Things to do in Svalbard
Discover the best attractions and experiences Svalbard has to offer
Historic Monuments
Svalbard’s frontier past comes alive in its historic settlements and coal-era sites.
Ny-Ålesund
A historic mining town turned science outpost, known for preserved 20th-century buildings and polar research history.
Pyramiden
An eerie ghost town that was once a thriving Soviet mining settlement, now a stark Arctic museum-town.
Barentsburg
A coal mining settlement with Soviet-era architecture and a window into Barents Sea heritage.
Museums
Explore Svalbard’s natural and human history through its dedicated museums.
Svalbard Museum
Displays on Arctic wildlife, geology, and the human story of exploration and mining in Svalbard.
Barentsburg Museum
Museum in Barentsburg presenting mining history and Russian cultural heritage.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites reflect the spiritual and cultural mix of Arctic settlements.
Svalbard Church
The main church in Longyearbyen, a peaceful spot amid the Arctic landscape.
Barentsburg Russian Orthodox Church
A small church reflecting Barentsburg’s Russian heritage.
National & Theme Parks
The pristine Arctic landscape is protected in several parks and reserves.
Svalbard National Park
Protects large areas of Spitsbergen and preserves its wild Arctic scenery and wildlife.
Barentsøya Nature Reserve
A remote reserve known for dramatic landscapes and birdlife.
Neighborhoods
Explore the Arctic settlements that make up Svalbard’s human footprint.
Longyearbyen
The administrative center and gateway to Arctic adventures, with museums, bars, and shops.
Barentsburg
A Russian-influenced mining town on the west coast with a distinct cultural vibe.
Ny-Ålesund
A remote research town on Spitsbergen, famed for its history and panoramic fjords.
Pyramiden
An eerie, abandoned mining town offering a stark look at Arctic isolation.
Free Things to Do
Many outdoor experiences are free to enjoy, letting you soak in the Arctic.
Stroll through Longyearbyen town center
Admire colorful wooden houses and the compact Arctic streetscape.
Visit Svalbard Church
Enter the church to admire its simple interior and tranquil atmosphere.
Walk the waterfront and harbor
Watch ships at sea and enjoy views of the surrounding fjords.
Look for the Northern Lights (when in season)
If skies are clear, you can catch a spectacular aurora over open Arctic spaces.
Gastronomy
Taste Arctic ingredients and hearty cooking in local eateries.
Arctic char
Delicate, locally caught fish served in simple, fresh preparations.
Reindeer stew
Slow-cooked meat with root vegetables and Arctic herbs.
Seal soup
A traditional Arctic soup featuring rich, briny flavors.
King crab
Succulent crab dishes sourced from Arctic waters.
Nightlife
Even in the polar darkness, there are cozy spots to unwind.
Huset (The House) pub and venue
A focal point for drinks, live music, and events in Longyearbyen.
Kulturhuset Longyearbyen
Cultural center offering cinema screenings, concerts, and performances.
Entertainment
Cultural happenings and unique venues add evening appeal.
Longyearbyen Kulturhus programs
Seasonal concerts, theater, and cinema events in the town’s cultural hub.
Local cinema nights
Casual film screenings and film nights at the town cinema.
Sports
Seasonal adventures let you experience the Arctic's thrilling outdoors.
Dog sledding
Glide across snow with a team of huskies through pristine Arctic landscapes.
Snowmobile safari
Race across frozen fjords and glaciers with a guided expedition.
Cross-country skiing
Traverse prepared routes and track your pace through white wilderness.
Ice climbing
Scale frozen waterfalls and ice walls with a guide (seasonal).
Off the Track
For the truly curious, offbeat routes reveal remote corners of Svalbard.
Boat trip to Pyramiden
A travel to the abandoned mining town of Pyramiden for stark Arctic scenery.
Visit Ny-Ålesund by boat
Cruise to the remote research town and its dramatic fjord landscapes.
Ice cave expedition
Explore spectacular ice caves and glacial formations with a guide.