A coastal view of Nuuk, Greenland
THE ARCTIC CITY OF WONDER

Cruise to Nuuk, Greenland

Most travelers come to Greenland for the glaciers, ice fields and fjords, but to enjoy this large island's culture, be sure to stop in Nuuk. Like most other cities in Greenland, the capital is located along the ice-free, fjord-lined southwest coast, offering beautiful views of both the rolling landscape and the gorgeous icy waters beyond. Cruise to Greenland to stroll around the old harbor, with its wooden homes and fantastic views of the Nuuk fjord. Admire the street art, sculptures and avant-garde architecture like the Katuaq Cultural Centre with its wooden "screen" meant to symbolize the Northern Lights. Sample some traditional dishes, such as nipisa suaat — Greenland's intense, umami-rich signature caviar or browse for a warmer outfit at local boutiques like the family-owned Qiviut.
National Language Greenlandic, English, Danish
Currency Accepted Danish Krone (DKK)

THINGS TO DO In Nuuk

A panoramic view of Nuuk, Greenland

Step Back in Time

A panoramic view of Nuuk, Greenland

A panoramic view of Nuuk, Greenland

Step Back in Time

The spacious Greenland National Museum, located in colonial buildings at the old harbor, houses well-presented exhibitions, with pieces dating back 4,500 years. You won't want to miss the bronze sculpture depicting the Greenlandic tale of the Mother of the Sea, the geological room with the world's oldest rocks and the mummy room with three mummified 15th-century women and a child. This museum will have you never wanting to leave the past.

Typical architecture in Nuuk, Greenland

New Nordic

Typical architecture in Nuuk, Greenland

Typical architecture in Nuuk, Greenland

New Nordic

The design of the large Katuaq Cultural Centre, the city's architectural highlight, was inspired by icebergs, the waving Northern Lights and the play of light on ice and snow. Head here to check out a Greenlandic art exhibition, to attend a concert or to meet the locals in the pleasant cafe during your cruise to Nuuk. Witness an architectural feat at Katuaq.

The Church of our Saviour in Nuuk, Greenland
The Church of our Saviour in Nuuk, Greenland

Aging Architecture

For a glimpse of Greenland's history, head to the yellow-colored Hans Egede House, built in 1728 and located in old harbor. The oldest house in Greenland, this building is now the venue for government receptions. At the Egede House, you'll find a bit of history, amazing views and incredible, centuries-old architecture.

A traditional fish dish in Greenland
A traditional fish dish in Greenland

Local Cuisine

Most of the food in Greenland comes from the sea and is often smoked, dried or salted, and served with sauces. Stop into any local restaurant to feast on Greenland's national dish, suaasat, a thick soup made of meat, potatoes, onion and rice. If you're looking to indulge, try some panertut, dried fish or meat with butter and apples.

A women holding a wool sweater
A women holding a wool sweater

Shopping

Imaneq Street is the place to go for traditionally made goods when you visit Nuuk with your cruise. Check out Qiviut to shop for garments knitted from muskox wool, an incredibly warm and soft material. You'll find a taste of native Inuit culture with Nuuk Couture, and you'll discover much more variety at the Nuuk Center, the country's first shopping mall, located next to the Katuaq Cultural Centre.

Insider's Tips
Insider's Tips
1 You'll likely bring warm clothing with you to Greenland, but if you're traveling in summer, don't forget sunscreen, mosquito repellent and sunglasses.
2 The Danish krone (DKK) is the official currency in Greenland, but some souvenir shops accept foreign currency in notes.
3 Greenlandic is spoken by around 80,000 Inuits in Greenland, Alaska and Canada. Say "qujanarsuaq" if you want to thank a local for their help.

My Personas

code: