Things To Do
in Longyearbyen
Longyearbyen is the northernmost permanently inhabited settlement in the world, perched on Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago. Surrounded by fjords, glaciers, and a stark Arctic landscape, the town serves as a gateway to polar adventures. It blends a former coal-mining heritage with a modern community of researchers, explorers, and locals navigating a delicate Arctic environment.
Life here is defined by dramatic seasonal light—midnight sun in summer and the polar night in winter—creating a constantly shifting backdrop for visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Longyearbyen, the world's northernmost settlement, and embark on a breathtaking journey through the Arctic wilderness. Take a moment to soak in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers as you settle into your accommodations. Don’t forget to grab a warm drink and a local delicacy at a café to get a taste of the polar lifestyle.
After settling in, explore the charming town of Longyearbyen with its colorful wooden houses and unique shops. Visit the Svalbard Global Seed Vault and learn about its crucial role in global biodiversity. As you stroll through the town, you will encounter interesting local art and Icelandic-inspired architecture.
Dine at a local restaurant, savoring Arctic cuisine such as reindeer or fresh fish. The cozy atmosphere allows for great conversations with fellow travelers and locals. After dinner, take advantage of the long polar night by enjoying an evening walk under the shimmering Northern Lights.
Join a guided snowmobile tour that leads you deep into the beautiful Svalbard wilderness. Break through the untouched snow and marvel at the stunning landscapes, spotting wildlife such as Arctic foxes and reindeer along the way. The thrill of riding a snowmobile while taking in the fresh polar air adds an unforgettable touch to your morning.
Stop for a traditional Arctic lunch amidst the serene beauty of the landscape, surrounded by towering mountains and endless snowfields. Continue your exploration, perhaps venturing toward a nearby glacier or an abandoned mining settlement for a glimpse into Svalbard's rich history. Capture the spectacular scenery with your camera as you create memories that will last a lifetime.
Return to Longyearbyen in the evening, where you can warm up with a drink at one of the local pubs. Share stories of your day’s adventures with fellow travelers and recount the breathtaking views and encounters. Look out for potential local events or live music that evening to immerse yourself more fully in the culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or cafe drink | $4-7 |
| 🧥Winter jacket rental or purchase | $25-60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $6-12 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $180-320 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique Arctic destination with dramatic landscapes and wildlife encounters
- Compact town with easy access to day trips, culture, and research centers
- Strong safety culture and well-organized tourism infrastructure
- High costs for meals, accommodation, and activities
- Extreme weather and limited daylight in winter can affect plans
- Remote location means travel can be lengthy and weather-dependent
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Hvor mye koster det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Snakker du engelsk?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hvor ligger nærmeste toalett?" - Where is the nearest bathroom?
- "Kan jeg få menyen, takk?" - Can I have the menu, please?
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me / sorry
- "Vær så snill" - Please
Places to Visit in Longyearbyen
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated viewpoints above Longyearbyen offering sweeping views of the town, Adventfjorden, and surrounding mountains—great for sunrise and golden-hour shots.
Iconic white wooden church with stark Arctic light; ideal for architectural and atmospheric photographs.
Harbor scenes with ice floes, fishing boats, and pastel skies—spectacular during seasonal light changes.
Futuristic, fortress-like exterior against stark snow and sky; best photographed from the exterior approach with proper permissions.
Industrial remnants set against snowy landscapes, offering a gritty, historical contrast in photography.
Food in Longyearbyen
Longyearbyen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh char from nearby waters prepared with herbs and simple sides common in Arctic dining.
Must-Try!
A hearty, traditional Arctic dish showcasing tender meat and root vegetables.
Seasonal seafood delight highlighting the rich flavors of Arctic crustaceans.
Bright, tart berries that celebrate local wild flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls near the harbor offering fresh Arctic seafood and quick bites.
Grocery shops for staples, snacks, dried fish, reindeer jerky, and ready-to-eat options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Keep a safe distance from polar bears and wildlife; never feed animals and follow guide instructions when outside town.
Dress in layers, protect exposed skin in cold winds, and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
Respect quiet hours in accommodations and public spaces; avoid loud behavior in residential areas, especially at night.
Safety
Tipping in Longyearbyen
Ensure a smooth experience
Not mandatory; rounding up or leaving small tips for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected. Service charges are often included in larger establishments.
Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted; cash in NOK is still useful in some shops, but card payments are the norm. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are commonly supported.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Midnight sun allows endless daylight for hikes and boat trips; wildlife viewing is rich and scenery is lush with meltwater. Pack layers and sun protection; insect repellent can help near wetlands.
Polar night with prolonged darkness; incredible Northern Lights opportunities, very cold temperatures, and strong winds. Dress in multiple layers, stay dry, and consider guided aurora tours for safety.
Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and a mix of daylight; weather can be unpredictable, so plan flexible activities and check local forecasts.
Longyearbyen at Night
Hiking in Longyearbyen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike offering panoramic views of Longyearbyen and surrounding mountains; best in clear weather.
Valley route with scenic ice and snow features; suitable for winter and early summer hikes with a guide.
Short to medium-length trails providing dramatic glacier scenery and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Longyearbyen by plane.
Main gateway to Svalbard; domestic and limited international flights; located a short drive from town center.
Northern Norway hub for longer connections and medical evacuations; frequent services to Oslo and other destinations.
Major international gateway; provides long-haul connections to destinations worldwide and onward flights to Svalbard.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Norwegians, international staff, and families, many connected to research institutions or the tourism sector.
Seasonal and long-term visitors from around the world contributing to Arctic science and conservation projects.
Tourists seeking Arctic experiences, guided excursions, and cultural encounters in a remote setting.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Arctic sport and activity, commonly offered as guided tours in winter.
Widely practiced locally, with scenic routes around the town and in surrounding valleys.
Accessible winter activity for exploring snowy landscapes at a relaxed pace.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Longyearbyen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but ingredients rely on seasonal produce; ask for vegetable-forward dishes or pasta and salads, and consider sharing plates to maximize variety.
Many venues accommodate gluten-free requests; inform staff of dietary needs and request clearly labeled options.
Dairy-free choices can be found in seafood and meat dishes; communicate allergies to ensure safe preparations.