How to Get to Longyearbyen. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Flights and Routes

Longyearbyen Airport (LYR) is the only airport in Svalbard with scheduled commercial flights. It connects this remote settlement to mainland Norway.

Airlines & Connections

SAS (Scandinavian Airlines): Daily flights from Oslo (OSL) to LYR, some via Tromsø (TOS).
Norwegian Air Shuttle: Flights from Oslo (OSL) to LYR, typically a few times a week.
No direct international flights. All flights connect using mainland Norway.

Airport Services & Transfers

Longyearbyen Airport (LYR) is small but functional. It features basic amenities. Transfers into town are straightforward.

Facilities & Options

Airport Facilities: Small cafe, duty-free shop. Car hire counters available.
Shuttle Bus to the airport: Connects to all accommodations, meets scheduled flights (180-200 NOK one-way).
Taxi: Available outside terminal, similar the price for single travelers, more flexible.

Seasonal Availability

Flight frequency rises during peak summer, drops in the quiet season.

Price Fluctuations

Prices generally stay high year-round due to limited routes and consistent demand.

Immigration Process

Non-Schengen travelers clear Norwegian immigration in Oslo or Tromsø.

Booking Advice

Pre-Trip Planning

Book flights well in advance.
Early booking secures better rates and availability.
Allow ample time for layovers in mainland Norway.
Confirm visa requirements for Norway based on your nationality.

Traveler Tips

Prices remain high on account of minimal routes and high demand.
Your entry point into Schengen is your immigration control point.
Airlines or immigration may ask for proof that you are leaving the country or funds.
Weather impacts flights; keep flexible for delays.

Airport Access and Amenities

Airport Location

Longyearbyen Airport (LYR) is the one and only commercial airport in Svalbard.

On-Site Services

Small cafe, duty-free shop, car rental desks.

Transport to Town

Airport bus or cabs are available for all scheduled flights.

Land Transportation

General Land Travel

Longyearbyen's land options for getting around are distinct due to its remote Arctic environment and limited infrastructure.

Limitations

Border Crossings: Not applicable; Svalbard has no land borders.
Train Services: No train services exist in Svalbard.
Long-Distance Buses: No services between settlements due to lack of roads.

Self-Driving & Off-Road

Longyearbyen has a very limited network of paved the roads in the settlement. These roads quickly end as you leave town.

Vehicle Use

Car Rental: Available from airport/town (Avis, Hertz), for limited road network.
Snowmobiles/ATVs: The main way to get around outside settlement, part of guided tours only.
Road Conditions: Town roads maintained, can be icy. Off-road travel requires specialized vehicles.

Driving Requirements

Drivers must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driving's license from the home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) might be useful.

Permits & Licenses

Age: Minimum 21 years old.
License: Valid national driver's license.
International Driving Permit: Might be needed for snowmobile tours.

Safety and Guidance

Always prioritize safety and local guidance when traveling in the countryside boundaries. Independent go outside the "safety zone" is strongly discouraged.

Wilderness Travel

Polar Bear Risk: A serious threat outside the settlement.
Weather: Harsh, rapidly changing conditions.
Guided Tours: Highly advisable for wilderness exploration.

Wilderness Travel Warning

Do not attempt to drive or travel outside Longyearbyen's immediate area without a guided tour.
Polar bear protection and wilderness survival skills are mandatory.
Consult tour operators for specific requirements and safety briefings.

Terrain: Challenges from snow, ice, and permafrost.
Navigation: Difficult in rapidly changing conditions.
Emergency: Remote areas limit quick assistance.

Sea/River Arrivals

Cruise & Expedition Vessels

Maritime journeys to Longyearbyen mainly involves cruise ships and expedition vessels, offering a distinct way to arrive.

Sea Arrival Options

Cruise Ships: Longyearbyen is a popular port of call in summer. Passengers disembark directly into town.
Expedition Vessels: Smaller ships use Longyearbyen as a departure/arrival point for Svalbard voyages.
No regular ferry services connect Svalbard to the continental part Norway or other countries.

Immigration at Ports

Immigration procedures for cruise passengers happen typically via the cruise line or upon initial entry to the Schengen Area.

Port Entry Process

Cruise Passengers: Handled by the cruise line or at the first Schengen port.
Expedition Vessels: Brief check when you arrive in Longyearbyen, formal immigration earlier.
Overland Connections: Port close enough for walking to the town center center. Taxis available.

River Transport

Not applicable. Svalbard's geography lacks navigable rivers for transport.

Main Purpose

Maritime journeys is mainly for tourism or research expeditions.

Tour Operator Pickups

Tour operators often arrange pickup services directly from the harbor for pre-booked excursions.

Departure Information

Airport Procedures

Longyearbyen Airport (LYR) functions as a small, efficient airport. Arrive with adequate time before your flight. Security inspections are typically efficient and fast.

Departure Guidelines

Exit Fees: No specific fees or taxes on setting off from LYR.
Timing: Show up at LEAST 1 to 1.5 hours before scheduled departure.
Security: Efficient plus swift checks. Allow more time during peak season.

Airport Facilities

LYR offers basic amenities for departing travelers. You will find core services to use before takeoff.

Amenities for Departing Travelers

Cafe: Small cafe for snacks and drinks.
Duty-Free: Available for last-minute local souvenirs and tax-free goods.
Tax-Free Shopping: Retailers can advise on rules for non-Norwegian residents.

Tax and Customs Notes

VAT Exemption

Svalbard operates outside the Norwegian VAT system.

Import Duties

Subject to duties or taxes upon arrival in mainland Norway.

Home Country Regulations

Check regulations for your home country on imported goods.

Departure Time

Allow enough time at Longyearbyen Airport. It is small, but queues can form during peak departure times.

How to Get to Longyearbyen