Situated in the middle of frigid Arctic and Atlantic Ocean waters, Greenland has long existed far off the radar for most travelers. That’s changing fast. With new direct flights from North America and the opening of multiple international airports on this island nation, travel to Greenland is becoming more accessible than ever. Harshly remote yet beautifully rugged, Greenland offers a kind of immersive vacation experience that’s hard to find anywhere else. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Greenland, from when to go to what to see and how to plan your ideal Greenland itinerary.
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What to Know About Visiting Greenland
As the world’s largest non-continental island, Greenland’s domain is dominated by snow-covered mountains and vast ice sheets, while surrounded by glaciers and icebergs off its coast. The island is sparsely populated, but those who do dwell here have built their cities to stand out amongst the snowy white surroundings that linger for most of the year. Most cities and towns feature colorful buildings and homes to contrast against Greenland’s white background.
Another unique feature is Greenland’s transportation system. While cities and towns have internal roadways, there are virtually no streets, highways, or train tracks connecting municipalities. Getting from one place to another means flying, sailing, or even dog sledding. Coastal ferries, cruises, and water taxis are generally more budget-friendly than flights.
Because Greenland is so vast and remote, it’s highly recommended to explore with a guide, especially if you’re venturing outside major towns. While you can travel without one, guided tours often provide not only access to hard-to-reach areas but also valuable local insight into Greenlandic culture, history, and the natural environment.
Big Changes to Air Travel in 2025
In 2024, Greenland’s capital city, Nuuk, opened a new international airport. This put Greenland on the map for more tourists around the world. Previously, Air Greenland was the only airline carrier flying between Greenland and Denmark. That changed in June 2025 with United Airlines’ first direct flights to Nuuk from New York City. However, even more developments are on the way. By late 2026, two more international airports will open, in Ilulissat and Qaqortoq.
What to Do In Greenland?
Activities and excursions available in Greenland largely depend on when you go. Generally, the summer and winter seasons are best for tourists.
During the warmer months of May through September, Greenland is great for:
- Humpback, fin, bowhead, and minke whale watching
- Kayaking and paddleboarding through fjord systems
- Hiking trails and mountaineering summits
- Fishing and camping in the vast wilderness
- Boat tours and sailing to see sights and wildlife around the coast
- Cold-water scuba diving
From late September to May, Greenland is blanketed in snow and ice. These months are best for:
- Dog sledding and snowmobiling across vast swathes of open land
- Skiing and snowboarding on west coast ski resorts
- Ice fishing off the coast
- Viewing the Northern Lights in their full glory
- Snowshoeing the Arctic Circle Trail
Where to Go In Greenland
Because Greenland is so remote and scarcely populated, most tourists travel to the country’s most developed cities: Nuuk, Illulissat, and Qaqortoq.
Nuuk
Greenland’s capital and largest city is home to fewer than 20,000 people. In Greenlandic, nuuk means “cape,” which is an apt name for the city since it sits on a mountainous peninsula where the vast backcountry meets one of the world’s largest fjord systems. Colorful buildings pop against the snow-covered backdrop, while the city itself is surprisingly modern, featuring a walkable downtown, cafes, restaurants, and cultural centers. Just minutes from the city center, you’ll find wild terrain ideal for hiking, skiing, and fjord cruising.
Some top spots to add to your itinerary include:
- The Nuuk Art Museum
Housed in a former church, the museum boasts a large collection of traditional and contemporary works from Greenlandic and Nordic artists. - The Greenland National Museum and Archives
This top cultural institution holds archaeological finds like Qilakitsoq mummies and details Inuit history, Norse settlements, and early explorative efforts. - Qoornoq
Take a boat tour to see the haunting remains of this now-abandoned fishing village off Nuuk’s coast. - Sisorarfiit-Skiliften
This local ski lift is popular with skiers and snowboarders from around the area and afar. A trip to the top delivers unbelievable views of the fjords and mountains that surround the city.
Ilulissat
Illulissat is Greenland’s most popular tourist destination. That’s because it sits on the west coast at the mouth of the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO-recognized site. The town’s name literally means “icebergs,” which is also fitting; Ilulissat’s coastline is made up of massive chunks of ancient icebergs that regularly break off from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier and float into Disko Bay.
Beyond its scenery, Ilulissat is also known for its Inuit roots. For more than 4,000 years, Inuit communities have called these lands home, and today, the town remains a vibrant cultural hub that blends deep tradition with modern amenities.
While visiting, make sure to check out:
- Illulissat Icefjord
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of calving icebergs from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier. - Disko Island
Located across from Illulissat, Disko Island is a haven for guided treks and boat excursions. - Illulissat Artisan Workshop
The local crafts center allows visitors to learn more about Greenland through handmade bone carvings, sealing products, and jewelry. - Whale watching
From June to September, Disko Bay becomes a feeding ground for migratory whales.
Qaqortoq
Found along the southern coastal fjords, Qaqortoq is a picturesque harbor town known for its Viking history and art scene. Like other cities, Qaqortoq’s name is a nod to its scenery, as the word means “white” in Greenlandic. Qaqortoq is also increasingly easy to include on a multi-stop Greenland itinerary, especially with ferry service connecting it to Ilulissat.
Some top attractions to add to your list include:
- Stone & Man Sculpture Walk
The city-wide art project features more than 30 stone carvings etched directly onto boulders, rock walls, and cliffs, reflecting Greenlandic identity, nature, and myth. - Hvalsey Church Ruins
These ruins are just a short boat ride from the city center and are one of Greenland’s best-preserved Norse archaeological sites. - Harbor and Fish Market
Qaqortoq’s harbor is truly the heart of town. The fish market is a must-visit for a glimpse into daily life; vendors sell freshly caught Arctic char, cod, and seal, often right from small boats docked nearby.
Plan Your Greenland Itinerary with The Travel Team
Greenland is bold, breathtaking, and about to be more accessible than ever. If you’re thinking about a Greenland adventure, The Travel Team’s advisors are here to help you plan. We book flights and build custom itineraries based on your interests and travel dates. Contact us today to learn more or get started!
