Perlan, atop Öskjuhlíð hill in Reykjavík, combines interactive exhibits with an ice cave, dynamic geological displays, and the Áróra Northern Lights Planetarium Show, all under one glass dome. It’s especially popular in peak travel seasons and often sells out well in advance.
Buying tickets ahead gives you peace of mind – and a smoother visit – since this combined experience, which can run for around three hours, is in high demand.
- Book Perlan – Wonders of Iceland & Áróra Northern Lights Planetarium Show to guarantee your spot on your preferred date.
Limited walk-in availability during busy periods
While the venue allows walk-ins, availability depends heavily on visitor volume. Reviews and booking platforms note that slots can fill quickly, especially in the afternoons.
Securing tickets in advance helps you avoid lineup delays and ensures you won’t be turned away unexpectedly – a risk even later in the day.
Flexible cancellation + ready-to-go entry
Most booking platforms offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your visit—offering flexibility if your itinerary changes. Viator specifically highlights “Reserve Now and Pay Later” and “Free cancellation up to 24 hours before.”
Additionally, tickets come with instant confirmation, letting you walk in with confidence.
- Reserve your tickets now with flexible cancellation and guaranteed entry.
What you’ll experience at Perlan
Perlan combines multiple immersive exhibits in one location: a 100-metre indoor ice cave; interactive displays on volcanoes, glaciers, water, and seabirds; and the Áróra Planetarium Show – a Northern Lights experience set to music and visuals in a dome.
There’s also a 360° observation deck offering panoramic views of Reykjavík, plus café, restaurant, and accessible amenities.
Timing and pacing your visit
Many visitors recommend allocating at least 3 hours to cover the exhibit, ice cave, planetarium show, and observation deck – reviewers on Viator describe it as a comprehensive experience worth the time.
Reddit users similarly estimate around two to three hours depending on pace and crowd levels.
Pre-booking ensures you’re admitted immediately at your chosen time slot, letting you focus on the experience rather than logistics.
Why book the Reykjavik City Card (48-hour)?
- Free entry to top Reykjavik attractions: Visit museums, galleries and cultural sites without paying separate entrance fees.
- Unlimited public transport included: Use buses across Reykjavik city for 48 hours without extra cost — great for easy sightseeing.
- Two-day convenient pass: Covering 48 hours, it offers flexibility to explore at your own pace across two days.
- Cost-effective for multiple visits: Ideal if you plan to visit several attractions — saves money compared with paying entry individually.
- Easy digital voucher format: Receive the pass as a voucher on your phone — no need to print any tickets or vouchers.
Getting to Perlan
Perlan sits on top of Öskjuhlíð hill, about a 30-minute walk from downtown Reykjavík, or a short bus ride via lines 13 or 18. Parking is available.
More Iceland travel
Other Iceland travel stories on Planet Whitley include:
