Experience the total darkness of polar night on this short break to Longyearbyen in the Svalbard archipelago. From mid-November to end of January Svalbard enters its dark period when the sun does not rise over the horizon. This is a totally unique time to travel to the Arctic region – perfect for those wanting to maximise their chances for aurora viewings and experience wilderness adventures.
It is often asked, where is the best place to see the northern lights and what is the best time. There is no definitive answers, though statistically, a few places stand out, however, only one location offers the possibility of viewings all day and all night – Svalbard during the polar season. The sun is at least 6 degrees below the horizon during this period and it is dark 24/7 with the only light sources outside the towns and settlements coming from the moon, the stars and the aurora borealis.
Your base for this winter break, the town of Longyearbyen has a rustic charm, unique atmosphere and international feel with people from many different nationalities residing and working here. The town’s attractions are still available like other times of the year, with a wide range of activities linked with the northern lights. For such a remote place, it’s surprising just how much choice is available with several quality restaurants and bars to choose from – you may be surprised that two of Norway’s leading restaurants are located here – Huset and Funktionaermessen.
Svalbard is a hard place to imagine and should be on everybody’s bucket list of places to visit. Our weekend short break gives you a taste of what you can do during the darkest season.
Itinerary
Arrive at Oslo Airport and transfer to your airport hotel where you will check in for a one-night stay.
On arrival in Longyearbyen transfer on the airport coach service (payable locally) to your city centre. The afternoon is free to explore the town. In the evening we have included an evening at Camp Barentz, 10km outside of Longyearbyen, you learn about the magical lights and enjoy a hearty meal. You’ll also be in an optimum location to venture outside and see the aurora if they appear.
Northern Lights Evening
Between November and February each year a remarkable phenomenon occurs in Svalbard – The Polar Night. During these weeks the sun is at 6 degrees under the horizon and therefore never shines on Spitsbergen. While the sun is hidden under the horizon, Longyearbyen becomes a magical place, lit only by street lamps, the northern lights and the moon which glitters in the snow.
Optional Experiences
Visit Mine Number 3
Beer Tasting at Svalbard Brewery
Electric Northern Lights Snowmobile Safari
Northern Lights by Dog Sled
You have the morning to explore the town further, perhaps some last minute shopping before taking the shuttle coach service back to the airport, which runs in conjunction with all flights. You may prefer to take a taxi for the short journey.
Prices & departures
What's Included
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Accommodation in rooms with private bathroom
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Daily breakfast
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Northern Lights Evening
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24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
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No surcharge guarantee
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Full financial protection
From £487 Excluding Flights
3 Nights
Jan-Feb & Dec
This itinerary starts from around £487 per person based on 2 sharing a room with private bathroom in standard hotels.
Prices may vary depending on departure date and booking date, as well as any changes to the included components. The final cost of a tailored holiday will be based on level of accommodation, included activities, travel season, and how far in advance it is booked. We will confirm the exact price for your holiday in your individual quotation, based on your chosen travel dates and inclusions.
Make this trip yours
Every trip you see here can be adapted to suit you using inside-out knowledge to create one-off experiences created just for you.
Jo
3
Icehotel visits
11
Small ship cruises
We create holidays that are as individual as you are. And we’ve been doing it for 40 years, crafting each and every holiday using our in-depth knowledge and enthusiasm for our destinations. Whatever your brief, we’ll create an amazing trip for you to get excited about. That might mean adapting one of our existing itineraries or we’ll build you one from scratch.
Experts with real experience
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Freya
Travel Specialist
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Gary
Travel Specialist
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Dawn
Head of Customer Experience
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Lauren
Travel Specialist
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Kieran
Travel Specialist
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Ben
Travel Specialist
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Eric
Travel Specialist
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Jo
Travel Specialist
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Doug
Travel Specialist
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Rosie
Travel Specialist
