Things To Do
in Svalbard

The main grocery store where visitors can buy supplies, local packaged products and imported specialty items—important for self-catering and bringing snacks on tours.

During peak season occasional stalls or pop-ups sell local baked goods, smoked fish and snacks near the ferry/visitor areas — check local listings in summer.

Strict rules protect wildlife and landscapes—do not approach animals (especially polar bears), avoid disturbing bird colonies, and follow marked trails and guide instructions.

Norwegians tend to be reserved; be polite, avoid loud public behavior, and respect private property and research facilities.

Travel outside settlements usually requires a licensed guide; follow their rules, briefings and safety protocols strictly.

Svalbard has strong waste-handling rules—pack out what you pack in, separate recyclables where required, and do not leave food or litter outdoors.

Tipping is not mandatory in Norway or Svalbard, but rounding up or leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is appreciated in restaurants and by guides. Many places include service in the bill; check receipts.

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted (Visa/Mastercard) and contactless payments including Apple/Google Pay are common. Cash (NOK) is seldom needed but carry a small amount for very remote purchases; card machines may fail in extreme conditions, so have a backup.

Midnight sun (late April/May to August) brings 24-hour daylight and milder temperatures (around 0–7°C). Ideal for boat trips, hiking and birdwatching; insects are minimal compared with mainland Arctic. Book tours and accommodations early; outdoor gear for wind and sudden weather changes remains essential.

Shorter days, variable weather and early sea-ice formation—some tours scale down. Wildlife viewing can be good and prices are often lower, but daylight is reduced and conditions can change quickly.

Polar night (late October to mid-February) brings long dark hours—excellent for northern lights, dog sledding and snowmobiling. Temperatures commonly fall below freezing; guided travel is essential outside settlements, and many boat tours are suspended.

Increasing daylight, stable snowpack and good conditions for ski touring, snowmobile safaris and early-season aurora viewing. Wildlife is active; glaciers and fjords are accessible by specialized tours.

A popular day-hike near Longyearbyen with rewarding views over the town and surrounding fjords; accessible in summer and as a ski tour in winter for experienced parties.

Gentler valley walks following river courses and tundra, suitable for guided hikes and wildlife observation; expect variable weather and soft ground in summer.

Plateau areas offering panoramic views and good birdwatching in season; easy to moderate hikes from Longyearbyen with guide recommendations.

A scenic valley and coastal area reached by boat or guided trek, offering views of abandoned mining sites and access to coastal tundra and birdlife.

Locals who work in administration, services, tourism and research—often long-term residents with strong local knowledge.

Svalbard hosts a sizable community of scientists and students affiliated with research stations and the University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS).

Seasonal workers in tourism, expedition staff and visiting tourists make up a fluctuating, international population with varied languages and backgrounds.

Communities tied to former and current Russian activity (Barentsburg, Pyramiden history) contribute Russian cultural elements and services in the archipelago.

Vegetarian options exist but are more limited than on the mainland; larger cafés and restaurants in Longyearbyen will accommodate vegetarians with advance notice, but expect fewer ready-made plant-based choices.

Vegan options are available but limited—carry snacks and staples if you have strict requirements; tell restaurants before arriving so they can prepare.

Most restaurants can offer gluten-free alternatives if informed; packaged gluten-free products are available at COOP but selection is smaller than in larger Norwegian cities.

Communicate allergies clearly in Norwegian or English; medical facilities are available in Longyearbyen but remote travel makes preparedness and carrying medications essential.