Ilulissat & Disko Bay: Ilulissat, Greenland's third-largest town, is famed for the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site where massive icebergs calve from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier into the serene waters of Disko Bay. Nearly every vantage point in town offers stunning views of these floating giants, making it a must-visit for those seeking Greenland’s most iconic scenery.
Ittoqqortoormiit: Remote and rarely visited, Ittoqqortoormiit is Greenland’s most isolated town, accessible only by a combination of flights and boat or helicopter. Its remoteness adds to the appeal, dog sledding, snowmobiling, and camping with local guides offer an immersive Arctic wilderness experience.
Nuuk: Surrounded by nature yet brimming with culture, Nuuk blends rugged landscapes with cosmopolitan charm. As Greenland’s capital, it surprises visitors with fine dining, stylish boutiques, art galleries, and museums like the Greenland National Museum, alongside opportunities to witness Greenlandic governance in action.
Prins Christiansund: This dramatic southern fjord stretches 100 kilometers and narrows to just 500 meters in parts, creating an unforgettable waterway for cruise ships and expedition vessels. Towering cliffs, waterfalls, and potential wildlife sightings, including seals and whales, add to the thrill of navigating this scenic passage.
Qaqortoq: The largest town in South Greenland, Qaqortoq is known for its picturesque setting overlooking a fjord system and its surprisingly lush environment. With a more temperate climate, it’s perfect for hiking, boat excursions, kayaking, or unwinding in natural hot springs nearby.
When to go
The best time to visit Greenland is during the summer months from June to August, when temperatures are milder and days are long thanks to the midnight sun. This season offers the most accessible conditions for outdoor adventures. July is typically the warmest month, with average temperatures reaching 7°C in Nuuk and 8.5°C in Ilulissat. For those drawn to dog sledding or the chance to witness the northern lights, plan a trip between October and March, when the skies are darkest and the landscape is blanketed in snow. Be prepared for extreme cold though, with winter temperatures averaging -8°C in Nuuk and -14°C in Ilulissat.
Useful information
Currency: Danish Krone (DKK)
Languages: Greenlandic and Danish
What makes it special: Greenland is an extraordinary destination cherished for its unspoiled landscapes and remote nature. Its isolation is accentuated by the scarcity of roads connecting its towns and villages. From breathtaking mountain vistas and majestic glaciers to stunning fjords, Greenland showcases the awe-inspiring power of the natural world. Here, you can bask in the glow of the midnight sun, be captivated by the mesmerizing northern lights, or embark on adventurous pursuits like sea kayaking, fishing, and rock climbing.
Social Customs: Greenland's cultural tapestry is interwoven with traditional Inuit beliefs and customs, which are characterized by a strong sense of etiquette. The country reflects a fusion of Inuit and Danish cultures, with Inuit traditions holding a crucial place in Greenland's national identity. A significant portion of European Greenlanders respects and values the perspectives and culture of the Inuit people. Hunting and fishing are of paramount importance, as they have historically served as essential means of survival due to the challenging climate that limits agricultural practices.
