no alt text

Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 13 December, 2022
Expert travel writer: Oliver Berry

This high-tech, glass-domed museum recreates the geological wonders of Iceland in an immersive, sound-and-vision experience.

Among the exhibits, you can walk inside an ice cave, experience a volcanic eruption, see a recreation of the seabird cliffs of Latrabjarg and feel what it’s like to watch the Northern Lights (without having to stay up till midnight for the privilege).

It’s a fun, informative experience, and makes a good primer should you choose to visit some of the sights in real life. Don’t miss the views over Reykjavik from the Observation Deck.

Price from: £25
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 4+
Frequency: monthly
When: All year around
Duration: 1 night

Getting there & doing it

The museum is in south Reykjavik, near the Oskjuhlid, a tranquil forest park that’s popular with Reykjavikers for picnics and walks. There’s a large car park, or you can easily catch a bus from the city centre.

When to do it

The museum is at its busiest on summer weekends, so arrive early or late on a weekday to dodge the crowds.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Eyja Guldsmeden

Reykjavík, Iceland[1.5 miles]

A practical city hotel on the eastern edge of downtown Reykjavik, with amenities including free parking and bike hire, and distant views of Mount Esja.

Official star rating:

Hostel Kex

Reykjavík, Iceland[1.8 miles]

An upmarket, sociable hostel oozing vintage-style chic in an old biscuit factory in downtown Reykjavik. One of the best value stays in this expensive city.

Official star rating:

Hotel 101

Reykjavík, Iceland[2.1 miles]

A hip and modern boutique design hotel, with Icelandic art, a hip bar and a spa, right in the centre of Reykjavik.

Official star rating:

Hotel Borg

Reykjavík, Iceland[2.2 miles]

Elegant art deco gem with top-notch rooms, traditional service and a terrific sense of style, in a quieter, greener city centre location.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Iceland

Iceland

From volcanoes and glaciers to black beaches, geothermal pools and the Northern Lights, Iceland is one of the world’s wildest, weirdest destinations. A paradise for adventurous travellers.

Website >
Overview >

Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Whale-watching in Iceland

Iceland[5.2 miles]

Once-in-a-lifetime trips to see migrating humpback and minke whales up close, as they pass by on their annual north–south migration. Tours from Husavik, Akureyri and Reykjavik can be arranged.

Best for ages: 4+ | £70 | 3-4 hours

Website >
Overview >

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Kjarvalsstadir art museum
Experience

Kjarvalsstadir art museum

Reykjavik, Iceland[1 miles]

An art museum showcasing modern paintings and sculptures by well-known Icelandic artists, notably Johannes Kjarval, housed in a striking Nordic Modernist building. One of three museums that officially make up the Reykjavik Art Museum. Open daily.

Best for ages: 13+ | £12 | 1 night

Website >
Overview >
front view of the Hallgrimskirkja
Experience

Hallgrimskirkja

Reykjavik, Iceland[1.5 miles]

Iceland’s tallest church, built from 1945 to 1986, has become a symbol of Iceland’s identity and a Reykjavik landmark. It’s striking design is inspired by Iceland’s geothermal geology – it’s supposed to resemble basalt lava and trap rocks. It’s also a decent viewpoint. Take an elevator ride to the top for sweeping views over the city.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

Website >
Overview >
exterior of the National Museum of Iceland in Reykjavik
Experience

National Museum of Iceland

Reykjavik, Iceland[2 miles]

A dynamic National Museum focusing on the island’s turbulent and colourful past but also examining life in modern-day Iceland. There are treasures dating back to the Vikings and Saga Age, alongside modern displays on fashion and photography. Suðurgata, 101

Best for ages: 13+ | £15

Website >
Overview >
Exterior of the Asmundarsafn art museum in Reykjavik
Experience

Asmundarsafn art museum

Reykjavik, Iceland[2.1 miles]

An art museum and sculpture collection featuring white Viking figures and curvaceous shapes, housed in the former studio of Icelandic sculptor Asmundur Sveinsson. One of three museums that officially make up the Reykjavik Art Museum. Open daily.

Best for ages: 13+ | £12 | 1 night

Website >
Overview >