Summer In Benelux
Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Similarly, Ghent, a charming city in Belgium, boasts medieval architecture, winding canals, and a lively cultural atmosphere. Amsterdam's unique charm is highlighted by its iconic canal houses and renowned museums. In Ghent, visitors are captivated by the stunning Gravensteen Castle, the impressive St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the vibrant local markets. Both cities offer an enchanting blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty.
Amsterdam is a city full of surprises, with a unique blend of old-world charm and modern innovation. Its picturesque canals, charming neighborhoods, and world-class museums make it a welcoming destination for visitors from all over the world, and its abundance of parks and green spaces provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets.
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 the Netherlands & Belgium you can contact the following who will be your local contacts during your trip:
Scenset
- Your Curator: will be provided
- Your Traveler Relations Rep: will be provided
- Scenset Emergency Line: +1 (415) 941-0027
In August, Amsterdam typically experiences mild to warm weather, making it a pleasant time to visit. The average high temperature hovers around 22°C (72°F), while the average low is about 13°C (55°F). Rain is quite common, with occasional showers interspersed throughout the month, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella or a light rain jacket. Despite the potential for rain, there are many sunny days, allowing for outdoor activities and exploration of the city's scenic canals and parks.
Euro (€): Both the Netherlands and Belgium use the Euro as their currency.
While most places, especially restaurants, shops, and hotels, accept credit cards, it's still convenient to carry some cash for smaller purchases, like street food or public transport.
- Credit cards: Widely accepted, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.
- Cash: Useful for small purchases, markets, and some local shops.
It's always a good idea to carry a mix of both cash and cards for flexibility.
Both Netherlands and Belgium use Type C and F plugs, and the standard voltage is 230V at 50Hz.
A few words in Dutch are very appreciated and will go a long way in Netherlands! Here are a few phrases to help you along your journey:
- Hello: Hallo (hah-low)
- Good morning: Goedemorgen (khu-duh-mor-ghen)
- Good afternoon: Goedemiddag (khu-duh-mid-dahg)
- Good evening: Goedenavond (khu-duh-nah-vont)
- Thank you: Dankjewel (dank-yeh-vel)
- Please: Alstublieft (als-tuh-bleeft)
- You're welcome: Graag gedaan (grahg heh-daan)
- Goodbye: Dag (dahg)
- See you later: Tot ziens (tot-zeens)
Amsterdam's food scene is one big adventure. Here's a taste of the city's iconic dishes:
- Bitterballen: These crispy, deep-fried meatballs filled with a creamy meaty mixture are a classic Dutch snack.
- Haring: Raw herring, served with onions and pickles, is a bold flavor that's a quintessential Dutch experience.
- Pannekoeken: These thin Dutch pancakes can be sweet or savory, topped with various fillings like cheese, bacon, or apple and cinnamon.
- Stroopwafels: A delicious treat consisting of two thin waffles with a sweet syrup filling in the middle.
- Poffertjes: Tiny, fluffy pancakes, often served with powdered sugar and butter.
- Dutch cheese: From Gouda to Edam, Dutch cheese is renowned worldwide. Be sure to indulge in a cheese tasting.
- Fries (Patat): A Dutch national treasure, these crispy, thick-cut fries are best enjoyed with a variety of sauces.
Bikes rule the road in Amsterdam. They’re everywhere, fast, and fearless. Make sure to be extra cautious when exploring!
US Passport holders do not need a visa to visit The Netherlands or Belgium.
These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.
Upon arrival at Amsterdam Schipol airport, a private car will pick you up and bring you to your hotel.
- Meeting point: Arrivals hall
- Duration: About half an hour
- Contact: If you have any issues locating your driver, please contact will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Upon arrival at the hotel, check in to your hotel room and enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
On behalf of Scenset, we have arranged a complimentary early check-in for you. You can check into your room as soon as you arrive.
The rest of the afternoon has been left for you to explore at your own pace, grab lunch nearby, and relax until your room is ready for check in.
This afternoon, you have tickets to the Anne Frank Museum with an entry time in the early afternoon. Please ensure you arrive well in advance.
You can take all the time you need to visit the Anne Frank House. On average, a visit takes an hour.
- Meeting point: The Anne Frank House is located in the centre of Amsterdam at Prinsengracht 263-267. The museum entrance is around the corner at Westermarkt 20.
- Start time: early afternoon
Booked by Scenset.
Gertrude is renowned for its innovative cuisine, blending traditional Dutch flavors with contemporary culinary techniques in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
- Travel Time: A short walk or ride from your hotel.
- Reservation Time: Early evening
- Reservation Name: will be provided
- Note: A deposit has been placed to hold the reservation, with the balance to be paid on site.
Booked by Scenset - to be paid locally.
Pulitzer Hotel | Generous Canal View King
- Booking Confirmation: will be provided
- Each room at the hotel is unique, and yours features a working desk, marble bathroom and beautiful views of the canals.
Booked by someone.
Enjoy the following scenset perks at your hotel:
- Minimum food and beverage credit (no cash value)
- Welcome drink for two at the Pulitzer Bar
- Complimentary Wi-Fi access
- Room upgrade, subject to availability (not guaranteed)
- Early check-in, subject to availability (not guaranteed)
- Late check-out, subject to availability (not guaranteed)
Why we love it for you: The Pulitzer is a unique and luxurious hotel centrally located in the heart of Amsterdam's historic canal district. The hotel is housed in a collection of 25 restored 17th and 18th-century canal houses, which have been seamlessly connected to create a stunning and atmospheric space. Along with its rich history, the hotel boasts world-class amenities, including an award-winning restaurant, a cozy bar, a tranquil inner garden, and a beautiful art collection that showcases the work of Dutch masters.
- Breakfast included
- Booking Confirmation: will be provided
Booked by a scenset.
George WPA is a stylish and vibrant eatery known for its chic Parisian-inspired decor and delectable menu featuring a mix of French and international dishes.
- Travel time: A short Uber ride from your hotel.
- Reservation time: Late morning
- Reservation name: will be provided
Booked by Scenset - to be paid locally.
After brunch, head to the Van Gogh Museum for your pre-assigned entrance time on your ticket. The museum houses the world's largest collection of Vincent van Gogh's artwork, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the life and legacy of the iconic Dutch painter.
- Travel time: 7 minute walk from George WPA.
- Ticket entry time: Around 1:00pm
- Download Your Tickets Here
- Your tickets include an audio guide for your tour; please collect your tour at the Information Desk in the Atrium on the day of your visit.
- Important information: Please come to the glass entrance at Museumplein 6. You can enter the museum up to 30 minutes after the time stated on your ticket. You’ll find lockers in the Entrance Hall to store your belongings. It is only permitted to take handbags into the museum galleries.
Booked by Scenset.
Return to your hotel at your own leisure and rest before an evening on the canals.
- Travel Time: A short Uber ride from the Van Gogh Museum.
Meet your private boat captain directly outside of your hotel, who will also act as your guide. Cruise the Amsterdam canals with light drinks and snacks, and learn about the city's fascinating history from the water.
- Meeting point: Hotel entrance (Pultizer Hotel dock)
- Meeting time: Afternoon
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
- Note: The captain will drop you back off at the Pulitzer at the end of the tour
- Contact: Please speak with your hotel Concierge if you have any questions about your experience
Booked by Scenset.
Tonight is free for you to have a casual dinner and explore at your own pace. We are happy to make recommendations!
- Breakfast included
- Booking Confirmation: will be provided
Booked by a scenset.
Today, head out to the beach for a day of lunch and relaxing at a chic beach club, Hippie Fish. A lunch reservation has been made, after which you are free to relax on the beach at leisure.
- Travel time: 45 minute Uber, or 1 hour by public transport.
- Address: Boulevard Paulus Loot 3, 2042 AD Zandvoort, Netherlands
- Reservation name: will be provided
- Reservation time: Around 1 PM
Booked by Scenset- to be paid locally.
Tonight, you will dine at Akitsu.
- Time: Early evening
- Booked under name: will be provided
- Number of people: 2
- Location: 10-minute walk from your hotel
📍Google Map Directions Link
Booked by Scenset - paid locally.
- Breakfast included
- Booking Confirmation: will be provided
Booked by a scenset.
After breakfast and checkout, meet your driver at the hotel lobby for your transfer to the train station.
- Meeting time: Around midday
- Meeting point: Hotel lobby
- Contact: If you have any issues locating your driver, please contact will be provided.
Booked by Scenset.
Before your train journey, we recommend downloading the NS International App for the most up-to-date information on your trip.
You should also download your tickets on the app using the booking references:
- August 23rd Booking Code: TNGHDKQ
- August 25th Booking Code: NGPHRKL
- Train Tickets
- 1st class tickets
Please print your tickets prior to travel.
Board your first class train to Ghent, with a brief changeover in Antwerp, for a scenic ride through the Dutch countryside.
- Train departure time: Early in the morning
- Travel time: Approximately 3 hours
- Booking Code: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Please always refer to the most up-to-date train information at the station or on the NS International App.
Transfer to your next train towards Gent St Pieters.
- Transfer time: About 20 minutes
Upon arrival in Ghent, grab a taxi outside the station and travel to your hotel for check-in.
Payment will be provided on-site.
Upon arrival at the hotel, check your luggage with the concierge desk who will be happy to hold it until your room is ready.
Your room will be ready from the afternoon onwards. Hotel staff will contact you if it becomes available earlier.
An early check-in for your hotel room has been requested. However, this can only be confirmed upon arrival.
Take the rest of the afternoon to settle in, take a walk around town or grab a drink at the hotel's renowned bar before dinner.
A Food Affair is known for its warm, intimate ambiance and a diverse menu that highlights Belgian-Eastern cuisine with a modern twist, crafted from locally sourced ingredients.
- Reservation name: will be provided
- Reservation time: Evening
- Travel time: A short walk from your hotel 📍Google Maps Directions
Booked by Scenet - to be paid locally.
1898 The Post | Letter Room
- Your room features a duplex layout, elegant decor and stunning views of St. Nicholas Church.
- The main entrance of the hotel is located on Graslei 16, by the river side. To access the hotel, you can go through the courtyard. Kindly note that the hotel is located in a car-free zone. It is not possible for taxis to park in front of the entrance.
- Breakfast Included
Booked by someone.
Why we love it for you: 1898 The Post is a unique hotel in Ghent, Belgium, renowned for its historical charm and distinctive location in a former post office building. Its elegant, vintage-inspired decor and thoughtfully restored architectural features create a nostalgic atmosphere, offering a blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.
After breakfast, set off for a morning in Ghent at your own pace.
We recommend visiting Gravensteen Castle, a short walk from your hotel, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's history with its well-preserved architecture, historical exhibits, and stunning views from the ramparts.
Recommendation only.
Alice is renowned for its cozy, vintage-inspired ambiance and delightful menu, featuring a creative array of homemade dishes and freshly baked pastries.
- Reservation time: Around midday
- Reservation name: will be provided
- Travel time: A short walk from your hotel
Booked by Scenset- to be paid locally.
Meet your private boat captain a short walk from your hotel - for this evening's private boat ride. Together you will travel the canals of Ghent and learn about the city's history, marveling at the architecture and beauty of the city.
- Meeting time: In the late afternoon
- Meeting point: GROENTENMARKT-VLEESHUISBRUG, jetty REDERIJ DE GENTENAER (for embarkation)
- Reservation name: will be provided
- Tour duration: 1 hr
- Contact: In case of delay, please notify will be provided.
In the early evening End of boat trip and debarkation at GROENTENMARKT.
Booked by Scenset.
Tonight, you will dine at Brasserie Pakhuis Gent.
- Reservation name: will be provided
- Reservation time: Evening
- Travel time: A short walk from your hotel 📍Google Maps Directions
Booked by Scenset - to be paid locally.
After checkout, meet your driver in the hotel lobby for your transfer to the train station.
- Meeting time: Late morning
- Meeting point: Hotel lobby
- Contact: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Board your first class train to Amsterdam Schipol airport for your flight back home.
- Train departure time: Around midday
- Travel Time: 2 hours
Booked by Scenset.
- Train Tickets
- Booking Code: will be provided
Please print your tickets prior to travel.
Please always refer to the most up-to-date train information at the station or on the NS International App.
Transfer to the Eurostar train to Amsterdam Schipol.
Upon arrival at the airport, make your own way to your departure terminal and check-in desk.
Confirmed details below.
Booked Independently.
Thank you for travelling with us. We hope you had a fantastic trip and we wish you a safe flight home!
While on the trip, you can access your support team if any need arises to make your trip as smooth as possible. We are here to support you.