FlyOver Iceland

FlyOver Iceland is an indoor flight-ride attraction in the Grandi harbour district, a short walk west of the Old Harbour. It offers a way to see Iceland's most dramatic landscapes from the air in a single session, which makes it a popular choice for visitors with limited time, for families, and for anyone sheltering from bad weather.

The experience begins with two pre-shows. The Longhouse is a storytelling show set in a Viking-era longhouse, using shadow-play projections, and The Well of Time covers the creation of Iceland with music, animation, video and a troll. Then comes the main ride: you sit in a seat that lifts you up with your feet dangling in front of a 20-metre spherical screen, and the film takes you on a flight across the country. Full-motion seating, wind, mist, scents and a musical score are timed with the film, so the sense of flying over glaciers, mountains and coastline feels convincing.

FlyOver Iceland is open daily from 09:00 to 18:30. Booking online in advance is cheaper than buying at the gate and lets you choose a time. The Premium package adds a drink, priority boarding and a photo after the ride, and an annual pass is also sold.

The ride suits families, couples and first-time visitors, but there are rules for children: riders must be at least 100 centimetres tall, and children aged 13 and under must be accompanied by someone aged 14 or older. People prone to motion sickness or with a fear of heights may want to check details with the venue before booking. Allow time for the pre-shows as well as the ride itself.

FlyOver Iceland is on Fiskislóð in Grandi, the same street as the Whales of Iceland museum, so the two make an easy combination on a rainy day. The Old Harbour, with its restaurants and whale-watching boats, is a short walk away, and the city centre is about 20 minutes on foot along the harbour, or a short bus or taxi ride. It is a good introduction before a road trip, or a way to see places you did not have time to visit.