Radisson Blu Polar Hotel Spitsbergen

The lack of a lift in the 2nd building is a bit of a problem when you have to carry up heavy suitcases.

Despite the unusualness of the location (referring to Longyearbyen in general), nothing about the local Radisson Blu was out of the ordinary in a negative sense. Its location within Longyearbyen was good - some 200 meters from the town museum and hardly farther away from the ski area or the shops and restaurants (Longyearbyen isn't that large anyway). The bus from the airport (one way, less than a 10-minute ride, cost 110 NOK = 9.45€) stops directly in front of the hotel. The bus schedule is set to correspond to flight times, so that on the day of my 15:00 departure, pickup was at 12:45. The room, possibly upgraded slightly on account of my Radisson Rewards status, was a bit on the small side, though the high ceiling made it seem larger. I suppose the small size is why there were no nightstands (on one side of the bed, where a nightstand would have been, there was an armchair; on the other side, there wasn't enough space for anything). Another consequence of the somewhat reduced size of the room was that between the two single beds and the desk there was insufficient room to pull the chair back and rest one's feet on the desk. The bathroom had a shower. Hot water was no problem. Internet worked well the entire time. Breakfast was good, but no more than that. The selection of hot dishes covered the basics, with the exact same assortment both mornings (fried eggs, beans in tomato sauce, whole roasted potatoes, bacon, oatmeal, scrambled eggs). There was both smoked and cured lox. The bread selection included bagels. There fresh fruit selection consisted of bananas, apples, oranges and, at least on my second morning, grapes. The hotel, unfortunately, has no gym. It does have a sauna and jacuzzi that I did not try. Use has to be arranged at reception and, I understood, is only possible during somewhat limited hours. I liked that the hotel has a machine that prints our boarding passes. I also very much appreciated the possibility of registering with reception to be notified by SMS in real time of the appearance of Northern lights, which was quite useful. And finally, I should note that Camila at reception was very helpful and knowledgeable. On the minus side, either the hotel or Radisson screwed up my reservation. It had been made entirely with points, but I was instead charged on arrival. The money was refunded after I proved the charge was made in error, but not all of it. And the stay did not credit until I called Radisson a month later. Still, I would stay here again.

Good location!

Radisson Blu made my stay so comfortable and enjoyable. Even the girls at the reception area friendly and always up for a chat. Easy walking to city centre and museums.

I finally got around to writing this review. We stayed for 5 nights in March 2024 and stayed in the family suite. These rooms are located in a separate building from the main hotel annexe, which for us wasn't an issue, but we did need to coat up before going down for breakfast, etc. There is no lift in this building so you do have to carry your cases upstairs. The view from this room was breathtaking and I am so glad I decided to book this room. It had everything we needed & roomy (3 adults staying). The staff were great, breakfast was good, and I never had an issue getting seated. Most nights, we ate at the small bar/restaurant. The food was good value & tasty, although it can be tricky at times to get a table and go early if you want their daily specials, as they can be sold out. So close to everything. Due to our flight being cancelled, we were put up in another hotel (Fukken Lodge). For convenience and the view, The Radisson definitely gets my vote.

The hot tub and sauna are a must visit at this property! But you must book a timeslot

I have stayed only 3 nights and wished to have stayed for a week, this hotel was really comfortable, the room was lovely and cozy (too warm for my liking but it was easy enough to open the window. Bathroom was spacious and clean and I loved the toiletries - the smell was divine. Breakfast buffet was one of the best I have experienced whilst travelling and I enjoyed having dinner here as well as a drink in the Northernmost bar. Only strange behaviour was that the restaurant host insisted that I book a table each time I want dinner - this was difficult having activities booked every day and not knowing exact time I’ll be back - and for just 1 person travelling off season, this seemed bizarre since the restaurant was empty every evening with hardly 3 tables occupied. The reception was however always friendly and helpful and their service really professional.

Was a cozy hotel with comfortable rooms and good location. Breakfast was good and restaurant and bar were both great places to eat. Staff were very knowledgeable and helpful. Has a sauna room and adjoining outdoor jacuzzi. Would stay here again

enjoyed the stay

Wonderful location.