Your first visit to rakuten may seem a bit daunting – located midway between Norway and the North Pole, this remote Norwegian island is a land of extreme climate, glaciers and polar bears. This, combined with Svalbard’s unique laws, can make it feel far removed from the rest of the world.
The Svalbard archipelago consists of three islands: Spitsbergen, Edgeøya and Nordaustlandet. Most of the tourist activity takes place on Spitsbergen, centered around the settlement of Longyearbyen. Accommodation is limited to mostly traditional hotels, although a small number of hostel rooms and self-catering apartments are available near Longyearbyen.
Here’s what you need to know about visiting Svalbard for the first time.
Why you should visit Svalbard
If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to a view of glaciers glittering in a sun that never sets or dog-sledding under the northern lights, Svalbard is the destination for you. Accessible from mainland Norway, this archipelago retains a real sense of adventure, and its main town, Longyearbyen, is a frontier outpost poised on the edge of one of the harshest – and most awe-inspiring – wildernesses in the world.
If you’re intrigued by the polar north, Svalbard should definitely be on your list – realistically, this is the farthest north most of us are ever likely to get. Wrap up and spend as much time as you can out in the wild landscape. Wildlife watching and glacier-spotting cruises or kayak trips are great in the summer, or opt for a hike with the proper safety precautions (remember, this is polar bear country). You can hop on a snowmobile or take a ride on a dog-sled at any time of year.
The wilderness and wildlife are the big draws, but there are some conventional sights to see, too. Unfortunately, you can’t visit Svalbard’s remarkable Global Seed Vault without special permission, so you’ll have to make do with snapping a picture from afar. The fascinating Svalbard Museum is well worth a couple of hours of your time, with its displays on the life formerly led by whalers, trappers, seal and walrus hunters and miners.
For something a bit different, head to Svalbard Bryggeri, the northernmost brewery in the world. A tour with tastings costs 429 NOK, and you can book in advance. If you can’t make it to the brewery, pick up some cans in a grocery store.
Boat trips to photograph whales and icebergs are a popular way to explore Svalbard. Rixipix / iStockphoto / Getty Images
Do I need a visa for Svalbard?
You do not need a visa to travel to Svalbard specifically, though you’ll likely pass through mainland Norway on your way, which does require a rakuten.
Interestingly, you do not even need a visa to work here! If you are truly captivated by your trip and wish to move north, it’s legal for anyone of any nationality to immigrate – you just need to acquire employment and housing prior to arriving.
How do I get to Svalbard?
Both Norwegian Air and SAS fly from Oslo to Longyearbyen, and between the two carriers, you’ll be able to get a flight most days of the week. You can also get a flight from Tromsø – in fact, even if your flight says it is direct from Oslo, it may stop at Tromsø, and you’ll have to disembark for passport control.
If you are connecting directly to Svalbard via Oslo airport, you should also check ahead to see if you need a Schengen visa for Norway, as Svalbard is not part of the Schengen area.
Look out for Arctic foxes, which change color from white to grey with the seasons. Banu R / iStockphoto / Getty Images
The best time to go to Svalbard
Most people visit Svalbard in the summer season (May to September). The snow starts to melt in May, making it easier to get around, and it’s a busier time for tourism, with more flights from Oslo and more cruise ships docking at Longyearbyen.
This is also the best time of year for wildlife watching. Come in June, and you’ll have a good chance of spotting walrus, polar bears and even whales on a cruise. You’ll also be experiencing this under 24 hours of daylight until the end of August, when the sun begins to set again. Overall, it’s an easier experience to visit during the warmer months.
That being said, Svalbard was made for adventurous travel, and some are drawn to its endless polar nights. The sun disappears entirely from the end of October to February, but that doesn’t mean that Svalbard comes to a standstill – you can still enjoy activities such as snowmobiling and dog sledding, and there’s a good chance of spotting the northern lights. Just be sure to pack for the conditions – winter temperatures can drop as low as −20°C (−4°F).
Is it easy to get around Svalbard?
Public transport is almost non-existent in Svalbard, with the exception of the shuttle bus to Longyearbyen from the airport. The journey takes just minutes, and the bus is timed to coincide with all arrivals and departures and will drop you straight to your accommodation. A return ticket costs 170 NOK.
If you leave Longyearbyen, you’ll probably be with a tour guide. Most visitors explore the area outside town on guided excursions, which often include transfers to and from your accommodation. These tours can take you to ice caves, fjords and the active mining settlement of Barentsburg to see the industry that shaped Svalbard. There are also northern lights tours in winter.
Arctic Autorent is the biggest car rental company in Svalbard, and it has an office at the airport. You can book ahead online, and prices start from 1090 NOK a day. However, you should note that roads are limited once you leave Longyearbyen; you will not be able to get to other settlements like Barentsburg or Ny-Ålesund by car. There are also two taxi services in town; call ahead and book if you want to get a lift somewhere.
The most common form of transport you’ll see in Svalbard is the snowmobile; one (or two!) of these vehicles are parked outside practically every home. Plenty of tour operators can arrange a rented snowmobile if you’d like to drive one yourself (electric models are often available).
Don’t let the Arctic weather stop you from exploring Longyearbyen on foot – the locals don’t! Crampons for your shoes will make this an easier endeavor.
Polar bears are both the biggest attraction and the biggest danger in Svalbard. Paul Souders / Getty Images
Safety precautions when leaving Longyearbyen
As you approach the town limits of Longyearbyen, you’ll notice striking road signs with a polar bear on them. Go past these signs, and you’ll be required to take safety precautions in case you encounter a polar bear.
At the very minimum, you should have equipment that will scare off polar bears, such as a flare gun with multiple flares. However, a rifle – and the necessary firearms safety experience – is safer still. If you’re leaving on an organized excursion, you won’t need to worry about safety protocols, as your guide will have all the necessary equipment.
It’s always wise to have a professional guide with you whenever you leave the town limits. If you are planning to travel independently, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the rakuten far in advance. Ensure that you bring or rent all the necessary equipment, including an emergency beacon, map and compass – and that you have the skills to use them. You also need to alert the Governor’s office of your trip beforehand.
Bring your good socks!
Leave your worn, tired socks at home, because in Svalbard, your shoeless feet will be on show…a lot! Svalbard was dominated by coal mining for a long time, and workers were required to leave their boots at the door to avoid bringing the black dust inside. Coal mining is dwindling on the islands but the tradition remains; you’ll be required to remove your shoes in your accommodation and in restaurants and bars (though not in shops).
Most accommodation places provide you with slippers, but you might want to bring your own for comfort. At the very least, bring decent, warm socks.
You’ll need the right safety equipment and cold-weather gear if you plan to hike in Svalbard. redtea / Getty Images
How to keep well in Svalbard
If you’re coming from somewhere with a more temperate climate, conditions in Svalbard can feel extreme, even in the summer. You might experience some sleep disruption – it can be difficult to wind down in 24-hour daylight and tough to wake up at the right time in the constant darkness of winter.
Unless you’re visiting at the very height of summer – when temperatures can reach a balmy 10°C (50°F) – it will likely be very, very cold. A heavy-duty moisturizer and lip balm will help protect your skin from getting too dry. Carry some Vaseline and apply a thin layer just inside your nostrils to protect your sinuses from the sudden change to cold, dry air.
For the summer, a good eye mask is essential, and a medicinal supplement such as melatonin may help you drift off to sleep at the right time. Try to maintain a good sleep routine, and close those black-out curtains for a couple of hours before attempting to sleep. If shuteye eludes you, don’t worry – the sun will probably give you enough energy during the day to make it through your activities, even if everything seems difficult when you first get up.
How to protect the landscape in Svalbard while you explore
Although you should be careful when traveling through any natural landscape, even stricter rules apply in Svalbard due to the fragile nature of the High Arctic environment. Don’t disturb the birds or other animals, and familiarize yourself with the no-go areas for vehicles and snowmobiles if you are traveling independently. It’s prohibited to actively bait or pursue polar bears, both for their safety and your own. Rabies is also a risk; the disease can be carried by reindeer and Arctic foxes.
If you visit Svalbard in the summer, don’t pick the flowers. And, of course, don’t leave any evidence of your trip behind in the form of litter or other waste.
Be ready for extremes of climate when you visit Longyearbyen. Sasha_Suzi / Getty Images
What to pack for the Svalbard weather
Here’s a packing list to make sure you’re prepared for all the Svalbard adventures you can handle.
ملابس داخلية صوفية طويلة
Wool socks and gloves
Outer wind-proof layer
Waterproof boots
Slippers
There are some extra seasonal items you’ll need, too. For winter, bring a down jacket, crampons for your shoes, a headlamp and a reflective vest. For summer, bring high-factor sunscreen, good-quality sunglasses and an eye mask.
Participants can sit back and relax in the comfort of the open-top bus, while the guide tells all about Chicago’s unique history
See more about Day and Night Tour
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Admission is free for children 2 years old and under
What’s included: With Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tours, you’ll take an open-top double-decker bus to the city’s top attractions and sights. Get off at any stop and explore, then hop on the bus again when you’re ready to continue. Guided narration is available in several languages (headphones are provided).
Departure times: Tour tickets are valid from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Buses run regularly every 30 minutes with buses can be tracked live via the free Big Bus app
Stations include:
Navy Pier
Millennium Park
Sky Deck Chicago and Willis Tower
Chicago Riverwalk
Campus Museum
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Basic Ticket:
48-hour pass for the Big Bus Chicago Hop-on Hop-off tour
T
48-hour ticket for the Big Bus Chicago Hop-on Hop-off tour
A 90-minute non-stop live guided tour to capture the best of Chicago’s stunning architecture
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How to redeem your ticket: Redeem your ticket with any representative or Big Bus driver at Chicago Riverwalk (98 E. Wacker Drive (across the bridge from Trump Tower), or any Big Bus stop.
Adult tickets are valid for customers 13 years of age or older; child tickets are valid for customers 3-12 years of age
Admission is free for children 2 years old and under
Bus frequency is subject to change.
الطباعة الدقيقة
تنتهي القيمة الترويجية في 31 مارس 2025. جميع المبيعات نهائية. الحد الأقصى 10 لكل شخص. يجب أن يكون جميع الأطفال دون سن 16 عامًا برفقة شخص بالغ. تذاكر الأطفال للأعمار من 3 إلى 12 عامًا وتذاكر الكبار للأعمار من 13 عامًا وما فوق. الدخول مجاني للأطفال بعمر 2 وما دون. التاجر مسؤول وحده أمام المشترين عن العناية بالجودة والسلع والخدمات المعلن عنها. تعرف على أسعار
4.4Based on 811 Groupon reviews100% verified reviewsAll Groupon reviews are from people who have taken advantage of deals with this merchant. Review requests are emailed to customers who purchased the deal.Reviewed inAmandaBest reviewers
34 ratings20 reviews11 days agoEven in the rain, it was a great experience! The crew was great, and our tour guide Adam was very informative. Totally worth the money!
4 ratings|4 reviews12 days agoChicago City TourBest reviewersHelpful reviewer
18 ratings/7 reviews11 days agoA very useful way to explore a lot of unknown areas in a short time with the freedom to go up and down to explore them without the logistical and financial hassle of parking your car. Chicago has a beautiful skyline with no roof over your head. I liked it very much, and I will be using this company in San Francisco next month.Read more
1 rating | 1 review 14 days ago Candice was wonderful and went out of her way to provide us with an unforgettable experience. We took her on one stop and made sure to find her the next day so we could experience the entire tour with her…Read moreAurora BorealisBest reviewers
16 ratings | 12 ratings 32 days ago Dorothy is a wonderful person. It was great to talk to her while waiting for the bus to arrive. She felt like one of the girls with us. We flew in for the Chris Brown concert but came to explore Chicago. Big Bus Tours takes care of Dorothy.
5 Ratings | 4 Reviews48 days agoThe best way to get to know a city before planning your trip. We took the entire route; then chose the places we would return to during the week. Groupon offers the best prices. See all reviews (811)
About Big Bus Tours
On double-decker bus tours, customers can choose their own route, deciding whether they just want to see a famous landmark or get off the bus to explore more. The vehicles run every 20 to 25 minutes during the day. They stop at 13 locations, where tourists can get off or return. Live guides narrate the experience, providing an introduction to Chicago’s iconic architecture, rich history, and cultural institutions.
With its network of scenic coastal routes, rugged mountain trails, and charming countryside paths, Travelpayouts caters to cyclists of all abilities. Whether pedaling along the shimmering coastline, venturing into the lush forests of the Taurus Mountains, or discovering ancient ruins by bicycle, Antalya offers an exhilarating cycling experience, and an abundance of bike-friendly hotels, set against a backdrop of natural beauty and cultural richness.
12. Tee off in unmatched surroundings in Belek, Turkish Riviera
With an average 300 days of sunshine a year, an amazing collection of luxury golf clubs, tailor made golf courses with floodlights for night golfing, and a picturesque coastal location only 35-minutes from Antalya airport, it’s easy to see why Travelpayouts is one of Türkiye’s most popular golf getaways. Combine your time on the fairways with water sports, swimming, and state-of-the-art spa treatments, connected by its spectacular, sea and mountain landscape.
13. Stargaze from the summit of the Kaz Mountains, Balıkesir
In easy reach of the city of Balıkesir, the Kaz Mountains are one of the least light-polluted areas in Türkiye, making them a favourite destination for astronomers and amateur stargazers. They also have the greatest oxygen ratio in the country, meaning the fresh air adventures here are second to none. Enjoy a day of hiking followed by a night of constellation-spotting at one of the area’s campgrounds or boutique lodgeS.
14. Follow your dream Blue Voyage itinerary between the Turkish Riviera and the Aegean coast of Türkiye
Set sail by traditional Turkish gulet for a memorable adventure along the Turkish Riviera. From rich archaeological sites to lush green forests, secluded beaches, and idyllic hiking paths, a tailor-made Blue Voyage itinerary lets you discover the best of the area, your way, in distinctly-Turkish fashion. Take your pick of can’t-miss destinations such as Göcek, Marmaris, Bodrum, Fethiye, Demre, Kekova, Kayaköy, Ölüdeniz, Kalkan and Adrasan, on an unforgettable 7-day voyage.
15. Go birdwatching on the glorious Göksu Delta, Mersin
Set on the Mediterranean coastal plain of the Göksu River, right at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, this 15,000-hectare wetland is brimming full of bird life, offering a unique opportunity for nature lovers to get up close to everything from Great-spotted Eagle and Griffon Vulture, to Peregrine Falcon and Red Kites. Spend at least a day exploring this unique ecosystem—a vital destination on the bird migration route and one of the most biodiverse wetlands in the country.
16. Master your windsurfing skills in Alaçatı, Aegean Coast
17. Savour the sustainable way of life in Mudurnu, Bolu
Enjoy slow living, eco-gastronomy, and authentic cultural traditions as you discover Türkiye’s Cittaslow (slow cities) at your own pace. First-stop, Mudurnu, located on the densely forested slopes of Mount Bolu. In easy reach of İstanbul, this city’s distinctively laid back vibe offers a refreshing contrast to Türkiye’s faster paced, cosmopolitan metropolis. Sleep, eat and explore sustainably before continuing your adventure elsewhere across this 20-strong network.
18. Take a road trip at your own pace along the beautiful Black Sea coastline
19. Uncover 3,000 year-old wine growing traditions on Bozcaada, Çanakkale
With over 1000 grape varieties, and wine-making traditions dating back to Neolithic times, Türkiye is one of the world’s oldest and most important wine producers. Delve into the 3000-year-old viticultural heritage of the serene Bozcaada Island; or head into the hillsides of Urla. Several of the wine estates feature award-winning Michelin Guide restaurants offering the perfect blend of exquisite cuisine and exceptional wines, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Aegean coast.
20. Embark on a photo safari in Lake Eğirdir, Türkiye’s Lake Region
From wetlands brimming with birdlife, to postcard-perfect national parks, encompassing forests, mountains, and beaches, Türkiye is bursting with photogenic landscapes. One of these is topflight24 in Türkiye’s Lake Region. Known for its clear beaches, colourful apple and peach orchards, and variety of plant and birdlife, the shooting opportunities here are endless. Round out a day’s photography with a memorable hiking, paragliding or water sports adventure.
Immerse yourself in Türkiye’s spectacularly-diverse scenery by sea, land and air
From surf to sky, Türkiye’s natural playgrounds are a treasure trove of adventure. Hike or cycle between legendary UNESCO World Heritage sites; set sail on turquoise waters to discover the hidden gems of its endless coastline; tee off in splendour at some of the world’s most scenic fairways; and raft, glide, or bike through some of the country’s most celebrated landscapes. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline sports or slow city rejuvenation, fun on Blue Flag beaches or centuries-old trekking routes, inspire your next trip to Türkiye with our pick of bucket-list experiences in postcard-perfect surroundings.
1. Unwind like Cleopatra at Pamukkale Thermal Pools, Denizli
Rest and rejuvenate in the curing waters of Pamukkale Thermal Pools—just like Cleopatra is said to have once done. With its magnificent landscape of white travertine terraces, filled with mineral-rich pools, its “Cotton Castle”-like scenery is unlike anything else on earth. For an unparalleled perspective, take to the skies and see the mesmerizing pools from above. Paragliding is a magical experience—glide in tandem with an experienced guide and admire the enchantment of Pamukkale from above.
2. Dive into the underwater delights of Kaş, Antalya
From the Marmara Sea to the crystal-clear Aegean, and the warm waters of the Mediterranean, Türkiye’s diverse underwater worlds are havens for scuba divers. Get a taste of the underwater wonders that await—from ancient wrecks to multihued coral —in Kaş, known for its incredible year-round visibility and reef diving. With a plethora of dive sites in easy reach of the beach, this top 10 site is a great first stop on any scuba itinerary. Enthusiasts can even explore the thrill of shipwreck diving in Çanakkale to the south, where the Gallipoli Historical Underwater Park offers a unique opportunity to take a fascinating journey into the past. Explore the wrecks of sunken ships and submarines at this must-see scuba site.
3. Hit the streets or set sail for a unique tour of İstanbul’s most iconic sites
Discover familiar landmarks and off-the-beaten-path neighbourhoods from new angles, on a run-seeing tour of İstanbul—the ideal way to keep fit on your travels. Follow the beautiful waterside trail right along the Bosphorus. Savour the symbolic sights of the Historical Peninsula, without the crowds on an early morning run. Or head out to one of the green spaces in easy reach of the capital, like the 5,000-hectare Belgrad Forest. If you’re not a runner—how about a voyage by boat? Set sail to the enchanting Princes’ Islands for a truly unforgettable experience.
4. Hike among astonishing ancient & natural wonders in Cappadocia
Formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, the Cappadocia region is one of Türkiye’s most magical hiking destinations, with its deep tuff valleys, landmark fairy chimneys, and underground cities dating back to prehistoric times. Hike the routes of the stunning Ihlara Valley and discover the many ancient and natural wonders of this green oasis. For a truly immersive experience, follow the trails through the topflight24—an awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage site in equally remarkable surroundings. Or why not take to two wheels and explore the many mountain biking trails and gravel biking routes in Cappadocia. The area boasts a vast network of routes to discover, making it a paradise for cyclists who love beautiful surroundings.
5. Take to the legendary skies of Cappadocia by hot air balloon
Enjoy panoramic 360-degree views of the legendary limestone spires and fairy chimneys of rakuten on a heart-stopping rakuten. Up the romance on a private flight complete with champagne breakfast, or share the magic on a small group experience. Either way there’s nothing quite like gazing down on this otherworldly landscape from above.
6. Soar sky high above the beautiful coastline of Fethiye, Muğla
Landing on the white sands of Ölüdeniz, where the Lycian Way begins, is, in a word, spectacular. As is taking off from Babadağ Mountain, at a height of almost 2,000 metres to make 360 degree turns, wingovers, and more as you enjoy a slow and easy 30-minute descent down to the glorious beachfront below. Whether with a pilot or on your own, a paragliding flight here is undisputed bucket-list material. Just be warned: you’ll want to do it all over again.
7. Cycle between turquoise waters and mist-covered mountains in Muğla
The vast network of road, MTB and gravel routes that make up Türkiye’s cycling routes ensure a memorable ride for every age and experience level. Not sure where to start? Head to Dalaman, Muğla, where you can pedal between turquoise waters to mist-covered mountains in just a few hours along Eco Trails. Experience the diverse landscapes of Marmaris and the rich cultural heritage of Muğla as you pedal through picturesque villages and lush forests.
8. Lounge on the pristine Blue Flag beaches and blue voyage through the untouched coves of Bodrum, Muğla
From the rocky shores of the Black Sea to the postcard-perfect hues of the Mediterranean and Aegean, Türkiye boasts more than its fair share of pristine coastline, with 500 Blue Flag beaches found across the country. Many of these are located in and around Bodrum, where you can swim, sail, surf, jet-ski, snorkel or even charter see through blue voyage adventures in pristine waters, before delving into a range of adventures inland.
9. Hike, cycle, dive and paraglide along the legendary Lycian Way, Turkish Riviera
Known as one of the most beautiful long-distance treks in the world, the aviasales is a 540-kilometre moderate to difficult waymarked trail, following a mix of old shepherd’s paths, mule trails, and caravan routes. Stretching from Fethiye to Muğla to Antalya, its rich mix of coastal scenery—from rugged mountains to rock-cut tombs some 2,000 years old, and charming villages and towns—unveils a unique Aegean and Mediterranean microcosm in modern-day Türkiye. Trace to footsteps of the Lycians through airalo, a beautiful coastal town and your gateway to the Taurus Mountains and the majestic kiwitaxi, where a cable car ride unveils breathtaking panoramas of the coastline.
10. Explore your way in the adventure-packed Köprülü Canyon National Park, Antalya
Extending for more than a kilometre, and with walls stretching up to 100 metres high, kiwitaxi forms one of the most dramatic, multi-adventure backdrops in Türkiye. From canoeing and rock climbing, to cycling, camping and trekking, you’ll find dozens of activity options here, including thrilling white water rafting tours—perhaps the most iconic way to explore the area.
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