travel books on greenland

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Your friendly site for all fun things books, 14 books set in greenland that will put it at the top of your bucket list.

• by Megan Johnson
• Posted on September 26, 2020 August 18, 2023

There are affiliate links in here.  I get a small commission if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you

Looking for the best books set in Greenland?

Greenland is easily in the top five of my bucket list destinations (along with Mongolia/overlanding Central Asia, Argentina, and Chile which I count as one, Ethiopia, Madagascar, and Churchill, Manitoba to see polar bears, in case you were wondering.)

Then after writing about books set in Finland and books set in Iceland and coming across a bunch of books set in Greenland in the process, well, here we are.

As I wrote this post, I found some fun facts about Greenland, too. It’s bigger than Mexico but only has a population of 57,000(ish) meaning there are only 0.03 people per square kilometer!

It’s also one of a few countries that are transcontinental. It’s owned by Denmark but is on the North American tectonic plate. Now, lets get to what you’re really here for: all the books about Greenland!

• If you want to listen to some of these, consider  trying Audible ! You can get your first month free (one free book) plus tons of others they have for free.  Get that Audible deal here.
• If you’re on more of a budget, try Everand (formerly Scribd)! You can get 60 days free there with my link! You can read books and listen to audiobooks. It is unlimited (especially the reading) but if you listen to tons of new audiobooks you may be restricted after a few. I haven’t encountered this yet, but I do use Everand myself and like it a lot. Get 60 days free here!
• Shop my collection of bookish goodies on Etsy ! These aren’t my shop items, but other shops I’ve curated into a book-themed collection. Shop my Etsy bookish goodies here!
• If you want to read more on your Kindle but don’t want to buy books, Kindle Unlimited is a good option. If you read a lot and like to read more than just new releases (especially romance), it could be worth it. Get Kindle Unlimited here !
• Get $5 off of $25 from BookOutlet! This is a great place to find new books for pretty cheap. They also have sales quite a bit, so keep an eye out for those. I tend to check here for books I want if they’re more expensive other places. They don’t have everything but they do have a lot. Shop BookOutlet here!
• Thrift Books has become my go-to when I’m looking for a book and want it cheap. It’s great if you like buying used books. With this you can get a free book after spending $30!
• Shop my book lists here! You can find every book list I have on Bookshop.org (except my monthly round-ups) and I add everything I can but they occasionally won’t have some. I do occasionally add extras though. If any lists are empty, they’ll be filled in shortly! Shop my bookshop.org book lists here .

Greenland books short list

Don’t have time to read the whole list? Just want to know my top picks for books about Greenland? This is the spot for you! I do tend to favor Nordic Noir myself, but don’t worry. There is plenty that falls into other genres on the full list if it’s not for you.

• The Girl with the Raven Tongue (the whole 20+ novella collection, really)

The Girl Without Skin

Books set in greenland.

Now we have the full list of books set in Greenland. I’ve read a few of these, own a few others that I haven’t read yet, and have a lot of them on my TBR. I’ve got my sights set on visiting Greenland in the next few years so I hope to read even more of these sooner than later.

An African in Greenland

Tété-Michel Kpomassie knew he had to go to Greenland when he discovered a book about Greenland as a teenager in Togo. After nearly a decade of working his way north, he finally made it to the country of his dreams and this is the record of his adventures.

This Cold Heaven

In This Cold Heaven, Gretel Ehrlich unlocks the secrets of the land and the people that inhabit this island she has been obsessed with. This is part travel book, park cultural anthropology book about Greenland and the hardy people she encounters.

She finds out the 23 words Inuit have for ice, that they prefer the harsh four months of endless darkness over the gentler summers without night, befriends a polar bear hunter and more.

Out in the Cold

Bill Murray’s journey (not THE Bill Murray) across the arctic north starts in pursuit of a total solar eclipse in Svalbard 800 miles from the north pole.

He tries wind dried sheep in the Faroe Islands, befriends Inuit bone carvers in Greenland, and camps with an Italian musician who dreams of starting Greenland’s first luxury resort.

He stands naked on an Icelandic glacier and later (clothed) in a Canadian bog where the first European stood 500 years before Columbus.

The is the perfect mixture of adventure and history and great for anyone looking for a books about traveling through the arctic.

The Ice at the End of the World

The history of Greenland’s ice starts with the explorers who first arrived and on foot, then skis, the crude motorized sleds where they embarked on grueling expeditions that took up to a year and often resulted in frostbitten tragedy.

The goal was to conquer the seemingly infinite interior of Greenland. Today, scientists scientists are deploying whatever tools they can to uncover the secrets of this frozen island before it’s too late and this is Gartner’s chronicling of hardships, discoveries, and scientific achievements in Greenland.

This is the perfect book about Greenland if you’re interested in the ecology and environment.

The Girl with the Raven Tongue

It’s up to Petra Jensen to close the case and let the parents grieve when a girl’s shoes are found next to a dead raven and the search for her body is called off.

The yacht owner is frustrated by the slow course of the investigation so he hires Maratse to help speed things up.

A lost journal believed to have been written by Alfred Wegener, a German polar researcher, is also being recovered.

The investigation takes him from the frozen peaks of Greenland to his Berlin but he realizes there is more at stake than discovering the identity of the murderer as he works to find the journal.

His life and the lives of the ones he loves are brought into a conspiracy that stretches around the globe.

Franny Stone is able to forget the losses of her life by following the ocean’s tides and the birds flying above but as the wild she loves starts to disappear, she can no longer wander without a destination and finds herself in Greenland with one purpose: to find the world’s last flock of Arctic terns and track their final migration.

She convinces the captain of the Saghani , Ennis Malone, to take here aboard where she wins over his eccentric crew with promises of the birds leading them to fish.

As they head south, her dark history beings to unravel, and when t starts to threaten the crewe, she must face whatever she is running to – or from.

The Boy with the Narwhal Tooth

Constable Petra Jensen travels to the far north of Greenland to find a young Greenlandic boy that was reported missing almost 12 months to the day that he disappeared. If you’re looking for a short book set in Greenland, this series is perfect for you.

The Shiver in the Arctic

Constable Petra Jensen picks up the pieces of an old case to investigate while the temperatures plummet and residents of a remote village hunker down during a particularly vicious winter storm.

If you like locked-room mysteries , this is a great choice!

The Fever in the Water

The water supply has been poisoned in a remote settlement and all the evidence points to the culprit being a man who disappeared several years ago and now it’s up to Petra Jensen to find him.

No One Thinks of Greenland

Randy Spruance’s strange world is opened up to us with the short phrase “you’ll want to scratch.” He was forced to join the military thanks to a mysterious past and is sent to a top-secret military hospital in Greenland.

There he meets a colorful cast of outcasts and rejects and begins to fall for the commanding officer’s leggy and strong willed girlfriend while slowly uncovering the awful secret behind the portion of the base dubbed “The Wing.”

The Calendar Man

Petra Piitalaat Jensen is considering early retirement to work through the grief of losing her partner, but she is urged to investigate when there is a discovery of a young man’s frozen body several days before a referendum that will decide the future of Greenland.

While the people of Nuuk lock their doors, the voting booths are empty and Petra is pulling together as many police as possible, stretching their already thin resources even thinner in a desperate hunt to catch the killer that is determined to make this a Christmas to remember.

A Wilder Time

Greenland is a treasure trove when it comes to Earth’s early history. It’s embedded in the country’s still wild landscape, one of the only remaining.

Over multiple seasons, William E. Glassley and two fellow geologists visit the pristine landscape to collect samples and observe rock formations for evidence to prove that plate tectonics is a much more ancient process than some believe, which is highly contested.

As they are driven into more remote, and likely never before seen, areas, Glassley encounters creatures and natural phenomenon that gave him insight into the origins of myth, the virtues and boundaries of science, and the importance of seeking wilderness within.

Journalist Matthew Cave is sent to report on the mummified Viking corpse discovered on the Greenland ice sheet. But the next day, it’s gone.

Instead, the body of the police guard is lying on the ice naked and flayed, echoing a series of gruesome unsolved murders from years before.

The only person Matthew dares to trust in solving this is a young Greenlandic woman who, at 14, was charged with killing her father in the same shocking way.

I would love to read this one, too! It sounds very interesting. But after writing this post, I now want to read almost all of these Greenland books and want to visit more than ever.

It’s certainly moved its way up even higher on my bucket list and hopefully these have either inspired you to visit or get you excited about your already planned trip.

Have you read any of these books about Greenland? Which ones? Have you read any others? Any others I should check out?

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Author: Megan Johnson

I'm Megan, a cheesehead at heart currently residing in the Sunshine State. You can probably find me reading, watching Forensic Files, or both. View all posts by Megan Johnson

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Greenland travel guide. Expert advice and tourist information covering accommodation, travel where to stay and eat, and what to see and do. Features Nuuk, icebergs, the world’s second-largest ice sheet, glaciers, northern lights, Arctic Circle Trail, whale watching, walruses, polar bears, winter sports, hiking, dog sledding and snowmobile rides.

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About this book.

New from Bradt, Greenland is the first standalone travel guidebook to the country from a mainstream publisher. Targeted at independent travellers, but equally serving those visiting on organised tours or cruises, this guide combines essential information – such as getting around on an island lacking roads connecting the major settlements – with advice on what to see and do, and where to stay and eat. Every chapter is infused with Greenland’s remarkable combination of pristine nature and traditional culture, which sets it apart from Arctic neighbours – and which makes a trip so rewarding. The world’s largest island, but also part of the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland sits near the top of the world, a vast expanse of white in a planet full of green, blue and brown. Today’s visitors relish opportunities for close encounters with immense icebergs and glaciers. The epic scenery provides the backdrop to the numerous activities on offer – from visiting the Arctic’s largest ice sheet or taking to the sea in search of 13 species of whale, and from hiking the 160-km-long Arctic Circle Trail to seeking out musk oxen, walruses and the rare polar bear. Greenland in winter is another world, when long polar nights are brightened by the mesmerising northern lights and the reflections of the snow. It remains a snowy paradise until spring – the best time to travel by dog sled or snowmobile across the frozen tundra. To relax afterwards, why not close your trip with a few days of nature-inspired art, eclectic culture and fine dining in the diminutive capital, Nuuk? Greenland has always been a destination for pioneering explorers, be they the Inuit who arrived from the west, the Norsemen who came from the east or mariners seeking the Northwest Passage. Part of the attraction for today’s visitors is to experience an element of the challenges they faced. Although travel within Greenland can be tricky given limited infrastructure and often adverse weather conditions, it can also be a remarkably easy place in which to travel, with the right planning, a flexible attitude and the right advice – which is precisely where Bradt’s Greenland comes in. Let it be your guide to a truly staggering country.

Before ordering ebooks from us, please check out our ebook information .

About the Author

Gill and Alistair Campbell (travelblog.org/Bloggers/Postcards) have been writing guidebooks since 2010; Greenland is their third guidebook for Bradt. They are avid travellers, criss-crossing the globe since the early 1970s, and Greenland is a place they have grown to love. They find it incredible that so few people visit, given how much the country offers: the world’s largest fjords and national park, fifteen different whales and gargantuan icebergs. No two towns are linked by road, and the weather determines how you travel: boat, dog sled, snowmobile or helicopter. Each of the Campbells’ journeys has been an adventure, and they are constantly amazed by how tiny Inuit hunting and fishing communities prosper in this harsh environment. They have visited every region in this huge country, meeting with dog-sled mushers, boat skippers and Inuit running remote cabins – all to write a book that allows visitors to plan their own adventure in this majestic land.

Additional Information

PART 1 GENERAL INFORMATION Preface Chapter 1 Background Information Chapter 2 Practical Information PART 2 THE GUIDE Chapter 3 Nuuk and the Capital Region Chapter 4 Kangerlussuaq and the Arctic Circle Region Chapter 5 Ilulissat and Disko Bay

Chapter 6 The Far North Chapter 7 South Greenland Chapter 8 East Greenland

Appendices: Language Glossary Further info Index

• Vacation Packages
• Tour Planner

Northern Lights

• Iceberg & Icefjord

Whale Watching

• Airplane & Helicopter
• Glacier & Icecap
• Kayak & SUP

How to get to Greenland

• From the US
• From Iceland
• From Denmark
• Kangerlussuaq
• About Greenland
• Travel Blogs

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Greenland

Jump to chapter

Published: 11/08/2020

Reading time: 34 minutes

Greenland. A vast, relatively unknown country that is almost completely covered by the world’s second-largest icefield. Now making “top 10” travel lists around the world – how do you get there? What’s the best time to go? What is there to do? And what exactly is there to eat?  Read on to discover everything you need to know to plan your bucket list trip, with this Ultimate Travel Guide to Greenland.

Why Greenland

In recent years, Greenland has started to emerge as the arctic destination. Its pristine nature where you can drink the water directly from any stream is completely different but equally spectacular as anything in Iceland or Norway, and the tourist crowds have not yet arrived on its shores.

Add in that it is very safe for visitors. It is one of the few places in the world where traditional and modern cultures exist side-by-side. It offers an authentic but accessible adventure into the unknown, and it is easy to explain its growing popularity.

Traveling to Greenland is relatively simple, but you should be aware that options are limited. You can:

• Join an organized cruise
• Fly from either Denmark or Iceland (there are no flights from North America or elsewhere in Europe at this stage)

Flights are operated by Air Greenland (Greenland’s national carrier) and Air Iceland Connect , with available routes determined by where you are flying from, where you are flying to, and the season. You should check the websites of both airlines to find your best option.

• More information on booking your flights to Greenland

You should also note that the weight limit for luggage on all flights to Greenland is only 20kg. This is because all but one aircraft (the Airbus that flies between Copenhagen and Kangerlussuaq) is small and has limited capacity, or is a helicopter.  Luggage is usually weighed, and excess luggage is expensive, so best to stay under this limit if at all possible (top tip: wear any of your heavy/bulky clothes).

The other thing to be aware of is that it is fairly common for flights (domestic and international) to be delayed or even canceled to the next day due to the arctic weather. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to take out travel insurance and give yourself at least 1 day (or more) of buffer in either Iceland or Denmark before your next international flight.

Greenland Tourist Visas

For the most up-to-date information on tourist visa requirements for Greenland, it is best to go straight to the source – Danish immigration. We recommend you read the rules carefully and contact them if you have any specific questions.

• Greenland Tourist Visa information from Danish immigration

Residents of many countries do not require a visa for Greenland (the list is on their website) but keep in mind that you need to pass through Denmark or Iceland to get here. So you also need to comply with the relevant visa requirements for those two countries.

Note: Greenland is not part of the EU or the Schengen agreement, so a Schengen Visa/Exemption is not sufficient for entry to Greenland.

Currency and costs

The Danish Krone (DKK) is the currency used in Greenland. Although the larger towns in Greenland do have ATMs, it is a very good idea to convert some money in your home country (or Iceland/Denmark) and bring some cash with you. Once you arrive in Greenland, the only place to change money is at the bank, and they often have limited hours for this type of transaction.

Each of the major towns has at least one ATM, and many larger businesses accept Visa, Mastercard, and Dankort. Eurocard, Diners, and American Express can also be used in some places. In the settlements, you may be able to withdraw money from the Pilersuisoq (the local supermarket) and pay for goods there with a credit card, but it is best to bring cash to cover your needs.

Costs / What to Budget

You are probably already aware that Greenland is not cheap to visit – a characteristic it shares with other Arctic destinations. This is perhaps not too surprising given its isolation and inability to produce most things for itself, leading to the situation where almost everything must be flown or shipped in.

While it is entirely possible to plan a more budget trip to Greenland, it is never going to be cheap. Here are some approximate prices you can expect to pay once you arrive:

If you plan to visit more than one area during your stay, you will also have the expense of domestic transportation. Given that there are no roads connecting towns in Greenland, your only options are to fly or catch the Sarfaq Ittuk Ferry (only operates between Ilulissat and Qaqortoq on the West Coast). Both of which can be very expensive.  For this reason, in our How to Travel to Greenland on a Budget article, we recommend limiting your travels to one or two areas, or planning a circuit route through the country.

• Search for domestic flights in Greenland
• Check out our How to Travel to Greenland on a Budget article

Communication

Greenland has modern communication facilities, but don’t expect them to work in the same way as back home.

Greenland has 3 time zones and observes daylight saving time. Most of the country operates on West Greenland Time: UTC-2 (Summer) / UTC-3 (Winter), with two exceptions:

• Thule Air Base (North Greenland): UTC-3 (Summer) / UTC-4 (Winter)
• Ittoqqortoormiit (East Greenland): UTC+0 (Summer) / UTC-1 (Winter)

Note: other towns and settlements in North and East Greenland all operate on West Greenland Time.

Electric Voltage

Greenland uses the Standard European Plug (230 V) with 2 prongs for its electrical outlets.

Internet and telephony

Greenland does have a mobile phone network, and does have the internet. However, both are limited and expensive so you might want to consider going “unplugged” while you are visiting.

If you do need access to a mobile phone or mobile internet, your best bet is to look at the offers from TelePost for tourists . Keep in mind that the mobile network is limited to a small region around each town or settlement, so if you are planning to go into the backcountry, you will lose signal very quickly. For independent trips that spend a lot of time in the wilderness – we recommend you bring a personal locator beacon at the very least.

• The country code for Greenland is +299

Wi-Fi access is available to buy in an ever-increasing number of cafes, restaurants, and accommodations around the country. Some now even offer it free of charge to guests – but this is not guaranteed. It will likely be slower than you are used to (particularly in East Greenland and in settlements). You must also be prepared for there to be no internet at all.  Although Greenland is getting a second under-sea cable to ensure its connection to the rest of the world, fishing trawlers have been known to dredge up the existing cable, leaving whole regions of Greenland with no internet.

In case of an emergency

In the USA – we all know you dial 911.  But what is the emergency services number in Greenland?

No matter where you are or what your emergency is, you should call 112. This is the National Emergency Call Center which will either put you through immediately or contact the local authority (fire, ambulance, police) on your behalf.

For non-emergencies, Isaaffik is the best one-stop-shop for phone numbers for government and other services. Search or select the “Type” from the Infrastructure tab for whatever you need to obtain a list of relevant phone numbers.

The official language of Greenland is Kalaallisut (West Greenlandic). However, most Greenlanders also speak Danish as a second language (thanks to their being part of the Danish Realm). And many also speak excellent English as a third language. You will have few problems getting around and being understood in Greenland!

Kalaallisut is actually a part of the Eskimo-Aleut family that is also spoken across arctic Canada and Alaska, and bears no resemblance to either Danish or English. If you’d like to learn a few words to break the ice while you are visiting, read our article and watch our 6-minute introduction to your first words in Greenlandic.

To help you read signs or labels in the supermarket (these are all written in Danish as well as Greenlandic), we recommend downloading the Google Translate App and the Danish dictionary to your phone before you come to Greenland.

• Discover all the useful apps and tools to help with your trip to Greenland

Greenland has a modern healthcare system but with very limited capacity. You should take this into consideration if you have an ongoing medical condition that may require treatment, and you should bring all required medications with you – including enough for a few extra days.

Vaccinations

Greenland is relatively disease-free. Beyond the regular vaccinations recommended for life and travel, no specific vaccinations are required.

Medical assistance

The main hospital is located in Nuuk and any major medical emergencies will be flown there for treatment as a first step. The patient then may be flown to Denmark, depending on the severity of the condition. Smaller hospitals can be found in Sisimiut, Ilulissat, Aasiaat and Qaqortoq, while 11 other health centers (which handle uncomplicated births, minor surgery, common treatments and mental health services) service other parts of Greenland.

If you become acutely ill or injured, call these numbers (depending on where you are located). The second column gives the number to call during opening hours, the third column for calls after 4:00pm.

Dental assistance

There are dental clinics in each of the main towns in Greenland. Details can be found at peqqik.gl – the Nation’s Health Portal – but information is only in Danish. To get Google to translate it for you – right-click on a blank bit of the webpage and select “Translate to …..” from the options.

Travel Insurance

Although visitors from Nordic countries and Europe are provided inexpensive/free medical coverage while in Greenland ( read more extensive information at the Nordic Cooperation ), we recommend that all visitors to Greenland take out travel insurance. This will ensure you are covered not only for medical emergencies, but also for travel delays and repatriation if required (dependent on the exact insurance purchased).

Greenland is a vast country. The largest island in the world is the size of Western Europe or roughly ⅓ the size of the USA or Australia.

And although roughly 80% of it is covered in ice (it has the world’s second-largest icefield behind Antarctica), the 20% that is ice-free is very diverse.

North-east Greenland

The world’s largest national park occupies the entire North-east of the world’s largest island. There are no permanent residents, and access is restricted to essential personnel from the Danish Armed Forces, the elite Sirius Patrol, a few hunters and whalers from Ittoqqortoormiit, and those with special permission granted by the Ministry of Nature and Environment.Photo:

East Greenland

Remote jagged peaks characterize the little-populated East coast of Greenland. Nature dominates in this isolated region and there are only 7 towns/settlements in the entire area. Tasiilaq is the largest town and the hub for East Greenland, and while the settlements of Kulusuk, Tiniteqilaaq, Kuummiut, Isortoq, and Sermiligaaq are relatively nearby, the town of Ittoqqortoormiit is located 800km further North.

East Greenland is perfect for those who are willing to forego some creature comforts to experience an (in some ways) less-developed part of Greenland. It is also easily accessible as a day trip (or vacation) from Iceland .

Summer activities: boat tours to glaciers and ice fjords, ice caving, ice diving, hiking, kayaking, whale watching, fishing, settlement visits

Winter activities: dog sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, skiing, heli-skiing, ice-fishing, northern lights, settlement visits

It is also a mecca for serious adventurers, with challenging climbing and mountaineering opportunities, and unparalleled long-distance hiking, kayaking and skiing.

• Read the Ultimate Travel Guide to Tasiilaq
• Search all East Greenland Tours

South Greenland

There are two distinct geographical regions in South Greenland.

The area around Nanortalik and the Tasermiut Fjord is similar to the geography of East Greenland and renowned for its enormous climbing walls.

The area that encompasses the other towns and settlements is much gentler – consisting of green (in the Summer), rolling hills that are home to most of Greenland’s sheep farms. There is a reason why this was the preferred area for the Vikings (Norse) to settle. This extensive region now forms one of the 3 UNESCO World Heritage Listed sites in Greenland.

Qaqortoq is the main city of South Greenland with Narsarsuaq (with its international airport), Narsaq, and Nanortalik the other major towns. There are also 10 small settlements, with Igaliku and Qassiarsuk the most commonly visited – due to their well-preserved ruins.

Summer activities: boat tours to glaciers and ice fjords, hiking, kayaking, whale watching, fishing, horse riding, sheep farm stays, settlement visits

Winter activities: snowshoeing, skiing, northern lights, settlement visits

• Read the Ultimate Travel Guide to Qaqortoq
• Search all South Greenland Tours

West Greenland

West Greenland stretches along a large area and includes many different types of geography. Encompassing the world’s second-largest fjord system, low-lying islands, 2000m tall mountains that drop straight into the ocean, and everything in between – it offers a highly varied geography to explore.

Home to Nuuk – Greenland’s capital city – the area also contains the town of Paamiut as well as many smaller settlements – both abandoned and still functioning. Despite this, it remains rich in wildlife and bird life and boasts the largest population of Sea Eagles (Nattoralik) in Greenland.

Summer activities: boat tours, hiking, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, whale watching, fishing, settlement visits

• Read the Ultimate Travel Guide to Nuuk
• Search all West Greenland Tours

Arctic Circle Region

As the name suggests, the Arctic Circle Region is defined by its location around the latitude of the Arctic Circle. It stretches from the inland ice to the ocean and a large part of it forms the Aasivissuit – Nipisat. Inuit Hunting Ground between Ice and Sea UNESCO World Heritage site. The towns of Kangerlussuaq (Greenland’s only “inland” town), Sisimiut , and Maniitsoq , are contained within it, as well as several smaller settlements.

The geography of the region perfectly reflects the retreat of the glaciers. Around Kangerlussuaq, the landscape is characterized by rolling Arctic tundra, while the coastal areas (particularly around Maniitsoq) feature impressive mountains that have had much more time to be carved by erosion.

Summer activities: hiking on the inland ice, hiking (including the long-distance Arctic Circle Trail and to the Russell Glacier), wildlife (musk-ox and reindeer) spotting, boat tours, whale watching, kayaking, fishing, settlement visits

Winter activities: dog sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, skiing, northern lights, settlement visits

• Read the Ultimate Travel Guide to Sisimiut
• Read the Ultimate Travel Guide to Maniitsoq
• Or read what to see and do in Kangerlussuaq
• Search all Arctic Circle Region Tours

Disko Bay Area

Disko Bay is the largest Bay in Greenland and the area most visited by tourists. This is largely due to the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Ilulissat Icefjord where massive icebergs become trapped on an underwater moraine and visitors are guaranteed to see plenty of big ice.

While Ilulissat is the most important city as far as tourism goes, Aasiaat is actually the logistics hub and center for education for all of North Greenland. In addition, Disko Island itself is a fascinating destination with a geology completely different to anywhere else in Greenland.

Qeqertarsuaq is its main town and the base for excursions on the island which offers incredible hiking opportunities and summer dog sledding on the Lyngmark Glacier.

Summer activities: hiking, boat tours to glaciers and in the Icefjord, kayaking, fishing, whale watching, settlement visits, dog sledding near Qeqertarsuaq

• Read the Ultimate Travel Guide to Ilulissat
• Read the Ultimate Travel Guide to Aasiaat
• Search all Disko Bay Tours

North Greenland

The vast, sparsely populated north-west of Greenland is as spectacularly beautiful as it is remote. Enormous icebergs, the midnight sun/polar darkness, and a subsistence way of life dominate the few small towns and settlements that are dotted along this enormous coastline.

Uummannaq is the largest town, with Upernavik and Qaanaq the other major settlements. It is also home to the Thule Air Base – the northernmost military base for the US in the world.

Summer activities: hiking, boat tours to glaciers, fishing, settlement visits, midnight sun

Winter activities: dog sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, skiing, northern lights, settlement visits, polar darkness

• Read the Ultimate Travel Guide to Uummannaq
• Search all North Greenland Tours

Weather and climate in Greenland

Weather in Greenland can be unpredictable, and it has even been known to snow in July! The trick is to be prepared for almost anything, and be flexible. Weather also has a tendency to mess with a tightly scheduled program, so give yourself some buffer!

Temperatures

The landmass of Greenland stretches from further South than Iceland to almost the North Pole. And although 80% of the country is permanently frozen under an icecap, contrary to popular belief, the coastal regions do emerge from under the snow during Summer.

As you might imagine, temperatures in Greenland vary significantly from North to South. In Qaanaaq, the northernmost town, average temperatures range from -25C to +5C, while in Qaqortoq (the southernmost city), the range is -5.5C to +7.2C. Greenland can get significantly hotter (for example, the past few Summers have delivered temperatures of up to 20C), and significantly colder (-40C and below) – especially if you factor in wind chill.

The best way to find out what the temperature is likely to be during your visit is to read the appropriate Ultimate Travel Guide to the city/town you are visiting or search for your destination at the Norwegian Meteorological Institute’s website.

What clothing to pack

The good news is that even though Greenland’s winter temperatures seem positively frigid, the air is so dry that it often does not feel as cold as you might think. Make sure you bring the correct clothing , and you will be fine. Remember: sunscreen and sunglasses are very important, no matter what season you are visiting. The arctic sun can be brutal, even in Winter, and “snow blindness” is a real but temporary condition.

The Midnight Sun and Polar Darkness

A large portion of Greenland lies north of the Arctic Circle. At these latitudes, the Sun never sets during summer (a phenomenon known as the “Midnight Sun”) and never rises during Winter (a time of “polar darkness”). Both are fascinating adventures, and the further north you go, the more extreme the experience.

For destinations south of the Arctic Circle, the Sun does disappear below/rise above the horizon, but not by very much. In the middle of Summer, the southern latitudes of Greenland enjoy a perpetual twilight, while in the middle of Winter, you have to be fast to take advantage of the few hours of sunlight per day.

Destinations in Greenland

In recent years, Greenland has featured in many of the “Top 10” lists published by travel magazines and has been growing in popularity as a tourist destination. Often – it is the same few places that are showcased, but there are many, many other destinations in Greenland that offer equally beautiful nature and are interesting in their own right.

Most Popular

Nuuk (West Greenland) – the capital city and center for government, business, health, and education. Often overlooked by tourists, those that do decide to spend some time here discover a fascinating cultural scene and an incredibly beautiful back-country that encompasses the second-largest fjord system in the world and an icefjord that often sends icebergs sailing past the city.

• Ultimate Travel Guide to Nuuk
• Nature Lovers Guide to Nuuk
• Culture Lovers Guide to Nuuk

Ilulissat (Disko Bay Region) – no matter what time of year you visit, you are guaranteed to see large numbers of enormous icebergs near this city. For this reason, it is the most popular tourist destination in Greenland. Located right on the edge of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Ilulissat Icefjord, it is also a great place to go whale watching during the Summer.

• Read our Ultimate Travel Guide to Ilulissat

Kangerlussuaq (Arctic Circle Region) – functioning as Greenland’s primary international airport, most people visit this small town as part of their transit from Denmark to elsewhere in Greenland (or vice versa). The highlights are the impressive Russell Glacier and easy access to the Greenland Ice sheet at Point 660, but it also serves as the start- or end-point of the 160km-long Arctic Circle Trail (Greenland’s most famous long-distance hiking trail).

Kulusuk/Tasiilaq (East Greenland) – gateway to the spectacular remoteness and towering mountains of the East coast. This is a mecca for heli-skiers, hard-core adventurers, and mountaineers, but there is also plenty of hiking, sailing, whale watching, and dog sledding opportunities for more normal human beings. It is easily accessible for those wishing to add an extension to their trip to Iceland .

• Read our Ultimate Travel Guide to Tasiilaq

Up and Coming

Sisimiut (Arctic Circle Region) – Greenland’s second-largest city has an enormous back-country that offers a wide range of hiking and trekking opportunities – including the 160km Arctic Circle Trail to Kangerlussuaq. In the Winter, this turns into a paradise for cross-country skiing (including the world’s toughest ski race – the Arctic Circle Race), snowmobiling, and dog-sledding, making it one of the best places for outdoor adventurers in Greenland.

• Read our Ultimate Travel Guide to Sisimiut
• Read our guide to the Best Hiking Trails around Sisimiut

Uummannaq (North Greenland) – the town that clings to the slopes of the heart-shaped mountain will definitely capture your own heart if you make the trip. The Uummannaq fjord is spectacularly beautiful with icebergs as large as, or even bigger than those in Ilulissat. These cathedrals of ice become trapped during the Winter as the sea freezes over and becomes an enormous highway for dog sleds, snowmobiles, and even cars!

• Read our Ultimate Travel Guide to Uummannaq

Qaqortoq (South Greenland) – nestled in the greenest part of the country, South Greenland’s largest town is the perfect base for those looking for a milder climate and the opportunity to explore the Viking (Norse) ruins of Greenland. There are still plenty of icebergs and glaciers to discover, wonderful hiking opportunities, Greenland’s only hot spring, and you can even go horse riding or stay at a sheep farm!

• Read our Ultimate Travel Guide to Qaqortoq

At Guide to Greenland, we work with tour operators all over Greenland with the idea to open all of Greenland to all of the world.  Our aim is to help in developing a sustainable tourism industry here by enabling small tour companies to operate in “undiscovered” parts of Greenland to help take the pressure off those already popular destinations.

Transportation in Greenland

Greenland is the world’s largest island, and one of the most sparsely populated countries on Earth. In an area the size of Western Europe or ⅓ the size of the USA or Australia, there are only 13 cities and towns with populations greater than 1000 people, and about 60 settlements with smaller numbers of people.

Add in obstacles such as the enormous ice cap that covers 80% of the land, deep fjords, rugged mountains, and glaciers, it should not come as a surprise that there are no roads connecting any of the towns or settlements. Traveling around Greenland will be very different from traveling around your own country, and likely to be much more expensive.

Traveling within towns

If you are a keen walker – no town in Greenland (no, not even Nuuk) is so big that you can’t get around on foot. There may or may not be footpaths, and these may or may not be paved, but one thing is guaranteed – there will be plenty of stairs to give you a good workout!

In the settlements – walking is really your only option. In towns, you may be able to hire a bicycle, and there are usually at least a handful of taxis available, though these tend to be expensive and quite difficult to get hold of during peak times. It is also possible to rent a car in a few cities (though keep in mind that the road stops at the outskirts of town), and only Nuuk, Sisimiut, Maniitsoq, Kangerlussuaq, and Qaqortoq have a regular bus service.

For more information about how to get around each of the major towns, read the relevant Ultimate Travel Guide.

Traveling between towns and settlements

Each town generally has a handful of settlements that it services. While flying is an option all year round (usually in a helicopter), during Summer these trips can often be made with a boat and, during Winter, with either dog sled (for areas North of the Arctic Circle and East Greenland) or snowmobile. Many tour operators offer trips to these smaller settlements – details can be found either in the relevant Ultimate Travel Guide or by applying the “settlement visit” filter to tours on Guide to Greenland

Traveling between towns

The distances between many of the towns in Greenland are such that the only way to get from one place to the next is by plane, helicopter or, in a handful of areas, by boat.

• Check for your domestic helicopter or flight with Air Greenland
• Check for a Disko Line boat transfer in South Greenland
• Check for a Disko Line boat transfer in West Greenland
• Check for a Disko Line boat transfer in Disko Bay
• Check for the weekly Sarfaq Ittuk Coastal Ferry (between Ilulissat in the North and Qaqortoq in the South)

It is important to note that not all routes have daily departures (particularly in Winter). You will need to study the timetables to determine the best way to make everything fit together.

It is also important to keep in mind that unpredictable weather conditions may result in a delay of a day or more – so please build some contingency time into your itinerary.

Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a guaranteed “quick trip to the next town” in Greenland!

Accommodation in Greenland

We hate to disappoint you, but Greenlanders do not live in igloos.

They also no longer live in summer tent camps nor turf houses, though it is still possible to see what turf houses were like in many of the larger towns at the museums. Greenlanders now generally live in brightly colored wooden houses or large apartment buildings.

Accommodation for visitors to Greenland varies widely. The larger towns have 3- or 4-star hotels with conference facilities, as well as a range of other accommodation options. Airbnb is taking off around the country, and there are apartments, B&Bs, hostels, and other unique accommodation possibilities depending on where you are traveling.

For more information, have a look at our Accommodation in Greenland page and read the accommodation section in the relevant Ultimate Travel Guide.

Food and drinks in Greenland

The traditional diet of the Inuit from whom modern-day Greenlanders descended consisted mostly of meat and fat. This makes sense given the limited plant life in Greenland, their lives as hunters and fishermen, and their need for calories to keep them warm and vitamins to keep them healthy.

Have you ever wondered how the Inuit managed to avoid scurvy while living in a place where there were no fruit or vegetables? After all – this was one of the biggest scourges for the European explorers for many years. It turns out that the skin of the whale (a very important part of the arctic diet) contains a huge amount of Vitamin C.

Things have moved on from those times, and although Greenlanders still enjoy whale, seal, fish, reindeer and muskox – they can also choose from a wide range of fresh and processed foods that are primarily imported from or through Denmark.

Local foods

As a visitor, we highly encourage you to try as much of the traditional food as possible. While it may initially feel “wrong” to eat whale or seal, consider that these animals are hunted under a quota system in Greenland and the meat has not had to travel halfway around the world to get to you. It is much more environmentally friendly than ordering chicken or a salad!

Many of the larger towns have restaurants and cafes that offer fusion dishes made from the traditional meats, or you could try your hand at cooking it yourself by purchasing the raw ingredients from the local market or catching your own on a fishing trip .

But one of the best ways of trying a wide selection of foods that, admittedly, can be an acquired taste is to eat at a Traditional Greenlandic Buffet. Unfortunately, these are not found everywhere, but during the Summer in Ilulissat and every weekend in Sisimiut – the hotels offer these all-you-can-eat smorgasbords for a very reasonable price.

• Find more information on where to eat in each major town in the Restaurants and Cafes section of the relevant Ultimate Travel Guide

Another way to experience traditional Greenlandic food as well as a mountain of (very non-traditional) cakes is at a Kaffemik . Literally meaning “with a coffee”, Greenlanders host kaffemiks to celebrate absolutely anything.  It is basically a Greenlandic party.

The interesting thing about a kaffemik for a visitor is that although they are often scheduled as an event of several hours, each guest only stays a short period of time. This is because Greenlandic houses tend to be small, and Greenlanders know almost everyone in their community. Therefore, to allow everyone to be part of the celebration, each person arrives at a time that is convenient for them, gives their congratulations (and often a small gift), eats what they would like of the food, and then leaves again – allowing others space to sit at the table.

Being invited by a local to a kaffemik is definitely the best way to experience one (Greenlanders are very inviting and generous people), but you can also book a kaffemik experience as part of your travels.

Buying food – supermarkets and markets

One of the biggest surprises for many visitors coming to Greenland for the first time are the supermarkets.

The larger towns in most of Greenland all boast one or more Pisiffik and/or Brugseni supermarkets where you can find a bakery as well as a wide selection of packaged meat, fruit and vegetables, dairy, and general grocery items. These supermarkets are very similar to what you find in your own country – just with a more limited selection of products and higher prices.

The smaller towns and the settlements also generally have a supermarket. The community Pilersuisoq stocks a much more limited range of basic items (including all of the above) and are fascinating places to explore as they also feature everything else that a community could possibly need (think hunting rifles, fishing nets, reindeer antlers, etc.). After all, they are the only store in town!

While you will have to do most of your food shopping at the supermarket, it may be possible to buy your meat and seafood at the local market. This is where the hunters bring whatever they have just caught and offer it for sale. It will really help if you know some of the terms for animals in Danish or Greenlandic, and know your numbers in Danish if you plan to visit.

Advice for Vegetarians and Vegans

While Greenland is not the easiest place for vegetarians and vegans to travel, it is possible. It will be easiest if you stick with the larger towns and shop for yourself, though many of the restaurants in destinations that receive a lot of tourists do have one or two options on the menu for those who don’t eat meat.

Even if you plan to prepare all your own meals, you can expect this to be much more expensive than in pretty much every other country you’ve ever visited. Fresh fruit and vegetables are some of the most expensive items in Greenland, so check out the freezers to see what you can buy frozen as well.

Food Allergies

Given that meat, potato and rice tend to be the core ingredients of most meals, if you suffer from common food allergies, you should still be able to find something to eat in Greenland. If you don’t speak Danish, we recommend that you download Google Translate and the Danish dictionary to your phone before you arrive and use it to write down the types of food that you are allergic to.  Danish should be sufficient in most cases, and it will make it easy to explain to others what you need to avoid.

It will also help if you decide to cook for yourself. Ingredients are usually listed in Danish on items in the supermarket, so you can do a translation on the fly while you are shopping, rather than taking your chances.

Given the limited health services in Greenland, we strongly recommend that you bring with you any medication that must be administered if you do have a reaction to something you ate.

Drinking Water

Greenland is one of the few places in the world where you can drink the water from anywhere. It is 100% safe no matter whether you have filled your glass from a tap, or have filled your water bottle directed from a stream in the backcountry.  No filter required.

Shopping and Souvenirs

As a country with a tiny population and where almost everything must be shipped in, you can imagine that Greenland is not exactly a shopper’s paradise. There is one enclosed mall and one pedestrian mall in the whole country – both in the capital, Nuuk. Most large towns have one or two supermarkets that also operate as department stores, and a handful of boutiques – but that is pretty much it.

That being said, Greenland does have a lot to offer in the way of souvenirs. The most popular items are:

Tupilaks – these are fantastic “creatures” typically carved from reindeer antler, musk-ox horn, or narwhal tooth. The original tupilaks were used by Inuit shamans as powerful artefacts and very different to what you see today. And although modern tupilaks don’t hold any mysticism, they are stunning works of art from master carvers. You can buy them in any souvenir shop, or visit the carvers at the local Artisan workshop if there is one in town.

Sealskin products – the Inuit used to make many of their clothes from sealskin. It is warm, water- and wind-proof and offers the best protection from the arctic climate. These days, sealskin is still used to make fashion clothing and other products in Greenland, with Great Greenland the largest producer. Sealskin products can be found in any souvenir shop.

Musk-ox wool products – Musk-ox wool is the warmest wool in the world and lighter than you can imagine. It comes with a hefty price tag (due to the difficulty in harvesting it) but is a beautiful and cozy investment. Qiviut (Nuuk and Sisimiut) is the place for items made from musk ox wool and their products are sold in many parts of Greenland.

It is important to note with all souvenir shopping, that there are restrictions on what can be taken out of Greenland. To avoid issues, it is safest to buy things made from reindeer antler, musk-ox wool, seal or lamb. Please have a look at the current list of restrictions before you purchase.

• More specific information on where to shop for souvenirs and other items can be found in the relevant Ultimate Travel Guides

If you forgot – or haven’t got a chance to buy your souvenirs in Greenland, discover a selection of Greenlandic Accessories, Clothes, Souvenirs, Cards & Posters, Books, and Home decor in  The Greenland Store   where you can find everything from Greenland online! 

Entertainment

Options for entertainment and nightlife really depend on the size of the town you are in. 

Nuuk, Sisimiut and Ilulissat each host a Cultural Center which features a cinema (movies mostly in native language with subtitles, unless for children), exhibition space, and often schedules live music and other performances.

In other towns (as well as Nuuk, Sisimiut and Ilulissat), there is usually a pub and perhaps a nightclub that offers entertainment and nightlife. Look on the bus shelters and notice boards (usually found outside the supermarket) for upcoming events, or ask a local what is happening when and where.

• More specific information on entertainment and nightlife can be found in the relevant Ultimate Travel Guides

What to do in Greenland

Greenland has two distinct seasons that offer very different experiences of the Arctic.

Summer Activities

Summers in Greenland are relatively short but beautiful. The warmer weather and long days offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor excursions – but make sure you bring a head net and insect repellent to ward off the arctic mosquitoes and flies.

• Explore all of our Day Tours in Summer
• Find your Summer Vacation Package to Greenland
• Read everything you wanted to know about Greenland mosquitoes
• Learn what you should pack for a Summer holiday in Greenland

When : June – end-Sept, though the start/end of the season will depend on the snow/ice conditions that year Where : everywhere in Greenland Tours : Hiking tours in Greenland

Greenland’s stunning back country provides innumerable options for hikers. The terrain varies depending on where in the country you are (see the Geography section), and the presence of marked trails is limited at the moment to Nuuk, Sisimiut, Ilulissat, South Greenland, Uummannaq, and the long-distance Arctic Circle Trail.

A few important notes about hiking in Greenland:

• The marked trails are literally narrow tracks at best, and often just dots painted on rocks to show the way across unspoiled terrain. If you are not an experienced hiker, we recommend that you go with a Guide so that they can take care of navigation and first aid, and also explain more about the area itself, including the flora and fauna.
• If you are hiking in East Greenland, Tasermiut Fjord or North Greenland, there is the real possibility of encountering a polar bear. In these regions, you should go with a Guide or carry a rifle with you if you know how to use it for defense against a Polar bear
• If you are hiking alone anywhere in Greenland, you should carry a personal locator beacon in case of an accident or emergency
• You are allowed to wild camp anywhere in Greenland, except within the boundaries of the Ilulissat Icefjord.

Kayaking / Stand-up Paddleboarding

When : June – mid-Sept, though the start/end of the season will depend on the snow/ice conditions that year Where : South Greenland, West Greenland, East Greenland, Arctic Circle Region, Disko Bay area Tours : Kayaking and SUP tours in Greenland

Greenland’s stunning fjords offer similar opportunities for kayakers as its back country does for hikers. The waterline view of an iceberg is an experience of a lifetime, and the silence of gliding past 1000m walls of granite that fall directly into the ocean is the perfect escape. Stand-up Paddle boarding is also gaining popularity in Greenland with unique opportunities to do so amongst the icebergs or with whales.

A few important notes about kayaking in Greenland:

• If you are kayaking in East Greenland, Tasermiut Fjord or North Greenland, there is the real possibility of encountering a polar bear. In these regions, you should go with a Guide or carry a rifle with you if you know how to use it for defense against a Polar bear
• If you are kayaking alone anywhere in Greenland, you should carry a personal locator beacon in case of an accident or emergency
• You are allowed to wild camp anywhere in Greenland, except within the boundaries of the Ilulissat Icefjord
• There are also limited opportunities for Winter kayaking and Stand-up Paddle boarding in Greenland

When : June – mid-Sept, though the exact timing of the arrival and departure of whales depends on your location and their migration Where : everywhere in Greenland Tours : Whale watching tours in Greenland

During the Summer months, whales love to come and play in the Arctic. Humpbacks are particularly common, but it is also possible to spot Minke and Fin whales in some areas. These gentle giants love the icebergs and their blows can be heard far and wide in the still arctic air. While boats keep a respectful distance, you may be lucky and have one of the curious creatures approach quite close to you.

Midnight Sun

When : mid-May – mid-June Where : anywhere North of the Arctic Circle Tours : Midnight Sun tours in Greenland

The longest day of the year – the Summer Solstice – falls on June 21 in the Northern hemisphere. On this date, the sun never sets below the horizon for locations on the Arctic Circle.

For locations north of the polar circle, this phenomenon (known as the Midnight Sun) extends for several weeks and months on either side of this date. And although the Sun always dips below the horizon for locations south of the polar circle, it still doesn’t actually get dark but simply descends into a twilight that lasts until the Sun rises once more an hour or two later.

Winter Activities in Greenland

Winters in Greenland are stunningly beautiful. Pristine white snow covers everything while the multi-colored Northern Lights dance above. Although the weather is cold and the days short, with the correct clothing and a keen sense of adventure, there is nothing quite like experiencing the Arctic during Winter.

• Explore all of our Day Tours in Winter
• Find your Winter Vacation Package to Greenland
• Learn what you should pack for a Winter holiday in Greenland

Dog Sledding

When : Dec – Apr, though the start/end of the season will depend on the snow/ice conditions that year Where : East Greenland, and destinations on or above the Arctic Circle Tours : Dog sledding tours in Greenland

Greenland is unique amongst Arctic nations for maintaining its traditional dog sledding culture. Sled dogs are still used for transportation and to hunt, and other breeds of dogs are not allowed North of the Arctic Circle nor in East Greenland so that the purity of the Greenlandic Sled Dog is preserved.

More and more, the hunters are now supplementing their income by introducing visitors to this ancient form of travel. You should not feel strange about going on a dog sledding adventure while in Greenland. Rather, take the opportunity to experience this very natural way of traveling through the Arctic landscape.

• Read our 7 key facts about the Greenlandic Sled Dog

Snowmobiling

When : Dec – Apr, though the start/end of the season will depend on the snow/ice conditions that year Where : everywhere in Greenland Tours : Snowmobiling tours in Greenland

To undertake longer winter trips faster, or for a bit of an adrenaline rush, snowmobiles are very common throughout Greenland. There are opportunities to learn how to ride your own snowmobile in certain areas, and many of the multi-day dog sledding tours are now supported by snowmobiles.

This modern form of winter transportation is, unfortunately, slowly overtaking the culture of dog sledding in Greenland. So, if you have the chance, make sure you sign up for a dogsled tour as well as a snowmobile tour to help preserve this traditional heritage.

Snowshoeing

When : Dec – Apr, though the start/end of the season will depend on the snow/ice conditions that year Where : everywhere in Greenland Tours : Snowshoeing tours in Greenland

The Winter equivalent to hiking, snowshoeing is the perfect way to get out into the backcountry and explore the snowy landscape. In many ways, snowshoeing is easier than hiking as you simply walk across the deep snow that has covered rocks, lakes, gullies and other obstacles you would normally have had to hike around.

When : Dec – Apr (Mar – Apr for heli-skiing), though the start/end of the season will depend on the snow/ice conditions that year Where : everywhere in Greenland. East Greenland and the Maniitsoq area in West Greenland are the key locations for heliskiing and ski touring

Greenland is a paradise for cross-country skiers, ski tourers, and heli-skiers seeking unspoiled runs and deep powdery snow. There are also several small downhilling opportunities, with the largest center in Nuuk.

All municipalities groom a certain number of cross-country trails each Winter, most of which begin from close to the center of town. You will find everyone from kids to Olympic skiers traveling these snowy, well-maintained highways near the population centers. In addition, the toughest ski race in the World – the Arctic Circle Race – is held in Sisimiut each year with competitors from all over the world coming to compete in the 3-day test of strength, stamina and technique.

Further afield, there are plenty of longer routes for ski tourers – some of which require skiers to pull pulks. The most dramatic of these is the Greenland Crossing, where skiers travel from the East Coast of Greenland to the West Coast across the inland ice.

Heli-skiing and ski touring is extremely popular around Tasiilaq in East Greenland and Maniitsoq in West Greenland, with first runs of up to 2000m heading straight down to end at the fjord. This is the ultimate skiing experience for those who are physically fit and excellent off-piste skiers.

Ice Fishing

When : Dec – Apr, though the start/end of the season will depend on the snow/ice conditions that year Where : primarily East Greenland and North Greenland Tours : Ice fishing tours in Greenland

When the sea freezes over in East and North Greenland, it is still possible to go fishing. Ice fishing is another of the ancient traditions of the Inuit who also relied on fish to feed themselves and their dogs throughout the winter months. The type of fish and the length of the line you use will depend on exactly where you go fishing. But Halibut, Redfish, Wolffish, Cod and Arctic Char are all possibilities, and lines can be up to 500m long with multiple hooks!

When : Sept – Apr, though this is dependent on the level of Solar activity Where : everywhere in Greenland, but North Greenland can be more difficult Tours : Northern Lights tours in Greenland

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are one of the jewels of the Arctic Winter. Although they can be seen from many countries, Greenland’s dark skies and small population centers mean you don’t have to go far from your accommodation for an incredible view. In fact, you can see them from the center of downtown Nuuk! 

That being said, the best experience is always in the darkest locations and tour operators offer snowshoeing, snowmobiling, car and boat tours that will take you as far from the town lights as possible.

• Read our guide on how to experience the Northern Lights in Greenland

Polar Darkness

When : mid-Nov – mid-Jan Where : anywhere North of the Arctic Circle

The shortest day of the year – the Winter Solstice – falls on December 21 in the Northern hemisphere. On this date, the sun never rises above the horizon for locations on the Arctic Circle.

For locations north of the polar circle, this phenomenon (known as the Polar Darkness) extends for several weeks and months on either side of this date. And although the Sun always rises above the horizon for locations south of the polar circle, the days do not last long before the Sun sets once more an hour or so later.

All year Activities in Greenland

When : All year, though winter sailing is not possible in North or East Greenland Where : everywhere in Greenland Tours : Boat tours in Greenland

Sailing is a way of life in Greenland. More people own boats than own cars and the waterways constitute Greenland’s highways. If you come to Greenland, you must take at least one boat trip into the fjords. There are a wide variety of tours to choose from, and you can even charter a boat and create your own adventure.

When : All year, though winter fishing in North and East Greenland is Ice Fishing Where : everywhere in Greenland Tours : Fishing tours in Greenland

Greenland offers a diverse range of fishing experiences. From catching halibut on a long line, to pulling in cod or redfish from a boat, to fly-fishing for Arctic Char in pristine rivers, you are almost guaranteed to catch your dinner and you certainly won’t go hungry. Greenlanders love to fish and many places offer several tours that cater for all interest and experience levels.

Note: if you plan to fish on your own, you need to purchase a Greenlandic fishing license at the local post office before heading out.

Scenic flights

When : All year, though winter flights are limited to certain areas Where : Nuuk, Ilulissat, Kangerlussuaq, South Greenland Tours : Scenic Flights in Greenland

The ultimate way to see Greenland. Although you will hopefully get some good views from the window seat of your international or domestic flight, the best way to see key features and visit unique and remote areas is with a dedicated scenic flight. You can land on a glacier, visit Viking Ruins and soak in a hot spring on scenic flights in South Greenland, land on top of an iconic mountain or go heli-fishing in Nuuk, search for musk-ox from the air near Kangerlussuaq, and actually see the glacier that feeds the Ilulissat Icefjord on some of the different excursions available.

City Tour / Settlement Visit

When : All year Where : everywhere in Greenland Tours : City Tours and Settlement Visits in Greenland

The best way to get your bearings and discover all the secrets of your destination is to sign up for a guided City Tour. This will give you an overview of the history and special features of Greenland in general and the area you are visiting (remember, ask lots of questions), and set you up to get the most out of your visit.

We also recommend spending some time in one of Greenland’s many small settlements for a fascinating look into an important and, until recently, very common way of living in Greenland. Day trips to nearby settlements are offered from most towns, with the journey typically made by boat, dog sled or snowmobile (depending on the season).

Visit the Inland Ice

When : All year Where : easiest access is from Kangerlussuaq Tours : Icecap and glacier tours in Greenland

Although the inland ice dominates Greenland and is always just “over the rise”, it is notoriously difficult to access.

The easiest place to stand upon the world’s second-largest ice sheet is at Point 660 near Kangerlussuaq. From Greenland’s main international airport, there are almost daily tours that allow you to walk up onto the ice and view its vast expanse from ground level. For those that have more time, you can take a hike of several hours, or even camp overnight on the Greenland Ice Sheet from here.

In other parts of Greenland, direct access to the inland ice is blocked by the glaciers that spill down from it. Of course, these frozen rivers of ice are incredible experiences in themselves – and watching a large chunk calve off the face of the glacier is an incredible thing to witness. There are only a handful of scenic flights that offer you the chance to stand on the ice sheet if you are not in Kangerlussuaq.

Greenland is a remote, wild, largely unexplored but accessible destination that offers every Arctic experience. Book your trip or individual excursions in advance with Guide to Greenland and come visit us soon!

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Glacier Lodge Stay | Qeqertarsuaq | Disko Bay

Spend a night in a real Igloo | Ilulissat

Hunting Northern Lights with Snowmobile | Ilulissat

Boat Transfer between Kulusuk and Tasiilaq | East Greenland

Snowshoe in the Northern Night | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Helicopter and Ice cave tour | East Greenland

Ice Cap Adventure | East Greenland

Private Halibut & Antlantic Wolffish Fishing | Sisimiut

Overnight snowshoe adventure | Nuuk

Private Kayak Tour in Ilulissat Icefjord from the boat | Ilulissat

UNESCO Icefjord Flightseeing | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Ice climbing & ice cave tour | east greenland.

Midnight Cruise To Ilulissat Icefjord | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Master Exploring Ilulissat Icefjord From Above | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Guided kayak tour along the coastline | Nuuk

Introduction to Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP) | Nuuk | West Greenland

Private Settlement tour to Saattut | Uummannaq | North Greenland

Settlement Tour By Dogsled | Tasiilaq | East Greenland

Private Glacier Cruise | Narsap Sermia Glacier | Nuuk

Snowshoe Hiking & Sauna experience | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Northern Lights Photo Tour | Nuuk

The Ultimate 8-day Arctic Winter Adventure | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Private Deep Sea Fishing Tour | Nuuk

Dog sledding tour to the UFO cabin | Sisimiut

10 days of hiking through Arctic nature & villages | East Greenland

Private Stand-Up Paddle in Ilulissat Icefjord from the boat | Ilulissat

Tasermiut Fjord Kayaking | South Greenland

Musk Ox, Reindeer & Ice Cap Tour | Kangerlussuaq

Iceberg Classic | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Private guided tour by car in the capital of Greenland | Nuuk

Kayak & Ice Hike | 8 Days | South Greenland

Whale Watching | Uummannaq | North Greenland

Ukkusissat Mountain Hike | Nuuk

2 Day Hiking and Kayaking Adventure | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Ghost Village Boat Cruise | Sisimiut | West Greenland

Ilulissat Citywalk | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Arctic Circle Winter Adventure | Nuuk & Sisimiut | 8 Days

Helicopter tour to the icefjord | Nuuk

Dog Sledding the Arctic Circle Trail to “the Viewpoint” | Sisimiut

Northern Lights Private Boat Tour | Nuuk

Wonders of Greenland | South Greenland

Whale Watching and Iceberg Safari | Tasiilaq | East Greenland

Hiking tour around Quassussuaq | Nuuk

Bus service | Nuuk

Tasiilaq Winter World | 8 Days | East Greenland

Captains Favorite Strait Cruise Sullorsuaq | Private tour | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Private settlement tour to Ikerasak | Uummannaq | North Greenland

Follow an Inuit Hunter under the Midnight Sun | Qaanaaq

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How to travel to Greenland from the US

Ilulissat Icefjord Centre – Kangiata Illorsua

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Greenland Travel Guide 2024: The Ultimate Travel Book To The Hidden Gems Of Greenland Paperback – 4 Jun. 2023

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Travel guides

Are you looking for inspiration for your next holiday? Maybe you have already decided on a holiday to Greenland? Check out our travel guides to Greenland.

Find inspiration for your Greenland trip with our travel guides to Greenland.

You will find a wealth of exciting experiences and places for you to visit on your journey. Let yourself be inspired by what Greenland has to offer. We have a great selection of different holidays to Greenland, and we would love to show you this beautiful arctic paradise. Are you looking for a great arctic adventure? Do you want to experience The Big Arctic Five? Or maybe you want to find more inspiration for a holiday to Greenland?

Our travel guides are inspired by our own experiences from living in and travelling to Greenland. We want you to get your dream trip to Greenland and all the great experiences that entails.

See our great selection of holidays in Greenland here.

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Ilulissat – the place with the famous Ice Fjord

Ilulissat – the city of icebergs – is situated right next to its impressive neighbor, the world-famous Ice Fjord. It became part of the UNESCO World Heritage in 2004.

Dog sleds – the ultimate Greenland experience

A guide to the ultimate Greenland experience. Dogsledding in Greenland is a very special experience. Feel the wind in your hair and listen to the dogs pulling the sled while running on the snow-covered landscape.

Ice and snow in Greenland

A guide on more than the top of the iceberg

The Big Arctic Five

Five of the most popular experiences in Greenland, also known as the Big Arctic Five. Find out which experiences have become a part of the Big Arctic Five and where you can experience them.

Northern Lights in Greenland

Experience the best Northern Lights in the world! Go on a Northern Lights tour in Greenland and see the amazing lightshow up close.

Qeqertarsuaq – Disko Island

The volcanic island in the heart of Disco Bay

Eqi – the calving glacier

Few places in Greenland are as beautiful as the Eqi glacier. You can get up close to the calving glacier by boat. We offer excursions where you can see the Eqi Glacier in all its glory.

The taste of Greenland – food experiences

A guide to Greenland’s delicious food. Get inspired to taste the great food in Greenland. We love the local delicacies and the traditional Greenlandic dishes. Food in Greenland is a special treat.

Whales in Greenland

Get close to the giants of the sea. Greenland is home for many species of whales and you will have plenty of opportunity to experience these majestic animals.

Kangerlussuaq – the long fjord

A guide to experiences all year round in Kangerlussuaq

Guide to Greenland

We have made this guide to Greenland to help you choose your dream tour and get the most out of visiting this arctic paradise

On board M/S Sarfaq Ittuk

When a trip is more of an experience

Greenland Travel Guide

Your ultimate greenland travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in greenland. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Greenland is one of the final frontiers on the planet! It is the most sparsely populated country in the world and there are no roads connecting any of its towns. As a result,  travelers must journey around the country either by ship or by flying .

The PlanetD explored Greenland on the  Sea Spirit  ship  and enjoyed a 14-day adventure that started from the north of the Arctic circle all the way around to Reykjavik, Iceland. This Greenland travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular City Guides

• Incredible Greenland
• Kayaking in Greenland

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Greenland

• Greenland power voltage is 220 V 50Hz;  Plug C & K
• Currency is the Danish Krone and is around 5.4 DKK to 1 USD
• Foreigner credit cards are valid at banks and ATMs but travelers are advised to bring some cash as these foreign cards may not be accepted at all shops.
• Random fact:  Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark but is  not  a member of the European Union.

Things to See and Do in Greenland

• Kayak through Uncharted Fjords  – For centuries, Greenland was known as the land of kayakers and today the tradition still holds strong.
• Take the Arctic Polar Plunge  – close your eyes and jump into icy waters.
• Go on a Greenland expedition  – enjoy the sites on board a cruise ship while disembarking for multiple shore landings to explore this magical country.
• Take a Bath at the Top of the World   – drink a glass of champagne while taking a dip in the Uunartoq thermal pool.
• Meet the locals and learn about the Inuit culture  – discover more about Greenland, a unique country where ancient culture meets the modern world.
• Eat Whale  – It is a staple food of Greenland and part of their tradition and heritage. Would you try it?

Greenland Travel Guides

• Ilulissat Greenland
• The People and Culture of Greenland

Arctic or Antarctica? How to Choose your Polar Expedition

• Hot Springs and Bubbly

Accommodation

Greenland is expensive to travel and even basic hostels can be pricey. We visited on an expedition ship and it is easiest to go to Greenland on a tour or cruise. But there are options.

Budget  – Hostels start at about $130. You can camp in Greenland, but it is recommended to have experience coming in harsh climates.

Mid Range  – Mid range hotels cost $200

High End  – High end accommodation cost $300 – $375.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

Food : Greenland has an arctic climate so fresh fruit and vegetables are scarce.

A diet of fish and meat is the staple food for Greenland.

You will encounter marine mammals like whale and seal. Reindeer, muskox, and lamb are also on the menu.

The Best Ways to Get Around Greenland

Getting to greenland:.

Getting to : There are no direct flights from North America to Greenland. The best way to get to Greenland is from Reykjavik, Iceland via plane or as a part of an expedition. You can check for the best flights to Greenland on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Transportation:  Greenland doesn’t have any roads between cities and communities. The best way to get around Greenland is by expedition ship.

Taxis / Uber : Towns are small so you don’t need buses, taxis, Uber or car rentals.

You can check for the best flights on Skyscanner . You will most likely have a connection flight as there are few direct flights to Greenland outside of Iceland. International flights will fly into Nuuk.

When to go To Greenland

• April thought August is summer and the warmest time to visit this Arctic climate.
• June and July is the time to visit for 24 hour daylight.
• November through April is the best time for Northern Lights.

Where to Stay in Greenland

You’ll most likely be traveling Greenland via a tour or expedition as it is very expensive to get from town to town. With no roads connecting cities in Greenland, you will have to either fly or take a ship.

But you can find accommodation in places like Nuuk and Illulissat. Check for hotel prices here.

What to Pack for Greenland

• Insect Repellent  –  Along with natural beauty and warm weather, summers in Greenland (specifically July and August) are known for their mosquito swarms. Travels are advised to bring a mosquito net, insect spray or mosquito headnet if planning to hike a mountain, particularly near any glaciers.
• Layers  – The general rule of thumb is to pack at least four layers: a base layer,  long sleeve shirts, a fleece (mid-layer) and a top layer such as a windbreaker (waterproof!). Base layers should be make of wool or synthetic fabrics are these fabrics offer superior moisture-wicking and temperature control protection than cotton.
• Hiking Boots  – pack a good pair of boots with good grip that are waterproof and insulated for spring/winter travel.
• Binoculars   – great to have if you plan on going on cruises, and/or hiking, boating or nature tours.
• Layering Tips to Dress for the Deep Freeze
• How to Pack for a winter vacation read – Travel Tips for Winter Packing
• See our packing tips:  packing tips

Greenland Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Greenland Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Greenland click here.

Kayaking in Greenland – The Greatest Arctic Adventure in Photos

Incredible Greenland – The Final Frontier for Adventure Travel

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GREENLAND TRAVEL GUIDE 2024 EDITION (TINA'S TOUR GUIDE) Paperback – December 15, 2023

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'When you've seen the world there's always Greenland' goes the old travellers' saying. But why wait till then? Greenland is not a cheap destination, but few places combine such magnificent scenery, such clarity of light and such raw power of nature.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

The Southern Fjords

Astonishingly grand spires of granite soar straight out of Greenland's southernmost fjords like the teeth of an interplanetary crocodile. Climbers rate…

Paamiut Museum

A circle of five historic stone-and-timber buildings around a turf-ringed former wellhouse constitute Paamiut Museum. The 1839 former governor's residence…

Tele-Museum

On weekend afternoons it's well worth visiting the Tele-Museum. It traces Greenland's role in the development of transatlantic communications and has such…

Qaqortoq Museum

Qaqortoq Museum is housed in a tar-blackened 1804 building that was once the Julianehåb colony manager's house. Today its most unique features are right…

Lyberth Charter

The cute 1859 cottage housing Lyberth Charter was the former Fortanderkabshuset (elders' council chamber). Red with green stairs, it retains the bronze …

Maniitsoq Museum

Maniitsoq Museum is housed in a series of picturesque historic buildings constructed in 1874 and originally used to house a bakery, a blacksmith's shop…

Fredenskirche

Fredenskirche, Paamiut's colourful 1909 church, has a Norwegian-style Hansel-and-Gretel façade. Incredibly the church was 'stretched' by 6m in the 1980s:…

Lund Cottage

Henrik Lund (1875-1948) was a priest, painter and poet whose song 'Nunarput' has since become Greenland's national anthem. Outside the red-and-green Lund…

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White Nights

Although the phenomenon known as the "White Nights" is not unique to St. Petersburg, in no other northern city have they received such poetic and literary acclaim. What could be more romantic than a walk along the banks of the city's rivers and canals in almost broad daylight, no matter what the time of day? No other major European city can rival this experience nor the atmosphere on the streets of St. Petersburg during the summer months - lively, friendly, romantic and bustling with people throughout the night as well as the day!

From late May to early July the nights are bright in St. Petersburg, with the brightest period, the White Nights, normally lasting from June 11 th to July 2 nd . The White Nights (Beliye Nochi) are a curious phenomenon caused by St. Petersburg's very northerly geographical location - at 59 degrees 57' North (roughly on the same latitude as Oslo, Norway, the southern tip of Greenland and Seward, Alaska). St. Petersburg is the world's most northern city with a population over 1 million, and its stands at such a high latitude that the sun does not descend below the horizon enough for the sky to grow dark. In fact night becomes curiously indistinguishable from day, so much so that the authorities never need to turn the city's streetlights on!

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13 Things To Do In Saint Petersburg | Russia’s Most Beautiful City

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: January 17, 2021  - Last updated: September 11, 2021

Categories Europe , Destinations , Russia

Once known as Leningrad and before that Petrograd, Saint Petersburg, Russia, is the country’s second-largest city. Set next to the Neva River, close to the Baltic Sea, this city is home to over 5 million people.

It’s the world’s northernmost city, founded by Peter the Great and named after Saint Peter the apostle. Once home to the Tsars of Russia, it is today known as the country’s cultural capital.

With iconic sights such as Hermitage Museum, Nevsky Prospect, Peterhof Palace, and so much more, it has a fascinating heritage ripe for exploration. Without further ado, let’s dive into the 13 best things to do in St. Petersburg. 

Top Things to do in St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg, Europe, has grown into one of the top tourist destinations on the continent. Although it might get very cold in winter, there are still plenty of things to do – and the summers are absolutely perfect! Saint Petersburg is one of the prettiest cities in all of Europe .

Keep reading for some of my favorite choices. 

1. Visit The World Famous Hermitage Museum

One of the city’s most popular attractions (with over 3 million items in its esteemed collection), State Hermitage Museum showcases everything from fine art to ancient artifacts. 

Even if you don’t plan on entering inside, the exterior is an architectural gem in itself. The columns are all in white with green/gold facades that can be viewed from the river or Palace Square.

If you’re visiting St. Petersburg, Russia, your trip would not be complete without stopping past this world-famous landmark. It’s also a great activity to do no matter what time of year you are visiting – and a perfect way to escape those cold Russian winter days. 

There are six buildings in the museum complex in total. Five of which – Winter Palace, Small Hermitage, Old Hermitage, New Hermitage, and Hermitage Theatre – can be accessed by the public.

Within, you’ll be treated to Egyptian collections, artifacts dating from ancient Mesopotamia, and classical Greek jewelry, pottery, and sculptures. This is any historical culture lover’s dream. 

Keep exploring, and you will find collections of prehistoric relics from the Palaeolithic era to the Iron Ages, European fine arts, Impressionist works, Catherine the Great’s personal collections, and so much more.

In fact, you’ll need an entire day or possibly longer to explore this incredible museum complex. If you only have limited time in St. Petersburg, be sure to add this museum to your itinerary! There are also guided tours available if you want a more educational experience. 

Did you know? The Hermitage Museum is the world’s second-largest art museum.

2. Take in a Performance at Mariinsky Theatre

The Neoclassical Mariinsky Theatre is home to Russia’s revered opera and ballet companies.

The theatre – named after the wife of Tsar Alexandra II, Empress Maria Alexandrovna – has been here since 1860 when it was known as the Kirov Theatre.

This magnificent building, since it opened, has hosted stage performances and premieres from Tchaikovsky and Mussorgsky and famous ballets such as Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. 

Today, in addition to hosting live performances, the theatre has its own record label, which focuses on releasing music by Russian composers Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky, and Rachmaninov.

If you enjoy the arts and are going to be in St. Petersburg for several days, book tickets to see a world-class performance – you won’t be disappointed.

3. See Jewelled Eggs at the Faberge Museum

The House of Faberge was founded in St. Petersburg in 1842 by Gustav Faberge. Originally a jeweler, he became famous for designing jewel-encrusted eggs for the Tsars of Russia and is arguably the most famous goldsmith of the modern era. 

Today, you can view these iconic collection pieces in the Faberge Museum. It showcases 4,000 items in total, including Faberge Easter eggs, jewelry, silverware, home decor, and fantasy-themed objects.

The incredible jeweled eggs are famous all over the world, and there are several museums dedicated to them. But if you want to learn about Gustav Faberge, his family, and how it all began, this is the museum to visit. You can purchase a ticket in person or online. 

4. Spend an Hour Canal Cruising

St. Petersburg is built on 42 islands, and once upon a time (before bridges were constructed), cruising was the only way to navigate the city.

On a Golden Ring boat tour, you’ll see some of St. Petersburg’s iconic sights along the Kryukov Canal, including St. Nicholas Cathedral, Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, and the Mariinsky theatre.

You’ll dip beneath the famous colored bridges on Neva River whilst enjoying views of Peter and Paul Fortress, Vasilyevsky Island, and the Summer Garden. This is truly one of the most breathtaking ways to take in all the beauty that St. Petersburg has to offer. 

This tour also only takes around an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to revisit your favorite spots throughout the day!

5. Discover Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

One of St. Petersburg’s architectural masterpieces is the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood.

This former Russian Orthodox Church was completed in 1907 and is built in Baroque, Neoclassical, and Russian Revival design. It is one of the city’s main attractions, with ornate domes, intricate frescoes, and 7,500 square meters of mosaics inside. 

If you don’t wish to enter, you can gain incredible views from Griboedov Canal. But if you do venture inside, you’ll be rewarded with interior frescoes and mosaic works depicting biblical scenes and figures created by celebrated Russian artists of the time.

The Church of the Saviour of Blood is built on the spot where Emperor Alexander 2 was assassinated in 1881 – hence the name. So, not only will you be able to appreciate the fine architectural designs, but also explore an important part of Russian history. 

6. Take a Rooftop Walk-in St. Petersburg

If you have viewed the city from canals and rivers, try it from the rooftops! You can take a guided rooftop walk in the city, seeing streets and skylines from an elevated perspective.

One particular tour to highlight is the Official Rooftops Excursion of St. Petersburg. Just a few minutes from Nevsky Prospect, these sites offer vistas of Fontanka River and Trinity Cathedral – and that’s just the first roof.

The second roof boasts views of St. Petersburg’s old center, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Kazan Cathedral, and the Church on Spilled Blood.

This is a truly incredible way to see the city in all its glory, plus the tour provides you with binoculars so you can see everything in great detail.

7. Admire Nevsky Prospect’s Magnificent Architecture

The main street of St. Petersburg is Nevsky Prospect. Begin at the intersection at Stroganov Palace before venturing to Kazan Cathedral. While you walk, take in the monuments dedicated to Catherine the Great and browse goods at The Passage – Nevsky Avenue’s premier department store.

This store was quite the trailblazer. It opened its doors in the late 1840s and was one of the first buildings in Russia to use gas for lighting. Then, in 1900, an electric station was installed on an underground floor.

Once you’ve finished shopping and enjoyed a fresh cup of coffee, continue to the Russian National Library – the oldest public library in Russia – and Alexandrinsky Theatre (which was built for the Imperial troupe of Petersburg).

8. Visit the Island of Peter and Paul Fortress

Set on an island connected by bridges, Peter and Paul Fortress is instantly recognizable from its needle spire, which dominates the skyline. The fortress was originally built to defend the maritime city from Swedish invaders.

However, Peter the Great defeated the opposition before it was even completed! It has since served as a military center and prison for political dissenters and, latterly, as a museum.

Inside the vast complex, you can see Peter and Paul Cathedral, visit the resting place of the Romanovs, and watch military processions or the firing of the noon-day gun.

It’s a great day trip for anyone interested in Russian, maritime or military history. There are also plenty of group walking tours available. 

9. Sample Russian Vodka in a Ryumochnye

A visit to Russia wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local drink – vodka, and the best place to do this is in a Ryumochnye. This is a specific style of 19th-century Russian drinking house that not only offers some of Russia’s best vodka but also a short history lesson.

You could call it a bar, but it’s more than that – most mainstream Ryumochnye have a definite Soviet vibe and are places for working men to kick back and enjoy vodka with their buddies.

Beverages come in bottles or shot form, and some places offer self-service and snacks.

If that sounds too hardcore for your taste, there are updated versions of Ryumochnye in the city, like Mayak in St. Petersburg, where you can gain a similar experience. 

10. Enjoy local Saint Petersburg Craft Beer

Although most people think of vodka when visiting Russia, you can also enjoy some of the best craft beer in Saint Petersburg . Russia’s second-largest city has an exciting, rapidly growing craft beer scene, in part due to its history and geography.

Historically, the Russian empire was influenced by Northern Europe, and the Dutch & English beer-drinking culture eventually made its way here. Today, Saint Petersburg is home to a growing number of modern microbreweries, cool taprooms, and stylish bars.

Saint Petersburg is also home to Stepan Razin Brewery, the oldest brewery in Russia (now, of course, owned by Heiniken). It opened in 1795, but today the building is known as the Saint Petersburg Beer Museum, showcasing the history of beer in Russia and the Soviet Union.

Russia’s largest and most popular brewery, Baltika, is also located in Saint Petersburg, and it’s possible to take a tour of their huge brewery.

11. See the Majestic Catherine Palace

A stately palace of blue and gold, Catherine’s Palace is located 26 kilometers south of St. Petersburg. Named after the wife of Peter the Great, this place was originally a two-story modest building commissioned in 1717.

The exterior, which stretches for one kilometer in circumference, is surrounded by woodlands, lawns, gilded balconies, and reliefs. However, the interiors are even more impressive.

With great halls, a white dining room, an amber room, and more. It’s the perfect place to step back into history and discover what life was like as a Russian aristocracy.

12. Explore Peterhof Palace

If you’re going to visit Catherine Palace, you should tour Peterhof too. It’s a 40-minute drive away, but you can even take a hydrofoil speed boat from right behind the Hermitage in Saint Petersburg center.

Sitting close to the Baltic Sea, Peterhof Palace was constructed by Peter the Great to be Russia’s version of Versailles. The opulent residence surrounded by sculptures, fountains, and tiered staircases leading to the grand entrance evokes mystery and the history of a bygone era.

Inside it is lavishly decorated with dazzling chandeliers, one-of-a-kind artworks and beautiful ceiling frescoes.

On a guided tour, you can learn more about the palace’s history. Discover the Throne Room, Portrait Hall and Peter the Great’s Oak Study. You’ll see dining rooms set for dinner, grand ballrooms where dancing and gatherings would take place, and décor which defies time.

The palace offers great insight into his life and legacy, and if you are interested in history, art and interior design, you’ll love it.

Want to know more about Peterhof?

13. Spend a Day by the Finnish Border at Vyborg

Just over an hour from central Saint Petersburg by train is the city of Vyborg. It sits on the Gulf of Finland and was first settled back in the 12th century. The city has been occupied by Finnish and German forces and suffered extensive damage during the Second World War. However, it has since been rebuilt. 

It’s a charming center to wander around, with narrow cobbled streets, a medieval castle, and Finnish art nouveau structures sprinkled throughout. An easy day trip from St. Petersburg, it can also serve as a stop-off point if you’re crossing into Finland to continue your adventure.

Want to know more about Saint Petersburg?

Where is St. Petersburg | Is St. Petersburg in Europe?

If you want to know “Where is Saint Petersburg?”, you’ve come to the right place. Beautiful St. Petersburg is located in northern Russia. Russia is a massive country, so it is no surprise that many people want to know “Is Saint Petersburg in Europe?”. The answer is yes. 

How to Get to Saint Petersburg

The maritime city is well linked to Europe by air, sea, rail and road. Depending on where you’re traveling from and the rest of your itinerary, you can use one of the following ways to arrive at St. Petersburg.

You can fly into Saint Petersburg through Pulkovo International Airport. There are around 1,100 international flights a week and 1,200 domestic flights operating in and out of the local airport.

Although many flights from European cities to Saint Petersburg are direct, you may have to change flights if flying from further afield.

It’s also possible to travel to St. Petersburg by train. The most popular (and most frequent) routes operate from Moscow, Helsinki, and Tallinn. However, there are options to travel from other areas in central Europe, central Asia, and eastern Europe by rail.

There is a central bus station in Saint Petersburg, with services to and from Moscow, Pskov, Novgorod, Vilnius, Riga , Tallinn and Helsinki. Some of these journeys can be long and arduous.

Therefore, thorough research and choosing the right bus company is important.

Baltic Sea Cruises also operate to St. Petersburg as part of a larger itinerary, and St. Peter Line Ferry sails from Helsinki in Finland and Tallinn in Estonia.

Exploring Saint Petersburg, Russia

Saint Petersburg is the 5th most populous city in Europe and also a leading tourist destination. Although people sometimes forget about Russia, this city is breathtakingly beautiful and provides plenty of cultural and historical attractions.

Now that you know where to go, I hope you have an amazing time in Russia’s most beautiful city.

Friday 19th of January 2018

Thank you! So great review about our St. Petersburg!

What to do in St. Petersburg in 1 day - Probe around the Globe

Thursday 11th of May 2017

[…] more about the beauty of St. Petersburg from the Unusual […]

Friday 17th of June 2016

Which hostel did you stay at? I am potentially thinking of going to Russia for World Cup 2018 after my World Cup trip to Brazil two years ago. Saint Petersburg is one of the host cities, and so I am very interested in learning more about this city and recommendations from fellow travellers who have been.

Christian L.

I stayed at Soul Kitchen Junior, and I will go so far and say its by far the best hostel I have ever stayed at!! Anywhere in the world, no other hostels even get close to it:)