Greenland, the world’s largest island, is a land of dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and untouched natural beauty. From towering icebergs to vibrant Inuit traditions, a trip to Greenland offers an unparalleled adventure for those seeking a unique travel experience. This 7-day itinerary is designed to showcase the best of Greenland, blending outdoor exploration, cultural immersion, and moments of serene reflection. Whether you’re drawn to its icy fjords, colorful Arctic villages, or the chance to witness the Northern Lights, this guide will help you make the most of your journey.
Day 1: Arrival in Nuuk – Greenland’s Vibrant Capital
Morning: Arrive in Nuuk
Your adventure begins in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital and cultural hub. Most international flights arrive at Nuuk Airport via connections from Reykjavik, Iceland, or Copenhagen, Denmark. After landing, check into your accommodation—options range from modern hotels like Hotel Hans Egede to cozy guesthouses. Take some time to settle in and adjust to the Arctic time zone.
Afternoon: Explore Nuuk’s Cultural Landmarks
Start your exploration at the Greenland National Museum, which offers a deep dive into the island’s history, from the ancient Inuit cultures to the Norse settlers who arrived over a thousand years ago. The museum houses artifacts like the Qilakitsoq mummies, remarkably preserved remains from the 15th century, offering a glimpse into Greenland’s past.
Next, stroll to the Nuuk Art Museum, where you’ll find a collection of contemporary and traditional Greenlandic art. The vibrant paintings and sculptures reflect the interplay of nature and culture in Inuit life. For lunch, head to Café Esmeralda for a taste of local flavors, such as musk ox soup or fresh Greenlandic shrimp.
Evening: Sunset at the Harbor
As evening falls, wander to Nuuk’s colorful harbor, lined with fishing boats and traditional wooden houses painted in bright reds, blues, and yellows. The harbor is a great spot to soak in the serene Arctic atmosphere. For dinner, try Sarfalik at Hotel Hans Egede, which serves gourmet dishes featuring local ingredients like reindeer and halibut. If you’re visiting between September and March, keep an eye on the sky for a chance to see the Northern Lights.
Day 2: Day Trip to Qooqqut – Fjords and Fishing
Morning: Boat Trip to Qooqqut
After breakfast, embark on a boat excursion to Qooqqut, a small settlement nestled in the Nuuk Fjord system, about an hour’s sail from the capital. The journey offers stunning views of glacier-carved fjords and towering mountains. Many tour operators, such as Nuuk Water Taxi, provide guided trips that include fishing opportunities. Try your hand at catching cod or redfish, which thrive in these icy waters.
Afternoon: Lunch and Exploration in Qooqqut
Upon arrival, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch at Qooqqut Nuan, a rustic restaurant known for its seafood dishes. Savor your catch of the day, grilled to perfection. Afterward, take a short hike around the settlement to explore the surrounding hills, dotted with Arctic flora like crowberries and dwarf willows. Your guide may share stories of Inuit life and the region’s history.
Evening: Return to Nuuk
Return to Nuuk by boat, soaking in the tranquil fjord scenery. Spend your evening at Kristinemut, a cozy pub where locals gather for drinks and live music. Reflect on the day’s adventures over a Greenlandic coffee, a warming mix of coffee, whisky, and whipped cream.
Day 3: Ilulissat – Gateway to the Icefjord
Morning: Fly to Ilulissat
Catch an early flight from Nuuk to Ilulissat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Greenland’s most iconic destinations. The flight, operated by Air Greenland, takes about 1.5 hours and offers aerial views of the island’s rugged interior. Check into Hotel Arctic, which boasts stunning views of Disko Bay and is the northernmost four-star hotel in the world.
Afternoon: Ilulissat Icefjord Exploration
Head to the Ilulissat Icefjord, a breathtaking landscape where massive icebergs from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier drift into Disko Bay. Join a guided walking tour along the boardwalk to viewpoints like Sermermiut, an ancient Inuit settlement site. The sight of towering icebergs, some as tall as skyscrapers, is unforgettable. For a closer look, book an afternoon boat tour with operators like Disko Line, navigating through the ice-choked waters.
Evening: Dinner with a View
Dine at Restaurant Ulo at Hotel Arctic, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of the icebergs glowing in the twilight. Try local specialties like smoked whale or Arctic char. After dinner, relax at the hotel’s bar or take a short walk to see if the Northern Lights make an appearance.
Day 4: Disko Bay Adventures
Morning: Whale Watching in Disko Bay
Start your day with a whale-watching tour in Disko Bay, a hotspot for humpback, minke, and fin whales. Tours typically last 3–4 hours and are offered by companies like Ilulissat Tours. The sight of whales breaching against a backdrop of icebergs is a highlight of any Greenland trip. Bring a warm jacket and binoculars for the best experience.
Afternoon: Visit Eqi Glacier
After lunch at a local café like Café Iluliaq, join a half-day excursion to the Eqi Glacier, one of Greenland’s most active glaciers. The boat journey takes you past dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls. At the glacier, witness the awe-inspiring sight of ice calving into the sea, creating waves and thunderous cracks. This is a photographer’s paradise, so keep your camera ready.
Evening: Cultural Evening in Ilulissat
Back in Ilulissat, visit the Knud Rasmussen Museum, dedicated to the famous Danish-Greenlandic explorer. The museum offers insights into polar exploration and Inuit traditions. For dinner, head to Inuit Café, which serves hearty Greenlandic dishes in a cozy setting. End your day with a stroll along Ilulissat’s colorful streets, admiring the vibrant houses against the Arctic sunset.
Day 5: Kangerlussuaq – Arctic Wilderness
Morning: Fly to Kangerlussuaq
Take a morning flight from Ilulissat to Kangerlussuaq, a former U.S. military base turned adventure hub. The 45-minute flight offers views of Greenland’s inland ice cap. Upon arrival, check into Hotel Kangerlussuaq or a nearby lodge. Grab a quick lunch at the hotel’s restaurant, which offers a mix of Greenlandic and international cuisine.
Afternoon: Musk Ox Safari
Join a guided musk ox safari with World of Greenland, exploring the tundra around Kangerlussuaq. This region is home to thriving populations of musk oxen, Arctic foxes, and reindeer. Your guide will explain the unique ecosystem of the Arctic tundra and point out native wildlife. If you’re lucky, you might spot the elusive Arctic hare.
Evening: Ice Cap Adventure
In the late afternoon, embark on a tour to the Greenland Ice Sheet, one of the world’s largest ice masses. A 4×4 vehicle takes you to Point 660, where you can walk on the ice cap itself. The vast, glistening expanse is a humbling reminder of Greenland’s raw natural power. Return to Kangerlussuaq for dinner at Restaurant Roklubben, located by Lake Ferguson, where you can enjoy dishes like musk ox steak while reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Day 6: South Greenland – Qaqortoq and Narsarsuaq
Morning: Fly to Narsarsuaq
Catch a flight from Kangerlussuaq to Narsarsuaq in South Greenland, a region known for its greener landscapes and Norse history. The flight takes about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, transfer to a boat for a short ride to Qaqortoq, a charming town known for its colorful buildings and vibrant arts scene.
Afternoon: Explore Qaqortoq
In Qaqortoq, visit the Stone and Man project, an open-air art gallery featuring rock carvings scattered throughout the town. Wander through the historic colonial quarter, where you’ll find the 18th-century Qaqortoq Fountain and the Qaqortoq Museum, which showcases Inuit and Norse artifacts. For lunch, try Café Nanoq, known for its fresh seafood and panoramic views.
Evening: Hvalsey Church Ruins
Take a boat excursion to the Hvalsey Church Ruins, a well-preserved Norse site dating back to the 14th century. This is one of the best-preserved Viking ruins in Greenland, offering a glimpse into the lives of early European settlers. Return to Qaqortoq for dinner at Restaurant Naanu, which serves a fusion of Greenlandic and international cuisine. Spend the night in a local guesthouse or hotel.
Day 7: Farewell Greenland – Narsarsuaq and Departure
Morning: Hike to the Flower Valley
Return to Narsarsuaq by boat and join a guided hike to the Flower Valley, a lush area surrounded by mountains and waterfalls. The trail is relatively easy and offers stunning views of the Narsarsuaq Glacier. Along the way, your guide may point out edible plants used in traditional Inuit cuisine, such as angelica and thyme.
Afternoon: Visit the Blue Ice Explorer
After lunch at a local café, visit the Blue Ice Explorer office in Narsarsuaq for a short tour of their base, which offers insights into Greenland’s adventure tourism industry. If time allows, take a quick trip to the Signal Hill viewpoint for panoramic views of the glacier and fjord.
Evening: Departure
Return to Narsarsuaq Airport for your flight back to Nuuk or your international connection via Reykjavik or Copenhagen. As you soar over Greenland’s icy landscapes, reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past week—from icebergs and glaciers to vibrant Inuit culture and Arctic wildlife.
Practical Tips for Visiting Greenland
When to Go: The best time to visit is June to September for milder weather and longer daylight hours. September to March is ideal for Northern Lights viewing.
What to Pack: Layered clothing, waterproof jackets, sturdy hiking boots, and sunglasses for glacier glare are essential. Don’t forget a good camera!
Getting Around: Domestic flights with Air Greenland are the primary mode of transport between regions. Boats and helicopters are also common.
Cultural Respect: Greenland’s Inuit population values their traditions. Ask for permission before photographing locals and respect sacred sites.
Sustainability: Support eco-friendly tour operators and minimize your environmental impact in this fragile Arctic ecosystem.
Why Greenland?
Greenland is more than a destination—it’s an experience that challenges your sense of scale and deepens your appreciation for the planet’s diversity. This 7-day itinerary offers a taste of its natural wonders, cultural richness, and adventurous spirit. From the icebergs of Ilulissat to the fjords of Nuuk and the tundra of Kangerlussuaq, Greenland invites you to step into a world where nature reigns supreme and human resilience shines.
