Picolo recommends · Hotel by the Ilulissat Icefjord
Hotel Arctic, Ilulissat: sleep under glass by Greenland's icebergs
Icebergs the size of city blocks drift past the window, and at night the aurora dances over the glass roof. Hotel Arctic in Ilulissat is as close as you get to a hotel at the edge of the world.
The icefjord
The icebergs of Ilulissat.
It is so quiet you can hear the ice. A deep crack somewhere out in the bay, then the wave rolling ashore half a minute later. Outside the window lie icebergs so big they look like islands, and the light is pink even though it is long past midnight.
Ilulissat sits on the west coast of Greenland, on Disko Bay at the mouth of the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The icebergs calve from one of the most active glaciers in the northern hemisphere and drift slowly down the fjord and past the town. Hotel Arctic stands on the edge of town looking straight out over the ice.
This is a hotel where the location is the whole point. Here is what you should know before you go. 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.
Disko Bay
Sunset from the hotel.
The rooms
Sea views and a balcony.
Twin room
The icebergs right outside the window.
The suite
A lounge with big windows.
Picolo’s verdict
Why we like Hotel Arctic
Hotel Arctic is known for its small igloo-shaped cabins on the edge of the bay, and for rooms with big windows and glass roofs where you lie and watch the sky.
Every room has a balcony or terrace. The harbour is a few minutes away, and in autumn and winter you can see the northern lights right above the roof.
Midnight sun
In summer the sun does not set.
Why stay at Hotel Arctic
Hotel Arctic: icebergs from your bed, aurora over the roof
Hotel Arctic is known for its small igloo-shaped cabins on the edge of the bay, and for rooms with large windows and glass roofs where you can lie back and watch the sky. Every room has a balcony or terrace, so you can stand outside with your coffee and watch the icebergs drift by.
The harbour is a few minutes away, and that is where boat trips out among the icebergs depart. In summer there is the midnight sun, in autumn and winter you may see the northern lights right over the roof.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Arctic
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Hotel Arctic in Ilulissat
Rooms with a balcony or terrace, and igloo cabins with glass roofs.
Ilulissat
Icebergs right outside town.
Things to do in Ilulissat
Boat trip among the icebergs: summer and autumn, ideally in the evening when the light is low.
Hike along the Icefjord: marked trails from town lead to viewpoints over the World Heritage area.
Dog sledding: in winter and spring, with local mushers.
Whale watching: in summer you will often see whales in Disko Bay.
Read more in our Greenland travel guide.
When is the best time to visit Ilulissat?
Summer brings the midnight sun, open water and boat trips among the ice. Autumn and winter bring darkness and a chance of the northern lights, and winter is the season for dog sledding. The weather can change quickly, so pack for the cold whatever the season.
How to get there
You usually fly via Copenhagen and on by domestic flight to Ilulissat. Routes and airports in Greenland are being expanded, so check current connections when you plan. Book flights and hotel together, as rooms and departures are limited.
When should you book?
June to August: high season with the midnight sun, so book several months ahead.
September to March: northern lights season, often easier to find rooms.
Excursions: book boat trips and dog sledding early, as places are limited.
Alternatives
Would you rather stay somewhere else?
Two other hotels in Ilulissat.
Frequently asked questions about Hotel Arctic and Ilulissat
Where is Hotel Arctic?
Hotel Arctic is on the edge of Ilulissat on the west coast of Greenland, overlooking Disko Bay and the icebergs from the Ilulissat Icefjord.
Can you see the northern lights in Ilulissat?
Yes, during the dark part of the year, roughly September to March, you can see the northern lights in Ilulissat when the sky is clear.
How do you get to Ilulissat?
Most travellers fly via Copenhagen and then take a domestic flight. Check current routes, as flight connections to Greenland are changing.
What is the Ilulissat Icefjord?
The Icefjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where one of the most active glaciers in the northern hemisphere calves icebergs that drift out into Disko Bay.
How many nights should I spend in Ilulissat?
Three to four nights gives you time for a boat trip, a hike along the Icefjord and a buffer if the weather stops an excursion.