Svalbard Travel Guide: What to Do, Where to Stay and More

Stepping outside in Svalbard, Norway, almost feels like visiting another planet — one that requires many layers of very warm clothing, careful consideration of its fragile environment and a real love of extremes. But for clients who can handle the cold, this ultra-unique Arctic landscape is also a true playground for icy adventures.

Here’s how to plan an Arctic escape full of outdoor activities, with a healthy dose of cozy comfort at day’s end.

Svalbard Hotels

The town of Longyearbyen serves as a traveler’s base of operations in Svalbard, offering a small selection of hotels, bars and breweries, restaurants and shops. Looking out over the settlement is Funken Lodge, which bills itself as an “Arctic oasis” — and is not at all wrong in saying so.

This boutique hotel couldn’t be cozier: All guests are encouraged to take part in the local tradition of wearing slippers instead of shoes indoors, including in its public spaces, which feature a modern vibe, warming fireplaces and plenty of comfy furniture. The 88 guestrooms have blackout curtains for the summer’s sun, and are a welcome retreat after a day out in the elements. Other hotel amenities include a sauna, a gym, a Champagne cellar and an excellent restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows for fabulous views.

Things to Do in Svalbard 

Ever explored an ice cave? Local operator Hurtigruten Svalbard’s Ice Cave Tour With Snowcat takes clients into a sparkling (literally) wonderland of snow crystals and ice formations. The underground cave, formed by a glacier, changes every year, and can involve some narrow passageways and minor exertion — but the effort is well worth it to see the amazing landscape inside. 

During the Northern Lights season (October to about the end of February), clients have their pick of tours to see them, be it by snowmobile, dogsled or during an evening at Hurtigruten’s Camp Barentz. In the summer, travelers can kayak out on the fjord with Svalbard Wildlife Expeditions, or take a walrus safari with Better Moments. Hiking, dogsledding, snowmobiling and boat tours are a few of the additional options — just make sure clients only leave town with a guide, for safety reasons. 

RELATED: Svalbard: How to Explore Norway's High Arctic

Recommended Restaurants 

The dress code at Restaurant Nansen is listed as “snowmobile gear” — but don’t let that fool you into thinking this eatery isn’t ready to impress. The stylish interior offers prime views via a wall of windows, plus a menu of elevated Nordic-fusion fare. Dishes range from Svalbard cod baked in leek ash to reindeer tenderloin, whiskey-glazed pork ribs and desserts such as pavlova with fennel and white chocolate cream.

Another local favorite is Restaurant Kroa, with a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on seasonal ingredients (fish dishes come highly recommended, or try one of the unique pizzas).