Greenland
Greenland is the largest island on earth, with a tiny population, a vast ice sheet and fjords full of icebergs. Towns are linked by air and sea, not roads, and life still follows hunting, fishing and the seasons.
Why it is on my list
Icebergs the size of buildings and the midnight sun. Ilulissat's icefjord is where much of that ice is born, and in summer the sun barely sets.
Best time to go
June to August: midnight sun in the north, hiking and boat trips. This is peak season.
September to March: northern lights on clear nights.
Late winter: dog sledding and snow trips, around March and April.
Whales: humpbacks in Disko Bay are most reliable in summer.
Where to stay
Ilulissat: the best base for the icefjord. Hotel Arctic is the best known lodging.
Nuuk: the capital, with museums, restaurants and short hikes.
Kangerlussuaq: an inland gateway near the ice cap.
Qaqortoq: a southern town with a sculpture trail and Norse ruins nearby.
Getting there and around
Airports: Nuuk (NUK), Ilulissat (JAV) and Kangerlussuaq (SFJ).
From the US: seasonal direct flights have been offered from Newark to Nuuk. Otherwise via Copenhagen or Reykjavik.
Internal: Air Greenland flights and coastal ferries. No roads link towns.
Weather: delays are common, so keep spare days.
Permits: some national park areas need a permit. Check current rules.
What to eat
Suaasat: a traditional soup of seal, whale or reindeer with onion and rice.
Musk ox and reindeer: rich, lean game meat.
Greenland halibut and prawns: from cold, clean waters.
Dried fish: a common snack.
Mattak: whale skin and blubber, a traditional dish that is an acquired taste.
What to drink
Greenlandic coffee: a flaming mix of coffee, whisky, Kahlua and cream.
Beer: Godthaab and Qajaq brews.
Water: glacier ice and tap water are very clean.
Coffee: strong and plentiful.
Don't miss
Ilulissat Icefjord: UNESCO listed, with huge bergs and walking trails.
Midnight sun boat trip: best in Disko Bay.
Sermermiut: an ancient settlement site overlooking the icefjord.
Nuuk: the National Museum and Katuaq cultural center.
Eqi Glacier: a boat trip to watch ice calve into the sea.
Dog sledding: in winter and spring.
Day trips and side trips
Ice cap: a day tour from Kangerlussuaq.
Disko Island: volcanic landscapes and Qeqertarsuaq.
Hvalsey: Norse ruins near Qaqortoq.
Sisimiut: a lively west coast town with winter sports.
Festivals and events
National Day: June 21, with music and community gatherings.
Arctic Circle Race: a cross country ski race from Sisimiut, usually in April.
Aasivik: traditional summer gatherings of music and storytelling.
Music and dance
Drum dancing: ancient Inuit tradition with song.
Greenlandic rock and folk: bands like Nanook sing in Greenlandic.
Nightlife
Nightlife is friendly and small scale. People gather in bars, cafes and community halls rather than clubs.
When people go out: late on weekends, with dancing and singing.
Where the action is: Nuuk bars and Ilulissat pubs.
Good to know: alcohol is costly and sales are regulated.
Photography spots
Icefjord at midnight: golden light on drifting ice.
Disko Bay: bergs with whales in the foreground.
Nuuk harbor: colorful houses below mountains.
Qaqortoq: painted houses and sculptures.
Drones: rules apply near towns and wildlife. Check current rules and permits.
Cost of living
Overall: $$$$$ versus New York.
Coffee: $4 to $6.
Local lunch: $15 to $25.
Dinner for two: $100 to $200.
Beer: $8 to $12.
Mid range hotel: $200 to $350 per night.
Daily budget: $250 to $450.
Flights and tours are the big costs. Prices are approximate in US dollars as of 2026.
Working remotely
Wi-Fi: decent in Nuuk and Ilulissat but slow in settlements.
Coworking: limited.
Time zone: about 2 to 3 hours ahead of US Eastern.
Longer stays: short visits are visa free for US citizens. Longer stays need a residence permit.
Nomad rating: 2/5.
Good to know
Language: Greenlandic and Danish. English is common in tourism.
Currency: Danish krone. Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, but it has its own border rules.
Plugs: Type C and F, 230V.
Entry for US citizens: a valid passport is needed. Check current rules.
Getting around apps: none. Taxis and boats are arranged locally.
Tipping: not expected.
Water: tap water is clean.
SIM/eSIM: a local Tusass SIM works. Check eSIM coverage.
Useful phrases
Aluu: hello.
Qujanaq: thank you.
Iiji and Naamik: yes and no.
Ajunngilaq: it is fine.
Meeting people
Social scene: small communities with a strong sense of welcome.
Apps: local groups help more than dating apps.
Etiquette: be respectful about hunting and traditional foods.
Stay smart: ask before photographing people or dog teams.
Staying safe
Weather: storms can delay flights and boats. Build in spare days.
Ice: never walk onto glacier ice or near calving fronts without a guide.
Dogs: sled dogs are working animals. Do not approach them.