CityBuddy
Perlan (The Pearl)
Best time to visit
Late afternoon on clear days for golden-hour views and city lights after dusk; winter nights can occasionally reveal the Northern Lights above the dome.
Budget tips
Adult admission typically about 3,000–3,800 ISK, with discounts for children and seniors, and no regular free days; check online for combo tickets. Reykjavik City Card often includes entry, and booking timed planetarium slots in advance saves waiting time and sometimes offers small discounts.
Recommended for
Families, Photography enthusiasts, Geology and nature lovers, Short-stay city travelers
Plan your visit
1-2 hours
About
Quick facts: Situated atop large geothermal hot-water tanks, a mirrored glass dome gives the site a floating, futuristic appearance. Visitors explore a circular observation level offering sweeping 360-degree views, often spotting the northern lights streaking across the horizon.
Highlights: Step inside a carved ice tunnel where the air carries a faint mineral scent and tiny crystalline drips echo underfoot. A cozy café serves hot berry tea beneath the dome while curious hands press against a glacier wall chilled to around zero degrees Celsius, creating a striking contrast you can both see and feel.
Insider tips
- Wear a windproof layer and comfortable shoes, the rooftop can be chilly and exposed.
- Head to the rooftop slightly before sunset for best photos of the city, sea, and Hallgrímskirkja in the distance.
- If short on time, skip the café and focus on the Wonders of Iceland exhibition and quick planetarium show.
- Visit on weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid tour-group crowds and long queues.
Where to Stay in Reykjavík
Selected by City Buddy based on guest reviews and proximity to top attractions
Search all hotels in ReykjavíkPowered by agoda
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Reykjavík, Iceland, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
More attractions in Reykjavík
Hallgrímskirkja
Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre
Sun Voyager (Sólfar)
National Museum of Iceland (Þjóðminjasafn Íslands)
Most popular itineraries!
Browse trip plans created by other travelers