Try world's first northern lights virtual reality experience, only at Aurora Reykjavík!
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Aurora Reykjavík Northern Lights Center

4.4
·2k reviews·Reykjavík, Iceland

Discover the science and magic of the Northern Lights through immersive exhibits and stunning visuals. Your essential guide to the aurora.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Anytime, especially rainy days

Indoor escape from weather

CrowdLow
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Try world's first northern lights virtual reality experience, only at Aurora Reykjavík!

Aurora Reykjavík Northern Lights Center

Best Time

Anytime, especially rainy days

Indoor escape from weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the science and magic of the Northern Lights through immersive exhibits and stunning visuals. Your essential guide to the aurora.

4.4
(2k reviews)

"A fabulous experience, so informative and the screen room with the beds was incredible!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Aurora

Learn how to set your phone camera for stunning aurora photos!

🛋️ Relax and Watch

Enjoy the immersive film room with comfy seating for a mesmerizing aurora experience.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 · 1,956 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Immersive Aurora Theater

Immersive Aurora Theater

Main exhibition hall

Experience the magic of the Northern Lights on a grand scale with stunning films and comfortable seating. A truly captivating visual journey.

Interactive Exhibits

Interactive Exhibits

Throughout the center

Learn the science behind the aurora borealis through engaging displays and historical context. Fun for all ages.

Photography Tutorial

Photography Tutorial

Dedicated station

Get practical advice on camera settings to capture the aurora on your phone. Essential for aspiring aurora photographers.

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Planning Your Visit

Manage Expectations for Aurora Vibrancy

While photos and videos often showcase intensely vibrant Northern Lights, real-life sightings can vary. The Aurora Reykjavík Northern Lights Center helps manage these expectations by explaining the science and showing actual footage, giving you a realistic preview before you hunt for the lights yourself. Reddit

Perfect for Rainy Days & Photography Tips

This center is an excellent indoor activity, especially on Iceland's notoriously rainy days. It also offers practical tips on how to photograph the aurora, which is invaluable for capturing your own stunning shots. TikTok

Best Times

When
Anytime, especially rainy days
Why
Indoor escape from weather
Crowd
Low
When
Before aurora hunting
Why
Manage expectations
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Time to book a winter trip! Best places to see northern lights: - Iceland - Alaska - Finland - Sweden - Norway - Scotland #traveltiktok #northernlights #auroraborealis #traveleatblog
@traveleatblog2
85.3K likes • 858.9K views

📸 Capture the Aurora

Learn how to set your phone camera for stunning aurora photos! TikTok

🛋️ Relax and Watch

Enjoy the immersive film room with comfy seating for a mesmerizing aurora experience. Reddit

I still can’t believe we saw this! What an experience! #auroraborealis #northernlights #iceland
@vincentledvina
67.1K likes • 712K views
Maturing is realising you don’t need to wait for a honeymoon or bucket list trip to sleep under the Northern Lights in Iceland ✨ You can actually stay in a glass igloo in Iceland for around £200 a night at Aurora Igloos in Hella – and honestly, it’s as magical as it sounds. 🌌 Imagine lying in bed while the Aurora Borealis dances overhead, surrounded by Iceland’s rugged landscapes. The igloo-style ...
@charlieonhistravels
62.6K likes • 702.7K views

🧠 Understand the Science

Engaging exhibits explain the fascinating science behind the Northern Lights. Reddit

🎁 Cute Gift Shop

Browse unique souvenirs and send postcards from the charming gift shop. Reddit

Is there really an answer?? If you’re not sure how to get started, take a northern lights tour in the beginning of your trip so you can learn how the locals do it! @Arctic adventures has great tours from Reykjavik every night. Get an extra discount with code KYANASUE (affiliate) #iceland #northernlights #auroraborealis
@kyanasue
62K likes • 445K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Aurora

Learn how to set your phone camera for stunning aurora photos! TikTok

🛋️ Relax and Watch

Enjoy the immersive film room with comfy seating for a mesmerizing aurora experience. Reddit

🧠 Understand the Science

Engaging exhibits explain the fascinating science behind the Northern Lights. Reddit

🎁 Cute Gift Shop

Browse unique souvenirs and send postcards from the charming gift shop. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Aurora Reykjavík Northern Lights Center for its informative and engaging exhibits, particularly the immersive theater that offers a stunning visual experience. Many highlight the helpful photography tips and the educational value for understanding the science behind the aurora. It's considered a worthwhile indoor activity, especially on rainy days, offering great value for money.

"What a lovely exhibit on the Auroras. Each section of the museum felt very thoughtfully curated and I was able to enjoy a relaxing stroll through on a rainy day. There is a feature where you learn how to set your camera settings on your phone to capture an aurora in a photo! That was cool. The virtual reality portion of the exhibit is wild! I could sit in those chairs for hours spinning around, enjoying the sights.

Thank you again!"

Jess Ritter

"Cute museum about how the aurora borealis is formed. They had nice viewing areas to watch the different auroras that have been filmed over Iceland. The gift shop was really cute. You could buy and send postcards from there as well!"

Vivi

"Aurora Museum in Reykjavik is very beautiful and has wonderful screens. Special thanks to the hostess who welcomed us. She was very nice."

Mazen Alsafadi

What People Like

Immersive aurora theater
Educational exhibits
Photography tips

What People Dislike

Can be small for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Aurora Reykjavík Northern Lights Center is conveniently located in the city center, making it easily accessible on foot if you're staying nearby. Many visitors arrive after exploring other Reykjavik attractions. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops within a short walking distance. TikTok

While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the center, several public parking garages and street parking options are available in the vicinity of Reykjavik's city center. Be prepared for potential parking fees. Instagram

Absolutely! The Aurora Center is a popular stop for cruise passengers visiting Reykjavik. It's a great way to spend a few hours ashore, especially if the weather isn't ideal for outdoor excursions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices are generally considered good value for the experience offered. While specific prices can change, reviews suggest it's a worthwhile investment for the educational and visual content provided. Check their official website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Booking tickets in advance is often recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your entry and avoid potential queues. You can usually purchase tickets online through their official website. TikTok

The Aurora Center typically has consistent opening hours throughout the week, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information, as hours can vary seasonally or for special events. Instagram

While there isn't a strict time limit imposed on visitors, most people spend around 1-2 hours exploring the exhibits and enjoying the immersive theater. You can stay as long as you like within operating hours. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed in most areas of the Aurora Center for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibits to protect the displays. Always look for signage. TikTok

Yes, a dedicated station provides helpful tips and guidance on how to set your phone camera settings to capture the aurora effectively. This is a fantastic resource for anyone planning to see the lights in person. TikTok

The center's photography tutorial will guide you on optimal settings, but generally, you'll want a long exposure, a wide aperture, and a high ISO. Using a tripod is also crucial for sharp images. TikTok

The immersive theater and the visually engaging exhibits offer great opportunities for photos. The gift shop also has charming items that make for nice flat lays or souvenir shots. Reddit

🎫 💡 Onsite Experience

It's an informative and engaging center dedicated to the science and beauty of the Northern Lights. It features historical exhibits, art, an immersive theater, and photography tips. Reddit

Yes, the interactive exhibits and the visually stunning theater make it enjoyable for children. It's a great educational experience that can spark their curiosity about space and nature. TikTok

Most visitors find that 1 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore all the exhibits and enjoy the main theater presentation. You can spend longer if you wish to linger or revisit sections. Reddit

The 'virtual reality' experience likely refers to the immersive theater where you can sit or lie down on comfortable seating while watching stunning footage of the aurora, creating a highly engaging visual spectacle. Reddit

While the center has informative exhibits, specific guided tours might not be a primary offering. However, the staff, particularly those pursuing PhDs, are often noted for being welcoming and helpful, providing insights. Reddit

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