A unique glass-domed building that blends the practical aspects of heating the city’s water system within an aesthetically impressive architectural structure.
The curious Perlan building was created by the architect Ingimundur Sveinsson, who in the early 1990s designed a glass and metal dome to sit over the top of these six hot water tanks. Housed within the structure is a revolving restaurant, a large exhibition space and a 360-degree viewing platform.
The Perlan is an impressive feat of engineering. Over 4 million litres (1 million gallons) of water are held in five of the six aluminum tanks. To keep the building warm during the winter months, hot water is pumped through the metal frame of the dome and cold water keeps the building cool during the summer.
Explore the attractions inside the dome. Visit the Winter Garden, a large open area used for exhibitions, concerts and conferences. Head up to the fifth floor and dine in the renowned, revolving Pearl Restaurant. Be sure to book a table in advance to enjoy your evening of fine dining with the changing panoramic views. One rotation takes approximately two hours to complete. Head back down to the ground floor to see the water fountain that spouts water, simulating Iceland’s geysers.
Step out onto the outdoor hexagonal viewing platform, breath in the fresh Icelandic air and look through one of the panoramic telescopes located at each of the corners. Stop at the shops on the fourth floor and browse items from the gift, gourmet and Christmas stores.
Learn about pivotal moments in the history of Reykjavik during an afternoon at the Saga Museum. Located in one of the converted tanks, this museum displays life-sized waxworks.
Perlan is in Öskjuhlíð, a rejuvenated green space with plenty of space to sit under the shade of trees. Explore the hiking and biking trails or take the path down to the Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach.
Perlan and the Saga Museum are open throughout the year. An entry fee is charged for the Saga Museum. Both these attractions are accessible via bus or are a short walk from the city centre.
