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
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Svalbard

1

Est. 5 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Experience a glacier hike

Explore stunning glaciers on foot; a thrilling adventure!

Booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Go dog sledding

Sled through Arctic landscapes with a team of huskies!

Booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Global Seed Vault

See the vault preserving seeds for global food security.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Longyearbyen

Wander through the largest settlement in Svalbard.

No booking required
5

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Go snowmobiling

Ride across snowy landscapes on an exhilarating snowmobile!

Booking required
6

Est. 6 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Join a wildlife safari

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

Booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Svalbard Museum

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

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a boat tour

Explore the fjords and glaciers from the water.

Booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

See the Northern Lights

Witness the breathtaking Aurora Borealis in the Arctic.

No booking required
10

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Barentsburg

Explore the Russian settlement with unique culture.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Experience midnight sun

Enjoy 24 hours of daylight during summer months.

No booking required
12

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Russian Mining Town

Explore a unique cultural blend in a historic setting.

No booking required
13

Est. 5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Join a photography tour

Capture stunning Arctic landscapes with expert guidance.

Booking required

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)