Greenland holidays: icebergs, dog sleds and northern lights
Icebergs drifting past town, the midnight sun in summer and the aurora in winter. Greenland is the largest island in the world, and one of the most untouched.
Ilulissat, Greenland
Disko Bay in evening light, seen from Hotel Arctic.
Why go to Greenland?
Greenland is the world's largest island, and most of it is covered by ice. People live along the coast, in colourful towns and settlements where dog sleds, boats and small planes are as common as cars. Greenland is self-governing and part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and the scenery is so vast that even seasoned travellers fall silent.
For most visitors a trip to Greenland starts on the west coast, and the goal is often Ilulissat and the Icefjord.
Ilulissat and the Icefjord
Ilulissat lies on Disko Bay, where the Ilulissat Icefjord meets the sea. The fjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the icebergs calving from the glacier at its head drift past the town all year round. You can walk marked trails to viewpoints over the fjord, take a boat out among the icebergs and, in summer, watch whales in the bay.
Other places in Greenland
Nuuk is the capital, with museums, cafés and fjords right outside town. Further east lie some of the most remote settlements in the Arctic. Plan with plenty of time, as distances are huge and the weather decides.
Hotel Arctic, Ilulissat
The aurora over the glass roof.
Where to stay in Greenland
Hotels are few, so book early. In Ilulissat, Hotel Arctic is the most extraordinary choice, with glass-roofed rooms and views over Disko Bay. The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Arctic
How to get to Greenland
Most travellers fly via Copenhagen and then take a domestic flight. Flight connections and airports in Greenland are being expanded, so check current routes when you plan. Between towns you travel by plane, helicopter or boat.
When is the best time to visit Greenland?
Summer, from June to August, brings the midnight sun, open water and boat trips among the ice. From September to March it is dark enough for the northern lights, and winter and spring are the season for dog sledding. Pack for the cold whatever the season. Read more about Denmark.
Frequently asked questions about holidays in Greenland
How do you get to Greenland from the UK?
The usual route is to fly via Copenhagen and then take a domestic flight to Ilulissat or Nuuk, for example. Check current routes, as flight connections are changing.
When is the best time to visit Greenland?
June to August is best for the midnight sun, boat trips and whales. September to March is northern lights season, and winter and spring suit dog sledding.
What is Ilulissat famous for?
Ilulissat is famous for its Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where huge icebergs drift out into Disko Bay, right past the town.
Where should I stay in Ilulissat?
Hotel Arctic is the most extraordinary choice, with glass-roofed rooms and views over Disko Bay and the icebergs.
Do I need a passport to visit Greenland?
Entry rules for Greenland can differ from Denmark's. Check the current requirements before you travel.