
Longyearbyen (Spitsbergen), Norway
Spitsbergen is the largest island in the Svalbard Archipelago - and home to one of the most exotic landscapes on earth. These islands are polar deserts - windswept, treeless, mountainous. Spitsbergen is generally ice free during the long polar winter, but icebergs and pack ice lurk offshore. Other than man, the only mammals inhabiting the island year-round are Arctic fox, reindeer and polar bear. During summer months, migratory birds flock to the island, and Spitsbergen is covered in a lush carpet of wildflowers.
The largest settlement on Spitsbergen is Longyearbyen. Named after an American mining engineer, this town of 2,100 people is the administrative capital of the islands.
Points of Interest
- Global Seed Vault
- Svalbard's Mines
- Svalbard Museum
- Galleri Svalbard
- Bird Mountain
- Longyear Glacier
- Unique Adventures
- Nordenskiöld Glacier
Longyearbyen On Your Own
Enjoy an introductory tour of Longyearbyen. Not only is the world's northernmost town, but it's the largest settlement in the Svalbard Archipelago. Your guide will point out areas of interest and later, you'll have free time to explore the town center on your own.
Easy Activity
$89.95
Hike To Blomsterdalshogda & The Global Seed Vault
- Global Seed Vault
Take a rugged hike up Blomsterdalshogda for a bird's eye view of Longyearbyen, the Adventfjorden and an incredible natural landscape of barren peaks and flower-dotted tundra.There will also be a stop near the Global Seed Vault, where you will hear the history of this impressive locked construction, and the thousands of seeds hidden within.
Strenuous Activity
$129.95
Taste Of Svalbard - Brewery Tour
- Unique Adventures
Enjoy a sampling of beers made with pure 2,000-year-old glacier water, and the local hero who worked for years to make it possible! First, set out on a walking tour of Longyearbyen to learn how the world's northernmost town has survived through World War II and changing economic environments, with a focus of local and imported produce. Then, visit the Svalbard Brewery for a taste of their specialty beers, and to learn why this was illegal until 2015.
Moderate Activity
$139.95
Fossils, Huskies & Wildlife Ramble
Go into the wild and explore Svalbard's untouched wilderness on an interesting guided ramble in Bolterdalen. Keep your camera ready for exceptional wildlife views, the Svalbard reindeer and grouse, and the breathtaking mountainous scenery. You'll also visit with husky puppies and conclude with a snack of traditional waffles and a warm beverage.
Moderate Activity, Includes snack
$149.95
Svalbard Museum & Galleri Svalbard
- Svalbard Museum
Get acquainted with 400 years of Svalbard's cultural history with a visit to the awarding-winning Svalbard Museum followed by a tour of Galleri Svalbard, which showcases Arctic artworks and 19th century lithographs.
Easy Activity
$159.95
Best of Longyearbyen: Svalbard Museum & Husky Farm
- Svalbard Museum
Tour the Svalbard Museum and discover the islands' history and its natural resources. Enjoy a guided bus trip through Adventdalen, past the river delta where waterfowl congregate in the summer under the towering barren mountains. At the end of the road, stop in the wilderness at Camp Barentz to meet a team of sled dogs and learn more about the king of the Arctic - the polar bear.
Moderate Activity, Includes snack
$179.95
Bike & Brew
Get to know Longyearbyen by electric bike and a brew. Your knowledgeable local guide will lead you through town with stops at the most interesting and scenic sites. Share your experience with your fellow travelers at Svalbard Bryggeri, a microbrewery where five of their special beers await just for you.
Moderate Activity
$199.95
Coastal Views & Huskies
- Unique Adventures
Take off on a true Norwegian adventure - a thrilling sled ride along the beautiful Svalbard coast. Breathe in the pure sea air and keep your eyes peeled for reindeer and migratory birds as the energetic canines race ahead, pulling your wagon along the coastline at a leisurely pace.
Moderate Activity
$209.95
Isfjord Safari To Bird Mountain
- Bird Mountain
Soak up the colorful sights of Longyearbyen from the seat of an Arctic speedboat. Zip through the incredible scenery of the Isfjord with the goal of reaching the rugged sea cliffs of 'Fuglefjella' - the Bird Mountain, and sail past historical sites from Svalbard's exciting history.
Moderate Activity
$209.95
King Crab, Bike & Sights
Explore Longyearbyen on an adventure that begins with a guided tour by electric bike and ends with a delicious meal. Ride past sites such as the polar bear sign, the Svalbard Church, and Longyearbyen's iconic colorful houses. Then it's on to a king crab lunch at a popular restaurant.
Moderate Activity
$219.95
Kayaking On The Adventfjord
Feel the thrill of paddling through the Arctic by kayak. Glide through the Adventfjorden, one of Svalbard's most historical fjords. Experience the contrast as you paddle from colorful Longyearbyen onto this magical waterway surrounded by lofty mountains, and keep your eyes peeled for Arctic wildlife!
Moderate Activity
$259.95
Hybrid Electric Catamaran to Pyramiden
Bundle up for your journey by hybrid electric catamaran to Pyramiden on an incredible scenic cruise from Longyearbyen to this deserted Soviet mining town, inhabited by only a few local caretakers and the odd polar bear. Embark on a guided pedestrian tour, then continue your sail to the spectacular Nordenskiöld Glacier for photo opportunities. An expedition-style lunch is included.
Strenuous Activity
$299.95
Quad Bike Safari In Advent Valley
Get your motor running with an exhilarating ATV quad bike adventure! Zoom your way up to Mine 7 Mountain, admire the incredible views over Advent Valley and surrounding mountains. During the trip you'll make several stops to take photographs and to appreciate the amazing local wilderness and wildlife.
Moderate Activity
$359.95