Greenland

Travel guide

Groenland

Greenland, the world's largest island, offers breathtaking landscapes, rich Inuit culture, and unique wildlife experiences. Explore its vast wilderness, vibrant towns, and stunning fjords.

Original : Kim Hansen derivative work: Jjtkk · CC BY-SA 3.0
  • Best MonthsJune to August
  • AirportsKangerlussuaq, Nuuk, Ilulissat
  • TransitLimited domestic flights and boats
  • Power220V, type C and E plugs
  • TippingNot mandatory, rounding up is common
  • LanguageGreenlandic, Danish, English

01

When to go

The best time to visit Greenland is during the summer months when temperatures are milder and the days are longer, allowing for more exploration.

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Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
summer

Summer

Experience milder temperatures and long daylight hours, perfect for outdoor activities.

winter

Winter

A time for snow sports and witnessing the Northern Lights, though temperatures can be extreme.

autumn

Autumn

A transitional season with beautiful fall colors, but weather can be unpredictable.

02

Where to stay

Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.

01
Cultural Hub

Nuuk

The capital city, known for its cultural institutions and vibrant life.

Busy during summer, quieter in winter.

02
Natural Wonder

Ilulissat

Famous for its stunning ice fjord and proximity to the Ilulissat Icefjord.

Best visited in summer for ice views.

03
Scenic

Tasiilaq

A picturesque town in East Greenland, surrounded by mountains and fjords.

Access may be limited in winter.

04
Cultural Experience

Qaqortoq

Known for its colorful houses and vibrant local culture.

Great for exploring local art.

05
Transport Hub

Kangerlussuaq

Home to Greenland's main international airport and a gateway to the ice cap.

Limited amenities, but good access to nature.

06
Adventure Base

Sisimiut

The second-largest town, offering a mix of culture and outdoor activities.

Popular for hiking and fishing.

07
Outdoor Activities

Nanortalik

A charming town known for its hiking trails and stunning landscapes.

Best for adventurous travelers.

08
Whale Watching

Aasiaat

A quaint town with beautiful surroundings and opportunities for whale watching.

Visit in summer for the best sightings.

03

What to eat

Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.

Greenlandic Fish

Look for fresh fish dishes in local restaurants, especially in coastal towns.

→ Try the Arctic char for a local favorite.

Seal Meat

Available in traditional Inuit eateries, often served with potatoes.

→ A unique taste of local culture.

Muskox

Sample muskox meat in various forms, from steaks to stews.

→ Rich in flavor and a local delicacy.

Reindeer

Found in many restaurants, often prepared in traditional ways.

→ A must-try for meat lovers.

Kiviak

A traditional dish made from fermented auks, often served during celebrations.

→ An adventurous culinary experience.

Crowberries

Look for desserts and jams made from these local berries.

→ A sweet taste of Greenland's nature.

04

What to see

An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.

01

Ilulissat Icefjord

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its massive icebergs.

Natural Wonder
02

Narsaq

Famous for its archaeological sites and stunning landscapes.

Historical Site
03

Greenland National Museum

Located in Nuuk, showcasing Greenland's history and culture.

Cultural Experience
04

Qoornoq

An abandoned settlement offering a glimpse into Greenland's past.

Historical Site
05

Kangerlussuaq Ice Cap

A stunning area for hiking and exploring the Greenland ice cap.

Adventure
06

Disko Island

Known for its dramatic landscapes and hiking opportunities.

Natural Beauty
07

Tasiilaq Museum

Showcases the culture and history of East Greenland.

Cultural Experience
08

Sermersooq

A region with breathtaking fjords and hiking trails.

Outdoor Adventure
09

Uummannaq

Famous for its heart-shaped mountain and beautiful scenery.

Natural Wonder
10

Cape Farewell

The southernmost point of Greenland, offering stunning views.

Scenic View
11

Aasiaat Museum

Focuses on local history and culture.

Cultural Experience
12

Greenland's Northern Lights

Best viewed in winter months, a spectacular natural phenomenon.

Natural Wonder

05

Getting around

Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.

Air Travel

Major airports include Kangerlussuaq (code: SFJ), Nuuk (code: GOH), and Ilulissat (code: JAV).

SFJKangerlussuaq
GOHNuuk
JAVIlulissat

Boat Services

Ferries and boats connect many coastal towns, providing scenic travel options.

Bicycles

Biking is a popular way to explore towns and enjoy the scenery.

Hiking

Numerous trails offer opportunities for hiking and experiencing nature.

06

Practical notes

Plugs

Greenland uses type C and E plugs, with a standard voltage of 220V.

Cash

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have cash for small purchases.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Language

Greenlandic is the official language, but Danish and English are widely spoken.

Data

A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.

Trip Duration

A week is recommended to explore the main attractions.

Groenland eSIM

Maps, ferries and tickets are easier with data as soon as you land.

See eSIM plans
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