A miniature metropolis with approximately 2,400 residents from 53 different countries, Svalbard’s capital Longyearbyen offers a surprising amount of culture and vibrancy. The main street boasts a wide selection of shops, from outdoor activity wear to craft shops,  a supermarket, fascinating museums, a cinema, gallery and even its own brewery and chocolatier.

The small town surprises many with a wonderful choice of places to stay. Choose from the high end boutique style Funken Lodge or the stylish Radisson Blu Polar Hotel, set in the heart of this cosy town. Dine in world class restaurants and hang out with the friendly locals for a drink down the pub.

Svalbard’s polar nights offer nearly 3 months of 24 hours of darkness, a truly unique time to visit and explore. Head out with a headlamp for a morning dog sledding tour, or an afternoon Northern Lights hunt, keeping your eyes on the skies as you search for the mesmerising glow of the Aurora Borealis. 

With the potential for seeing nature’s fireworks at any time of the day, in Svalbard they run Northern Lights experiences during the afternoon, so you can head out for your snowcat or snowmobile adventure, stare in wonder at the incredible lights, and then head back to town in time for a delicious dinner and relaxed evening in a cosy lounge.

As long as the dark feels in winter, Svalbard in summer experiences 3 months of constant sunlight - an unbelievable experience. With temperatures reaching between 5 and 7 degrees, it’s positively balmy for the locals and wildlife is out and about at all times of day.

Longer days mean you can explore further afield. Longyearbyen sits in the bowl of the valley, sandwiched between the mountains and the sea, a true playground for adventurers. Join a catamaran excursion to visit the abandoned ghost town of Pyramiden, or take a rib boat trip to spot the mighty walrus’ basking on stony shores. Around the town, look out for the iconic Svalbard reindeer and energetic arctic foxes dashing across the hillside.

Being in one of the most remote places in the world, you might not expect to experience an eclectic range of dining, but in Svalbard that is exactly what’s on offer! 

With a fantastic selection of restaurants and bars to choose from, whether you’re a fan of fine dining, burger, sushi or a pizzeria, you’ll find something to suit every member of the party. Visit the Funktionaermessen restaurant for a seven course culinary journey through the traditional flavours of Norway, or head for the relaxed Nansen restaurant for Asian fusion tapas. After dinner enjoy the casual ambience of the pub, an intimate wine or champagne tasting in a historic cellar or a couple of refined cocktails in the stylish cocktail bar.

With such a vast landscape and breathtaking scenery, whatever time of year you’re visiting you’re guaranteed an adventure! Visit in summer for boat trips on the fjord, exploring rugged bays and seeking the fascinating wildlife. Maybe even try your hand at kayaking on the glassy waters surrounded by mountain peaks. 

In winter and sunny winter (spring in the rest of the world!) get out on the snow and ice on an exhilarating dog sledding tour. Try your hand at driving a silent electric snowmobile and examine nature’s artwork on a subterranean adventure into the caverns of the glacial ice caves.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Svalbard Holidays pages.