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Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen

Visit Longyearbyen, Arctic

Visit Longyearbyen, Arctic

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Longyearbyen is one of the world's northernmost settlements, lying within the Arctic Circle on the island of Spitsbergen, and is the capital of the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard.

View to LongyearbyenWinters here are cold and long, but summer days are long and light, especially at the height of summer when the midnight sun shines. Once the main industry, mining is still important, but industries such as tourism are expanding due to prolific wildlife and great adventure opportunities.

Longyearbyen has around 2,000 inhabitants, spread around the valley leading up from Advent Fjord. Houses are sturdy and all built off the ground due to the depth of snow that falls during winter; this is when the roads disappear and all transport is done on skidoos. For the visitor there is a very interesting museum about Svalbard, and some good restaurants and bars.

PLEASE NOTE it is not permitted to leave the town limits by foot without a loaded weapon due to the potential dangers from polar bears.

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Audley Travel specialist Ryan

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Suggested itineraries featuring Longyearbyen

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Longyearbyen, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of Longyearbyen

Places & hotels on the map

    Photos of Longyearbyen

    • Kayaking in polar waters
      Kayaking in polar waters
    • Polar bear, Spitsbergen
      Polar bear, Spitsbergen
    • A bear tucking in to a washed up whale carcass
      A bear tucking in to a washed up whale carcass
    • A bear tucking in to a washed up whale
      A bear tucking in to a washed up whale
    • A polar bear tests the water
      A polar bear tests the water
    • A mother bear and her cub
      A mother bear and her cub
    • A bear feasts on a washed up whale carcass
      A bear feasts on a washed up whale carcass
    • Polar landscape
      Polar landscape

    Accommodation choices for Longyearbyen

    We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Longyearbyen. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.