Quick Summary: Visiting Iceland’s Volcano Restaurant, also known as Perlan, offers a unique dining experience with panoramic city views. This guide simplifies your visit, covering what to expect, booking tips, and how to make the most of this iconic Reykjavik landmark for an unforgettable meal.
Planning a trip to Iceland is exciting! And if you’re looking for a truly special dining experience, the Volcano Restaurant in Reykjavik often tops the list. You might know it by its other name, Perlan. It’s famous for its incredible rotating glass dome offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and surrounding nature. But what exactly can you expect when you dine there? Is it tricky to book? Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to enjoy this unique spot, making your visit smooth and memorable. Let’s dive into what makes Perlan’s Volcano Restaurant a must-visit!
Understanding the Volcano Restaurant (Perlan)
When people talk about the “Volcano Restaurant Iceland,” they are almost always referring to the restaurant located within Perlan, a landmark building in Reykjavik. Perlan itself is an iconic structure, often described as a “pearl” of Reykjavik, and it houses several attractions, including exhibitions about Iceland’s natural wonders, a real ice cave, and, of course, the famous rotating restaurant. The restaurant is situated at the top of the building, offering unparalleled vistas.
The concept behind the dining experience is to allow guests to savor delicious Icelandic cuisine while enjoying a dynamic, ever-changing panorama of Reykjavik and its stunning natural surroundings. Because the dining room slowly rotates, you get to see different perspectives of the city, the ocean, and the mountains in the distance throughout your meal. It’s designed to be a culinary journey paired with a visual one.
What Makes Perlan Special?
- The View: This is the main draw. The rotating dining room slowly turns 360 degrees in about an hour, providing a constantly shifting backdrop of the capital city, mountains, and sea.
- Icelandic Cuisine: The restaurant focuses on showcasing the best of Icelandic ingredients and culinary traditions, often with a modern twist.
- Unique Architecture: Perlan is a striking building, built on top of six hot water tanks, and its glass dome design is a significant part of Reykjavik’s skyline.
- Experiential Dining: It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines fine dining with sightseeing.
Planning Your Visit: Key Information
To make sure your experience at Perlan’s Volcano Restaurant is fantastic, a little planning goes a long way. Here’s what you need to consider before you go.
Location and Getting There
Perlan is located just a short distance from the city center of Reykjavik. While you can walk from downtown (around 20-30 minutes), many visitors opt for a bus, taxi, or the convenient Perlan shuttle bus service. The shuttle bus is a great option for ease and convenience, especially if you’re staying in a hotel within the designated pick-up areas. It runs regularly, so you can easily integrate it into your day.
You can find more details about the shuttle service and its schedule on the official Perlan website. Traveling by car is also an option, with parking available at the venue.
Opening Hours and Reservations
It’s crucial to check the current opening hours for the restaurant on the official Perlan website, as these can vary by season and for special events. Generally, the restaurant serves lunch and dinner.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Because of its popularity and the desire for prime seating to enjoy the panoramic views, booking in advance will ensure you get a table. You can usually make reservations directly through the Perlan website or by contacting them via phone or email.
When booking, you might have the option to request a window seat, though this is not always guaranteed. Arriving a little early for your reservation can also help you get settled and start enjoying the views as the dining room begins its rotation.
What to Expect from the Menu
The Volcano Restaurant at Perlan prides itself on offering a taste of Iceland. The menu typically features dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. You can expect to find:
- Seafood: Given Iceland’s rich fishing industry, seafood often plays a starring role. Think Arctic char, cod, and langoustines prepared in creative and delicious ways.
- Lamb: Icelandic lamb is renowned for its tender texture and unique flavor, often grass-fed in pristine pastures.
- Local Produce: While fresh fruits and vegetables can be limited in Iceland, the chefs skillfully incorporate seasonal and locally sourced produce when available.
- Modern Icelandic Cuisine: The dishes are often a blend of traditional flavors and contemporary culinary techniques, presented beautifully.
The restaurant offers both à la carte options and sometimes set menus or tasting menus, which can be a wonderful way to sample a variety of their specialties. The wine list is usually well-curated to complement the flavors of the dishes.
Navigating the Perlan Experience
Your visit to the Volcano Restaurant is more than just a meal; it’s an integrated experience within the Perlan building. Here’s how to make the most of your time there.
Dining Options and Pricing
Perlan’s Volcano Restaurant offers a fine dining experience, and the pricing reflects this. Expect to pay prices comparable to upscale restaurants in major European cities. This is often considered a special occasion destination or a splurge for many visitors.
- Lunch: Typically offers a slightly more casual atmosphere and potentially a more accessible price point, though still elevated.
- Dinner: Usually a more formal affair, with a full menu and a higher price range.
- Special Menus: Look out for seasonal menus or special tasting menus that can offer a comprehensive culinary journey.
To give you a general idea, main courses might range from ISK 4,500 to ISK 8,000 or more (approximately $35-$60 USD, but exchange rates fluctuate). It’s always best to check the latest menu and prices on their website when making your reservation.
The Rotating Feature: What You Need to Know
The gentle rotation of the dining room is a key feature. It moves very slowly, so you likely won’t feel it moving at all. The entire rotation takes about an hour, meaning you get a full 360-degree view around your table over the course of your meal. This slow, smooth motion is designed to be unobtrusive, allowing you to focus on your food and conversation while still enjoying the evolving scenery.
If you desire a specific view for a particular part of your meal (e.g., sunset views), consider the timing of your reservation. Booking for early evening might give you a chance to see daylight, sunset, and the city lights, depending on the time of year and your booking time.
Attire and Etiquette
The Volcano Restaurant at Perlan has a smart-casual dress code. While you don’t need formal wear, it’s advisable to dress a step up from beachwear or very casual hiking gear. Think smart trousers or dark jeans, a nice shirt or blouse, or a dress. This respects the dining environment and the effort put into the culinary experience.
Standard restaurant etiquette applies. Be mindful of noise levels, especially if you’re in a quieter section of the dining room. Taking photos is definitely encouraged, but be discreet and avoid using flash that might disturb other diners or the ambiance. Tipping is not as ingrained in Icelandic culture as in some other countries; service is typically included, but rounding up the bill for excellent service is always appreciated.
Beyond the Restaurant: Other Perlan Attractions
Your visit to Perlan doesn’t have to be solely about dining. The building itself is a destination with several other fantastic attractions that many visitors combine with their meal or visit separately. This can make for a fuller day of exploring Iceland’s wonders.
The Wonders of Iceland Exhibition
This is the flagship exhibition at Perlan. It’s an immersive experience that takes you through the incredible natural forces that shape Iceland. You’ll learn about volcanoes, glaciers, and geothermal energy through interactive displays and fascinating insights.
- The Glacier Exhibition: Step into a genuine ice cave (created with 4,000 tons of real snow and ice!) and learn about Iceland’s majestic glaciers. It’s a truly unique and chilling experience.
- The Volcano Exhibition: Dive deep into the science behind Iceland’s volcanic activity, exploring how these fiery giants are formed and their impact on the landscape.
- Northern Lights Show: Experience the magic of the Aurora Borealis in a state-of-the-art planetarium show. It’s a captivating way to potentially see the Northern Lights even if you don’t catch them in the wild.
These exhibitions are highly engaging and educational, making Perlan a great stop for families, students, and anyone curious about Iceland’s geological marvels.
The Northern Lights Planetarium Show
As mentioned, the planetarium at Perlan offers a spectacular show dedicated to the Northern Lights. It’s a fantastic opportunity to witness the aurora in a controlled environment, with informative commentary explaining the science behind this natural phenomenon. Even if you plan to hunt for the real Northern Lights, this show provides a guaranteed viewing and a deeper understanding.
4K Video Show: “Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice”
Perlan also features a unique 4K video show that brings Iceland’s diverse landscapes to life. This cinematic journey takes you on a high-definition tour of the country’s most stunning natural wonders, from dramatic coastlines to volcanic fields and glacial lagoons. It’s a visually stunning way to appreciate the beauty of Iceland.
General Information on Perlan Exhibits
It’s a good idea to purchase tickets for the exhibitions in advance online, especially during busy periods. You can often find combination tickets that include access to multiple attractions, offering better value. Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the exhibitions before or after your dining experience.
For more detailed information on exhibition content and timings, please refer to the official Perlan website.
Making the Most of Your Culinary Adventure
To truly enhance your dining experience at the Volcano Restaurant, consider these extra tips:
Best Times to Visit for Views
The “best” time depends on what you want to see. If you’re visiting Iceland during the summer months (June to August), the days are very long, with the sun barely setting. You’ll have beautiful daylight views throughout your chosen dining time. In contrast, visiting during the winter (October to March) means shorter daylight hours, but you’ll get to experience Reykjavik lit up at night, which is also magical. If you time your dinner reservation for around sunset, you might be treated to a spectacular display of colors across the sky.
Special Dietary Requirements
If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.), it’s essential to inform the restaurant when you make your reservation. Icelandic cuisine is increasingly accommodating, and the chefs at Perlan are typically skilled at catering to a range of dietary needs. Providing advance notice allows them to prepare accordingly, ensuring you have an enjoyable and safe meal.
Combining Dining with Sightseeing
A common and enjoyable approach is to visit the Wonders of Iceland exhibitions and the Northern Lights planetarium show before your dinner reservation. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Iceland and then enjoy a delicious meal with those same landscapes as your backdrop as they slowly shift outside your window. Alternatively, you could explore the exhibits after lunch or dinner.
Tipping Culture in Iceland
As mentioned earlier, tipping is not mandatory in Iceland as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, if you receive exceptional service, a tip of 5-10% is greatly appreciated by staff. It’s a gesture of gratitude for outstanding care and attention.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the Volcano Restaurant suitable for families with children? | Yes, Perlan is generally family-friendly. The restaurant offers a unique experience, and the exhibitions are very engaging for children. While the restaurant is a fine-dining establishment, they are usually accommodating. It’s best to check their policy on children dining during specific hours or events. |
| How long does the rotation of the restaurant take? | The dining room completes a full 360-degree rotation approximately every hour. The movement is very slow and subtle, so you won’t feel it. |
| Can I visit Perlan without dining at the restaurant? | Absolutely! You can visit the Wonders of Iceland exhibitions, the Northern Lights planetarium show, and explore the building without having a meal reservations. Tickets for exhibitions can be purchased separately. |
| What is the dress code for the Volcano Restaurant? | The dress code is smart-casual. While you don’t need formal attire, dressing a bit nicer than casual wear (like nice jeans or trousers with a shirt or blouse) is recommended to match the ambiance. |
| Are window seats guaranteed when booking? | Window seats are the most sought-after. While you can sometimes request one when booking, it’s not always guaranteed. Arriving on time for your reservation increases your chances of getting a good spot. |
| How far is Perlan from Reykjavik city center? | Perlan is located about 2-3 kilometers (1-2 miles) from the city center. It’s an easy walk (20-30 minutes), a short bus ride, or a quick taxi trip. Perlan also offers a shuttle service. |
| Is the food at the Volcano Restaurant expensive? | Yes, it is considered a fine-dining restaurant, so the prices are on the higher side, reflecting the quality of food, service, and the unique dining environment with panoramic views. |
Conclusion
Visiting the Volcano Restaurant at Perlan is a truly memorable part of any trip to Iceland. It offers a unique blend of stunning panoramic views, delicious Icelandic cuisine, and a fascinating architectural marvel. By understanding what to expect, planning your visit with reservations, and considering combining your meal with the other engaging exhibits Perlan has to offer, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a meal with an unparalleled backdrop, Perlan delivers. Remember to check their official website for the latest information on opening hours, menus, and booking details. Enjoy your culinary adventure high above Reykjavik!