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Perlan
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museum
Perlan, translated as 'The Pearl', is a landmark building situated on Öskjuhlíð hill in Reykjavík, featuring a large glass dome resting atop six massive hot water storage tanks. Each tank can hold up to four million liters of geothermal water, which is used to supply heat and hot water to the entire city. Under the dome, Perlan houses a sophisticated natural history museum called Wonders of Iceland, which includes a planetarium and an observation deck with 360-degree views. One of its most famous features is a man-made ice cave, the first of its kind in the world, constructed using 350 tons of snow from Icelandic glaciers. Opened in 1991 and designed by architect Ingimundur Sveinsson, the structure has become a hub for education and tourism. Perlan successfully combines essential municipal infrastructure with a world-class visitor experience.
- Location: Iceland
- Nearby: Garðabær (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 8 | 4 | 2 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 169 | 152 | 154 | 119 | 93 | 83 | 99 | 121 | 181 | 147 | 149 | 172 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Perlan in Reykjavík is a modern museum on a hill with a glass dome. Visitors can explore interactive exhibitions about Icelandic nature and the observation deck both indoors and outdoors.
Typical hours
Perlan typically opens daily from 9:00 to 22:00, with extended hours in summer. Check the official website for holiday schedules.
Photography
Photography is allowed indoors without flash, and freely in the dome and on the observation deck. A tripod can be used on the outdoor terrace to capture panoramas of the city and mountains.
Time needed
Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours for a visit to Perlan, including exhibitions and the 360-degree view. Those visiting the café or trying interactive stations should plan for 2.5 hours.
Combine with
Combine Perlan with the neighbouring Nauthólsvík geothermal beach, just a 15-minute walk away. The nearby Icelandic Maritime Museum is also recommended.
Getting there
Perlan is accessible from Reykjavík city centre by bus (line 18, stop „Perlan”) or on foot in 30 minutes. Ample parking is available for cars and bicycles.
Insider tip
Visit Perlan just before sunset to experience the remarkable play of colours over Reykjavík. Purchase the „Perlan Wonders“ ticket for access to all exhibitions and the ice cave.
Geography
Facts
- Perlan was officially opened to the public on June 21, 1991.
- The six tanks combined hold 24 million liters of geothermal water.
- The glass dome consists of 1,176 individual glass panes.
- It features the world's first indoor man-made ice cave.
- The observation deck offers a complete 360-degree view of the city.
- The planetarium uses 8K laser projection technology.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Perlan (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What can you experience at Perlan?
There is a real ice cave, a planetarium, and interactive exhibitions about Icelandic nature.
Is there an observation deck?
Yes, on the top level, a 360-degree platform features panoramic views over all of Reykjavík.
How do you get from the city center to Perlan?
There is a free shuttle bus from Harpa Concert Hall, or you can use public buses.
Is there a restaurant in the building?
Yes, under the glass dome, there is a café and a restaurant with great views.
Are the exhibitions suitable for children?
Yes, the ice cave and interactive stations are very popular with families.
Perlan: where is it located?
Perlan is located in Iceland.
Perlan: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Perlan: why is it worth visiting?
Perlan, translated as 'The Pearl', is a landmark building situated on Öskjuhlíð hill in Reykjavík, featuring a large glass dome resting atop six massive hot water storage tanks.
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