Iceland & Amsterdam

22-24 Dec 2024: Grindavik (2 nights)

• The Retreat

24-25 Dec 2024: Hvolsvöllur (1 night)

• Skálakot Manor Hotel

25-27 Dec 2024: Öræfi (2 nights)

• Fosshótel Glacier Lagoon

27-28 Dec 2024: Reykjavík (1 night)

• Hótel Reykjavík Saga

28 Dec 2024 - Jan 1 2025: Amsterdam (4 nights)

• Pulitzer Hotel

In December, temperatures across Iceland average around -2°C (28°F) and get up to about an average of 3°C (37°F). It's still cold, and it can rain, but there are also chances of snow!

In December, temperatures across Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F) and get up to about an average of 6°C (43°F). It's chilly, often rains, with possibility of snow!

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

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

Booked Independently.

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

Upon arrival, you will be met by your driver in the arrivals hall for your private transfer.

Booked by Scenset.

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, we 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!

• Includes: Private guide and transfer
  
• Duration: Approx 45min

Booked by scenset.

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

Kindly note that early check-in has been requested but cannot be guaranteed. If your room is not ready, you will be able to refresh in the spa and leave your luggage with the front desk. We suggest having a swimsuit and change of clothes easily accessible.

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.

Dining suggestions to follow once itinerary is booked.

The Retreat

• 1 x Moss Junior Suite
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by a guest.

Enjoy your unlimited access to Retreat Spa and Retreat Lagoon.

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, outdoor spaces, and subterranean spaces for relaxation and rejuvenation
  
• The skin-nourishing wonders of the Blue Lagoon Ritual circuit
  
• The radiant pleasures of the Blue Lagoon
  
• We can pre-book treatments for you today. See the menu here for facials, massages, float therapies, meditations or sound healing here. Supplemental charge will apply.

Dining suggestions to follow once itinerary is booked.

The Retreat

• 1 x Moss Junior Suite
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by a guest.

This morning, after breakfast, you will check out of the hotel.

After you check 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.
  
• Includes: Private guide (up to 8hrs) and transfer

Booked by a user.

Arrive at Skálakot Manor Hotel and check in.

We recommend dinner tonight at the hotel restaurant.

Skálakot Manor Hotel

• 1 x Standard Double Room
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by a guest.

Meet your guide in the lobby and begin your adventure.

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 scenset 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.
  
• Includes: Private guide (up to 10hrs) and transfer.

Booked by someone.

At the end of the day, you will be brought to a hotel. Check in and relax.

Fosshótel Glacier Lagoon

• 1 x Ocean View Double Room
  
• Breakfast included

Booked By someone.

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 day promises an awe-inspiring experience, showcasing the natural beauty and grandeur of Iceland's glaciers and lagoons.

• Includes: Private guide and transportation

Booked by a user.

Your glacier guide will lead you onto one of Iceland’s most scenic outlet glaciers. You will explore a Crystal Ice Cave (known as Sapphire); a beautiful blue feature formed in the summer months as the glacier melts. Throughout the experience, you will learn about the history of Vatnajokull Glacier and how the ice works in nature.

• Inclusions: Ice cave guide; 4x4 ride
  
• Duration: Approx 4hrs
  
• This is a small group activity

Booked by a user.

Fosshótel Glacier Lagoon

• 1 x Ocean View Double Room
  
• Breakfast included

Booked By a person.

This morning you will meet your driver for your journey back to Reykjavik.

Embark on a private tour of Reykjavik, revealing its rich history and iconic landmarks. You'll venture back through the South West, via Highway 1, and your journey back will be flexible based on your preferences. Your journey back could look like the below:

• 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.
  
• Includes: Private guide (up to 10hrs) and transfer

Booked by a user.

Arrive at the hotel and check in.

Dinner suggestions to follow once booked.

Hótel Reykjavík Saga

• 1 x Deluxe Double Room
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by a traveller.

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

Early this morning, meet your driver in the hotel entrance for your transfer to the airport.

As you travel through the Reykjanes Peninsula, you'll catch your last glimpse of Iceland's mossy lava fields and desolate volcanoes before arriving at Keflavík International Airport.

• Duration: 45-60min

Booked by Scenset.

Flights between Iceland and Amsterdam are extremely limited and all depart very early.

Booked by a travel agent - included in the pricing.

The only alternative flight is on an airline departing in the morning. This flight requires a stopover with a short connection time, especially risky during the month of December.

We do not recommend this flight, but you are free to book it independently.

Upon arrival at AMS, meet your driver in the arrivals hall for transfer to your hotel.

• Duration: Approx 20-30min

Booked by Scenset.

Check-in upon arrival. Kindly note that an early check-in has been requested but cannot be guaranteed. If your room is not ready, you will be able to refresh in the spa and leave your luggage with the front desk.

Enjoy a free evening to explore and settle in. Suggestions will be provided once booked.

Visit Winter Wonderland for winter festivities like skating, cross-country skiing, the ferris wheel, musical performances

• Address: Europaplein 22, 1078 GZ, Amsterdam
  
• Hours: Open through December 30
  
• Tickets: will be provided
  
• Travel: This is a short taxi ride from your hotel

Suggestion only.

Dinner and cocktail suggestions to follow once booked

Pulitzer Hotel

• 1 x Generous Canal View King Room
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by a person.

Enjoy a free day to explore and settle in. Suggestions will be provided once booked.

Pamper yourselves today with time at the hotel spa, Pulitzer's "The Beauty House":

• Book treatments: Menu
  
• Hours: Mon-Sat during the day

Suggestion only.

Take a taxi (or Uber) for independent transfer to meet your captain for an evening on the water.

The hotel can assist you in making a taxi arrangement.

Set off on a private boat tour of Amsterdam's iconic Light Festival, happening only in December each year

• The boat is covered for warmth, and light drinks and refreshments will be provided
  
• Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours

After your boat ride, you will make your way to dinner independently – you may decide to walk, use a taxi, or call an Uber.

Booked by a third party.

Pulitzer Hotel

• 1 x Generous Canal View King Room
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by a guest.

After breakfast, set off to some of Amsterdam's most iconic sights!

In this 3-hour walking tour of Amsterdam, you'll visit Amsterdam's Old Town with a local historian, painting a vivid image of this free-wheeling and artistic city, from the charm of the canals to the pleasures of De Wallen. This is a perfect orientation tour for first-time visitors.

Amsterdam's Old Town
Your walk begins just a stone’s throw away from the spot that helped give Amsterdam its name: Dam Square. You'll discuss the scenset of the city and form an understanding of the foundational aspects of Dutch culture, which are reflected in the development of the medieval city. You'll get your bearings at this central square, also home to the World War II National Monument and the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church). The church isn't used that often these days, except for the most special of occasions—like royal investitures, and the wedding of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima.

Into the City Center
From here, you’ll move through the streets of the city center, making your way past the Royal Palace. This impressive building was once the Town Hall until Louis Napoleon Bonaparte (not the one you're thinking of, but his younger brother/step-son-in-law —we know, it's confusing, we'll spare the details) seized power in the Netherlands and installed himself as ruler. Although it wasn't long until control shifted back to the House of Orange, the name has stuck.

As you continue, you'll catch a glimpse of Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage Site: the architectural marvel of the canal belt. Along the way to the canal belt, you may also stop in at the Begijnhof courtyard, a time capsule of the 17th century. You’ll take time to discuss Amsterdam’s economic flourishing during those years and how that success has made the city what it is today.

By the time you finish your walk with your guide, you’ll have a sense of how Amsterdam came to be and what it is today. You’ll have had a taste of the city’s story—all the better to get out and explore further on your own.

• Meeting Point: will be provided
  
• Your Guide: will be provided
  
• Duration: Approx 3hrs
  
• Start Time: Approx 10:00am
  
• End Time: Approx 1:00pm
  
• Points of Interest: Nieuwmarkt; Amsterdam Canal Belt; Royal Palace Amsterdam (Town Hall); Dam Square

Booked by Scenset, transportation excluded.

After your orientation tour, leave your guide and continue to the Anne Frank House. Just a 5 minute walk from your hotel, this site provides a poignant and powerful reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and the importance of bearing witness to history.

• Entrance Time: TBC sales open a few months prior
  
• Link to your tickets: To be added after booking is confirmed
  
• Inclusions: Ticket includes an introductory program before your visit to the museum. In 30 minutes, one of the museum educators will take you through the history of Anne Frank in the context of the Second World War and the persecution of the Jews. Through this informative and interactive talk, you will be well prepared for your visit.
  
• Please be on time as the museum staff are strict on entrance times
  
• Audio guide included

Booked by a scenset representative.

• Take the afternoon to relax, go shopping on the Negen Straatjes, or explore the city center at your own pace.

Suggestion to follow once booking is confirmed.

Pulitzer Hotel

• 1 x Generous Canal View King Room
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by a guest.

This morning you will meet your guide at the museum. This 4-hour combination tour of the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, located next to one another on Amsterdam's Museumplein.

Begin at the Rijksmuseum
Spend the first couple of hours at the Rijksmuseum, surveying the rich colors and subtle social dynamics at play in the Dutch art of the Golden Age. Works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Hals, and their contemporaries will help you trace the story of Amsterdam's heyday and understand the cultural foundations that still underpin Holland and the Netherlands today.

Located in the center of the Rijksmuseum in a room specially designed for it, you’ll find Rembrandt’s masterpiece: The Night Watch. You'll be able to get close to this beloved painting, which is vital to any conversation about Amsterdam culture and society in the 17th century. Seeking quiet from the bustle of the popular galleries, you'll also stop to gaze at paintings by more obscure artists. Dutch art over past centuries is shown off in the many carefully curated rooms of the museum, helping you understand how artworks were collected and valued and how everyday life was depicted in art. The Rijksmuseum also houses a wonderful collection of furniture and objects that tell vivid stories about Dutch traditions and European society in centuries past.

• Start Time: Approx 9am
  
• End Time: Approx 1pm
  
• Duration: 4hrs
  
• Your Guide: will be provided
  
• Guide Meeting Point: will be provided
  
• Inclusions: Skip-the-line tickets to both museums and an expert private guide trained in art history
  
• Points of Interest: Rijksmuseum; Rembrandt's The Nightwatch; Van Gogh Museum

Booked by a scenset, transportation excluded.

After a short break, continue to the Van Gogh Museum with your guide.

This museum is entirely dedicated to perhaps the most enigmatic and beloved figure in modern art: Vincent van Gogh. Here, his masterpieces fill the walls, saturated with pigment and made seemingly three-dimensional thanks to textural brushstrokes and artful composition. Guided by an expert guide, we'll explore the gems of this museum and uncover the genius of Vincent van Gogh.

Your visit aims to examine the development of van Gogh’s hallmark style by tracing his biography and travels, especially in France. Along the way, you'll learn the secrets of some of his most famous and well-loved paintings. There is a much deeper story here than the tortured genius, doomed to die in poverty. On your walk, you'll meet van Gogh as a learned intellectual and an artist of resilience, strength, and sensitivity. From the dainty lines of the "Japonaiserie" prints to the cheeky subversiveness of paintings like Skull of a Skeleton with Burning Cigarette, you'll notice how he engages with the ideas of contour line and abstraction but is also able to show his ironic and humorous side. Although the collections rotate and the exact paintings can change, you'll certainly encounter examples of what sets van Gogh apart as an artist. Rather than copying directly from his influences, van Gogh was able to develop his own unique style. With the help of your expert art historian, we'll discover the 'how' and the 'why'.

At the end of your tour, make your way back to your hotel independently.

Booked by a scenset representative, transportation excluded.

Enjoy a free evening to explore with our suggestions. Suggestions will be provided once booked.

Suggestion to follow once booking is confirmed.

Pulitzer Hotel

• 1 x Generous Canal View King Room
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by a guest.

• After checking out of your hotel, meet your driver outside the lobby who will transport you to the Amsterdam airport to catch your flight.
  
• Departure Time: will be provided
  
• Drive time: 30 minutes

Booked by Scenset.

Booked Independently.