Things To Do
in Nuuk

Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, is a vibrant city nestled between mountains and the sea, offering a unique blend of modernity and traditional Inuit culture. With a population of approximately 18,000, it is the largest city in Greenland, serving as an important cultural and economic hub. The city features colorful wooden houses, contemporary architecture, and stunning landscapes that attract visitors year-round.

Nuuk is known for its rich history, museums, and access to breathtaking natural sites, making it a must-visit destination in the Arctic.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nuuk
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Greenland National Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Greenlandic bread and coffee.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic walk around the old harbor, where you can admire the colorful houses and local fishing boats. Visit the Nuuk Art Museum, showcasing contemporary and traditional Greenlandic art.

evening
:

Dine at Restaurant Sarfalik, known for its local seafood dishes, followed by a stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the Arctic sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Embark on a guided hike up to the iconic Sermitsiaq Mountain for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding fjords. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at the summit.

afternoon
:

After returning, visit the Katuaq Cultural Center to experience local music and art exhibitions. Explore the nearby Nuuk Center for some shopping and local crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at the famous Inuk Hostels, which also serves as a lively bar, where you can mingle with locals and tourists alike.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$30
Coffee$5
🏨Hotel night (2-star)$150
🚌Local bus ticket$3
🛍️Souvenir$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and unique local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • High cost of living and travel expenses.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Harsh winter conditions that may restrict travel.
  • "Aluu" - Hello
  • "Qujanaq" - Thank you
  • "Uanga ..." - I want ...
  • "Tassunga" - Goodbye
  • "Suli" - Please

Places to Visit in Nuuk

Visit one of these nice places.

Nuuk Harbor

A picturesque spot with colorful houses and boats, perfect for capturing the essence of Nuuk’s maritime culture.

Sermitsiaq Mountain

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Nuuk and the surrounding fjords, ideal for landscape photography.

Katuaq Cultural Center

A modern architectural marvel that provides excellent opportunities for capturing both the building and cultural events.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nuuk

Nuuk offers a rich culinary scene that reflects its Arctic heritage, with a focus on fresh seafood, game meats, and traditional Inuit dishes. Visitors are encouraged to try local specialties and explore the city's vibrant food culture.

Nuuk Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kujataa lamb

This tender lamb is raised in the Kujataa region, known for its unique grazing conditions. It's often served roasted or in stews.

Must-Try!

Mackerel

Freshly caught from the surrounding waters, mackerel is often grilled or smoked and served with local vegetables.

Seal meat

A traditional Inuit delicacy, seal meat is rich in flavor and often served raw or cooked in stews.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nuuk Street Food

A vibrant market where local vendors sell seafood, traditional pastries, and snacks. It's a great place to sample local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nuuk experiences an Arctic climate with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. Winter temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F), while summer averages around 10°C (50°F). Precipitation is common throughout the year, primarily as snow in winter and rain in summer. The city enjoys bright daylight in summer, with up to 24 hours of sunshine, while winter days are short, with limited sunlight.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Greenlanders have a deep respect for nature; always follow guidelines when interacting with wildlife or visiting natural sites.

Politeness

Greetings are important; a firm handshake and eye contact are customary when meeting someone.

Cultural Sensitivity

Be aware of and respectful toward local customs, especially regarding traditional practices and ceremonies.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nuuk is considered a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is essential to remain vigilant, especially in outdoor areas or during activities like hiking. Always inform someone about your plans when venturing into remote areas and consider carrying a first aid kit.

Tipping in Nuuk

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Nuuk, but rounding up the bill or leaving 10% for exceptional service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases or markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Expect cold temperatures with heavy snowfall, offering opportunities for winter sports like skiing and dog sledding.

Spring (March - May)

A gradual warming with melting snow, making it ideal for hiking and enjoying the emergence of wildlife.

Summer (June - August)

Mild temperatures with long daylight hours, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the stunning fjords.

Autumn (September - November)

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors, a great time for photography and cultural experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Nuuk at Night

Nuuk's nightlife is relatively low-key but vibrant, with a few bars and clubs that come alive in the evenings. Inuk Hostels often hosts events, while bars like Café Katuaq offer live music and a relaxed atmosphere. For a more intimate experience, some local venues may feature traditional music and dance performances.

Hiking in Nuuk

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Qooqqut Nuan Trail

A scenic trail that leads to a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the fjord and surrounding mountains, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Sermitsiaq Mountain Trail

This challenging hike offers stunning views of Nuuk and the coastline, rewarding those who reach the summit with breathtaking panoramas.

Airports

How to reach Nuuk by plane.

Nuuk Airport (GOH)

Located just 5 km from the city center, Nuuk Airport connects the capital with domestic flights to other towns in Greenland and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nuuk is moderately walkable, with well-maintained paths and sidewalks, especially in the city center. Most attractions are within walking distance, but visitors should be prepared for some inclines and variable weather conditions. Public transport is also available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Inuit

The indigenous people of Greenland, they make up a significant portion of Nuuk's population and are integral to its culture and traditions.

Danish settlers

Many Danes reside in Nuuk, contributing to the city's diverse culture and economy, often involved in government, education, and business.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

A popular sport in Nuuk, with local teams competing in various leagues, fostering community spirit and engagement.

Cross-Country Skiing

A favored winter sport, with well-maintained trails and events that attract both locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nuuk is minimal, with most residents relying on walking, cycling, or buses for transportation. The city has a limited road network, and public transportation is punctual and affordable. Car rentals are available but not commonly used by locals.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nuuk.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While vegetarian options are limited, many restaurants offer salads and side dishes that cater to non-meat diets.

Gluten-Free

Some local dishes are naturally gluten-free, but it’s advisable to check with restaurants for specific gluten-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Nuuk are provided by the Greenlandic health system, with a hospital and several clinics available. Emergency services are accessible, and while English is widely spoken, it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical needs.

Discover Greenland

Read more in our Greenland 2025 Travel Guide.

Greenland Travel Guide