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Svalbard

Norway, Europe

Svalbard is an Arctic wonderland known for its stunning glaciers, dramatic landscapes, and unique wildlife, including polar bears and walruses. Experience the midnight sun in summer or the mesmerizing northern lights in winter. Activities range from dog sledding and snowmobiling to exploring ice caves and hiking on scenic trails. Visit the abandoned Soviet mining town of Pyramiden and learn about the area's rich history. Svalbard is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike, providing unforgettable experiences year-round.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Active

Airport

Svalbard Longyear

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

13 Best Things to Do in Svalbard

1. Experience a glacier hike

Explore stunning glaciers on foot; a thrilling adventure!

Seasonal

Adults only

Booking required

5 hrs

2. Go dog sledding

Sled through Arctic landscapes with a team of huskies!

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

3. Visit the Global Seed Vault

See the vault preserving seeds for global food security.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

4. Explore Longyearbyen

Wander through the largest settlement in Svalbard.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Go snowmobiling

Ride across snowy landscapes on an exhilarating snowmobile!

Seasonal

Adults only

Booking required

4 hrs

6. Join a wildlife safari

Spot polar bears, reindeer, and more in their habitat.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

6 hrs

7. Visit the Svalbard Museum

Learn about Svalbard's history and nature; a cultural gem.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

8. Take a boat tour

Explore the fjords and glaciers from the water.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

9. See the Northern Lights

Witness the breathtaking Aurora Borealis in the Arctic.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

10. Visit Barentsburg

Explore the Russian settlement with unique culture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

11. Experience midnight sun

Enjoy 24 hours of daylight during summer months.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

12. Visit the Russian Mining Town

Explore a unique cultural blend in a historic setting.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

13. Join a photography tour

Capture stunning Arctic landscapes with expert guidance.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

5 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10-20%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

10 (#8 globally)

Cost

Very Expensive

Currency

Norwegian Krone

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Norwegian

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Fårikål

Lamb and cabbage stew, hearty dish. (National dish)

Smalahove

Smoked sheep's head, traditional dish.

Lutefisk

Dried fish soaked in lye, unique flavor.

Rakfisk

Fermented fish, served with sides.

Kjøttkaker

Meatballs served with gravy and potatoes.

Phrases to learn

English

Norwegian

Hello

Hallo

(Ha-loh)

Yes/No

Ja / Nei

(Yah / Nay)

Thank you

Takk

(Tack)

Excuse me

Unnskyld

(Oon-shild)

How much?

Hvor mye?

(Vor mee-yeh)