Svalbard is located halfway between Norway and the North Pole, above the Arctic Circle, which is why the region experiences 24 hours of sunlight during summer. Glaciers cover over half of the archipelago, which spans roughly 39,000 square miles. Spitsbergen, the largest island, is home to about one-third of Svalbard’s 3,000 residents. The area is rich with mountains and glaciers, including Newtontoppen, the highest peak on Spitsbergen, standing at over 5,600 feet.
The Weather
Summer (June–September):
Temperatures hover around 40℉ (4.4℃). Snow and glaciers have melted, allowing ships to navigate narrow passageways. This season is ideal for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Winter (November–February):
Sunlight returns after months of darkness, providing excellent conditions for winter sports like dog sledding and snowmobiling.
Cloudy days and occasional rain can occur, but cool sunshine is generally the rule in summer. The landscape becomes vibrant, tundra flowers bloom, and wildlife is more active. Our Guide in Ny London (Jessica Liles)
Historic Exploration: Visit old mining towns, whaling stations, and Longyearbyen’s colorful buildings.
Riding zodiac in Arctic Ocean (Kassandra Magruder)
When Is the Best Time to Visit Svalbard?
Season
Months
Temperature
Highlights
Best For
Winter
Nov–Feb
-20°C to -10°C
Polar night, auroras
Photographers, adventurers
Spring
Mar–May
-15°C to 0°C
Snowmobiling, polar bears
Wildlife lovers
Summer
Jun–Aug
0°C to 10°C
Midnight sun, cruises
General tourists
Autumn
Sep–Oct
-10°C to 0°C
Aurora returns, fewer crowds
Budget travelers
Summer (June–September) is the most popular time for wildlife viewing, with long daylight hours, thawed glaciers, and accessible fjords. Polar bears and other Arctic wildlife are most easily observed during this period. Autumn (September–October) is ideal for aurora viewing and travelers who prefer solitude. Polar Night (October–February) offers extended darkness for northern lights, but boat-based activities are limited due to frozen seas.
How to Get to Svalbard
Svalbard is accessible by flights from mainland Norway, including Tromsø and Oslo. Small expedition ships also visit from northern Norway and Iceland. For detailed guidance on travel logistics, our Arctic experts can help you plan every step of your Svalbard journey.
A lone Atlantic Walrus resting on ice in Svalbard. (Kelly Carlin)
Is Svalbard Expensive to Visit?
Costs:
Hotels: higher than mainland Norway
Food & drinks: imported, limited options
Excursions: guided tours and specialized equipment increase costs
Tips to Save:
Visit in shoulder seasons (March–May, September–October)
Book accommodations and tours in advance
Self-cater where possible in Longyearbyen
Visa & Entry Requirements
UK citizens do not require a visa to enter Svalbard. Check current requirements for other nationalities before travel.
Travel Tips for Visiting Svalbard
Dress in layers and bring windproof, waterproof clothing
Use local guides for wildlife excursions
Bring high-quality photography equipment for wildlife and northern lights
Plan for limited connectivity in remote areas
Plan Your Arctic Adventure
Ready to explore Svalbard’s wild landscapes, majestic wildlife, and stunning polar phenomena? Our expert Trip Planners will craft a tailored Arctic itinerary just for you — from cruises and expeditions to guided hikes and wildlife excursions. Start planning your unforgettable Svalbard journey today!
