4 Best Bars in Svalbard, Norway

Longyearbyen’s first and oldest cocktail lounge, this spot in the stylish Funken Lodge serves classic and Arctic-inspired cocktails in an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere. Sitting by the fireplace, you can buy vintage wines or exquisite Champagnes by the glass, accompanied by snacks from the bar menu or as a prelude to dinner at the adjacent Funktionærmessen Restaurant.

A must for anyone who loves Armagnac, Cognac, and whiskey, this cozy, centrally located pub has more than 1,000 liquors from which to choose. The intimate space pays tribute to Longyearbyen’s long history as a mining town, with portraits of local miners adorning the driftwood walls.

Both locals and visitors meet at Svalbar for gin and tonics, good meals, the occasional live DJ or karaoke session, or an evening full of board games. After undergoing a full renovation in 2023, the modern yet cozy space pays homage to the heroic polar explorers, with photos and maps from their most famed expeditions lining the driftwood walls. There's also a more practical dining area, with large windows looking out onto the main street of town. Stay until midnight in the winter seasons, or 2 am in summer.