Perlan

Many visitors arrive at Perlan with high expectations, and with good reason: this landmark’s unique architecture and broad appeal mean it buzzes with excitement year-round. Tours and tickets can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so a little planning goes a long way. Settled just outside the city bustle, Perlan is accessible yet feels removed—a quick bus ride, a brisk walk, or a short taxi trip brings visitors right to its doors. Family-friendly walkways, clear signage, and elevators make navigation easy. Expect small queues during holidays, but generally, ample space allows everyone to enjoy.

• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon; summer brings midnight sun views, while winter means northern lights.
• How to get there: Take bus 18 from downtown Reykjavik, walk up Öskjuhlíð hill (about 20 minutes from Hallgrímskirkja), or use local taxis.
• Accessibility: Mostly stroller and wheelchair-friendly, with elevators to all floors; quiet spaces for families or seniors to rest.
• Average visit duration: Two to three hours for exhibits and observation decks; longer if enjoying the cafe or planetarium.

Inside Perlan’s shimmering dome, each floor offers a new experience, with Icelandic nature and modern innovation intertwined. Visitors move from roaring waterfalls to icy glaciers—sometimes without even stepping outside. Local school groups mix with world travelers, everyone wide-eyed at the wonders on display. Beyond the headline features, smaller nooks and interactive displays reward curiosity. Weathered locals may be found enjoying coffee upstairs, soaking in panoramic views of Reykjavik and distant mountains.

• Wonders of Iceland exhibition: Walk through a real ice cave, feel glacial chill, and marvel at interactive volcano displays.
• Observation deck: Sweep your gaze 360-degrees over Reykjavik, Mount Esja, and the sparkling Faxaflói Bay—photographers, bring your zoom lens!
• Aurora planetarium show: See the northern lights year-round, via immersive visuals and surround sound.
• Saga Museum: Peek at Viking history with realistic figures and storytelling, perfect for families or history buffs.
• Cafe and gift shop: Taste pastries or Icelandic fish soup with one of Reykjavik’s best views; browse for unique local gifts.
• Secret forest trails outside: Quiet paths through Öskjuhlíð woods, popular with local joggers and bird watchers—a peaceful contrast to city traffic below.