit to fill your tank before leaving the capital or any major town.

FAQs

How do gas stations in Iceland work?

Most stations are self-service and automated, requiring you to insert your card and enter a PIN before fueling. If the station is manned, you can pay inside, but unmanned pumps are the standard in rural areas.

Are there a lot of gas stations in Iceland?

Stations are frequent in the Capital Region and the South Coast, but they become sparse in the Westfjords and East Iceland. Always follow the “half-tank rule” when leaving major towns.

How to refill gas in Iceland?

Insert your credit or debit card, enter your 4-digit PIN, and select the maximum amount you wish to spend. Lift the correct nozzle, and the pump will stop automatically once your chosen limit or a full tank is reached.

Are fuel stations open 24/7 in Iceland?

Self-service pumps are available 24/7 at almost all locations across the country. However, indoor services like restrooms, cafes, and shops usually operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Which gas station is the cheapest in Iceland?

Costco in Garðabær is consistently the cheapest option, followed closely by automated, no-frills chains like Orkan and Atlantsolía. For the best gas prices in Iceland, fuel up in the Capital Region or Akureyri before heading into remote areas.