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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Indoor escape from weather
Aurora Reykjavík Northern Lights Center
Best Time
Indoor escape from weather

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.
"A fabulous experience, so informative and the screen room with the beds was incredible!"
📸 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Photography Tutorial
Dedicated station
Get practical advice on camera settings to capture the aurora on your phone. Essential for aspiring aurora photographers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Manage Expectations for Aurora Vibrancy
Perfect for Rainy Days & Photography Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Can you see Northern Lights in Reykjavik?
📸 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.
Where to see northern lights in Reykjavik within the city?
Northern Lights appearance vs reality
🧠 Understand the Science
Engaging exhibits explain the fascinating science behind the Northern Lights.
🎁 Cute Gift Shop
Browse unique souvenirs and send postcards from the charming gift shop.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 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.
🧠 Understand the Science
Engaging exhibits explain the fascinating science behind the Northern Lights.
🎁 Cute Gift Shop
Browse unique souvenirs and send postcards from the charming gift shop.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 💡 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the photography tips section, which can be a fun activity for older children to learn about capturing images. The center is also relatively compact, making it manageable for families with young children who may have shorter attention spans. The overall experience is educational, visually stimulating, and a welcome break from the elements.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Even if you're not actively photographing the aurora during your visit, understanding the technical aspects can enhance your appreciation for the images you see displayed throughout the center and those you might capture later. The immersive theater also offers a chance to study composition and lighting in high-quality aurora footage.
💡 Curious Learners
The immersive theater provides a powerful visual complement to the learning, allowing you to experience the aurora's grandeur in a controlled environment. This is particularly helpful for managing expectations, as real-life aurora sightings can be more subtle than often depicted. The center provides context that enriches any future aurora hunting expeditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Aurora: Science and Spectacle
Beyond the scientific explanations, the center emphasizes the artistic and historical significance of the aurora. You'll find displays that showcase how different cultures have interpreted and mythologized these natural light shows throughout history. This blend of science and culture provides a comprehensive understanding of why the Northern Lights are so captivating.
One of the most talked-about features is the immersive theater. Here, visitors can relax on comfortable seating, or even lie down, while watching breathtaking films of the aurora captured from various locations. This experience is designed to replicate the awe-inspiring feeling of witnessing the lights firsthand, offering a vivid preview and managing expectations about their real-life appearance.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
The center provides practical advice on camera settings, focusing on how to adjust your phone or camera to capture the best possible images. This includes guidance on aperture, ISO, and shutter speed, crucial elements for low-light photography. They emphasize the importance of using a tripod to ensure sharp, clear shots, especially during long exposures.
This hands-on learning opportunity is invaluable, empowering visitors to go beyond simple snapshots and create truly memorable images of the aurora. It transforms the experience from passive observation to active creation, ensuring you can bring a piece of the magic home with you.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit