Svalbard Brewery
Experience the world's northernmost brewery, crafting unique beers with Arctic glacier water in Longyearbyen, Svalbard.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Brewery is open for tastings
Svalbard Brewery
Best Time
Brewery is open for tastings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the world's northernmost brewery, crafting unique beers with Arctic glacier water in Longyearbyen, Svalbard.
"An absolute must visit when in Svalbard! Awesome brewery in a magical setting."
🍻 Try the Local Brews
Sample craft beers made with pure Arctic glacier water. Available locally and sometimes in supermarkets.
🚶 Walk from Town
The brewery is walkable from Longyearbyen town center, offering scenic Arctic views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World's Northernmost Brewery
Experience craft beer brewed at the top of the world. A unique taste of the Arctic!
Arctic Glacier Water Beer
Taste beers made with pure glacial meltwater, a true taste of Svalbard's environment.
Brewery's Green Initiative
Learn how they use brew waste to heat water, making this Arctic brewery surprisingly eco-friendly.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arctic Brews & Laws
Polar Bear Safety First
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍻 Try the Local Brews
Sample craft beers made with pure Arctic glacier water. Available locally and sometimes in supermarkets.
🚶 Walk from Town
The brewery is walkable from Longyearbyen town center, offering scenic Arctic views.
🐻 Polar Bear Awareness
Be mindful of polar bear safety signs in Svalbard. The brewery is safe, but outdoor caution is key.
📅 Check Opening Hours
The brewery has limited opening hours, often only on Friday afternoons. Plan accordingly!
Tips
from all over the internet
🍻 Try the Local Brews
Sample craft beers made with pure Arctic glacier water. Available locally and sometimes in supermarkets.
🚶 Walk from Town
The brewery is walkable from Longyearbyen town center, offering scenic Arctic views.
🐻 Polar Bear Awareness
Be mindful of polar bear safety signs in Svalbard. The brewery is safe, but outdoor caution is key.
📅 Check Opening Hours
The brewery has limited opening hours, often only on Friday afternoons. Plan accordingly!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Svalbard Brewery is lauded for its unique location and the fascinating story behind its establishment. Visitors praise the excellent craft beers, knowledgeable staff, and the cool atmosphere. Some find the tasting process a bit slow or the space small, and note the limited opening hours, but the overall experience is highly recommended for its novelty and quality.
"Awesome brewery in a magical setting. Excellent craft beers, very knowledgeable staff hosting the tastings. Great atmosphere, super cool view of the fermenters. An absolute must visit when in Svalbard!"
Nicola Jayne Cleaver
"Very interesting story and a nice change of pace!
We walked in and were greeted by two quite charismatic guides who sat us down and talked to us a bit about the history of the brewery and how they changed the local laws to allow for a brewery in Svalbard.
Overall it was quite informative, and if you like bitter craft beers you’re in for a treat. I personally didn’t like most the beers I tried but I’m not a craft beer drinker generally and I enjoyed the experience nonetheless.
You don’t actually see much of the brewery other than through the window from the top floor, but it’s not huge so it’s not a big problem.
There are a few things I think could’ve been better:
They serve the beers one by one so you can’t really go between them and compare unless you save some of each beer (which means they get warm)
I was solo and they sat me down at a table with a big group, so I felt a bit isolated. Maybe could’ve been nicer to put all the solo people together.
As other reviews mentioned, there’s no hotel pickup or snacks, but they’re likely running a thin profit margin producing beers up in the arctic so I can forgive them for that!"
Jon W
"Perfect local brewery close to cruise ship dock. Prices fair. Space a bit too small. But perfect for a drink before boarding."
Bojan Budeš
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Svalbard Brewery is located in Longyearbyen, the main settlement on Svalbard. It's a walkable distance from most accommodations in town. Many visitors find it a pleasant stroll, offering views of the unique Arctic landscape.
Yes, flying into Longyearbyen (LYR) is surprisingly straightforward. There are direct flights from mainland Norway, making it accessible. The flight itself offers spectacular window seat views as you descend into the Arctic. +1
Longyearbyen is a compact town, and most attractions, including the brewery, are easily accessible on foot. For longer distances or if weather is harsh, taxis are available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Svalbard Brewery has limited opening hours. They are often open on Friday afternoons for tastings. It's crucial to check their current schedule before visiting, as hours can vary.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or if you're part of a larger group. This ensures you secure a spot for their informative tastings.
Prices for tastings can vary, but they are generally considered fair for the experience and the unique location. It's best to check their official website or inquire directly for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Yes, you can often find Svalbard Brewery's beers at local supermarkets and the state-run liquor store (Vinmonopolet) in Longyearbyen. Some may even be available in mainland Norway.
🎫 🍺 Onsite Experience
Visitors can expect a unique tasting experience with knowledgeable guides sharing the brewery's history and the story of how brewing laws changed in Svalbard. You can see fermenters through a window, though the brewery itself isn't massive.
Svalbard Brewery produces classic modern beers, including stouts and pilsners. They are known for their craft beer selection, often featuring unique flavors influenced by their Arctic location.
While the brewery aims to accommodate everyone, solo travelers might sometimes be seated with larger groups. It's a good opportunity to meet new people, but if you prefer solitude, consider visiting during less busy times.
Svalbard Brewery primarily focuses on beer tastings and does not typically offer extensive food menus or snacks. Visitors are advised to eat before or after their visit.
The atmosphere is often described as great and cool, with a unique view of the fermenters. It's a cozy spot to enjoy a drink and learn about Arctic brewing.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique exterior of the world's northernmost brewery, the tasting room with its fermenter views, and the Arctic landscape surrounding Longyearbyen. The brewery's story itself is also a great visual narrative.
Generally, yes, you can take photos inside the brewery during tastings. However, always be respectful of other visitors and staff. Capturing the unique brewing equipment and the beers is encouraged.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day if possible, and focus on the historical aspect of brewing being illegal for so long. The visual of the brewery equipment, even if seen through a window, can be interesting for older children. Ensure you check their specific policies regarding younger visitors if planning a tasting.
🍻 Beer Enthusiasts
Don't miss learning about their innovative brewing process, including how they use waste heat for production. It's a chance to experience a brewery that's not just about the beer, but also about resilience and ingenuity in an extreme environment.
✈️ Budget Travelers
Look for opportunities to try their beers in local supermarkets or the Vinmonopolet for a more economical way to sample their brews if a tasting isn't feasible. Flights to Svalbard can also be surprisingly affordable if booked in advance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story Behind the Arctic Brew
The brewery utilizes the pristine water from nearby glaciers, a unique resource that contributes to the distinct flavor of their beers. They also employ innovative sustainable practices, such as burning brew waste to heat water for production, reducing their reliance on coal-powered electricity. This commitment to eco-friendliness is a significant aspect of their operation in such a sensitive environment.
+1Visiting Svalbard Brewery offers more than just a tasting; it's an immersion into a fascinating piece of Arctic history and innovation. The knowledgeable staff often share these stories, making the experience both enjoyable and educational for visitors.
Navigating Svalbard: Beyond the Brewery
Visitors can explore the town on foot, taking in the colorful buildings against the dramatic Arctic backdrop. Getting to Svalbard is more accessible than many imagine. Flights from mainland Norway are frequent, and the journey offers breathtaking aerial views as you approach the archipelago.
Beyond the brewery, Svalbard offers opportunities for adventure, from dog sledding to exploring ice caves, all within a unique and remote environment. Remember to always prioritize safety and be aware of local conditions, especially regarding wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit