The best of the Northern Lights Winter in 6 days

When visiting Longyearbyen, we recommend at least 6 days to fully enjoy, explore, and experience everything it has to offer!
In our 6-day program, packed with activities, you can find inspiration for planning your next Svalbard adventure. Did you know that by spending more time in one place, you reduce unnecessary flights and minimise your carbon footprint?

In Svalbard, the period from October to February is called the Northern Lights Winter. This time is highly cherished by the locals and often full of surprises for visitors. The beginning and end of the Northern Lights Winter offer a unique pastel-coloured light during the day, while the rest of the period sees no difference between night and day. It is dark, magical, and known as the Polar Night.

If we are lucky, the Northern Lights will dance in the sky, even during the day. The full moon acts as stage lighting, adding an extra layer of mystique to the landscape.

In case anyone doubts, the darkness does not mean staying indoors. On the contrary, Longyearbyen is a paradise for outdoor activities all year round. But what could be better than retreating to a cosy restaurant after a day out in the sparkling winter cold?

We have put together a 6-day program to inspire you. Remember, this is your adventure! You can customize the program exactly as you wish.

Day 1: Arrival and Northern Lights Activity

Upon arrival to Longyearbyen, check into your chosen accommodation. There are many options, from guesthouses to exclusive hotels.

After checking in and enjoying a nice dinner at one of the local restaurants, it’s time for a Northern Lights hunt or sightseeing. If you're curious about the Northern Lights, we recommend joining an organized tour with a local guide. With the right weather conditions, you might witness a spectacular show in the sky. Even if the Northern Lights don’t appear, the guide will ensure a rich experience with safety and great storytelling.

Alternatively, you can explore the town with a guide or take a bus or minibus sightseeing tour. Longyearbyen, this Arctic outpost, has more to offer than you might think.

Day 2: Ice Cave Adventure and Dinner at a Local Favorite

For your second day in Svalbard, its time for a fascinating outdoor adventure. Beneath Svalbard’s ancient glaciers lies a beautiful world of meltwater channels, forming caves and ice formations. With a skilled guide and equipped with crampons, headlamps, and helmets, you get the opportunity to explore this unique world. To reach the ice caves, you can travel on foot, by snowcat, snowmobile, or dog sled. Often, a simple lunch is also included in the tour.

In the evening, we recommend trying dinner at Kroa, a beloved local institution known for its cosy atmosphere and rustic surroundings.

Day 3: Culture, Shopping, and Great Food

Time to explore every nook and cranny of Longyearbyen. Start your day with a tour of Mine 3 for a deep dive into its proud mining history. Continue to the Svalbard Museum to learn about the archipelago's geology, flora, fauna, and captivating polar history.

At the Nordover Art Center, enjoy Kåre Tveter’s paintings and watercolors. Consider some shopping for exclusive sports gear or homemade chocolates.

For lunch, many hotels and restaurants offer great options, or grab a coffee at Café Huskies to mingle with locals.

In the evening, visit the  Svalbard Church , which is always open and may host the occational concert. For dinner, dine at Vinterhagen in Mary Ann's Polarrigg, known for its rustic yet elegant atmosphere and creative menu with local delicacies.

Day 4: Dog Sledding, the World's Northernmost Brewery, and a Culinary Finale

Experience the thrill of dog sledding in Svalbards wilderness, followed by a complimentary lunch outside. There's just something extraordinary about getting so close to nature together with the dog team. 

In the afternoon, visit the world's northernmost brewery, Svalbard Bryggeri. Enjoy locally produced beer brewed with glacier water and lots of love. It's a great prelude to dinner at Polfareren Restaurant, where you can expect a menu full of surprises. 

Day 5: Snowmobiling, Gastropub, Sauna, and Fine Dining

Feel the fresh air and a touch of adrenaline as you explore remote valleys, mountains, and glaciers by snowmobile. Not far from Longyearbyen, you'll encounter awe-inspiring nature.

If you opt for only a half-day tour, enjoy lunch at one of Longyearbyen’s gastropubs like Svalbar,  Stationen , or Barentz Gastropub. 

In the afternoon, why not try an Arctic sauna experience at Svalbad. Brace yourself for intense heat indoors, then plunge into the sea for the ultimate cold shock.

In the evening, indulge in fine dining. Surprisingly, Longyearbyen is home to some of Norway's best restaurants. At places like Huset Restaurant, Gruvelageret, and Funktionærmessen, local ingredients take center stage, with each dish telling a unique Svalbard story.

Day 6: Relax, Snowcat Tour, and Wilderness Evening

Spend the morning "hanging around" Longyearbyen. Visit shops and eateries you might have missed during the week. Buy a souvenir and take one last photo of the pointed and colourful houses.

In the afternoon, take part in a snowcat tour to the Linken viewpoint. On the way, stop at the iconic polar bear sign for a photo. From Linken, enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Longyearbyen.

Alternatively, join a hike to the old mining community of Hiorthamn, where historic buildings stand as silent reminders of a bygone era.

End the evening with a wilderness night at Camp Barentz, a replica of Willem Barentz’s hunting cabin. After a 15-minute drive, you’ll be surrounded by the tranquillity of the wilderness, where you can enjoy a traditional reindeer stew and captivating stories around a crackling fire.

Day 7: Departure

As you leave Longyearbyen, make sure to get a window seat for an unforgettable view of this unique Arctic town. We hope Svalbard has impressed, delighted, and surprised you. Safe travels and welcome back!

Tip: Start your trip with a visit to the tourist information centre in Longyearbyen for expert advice and activity bookings.