Perlan Wonders of Iceland
Experience Iceland's wonders: glaciers, volcanoes, and the Northern Lights, all under a stunning glass dome with panoramic city views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Perlan Wonders of Iceland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Iceland's wonders: glaciers, volcanoes, and the Northern Lights, all under a stunning glass dome with panoramic city views.
"A must visit! If you want to know the history of this amazing country, its volcanic activity and northern lights them worth a visit."
🧥 Dress warmly for the ice cave!
It's -15°C inside! Bring a thick jacket or rent one to fully enjoy the glacier exhibit.
🎟️ Book tickets online
Save time and guarantee entry, especially for the popular planetarium shows.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Glacier Exhibition
Ice Cave
Step into a real ice cave with a temperature of -15°C, showcasing Iceland's glaciers and their importance.

Northern Lights Planetarium Show
Planetarium
Experience a captivating show about the Aurora Borealis, offering a glimpse of this natural wonder.

Volcano Exhibition
Exhibition Area
Learn about Iceland's powerful volcanic activity through engaging and interactive displays.

Panoramic Observation Deck
Top Floor
Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Reykjavik and its surroundings from the unique revolving deck.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Dress for the Ice Cave
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Perlan Museum - yes or no?
🧥 Dress warmly for the ice cave!
It's -15°C inside! Bring a thick jacket or rent one to fully enjoy the glacier exhibit.
🎟️ Book tickets online
Save time and guarantee entry, especially for the popular planetarium shows.
Please help! Question about Perlan Wonders of Iceland
Perlan Museum Recs?
🚶 Walk from downtown
Perlan is a pleasant walk from Reykjavik city center, offering scenic views along the way.
⏰ Allow 2-3 hours
Plenty to see and do, including exhibits, shows, and the observation deck.
Perlan
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress warmly for the ice cave!
It's -15°C inside! Bring a thick jacket or rent one to fully enjoy the glacier exhibit.
🎟️ Book tickets online
Save time and guarantee entry, especially for the popular planetarium shows.
🚶 Walk from downtown
Perlan is a pleasant walk from Reykjavik city center, offering scenic views along the way.
⏰ Allow 2-3 hours
Plenty to see and do, including exhibits, shows, and the observation deck.
🍰 Enjoy the cafe
Top floor cafe offers great cake selection and city views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Perlan for its engaging and educational exhibits, particularly the immersive ice cave and captivating Northern Lights show. The breathtaking panoramic views from the observation deck are a major highlight, and the dining options, including the revolving restaurant and cafe, add to the overall positive experience. Some find navigation within the museum could be clearer, and the ice cave requires significant warm clothing.
"Great place to spend a few hours learning more about this fabulous country!!! The exhibits are very nice. The lava and glacier exhibits are fun! The restaurant has delicious food and the dining area rotates slowly! The views from the observation deck are breathtakingly beautiful. Love from Kentucky! Get tickets early!!!"
Benjamin Boggs
"A wonderful quiet evening visit on a Wednesday. Got to browse the galleries, sit through the video shows, and explore the ice cave in relative peace and quiet. Incredible views from the observation deck around the top. Walked on foot from the town centre."
John Beech
"Great visit. Lots of staff to help you on arrival and as you go through the museum. Gave us good suggestions to make our day flow. We loved the Volcano show and the Aurora show - really well put together. The ice cave was fun too. The exhibits were interesting and interactive. The views from the observation deck were very good. We really enjoyed the day and would recommend a visit."
Janet Roos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily walk to Perlan from downtown Reykjavik, which takes about 20-30 minutes and offers nice views. Alternatively, local buses serve the area, or you can opt for a taxi or ride-sharing service for a quicker journey.
Yes, Perlan offers ample parking facilities for visitors who choose to drive to the attraction. This is convenient if you are exploring Iceland by car.
Several local bus routes stop near Perlan, making it accessible via Reykjavik's public transportation system. Check the local bus schedules for the most convenient routes.
While Perlan is in Reykjavik, it's not typically part of the standard Golden Circle route. However, it's an excellent addition to your Reykjavik exploration before or after your Golden Circle day trip.
Perlan is located in Reykjavik, approximately 45-50 minutes drive from Keflavik International Airport (KEF). Airport transfer buses will take you to Reykjavik, from where you can reach Perlan.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on which exhibitions and shows you wish to access. It's recommended to check the official Perlan website for current pricing and package deals. Booking online in advance can sometimes offer discounts.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season or want to see specific shows like the Northern Lights planetarium. This helps avoid long queues and ensures availability.
Tickets typically grant access to the various exhibitions, including the Glacier Exhibition, Volcano Exhibition, and the Wonders of Iceland exhibit. Access to the planetarium shows and the observation deck may be included in certain packages or require separate booking.
Perlan generally opens daily, but specific hours can vary by season. It's best to check the official Perlan website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit.
Yes, you can usually purchase tickets at the entrance, but booking online is advised to guarantee entry and potentially save time, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Glacier Exhibition with its real ice cave, the immersive Northern Lights planetarium show, and the interactive Volcano Exhibition are highly recommended. The panoramic observation deck also offers stunning views.
Yes, the ice cave is kept at a constant temperature of -15°C (5°F). It's crucial to wear warm clothing, including a thick jacket and gloves, to comfortably explore this exhibit.
Most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours at Perlan to fully explore the exhibitions, watch the shows, and enjoy the views from the observation deck.
The planetarium shows, particularly the Northern Lights show, and the Volcano show are very well-produced and informative, offering a great way to learn about Iceland's natural phenomena.
Perlan is very family-friendly with interactive exhibits that engage children. The ice cave and the planetarium shows are often highlights for younger visitors. Ensure they are dressed warmly for the ice cave.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Perlan features a fine dining restaurant with a revolving floor offering panoramic views of Reykjavik. It's a popular spot for a special meal.
The restaurant offers a fine dining experience, often focusing on Icelandic cuisine with fresh, local ingredients. Reservations are highly recommended.
Yes, there is a cafe on the top floor, which is a great place to relax and enjoy a coffee or a treat while taking in the city views. They are known for their cake selection.
While specific menus can change, fine dining restaurants and cafes in Iceland typically offer vegetarian options. It's advisable to check the restaurant's menu online or inquire directly about vegan choices.
Generally, you can access the cafe and restaurant areas without purchasing museum tickets, though you might need to go through the main entrance. It's always good to confirm this with Perlan staff.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic observation deck offers incredible cityscapes, especially during sunset or sunrise. The unique architecture of Perlan itself, the ice cave, and the interactive exhibits also make for great photos.
Photography is generally allowed inside the exhibits, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the displays or for the comfort of other visitors. Always check for signage.
Yes, you can take photos inside the ice cave, but be mindful of the cold and moisture. Ensure your camera is protected from condensation when moving between the cold cave and warmer areas.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) provides beautiful lighting for cityscapes. Midday offers clear views, while evenings can be magical with city lights.
Tripods might be restricted in certain areas, especially during busy times, to avoid obstructing pathways. It's best to check Perlan's specific photography policy or inquire with staff upon arrival.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family package if available, and allow ample time for exploration, as kids might want to revisit their favorite exhibits. The cafe on the top floor is also a good spot for a family break with snacks and drinks.
🧑🎓 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and water can help save money, though the cafe offers a nice treat if you decide to indulge. Look for any potential discounts or special offers on their website before your visit.
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Iceland's Natural Wonders
The Wonders of Iceland exhibit provides a comprehensive look at the country's geological marvels. This includes detailed displays on volcanic activity, showcasing the raw power that shapes the island. Complementing these exhibits is the Northern Lights planetarium show, which offers a stunning visual journey through the aurora borealis, a phenomenon many visitors hope to see in person. These exhibits are designed to be educational and engaging, making them accessible for all ages.
Beyond the exhibits, the panoramic observation deck provides a breathtaking 360-degree view of Reykjavik and its surrounding landscape. The deck itself rotates slowly, offering a dynamic perspective of the city. This is an ideal spot for photography and appreciating the scale of Iceland's capital.
The Perlan Experience: Beyond the Exhibits
For a more casual experience, the top-floor cafe is a delightful spot to relax. Visitors often praise their selection of cakes and pastries, making it a perfect place to pause and enjoy the scenery. The presence of helpful staff throughout the museum also enhances the visitor experience, with many guests noting their friendly assistance and good suggestions for navigating the attractions.
While the exhibits are the main draw, the overall atmosphere of Perlan, combined with its dining options and stunning views, creates a memorable visit. It’s a place where education, entertainment, and gastronomy converge, offering a well-rounded experience of Iceland's wonders.
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