Admission
3,990 ISK
Adults. Discounts for children and seniors. Combo tickets available
Perlan Museum: Ice Cave, Planetarium & Natural Wonders
Natural wonders exhibits and a planetarium inside Reykjavík's glass dome, with an indoor ice cave, volcano displays, and 360-degree views.
Location
Reykjavík
Öskjuhlíð hill • Glass dome landmark
Perlan (The Pearl) sits atop Öskjuhlíð hill in Reykjavík, its revolving glass dome visible from across the city. Originally built in 1991 to house hot-water storage tanks for Reykjavík's geothermal heating system, the building was converted into a museum of Icelandic natural wonders. Today, Perlan is one of Iceland's most visited attractions. Its exhibits cover glaciers, volcanoes, ocean life, and the northern lights, and its deck has panoramic views of the capital and surrounding mountains.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
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Official sources to check
Opening Hours
9:00–19:00
Daily year-round. Extended summer hours may apply
Visit Duration
2–3 hours
Ice cave, planetarium, exhibits, and observation deck
What to Expect
Indoor Ice Cave
A 100-meter tunnel built from 350+ tonnes of real snow, kept at -10°C to simulate walking through a glacier
Áróra Planetarium
An 8K fulldome show recreating the northern lights with surround sound
Forces of Nature
Interactive exhibits explaining volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and geothermal energy beneath Iceland
Wonders of Iceland
Exhibits on Icelandic wildlife, marine ecosystems, and the geology that shapes the island
Observation Deck
360-degree panoramic views of Reykjavík, Mount Esja, Faxaflói Bay, and the Reykjanes peninsula
Underwater World
A virtual aquarium of the marine life found in Icelandic waters
Getting There
Perlan is located on Öskjuhlíð hill, about a 20-minute walk from the city centre or a 5-minute drive. A free shuttle bus runs regularly from Harpa Concert Hall to Perlan. There is free parking at the museum. The walk up Öskjuhlíð hill passes through a wooded park area and is pleasant in good weather, though the hill is steep in places.
Best Time to Visit
Perlan is open year-round and is a good rainy-day option. The observation deck is best on clear days, when you can see Snæfellsjökull glacier on the horizon. The planetarium show is especially popular in winter when natural aurora viewing is uncertain. Arrive early in the morning to avoid peak crowds, particularly during summer tourist season.
Planning help
Perlan Museum FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.