Friends, picture stepping from Longyearbyen into wide, blue-ice valleys, riding a snowmobile to a silent glacier front, then drifting past creaking ice by boat before a museum hour ties the stories together.

This guide maps seasons, must-dos, prices with estimates, and simple transport and safety rules so every day clicks.

When to go

Midnight sun runs roughly April 19–August 23 in Longyearbyen, turning days into one long golden hour for hikes, boats, and late tours. Polar night spans about November 14–January 29, when full darkness invites aurora hunts and quiet, guide-led outings near town. Expect quick weather shifts year-round; build cushion days and pick guided trips that run in the light available.

Getting in

The airport shuttle meets all flights and stops at every hotel and guesthouse; one-way fares are 110 NOK (about $10) with card accepted. Taxis cost around 200 NOK to the center when available, with the rank just outside Arrivals and no rideshare apps operating. Most lodging sits a 10–15-minute drive from the airport, making late arrivals straightforward.

Essential safety

Inside Longyearbyen’s marked zone, bear protection isn’t required; outside, travelers must carry deterrents and know how to use them or join guided tours. The Governor recommends a .308/30-06 rifle as primary defense, plus flare devices and spare cartridges; rentals are regulated locally. New rules require keeping 300 m from bears (500 m March–June) and moving away immediately if closer, with guides enforcing distances on excursions.

Top experiences

Svalbard Museum: Open daily; tickets 160 NOK (about $15), under-18 free, with seasonal 09:00–17:00 hours in summer.

Snowmobile day tours: Typical driver price 3,690 NOK (about $340), passenger 2,690 NOK (about $250); warm gear, lunch, and hotel pickup included.

Summer snowmobile + hike: June outings pair a glacier hike with 4 km of snowmobiling; drivers from 2,290 NOK, passengers 1,690 NOK.

Ice cave exploration: Standard trips from 3,495 NOK (about $320) Dec–Apr; snowmobile ice-cave options post Feb with prices shown at booking.

Boat to Pyramiden: Day cruises from 2,895 NOK (about $270), with hotel pickup and onboard guide; seasonal May–Oct.

Dogsledding: Day tours commonly 1,690–1,990 NOK (about $155–$180), with clothing, transfers, and warm drinks included.

Easy day plan

Start at Svalbard Museum for context and exhibits on exploration, mining, and nature, then walk the compact center for gear shops and cafés before afternoon activities. Book a half-day dogsled or snowmobile tour that includes warm outerwear and pickup, keeping evenings free for late-light photo loops. On boat days, pick Pyramiden routes that also nose into glacier fronts; most trips include a light meal and return transfers.

Costs to expect

Airport shuttle: 110 NOK one-way (about $10).

Svalbard Museum: 160 NOK (about $15); students discounted.

Snowmobile day: 3,690 NOK driver / 2,690 NOK passenger (about $340 / $250).

Boat day to Pyramiden: 2,895 NOK (about $270).

Dogsledding: 1,690–1,990 NOK (about $155–$180).

Ice cave tour: from 3,495 NOK (about $320).

Logistics that help

Guided trips include hotel pickup, thermal suits, boots, and helmets where needed—bring base layers, socks, and a thin beanie for under helmets. For independent forays beyond the town zone, pack a PLB or satellite device, firearm plus bear-alarm systems for camps, extra mitts, stove, and a four-season tent. Follow new landing and distance rules on protected sites and wildlife to keep itineraries smooth and compliant.

Seasonal pointers

Midnight-sun months favor boats, glacier walks, and wheeled dog carts; late light makes evening departures especially rewarding. The shoulder from late Feb through spring is prime for snowmobiles and ice caves; outfitters publish cutoffs for light and trail conditions. In polar night, choose guided, light-managed activities close to Longyearbyen and confirm minimum numbers and weather flexibility.

Quick water & health note

Longyearbyen’s treated water is high quality, but avoid untreated sources in the Grumant–Bjørndalen area and boil when in doubt on remote routes. Follow guide instructions on food handling and camp hygiene to reduce any parasite risk on wilderness trips.

Conclusion

Ready to string together a museum morning, a guided glacier ride, and a slow fjord cruise while staying within simple, well-posted rules. Which arc suits best: spring snowmobiles and ice caves, a midnight-sun boat and dogsled pair, or a museum-plus-short tour day anchored in town.