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Your Trip to Iceland

Iceland is unlike anywhere else on this planet. It is a geological playground for all of Mother Nature's wonders: vast glaciers, stunning waterfalls, otherworldly rock formations, and active volcanoes. Anyone with a penchant for the enchantment of the natural world will find solace on this mystical island in the Northern Atlantic.

Luisa Oliveira
Scenset travel curator
Thursday, 07 – Wednesday, 13 November, 2024 · 6 nights
Your Adventure in Iceland
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Trip Overview

7-9 November 2024: Grindavik (2 nights)


9–10 November 2024: Hvolsvöllur (1 night)


10–12 November 2024: Vik (2 nights)


12–13 November 2024: Reykjavík (1 night)

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Contact Numbers

If you need any assistance while you are traveling, or if you would like to make any changes, reservations or cancellations during your time in Iceland you can contact the following who will be your local contacts during your trip:

Iceland

  • Local Contact: will be provided | +354 414 1500
  • Local Emergency Contact: +354 822 0012 (outside office hours only)
  • Itinerary Manager: will be provided | +354 4141 528


Scenset

  • Scenset Emergency Line: +1 (415) 941-0027


Important: Due to the time difference, for small day-to-day things like touring and dining reservations - or emergencies that need immediate assistance - it will be most efficient for you to use the local contacts as they are in the same time zone as you.

WhatsApp: If you don’t have WhatsApp on your phone, we strongly encourage downloading it for free as it makes contacting our local team easier.

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Weather Forecast
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Travel Requirements

A passport valid at least three months beyond intended stay, is required for visitors to Iceland.

Travel between countries participating in the Schengen cooperation is allowed without formal passport control including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Germany.

For additional information on passport and visa requirements see Icelandic Directorate of Immigration website: www.utl.is

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These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.

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Packing List

Warm clothing in Iceland is always practical! Be prepared for sun, snow, rain and wind.

We recommend wearing layers of clothing, so you can easily adjust to the different temperatures and weather. The inner layer to keep the body warm, the outer layer for protection against rain and wind. So apart from your regular blouses, shirts, T-shirts, pants and jackets, you should pack:

• Winter jacket - and waterproof jacket
• Warm sweater (wool or fleece)
• Pants – for example zip off
• Casual clothes for going out
• Warm hat, gloves and scarf
• Footwear with sturdy soles (hiking boots)
• Light footwear/trainers
• Swim wear
• Backpack for day trips
• Sunglasses (very important when on glacier)
• Water bottle (thermo)
• Sunblock
• Travel documents (including insurance)
• Passport, Camera, Binoculars
• Your best mood & free mind!

For Glacier Activities:
• Long underwear top & bottom, silk or wool recommended – avoid cotton or cotton blends (for many glacier activities such as snowmobiling you will be provided with overalls)
• Fleece jacket
• Fleece pants
• Light trekking pants/rain pants & jacket
• Wearing layers is always better than bringing a huge jacket that is uncomfortable to walk in
• Sunglasses + sunscreen – the reflection from the glacier is stronger than you think!

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Currency

The Icelandic monetary unit is the krona (plural kronur), which is abbreviated Kr or ISK. Denominations of notes are 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10.000 kronur, and coins are minted in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 kronur.

Money can be easily exchanged at the airport, bank and currency exchanges. All major credit cards are accepted and can be used to pay for virtually anything – except the public buses. Electron, Maestro and edc debit cards are increasingly being accepted by merchants. ATM/Bank machines are found in most banks and many other locations throughout the country. Look for the Hradbanki sign.

Please note that you must have your pin code when paying by debit or credit cards.

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Businesses

Banks are open Monday through Friday from morning to afternoon. As a general rule offices are open from morning to afternoon, in some cases during the summer these hours are from morning to afternoon.

Shopping in Reykjavik can be done in Kringlan or Smaralind Shopping Mall or Laugavegur shopping street. Laugavegur is located downtown while Kringlan is about 10 minutes away and Smaralind is 20 minutes away, within driving distance.

Some food stores are open until late evening seven days a week or even 24 hours in the larger towns. Shopping malls, souvenir shops, and bookshops in the city center are open on weekends.

There are medical centers or hospitals in all major cities and towns in Iceland. The 24-hour emergency phone number in Iceland is 112. Pharmacies are called ‘Apotek’ and are open during normal business hours. See also www.safetravel.is.

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Tax-Free Shopping & Tipping

A refund of the local Value Added Tax is available to visitors to Iceland. The refund will result in a reduction of up to 15% of the retail price, provided departure from Iceland is within 30 days after the purchase is made. The purchased amount must be no less than ISK 6.000, - (VAT included) per sales receipt, and all goods (except woolens) must be packed in sealed bags or containers.

In Iceland gratuity is always included in the bill, therefore tipping is not required. This applies to everything: restaurants, taxis, cafés, room service and more. However, if you do feel that you have received excellent service and would like to tip, Icelanders are generally not offended if they are offered a tip and will appreciate a tip & gladly accept it.

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Practical Information
  • Iceland is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year and does not adjust to daylight saving time
  • Icelandic is the national language of Iceland although English and Scandinavian languages are widely spoken
  • The tap water in Iceland is safe to drink
  • Electricity in Iceland runs on 220 volts; 50 Hz AC. Icelandic electrical plugs are of the rounded, European two-pin type
  • All taxis accept credit cards and must be reserved in advance. In some major cities and towns, there are also taxi stations where you can line up to get a car
  • Wine, beer, and spirits are sold in government stores called “Vinbudin”. The age limit for buying alcohol is 20 years. Smoking is not permitted in public buildings or other places open to the public. The age limit for buying tobacco is 18 years.
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Road Conditions

For up-to-date road conditions in Iceland, please visit the www.road.is.

The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration: Information on Road conditions and weather (or via Tel: will be provided).

Thursday, 07 November, 2024
Day 1: Welcome to Iceland
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Welcome | Velkominn

Today marks the beginning of your adventure as you arrive in Iceland from your international flight!

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Private Transfer

Upon arrival, proceed through immigration, baggage claim, and customs before meeting your private driver and guide in the arrivals hall.

  • Your Guide: will be provided
  • Guide Contact: will be provided


If you have any issues locating your driver, please call or WhatsApp our local partner's emergency line at will be provided or call will be provided.

Booked by Scenset.

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Discover Reykjanes Peninsula

On the way to your hotel, you will enjoy a tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula. This tour will take you around the ruggedly beautiful Reykjanes peninsula with its hot springs, tectonic rifts, volcanic craters and other moon-like landscapes. The endless lava fields in the raw and mysterious surroundings will make you feel like you’re at the end of the world!

On a peninsula where lighthouses outnumber villages, you will also visit the Krýsuvík geothermal area where you’ll get to see mud springs in all different colours, and watch mud boil in the ground heated by the underground volcanic activity. This breathtaking area with its rugged treeless landscape is located directly on the Mid-Atlantic ridge is something you can’t experience anywhere else in the world!

  • Duration: Up to 5 hours


Booked by Scenset.

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3:00pm - Check-in at The Retreat

After your tour, you will be dropped off at The Retreat Hotel. Check in upon arrival.

Kindly note that a request for early check-in has been submitted. However, confirmation of this request will only be possible upon arrival.

The rest of the afternoon has been left for you to relax and enjoy the facilities.

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Blue Lagoon

Soak in the lagoon's milky geothermal water, enjoy a refreshment from the in-water bar and relax with a mineral face mask, made from the natural silica or algae that is prevalent in the surrounding landscape.

Access to the Blue Lagoon is included in your stay at the hotel.

Your Stay: The Retreat

Why we love it for you: Perched on the edge of the otherworldly Blue Lagoon, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a design marvel that seamlessly merges with its surreal surroundings. The architecture mirrors the ethereal beauty of the volcanic landscape, offering an oasis of tranquility. Guests can unwind in the private lagoon, enjoying the mineral-rich waters against a backdrop of lava fields. With exclusive access to the Retreat Spa and exquisite dining options, this destination redefines luxury, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in a sensory journey unlike any other.

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The Retreat


Booked by a guest.

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7:00pm - Dinner at Lava

This evening, you have a dinner reservation at the Blue Lagoon Retreat's Lava Restaurant.

  • Time: Evening
  • Phone: will be provided
  • Attire: Relaxed fine dining


For any changes, please speak with the concierge at The Retreat.

Booked via The Retreat Concierge.

Friday, 08 November, 2024
Day 2: Day at Leisure, Blue Lagoon

Today is a day dedicated to rest and relaxation, so enjoy an incredible day at leisure at the sublime Retreat Spa, where you can bathe in the milky teal, mineral-rich waters of the world-famous Blue Lagoon. As a hallmark of the Retreat Hotel experience, the Retreat Spa transports your mind and body to new dimensions of peace and rejuvenation.

We highly recommend indulging in a wine tasting at the wine cellar, and be sure to make time for high tea - it's absolutely delicious!

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Activities at The Retreat

Enjoy your time at Retreat SPA – unlimited access to the SPA area and unlimited Ritual cycles.

A revelation of subterranean enchantments, the Retreat Spa experience features an extraordinary array of opulent inclusions calibrated to take your mind, body, and spirit to the heights of wellbeing:

  • Numerous geothermal sanctuaries for relaxation and rejuvenation
  • The skin-nourishing wonders of the Blue Lagoon Ritual
  • The hypnotic luxuries of the Retreat Lagoon
  • The radiant pleasures of the Blue Lagoon
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7:00pm - Dinner at Moss

This evening, you have a dinner reservation at the Blue Lagoon Retreat's Moss Restaurant.

  • Time: Dinner time
  • Phone: will be provided
  • Attire: Smart casual


Please note that there is a cancelation fee per person with less than 48 hours notice. For any changes, please speak with the concierge at The Retreat.

Booked by scenset via The Retreat Concierge.

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The Retreat


Booked by a guest.

Saturday, 09 November, 2024
Day 3: Golden Circle

Today, explore the iconic Golden Circle!

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9:00am - Discover the Golden Circle

After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, you will meet your driver for your tour of the Golden Circle.

The Golden Circle needs little introduction - it is, without doubt, the most famous sightseeing route in Iceland. On the Golden Circle tour, you will visit the beautiful national park Þingvellir, the geothermal area of Geysir and the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall.

On your private tour, you have the flexibility of choosing how much time you spend at each place and your guides will show you some hidden treasures as well.

  • Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
  • Meeting Time: Morning
  • Duration: Up to 8 hours
  • Your Guide: will be provided
  • Guide Contact: will be provided


If you have any issues locating your driver, please call or WhatsApp our local partner's emergency line at will be provided or call will be provided.

Booked by Scenset.

From here, it's time for a Greenhouse lunch to learn more about how Iceland utilizes unique geothermal energy to grow produce.

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12:30PM - Friðheimar Greenhouse Visit And Lunch

Learn more about how Iceland produces fresh vegetables all year round through geothermal horticulture by visiting the geothermal greenhouse at Friðheimar.

The main produce of the Friðheimar farm is tomatoes, in many different forms.

First, you’ll get a private introduction to the processes of the greenhouse, and after, of course, you’ll get to taste the fresh produce with a delicious lunch amidst the tomato plants.

  • Time: Afternoon
  • Address: Friðheimar - 5HH4+225 Friðheimar, 806 Reykholt, Iceland
  • Includes: Private presentation of the greenhouse, lunch of tomato soup + bread and Healthy Marys.


Booked by an individual.

The rest of the afternoon has been left for you to relax at your own pace.

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7:00pm - Dinner at Skálakot Restaurant

This evening, you have a dinner reservation at the Skálakot Restaurant directly on-property at your hotel.

  • Time: Evening
  • Phone: will be provided
  • Attire: Relaxed fine dining


For any changes, please speak with the concierge at Skálakot Manor.

Booked via the Skálakot Manor Concierge.

Your Stay: Skálakot Manor

Why we love it for you? Nestled at the base of the glacier-capped Eyjafjallajökull volcano, and surrounded by the abundant natural wonders of south Iceland—rolling green hills, deep valleys, black beaches, waterfalls, and dramatic peaks—this luxury boutique hotel was once a working farm. Remarkably, it has been owned by the same family for seven generations.

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Skálakot Manor


Booked by someone.

Sunday, 10 November, 2024
Day 4: Journey South
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9:00am - Discover the South Coast

After breakfast and check-out, meet your private guide and driver in the hotel lobby for your day exploring Iceland's south coast.

The south coast of Iceland is a magical area filled with adventure opportunities. Vast black lava beaches as far as the eye can see, majestic waterfalls, rugged rock formations, and enchanting glacier tongues. With the Atlantic Ocean to the south and a huge ice cap to the north, as well as two mighty glacier rivers to the east and west, the scenery is simply breathtaking and is one of Iceland’s best road trips.

Your private tour means that the day will be fully tailored to your interests. You can expect to see the iconic black sand beach of Reynisfjara. As you walk along the jet-black sand, you will be able to spot the Reynisdrangar rocky sea stacks which, according to legend, are trolls turned to solid stone at sunrise as they tried to drag ships from the ocean to the shore.

You will also get to visit the charming coastal village of Vík í Mýrdal, whose picturesque church enjoys glorious ocean views. Nearby is Dyrhólaey; a 120m high natural rock arch.

You will also get to see some of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls, including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, where you'll find a winding staircase leading to the top of the falls, offering a bird’s eye view of this natural marvel.

  • Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
  • Meeting Time: Morning
  • Duration: Up to 9 hours
  • Your Guide: will be provided
  • Guide Contact: will be provided


If you have any issues locating your driver, please call or WhatsApp our local partner's emergency line at will be provided or call will be provided.

Booked by Scenset.

South Coast

Explore the untamed allure of Iceland's South Coast, a cinematic landscape where black sand beaches meet powerful waterfalls and stoic glaciers. Quaint coastal villages add a touch of human history to the panoramic beauty, making the South Coast a destination that transcends the ordinary, offering an exclusive glimpse into nature's unbridled grandeur.

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3:00pm - Lava Show

ICELANDIC LAVA SHOW is a new and exciting entertainment choice, completely different from everything you have ever experienced.

It is the only show in the world where you can feel the heat from actual flowing lava in a safe environment.

The show recreates a volcano eruption, similar to what Eyjafjallajökull and Katla volcano are famous for, by pouring molten lava into a room full of people.

It is a unique opportunity to safely experience red-hot lava in close proximity, see it flowing, hear it sizzling, and feel the heat that radiates from it.

  • Please note: This is a shared experience (small group).
  • Start Time: Afternoon
  • Duration: Approx. 50 mins
  • Booking Reference: LS-T66267015


Booked By someone.

The rest of the evening has been left for you to relax.

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Dinner Recommendations

Below are a few casual restaurant recommendations in town for dinner this evening. No reservations are needed.

  • The Soup Company - A charming family-run restaurant offering delightful light pasta dishes and soups for lunch, conveniently located adjacent to the Icelandic Lava Show.
  • Halldórskaffi - Serves bistro style dishes, pizzas, hamburgers and sandwiches.
  • Black Crust Pizzeria - New pizzeria, serving charcoal activated pizza.
Your Stay: Hótel Vík

Why we love it for you?
Nestled in the southernmost village of the country, this family-operated hotel boasts a modern design inspired by the surrounding natural wonders. The fusion of concrete, basalt, wood, and glass imparts a contemporary ambiance that harmonizes with the hotel's picturesque natural setting.

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Hótel Vík


Booked By a guest.

Monday, 11 November, 2024
Day 5: Glaciers and Blue Ice
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8:00am - Skaftafell & Jökulsárlón

This morning, you will meet your driver and guide to embark on an unforgettable tour at Skaftafell National Park. Here, you'll encounter a significant portion of the majestic Vatnajökull glacier, the largest ice cap in the world outside of the Arctic regions. Prepare to be captivated by the rugged landscapes, unspoiled nature, and sweeping vistas. The scenset is dominated by sparkling white glaciers, jagged grey-blue mountains, and seemingly endless black sand beaches.

Vatnajökull, covering 13% of Iceland's landmass, is a colossal glacier with many subsidiary glacier tongues, each bearing its own name and unique characteristics. Your journey today also includes an exploration of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the largest glacier lagoon in Iceland, formed by the melting of Europe’s biggest glacier. Jökulsárlón is the country's deepest lake, with depths reaching 248 meters. The sight of giant icebergs floating in the vast lagoon, set against the backdrop of the enormous glacier, is an unforgettable experience.

Throughout the day, you will have the opportunity to marvel at the unspoiled nature and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. This tour promises an awe-inspiring experience, showcasing the natural beauty and grandeur of Iceland's glaciers and lagoons.

  • Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
  • Meeting Time: In the morning
  • Duration: Around 10 hours
  • Your Guide: will be provided
  • Guide Contact: will be provided


If you have any issues locating your driver, please call or WhatsApp our local partner's emergency line at will be provided or call will be provided.

Booked by Scenset.

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Lunch Recommendations

During the day today, your guide will recommend a good stop for lunch. Below are a few additional recommendations:

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10:15am - Vatnajökull Glacier Discovery

Embark on a hike through glacier moraines and at the tip of the glacier. During this glacier hike your guide will teach you about the geology, geography and history of the local area, as well as pointing out some of the fascinating features of the ice.

The glacier surface and color change constantly depending on the time of year, features such as moulins, crevasses and dirt cones come and go.

  • Please note: This is a shared experience.
  • Time: Morning
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Booking Reference: will be provided
  • What to Bring: Hiking boots with ankle support, outdoor clothing appropriate to the weather as well as a hat, gloves (sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended if sunny)


Booked by a participant.

The rest of the afternoon has been left for you to relax at your own pace.

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Hótel Vík


Booked by a guest.

Tuesday, 12 November, 2024
Day 6: Natural Wonders & Reykjavik
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9:30am - Journey Back to Reykjavik

This morning after breakfast and check-out, you will meet your private driver and guide for your journey back to Reykjavik.

Just about 5 minutes away from your hotel this morning, you'll stop for an exciting buggy tour along Iceland's southern black sand beaches!

  • Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
  • Meeting Time: In the morning
  • Your Guide: will be provided
  • Guide Contact: will be provided


If you have any issues locating your driver, please call or WhatsApp our local partner's emergency line at will be provided or call will be provided.

Booked by Scenset.

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10:00am - Black Beach Buggy Tour

Enjoy a scenic journey as you drive through a private black sand beach, immersing yourself in the breathtaking Icelandic landscapes. Guided by locals, venture into the mountains past Þakgil, with the majestic Mýrdalsjökull glacier as your backdrop.

Discover the hidden gem of Þakgil, where exploration leads to mountain caves and unique landscapes adorned with vibrant green moss. Uncover the secrets of this picturesque destination with an experience that seamlessly blends natural beauty and local insight.

  • Please note: This is a shared experience (a small group with a maximum of 8 guests per guide).
  • Duration: Approximately 1 hour
  • Booking Reference: will be provided


Booked By a participant.

After your buggy tour, continue on back to Reykjavik where you'll transition seamlessly into your city tour upon arrival with your guide before being dropped off at your hotel for check-in.

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Reykjavik City Tour

Embark on a private tour of Reykjavik, revealing its rich history and iconic landmarks. Begin by capturing breathtaking views of the iconic Mt. Esja, adorning the northern waterfront. Marvel at the contemporary design of City Hall, standing on the shores of Lake Tjornin, before delving into the 19th-century Althingi, housing the world's oldest parliament. Explore the historic Hofdi House, witness to the pivotal 1986 summit that marked the end of the Cold War. No visit is complete without standing before the imposing Hallgrimskirkja Church, the largest in Iceland, with its distinctive mid-20th-century design. Greet the formidable Leif Erikson sculpture at its entrance, a symbol of Norse exploration of the New World.

  • Duration: Up to 4 hours


Booked By a user.

Reykjavik

You’d be hard-pressed to find another city like Reykjavik, a world capital where steamy lagoons, glaciers, fjords, volcanoes, and multiple national parks are just a day trip away. Apart from the natural phantasmagoria within easy driving distance, the city center is small enough to explore on foot but with plenty to stay entertained. Learn about Vikings, savor the avant-garde restaurant scene, and save some energy for Reykjavik’s legendary nightlife.

Your Stay: Sand Hotel

Why we love it for you: In the heart of downtown Reykjavik, Sand Hotel stands as a luxurious retreat. Its inviting ambiance and boutique-inspired design create a sought-after haven, offering a perfect escape amidst the dynamic city life and cultural richness just beyond its doorstep. Steeped in history, the hotel's surroundings have long been at the nexus of Reykjavik's cultural and commercial pulse. The ground floor hosts Sandholt Bakery and a haberdashery, each boasting over a century of continuous business, adding a touch of timeless charm to the hotel's legacy.

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Sand Hotel


Booked by a guest.

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7:00pm - Dinner at Fiskfélagið

Enjoy a dinner reservation this evening at Fiskfélagið or "Fish Company".

The restaurant is a 13-minute walk from your hotel. Please see directions here.

  • Time: Dinner time
  • Address: Vesturgata 2a, Grófartorg, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
  • Phone: +354 552 5300


For any changes, please call will be provided.

Booked by Scenset.

Wednesday, 13 November, 2024
Day 7: Departure Day
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12:00pm - Check Out

This morning you will check out of your hotel and meet your driver for your transfer to the airport.

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1:00pm - Private Transfer

Meet your driver in the hotel entrance for your transfer to the airport.

  • Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
  • Meeting Time: Afternoon


If you have any issues locating your driver, please call or WhatsApp our local partner's emergency line at +354 414 1500 or call a contact person at +354 4141 528.

Booked by Scenset.

Thank you for traveling with Scenset, and we wish you a safe journey home!

Booking & Cancellation Terms

Please review the booking terms and conditions here.