Things to do and places to wander
The Pearl atop Öskjuhlíð
Atop Öskjuhlíð sits Perlan, an immersive museum that's a perfect destination for families, for fun-seekers and view-seekers, and for anyone curious about the wider natural world. Inside are top-notch interactive exhibitions on what makes Icelandic nature so unique: observe the power of volcanoes and earthquakes, visit a recreated ice cave, and check out a cliff full of birds. A planetarium ensures you see the northern lights even when the midnight sun is shining. Climb the levels to finish with a flourish at the observation deck featuring show-stopping views over Reykjavík, the sea and the mountain backdrop of Esja. When sightseeing makes you hungry, there’s a rotating top-floor café and restaurant that are flooded with light.
Perlan isn’t just an eye-catching attraction, it’s also an architectural landmark: a huge glass dome that rests on top of six large hot-water storage tanks, nicely encapsulating Reykjavík’s blend of nature, science and design.
Outdoor Trails
Have you heard the myth that there are no trees in Iceland? Öskjuhlíð thrives with dense stands of birch, Sitka spruce, mountain pine and poplar, planted from the mid 20th century. Walking or cycling through its many paths, you’ll wander beneath tall trees, maybe spot wild rabbits, diverse birdlife (sparrows, redwings, crossbills) and seasonal blooms like lupine and meadow buttercup.
The hill’s paths connects into Reykjavík’s extensive trail network, leading south to Nauthólsvík beach, west towards Seltjarnarnes, and east into valleys such as Fossvogsdalur and Elliðaárdalur Valley, ultimately reaching Heiðmörk nature reserve. It’s an ideal urban green retreat for recreation and casual natural observation.
A Beachside Break
Just below Öskjuhlíð lies Nauthólsvík, Reykjavík’s unique geothermal beach where golden sands meet the icy North Atlantic. Sea walls enclose a lagoon here where cold sea and warm water merge – in fact, geothermal water is pumped into the lagoon and the outcome is a refreshing swimming area averaging between 15° and 19°C in summer.
Since it opened in 2000, the beach has become a favourite spot for both locals and visitors seeking the invigorating contrast of cold-sea bathing and geothermal soaking. For the full Icelandic wellness experience, you can alternate between a dip in the cold ocean, a swim in the warmer lagoon, and a session in the hot geothermal tub. Beach facilities also include changing rooms, steam baths, and a small café during summer.
While Nauthólsvík's shore is especially lively in summer, it’s a year-round destination. Many brave the cold for a morning sea swim, followed by a hot soak. Whether you're chasing an adrenaline rush, a wellness ritual, or just a unique place to relax, Nauthólsvík offers a quintessential Reykjavík experience.
What to do, where to stay and eat in Öskjuhlíð
How to get to Öskjuhlíð
By Bus
Route 8 stops at Öskjuhlíð and connects the area to other parts of the city. Routes 18 and 19 also serve the area, with stops at Perlan (route 18) and Nauthólsvík/University of Reykjavík (route 19).
Reykjavík City Card makes travel cheaper with unlimited bus rides across the greater Reykjavík area. Choose between 24, 24 or 72 consecutive hours from the moment you activate your card.
By Electric Scooter
Electric scooters are available in Öskjuhlíð.
By Car
Parking is available at Perlan and Nauthólsvík. The parking areas are located close to the main attractions of the area, providing easy access to walking trails, the beach, and other sites.
