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Best things to do in Nuuk

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Things to do in Nuuk - Greenland

Nuuk: Greenland's Cool Capital Where Colorful Houses Pop Like LEGOs (and the Northern Lights Might Just Crash Your Party!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide!

Alright, Arctic adventurers and fans of seriously unique destinations! While most roads in Greenland might seem to lead directly to the jaw-dropping Ilulissat Ice-fjord (a UNESCO World Heritage superstar!) or Kangerlussuaq (where the Northern Lights put on a dazzling, cosmic rave!), don't you dare overlook the capital city, Nuuk! This vibrant hub is absolutely worth a visit, and here's the kicker: compared to some of Greenland's more remote spots, Nuuk is practically a metropolis of things to do, making it a rising star on the tourist map.

Founded way back in 1728 (that's older than your grandma's favorite sweater!), Nuuk is Greenland's cultural and economic heart, and its largest city. It proudly boasts the country's tallest building, the Nuuk Center (perfect for pretending you're on top of the world!), and its oldest building, the charming Hans Egede’s House (where you can almost hear the whispers of history).

As you explore Nuuk, prepare for a visual treat! Colorful small houses dot the landscape like a box of cheerful LEGO bricks, set against the majestic backdrop of the Sermitsiaq Mountains, which you can pretty much admire from every corner of the city. Talk about sightseeing that comes with a view!

Want to dive into Greenland's fascinating past? Head to the Greenland National Museum, a treasure trove of historical artifacts, intricate handicrafts, stunning art, and intriguing archaeological finds that tell the stories of the different cultures that have called this icy land home.

And don't forget to snap some photos of the impressive red-brick Nuuk Cathedral – its striking exterior and beautiful interior are definitely Instagram-worthy. While you're there, give a nod to the Statue of Hans Egede, perched on a hill right next door, gazing out over the city he helped establish.

For a truly memorable experience, hop on a boat from Nuuk to Qornok. This isn't your average ferry ride; it's a chance to relax, breathe in the crisp Arctic air, and soak in the raw, untamed beauty of Greenland's nature. Who knows, you might even spot a whale or two putting on a show!

Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this captivating capital. Get ready for some unforgettable sightseeing, from exploring historical landmarks to cruising through stunning Arctic landscapes, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Nuuk a surprisingly vibrant and rewarding destination.

Top Attractions: Colorful Cities, Majestic Mountains, and Historical Treasures!

Nuuk offers a unique blend of urban charm and Arctic wilderness. Here are some of the top places to visit you absolutely shouldn't miss:

The Colorful Houses of Nuuk: A Photographer's Dream

Wander through the streets of Nuuk and admire the vibrant, colorful houses that dot the landscape. These cheerful homes against the backdrop of the Sermitsiaq Mountains make for fantastic photo opportunities and are a key part of Nuuk's unique charm. Definitely a highlight of your sightseeing.

The Sermitsiaq Mountains: A Majestic Backdrop

These towering mountains, visible from almost everywhere in Nuuk, provide a stunning and dramatic backdrop to the city. Their rugged peaks and icy slopes are a constant reminder of Greenland's wild beauty. Enjoying the views is a free and fantastic thing to do!

The Greenland National Museum: A Journey Through Arctic History

Delve into the fascinating history and culture of Greenland at the Greenland National Museum. Explore exhibits on the island's indigenous peoples, its colonial past, and its unique Arctic environment. It's a crucial place to visit to understand the heart of Greenland.

Nuuk Cathedral: A Striking Red Landmark

Admire the impressive red-brick architecture of Nuuk Cathedral, a significant landmark in the city. Explore its beautiful interior and learn about its role in Nuuk's history. It's a worthwhile stop on your sightseeing tour.

The Statue of Hans Egede: A Historical Figure with a View

Visit the statue of Hans Egede, the Norwegian-Danish missionary who founded Nuuk. Located on a hill beside the cathedral, the statue offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding fjord. It's a historical point of interest with a great vantage point.

Things to Do Beyond the City Center: Boat Trips, Northern Lights, and Arctic Adventures!

Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Nuuk vibe:

  • Take a Boat Trip to Qornok: Escape the city on a scenic boat trip to the abandoned settlement of Qornok. Enjoy the stunning coastal scenery and the tranquility of nature. Keep an eye out for seals and whales!
  • Witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): While Kangerlussuaq is famous, you might also get lucky and witness the magical Northern Lights dancing across the sky in Nuuk, especially during the darker winter months. It's an unforgettable thing to do if the conditions are right.
  • Explore the Nuuk Fjord: Embark on a boat tour of the vast and beautiful Nuuk Fjord, surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers.
  • Visit the Katuaq Cultural Centre: Experience Greenlandic culture through art exhibitions, concerts, and film screenings at this modern cultural center.
  • Go Hiking: While the terrain can be challenging, there are hiking opportunities around Nuuk that offer incredible views of the city and the surrounding wilderness.

So, if you're looking for places to visit that offer a unique blend of Arctic charm, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Nuuk in Greenland is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an adventure filled with unforgettable sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared for colorful houses, majestic mountains, and the possibility of a truly spectacular light show courtesy of Mother Nature herself! God tur! (Good trip!)

  • Greenland National Museum

    Learn about the cultural history of Greenland by visiting its largest cultural history museum, the Greenland National Museum. Along with many objects such as traditional clothes, costumes, the oldest skin boat in the world and items related to Inuit, the museums also contains four (three women and one less than a year old child) of the famous Qilakitsoq mummies.

  • Nuuk Cathedral

    Nuuk Cathedral, build in 1849, is not just a holy place but a popular tourist attraction in Nuuk. Visit this church to see its amazing wooden building which along its surroundings is perfect for photos. The interior of this peaceful church is just as beautiful.

  • Statue of Hans Egede

    Perched on a hill in the Old Nuuk and overlooking the Nuuk Cathedral, is the Statue of Hans Egede, which was built to honor Nuuks’s founder, Hans Egede. Not only does it give beautiful view of Nuuk Cathedral but also of the historic Old town of Nuuk. 

  • Nuuk Art Museum

    The building which was once an Adventist Church became the Nuuk Art Museum in 2005. With an amazing collection of drawings, paintings, ivory, wood and graphics it is a hidden gem of Nuuk. The museum is a mix of old and modern art and it hosts exhibitions from both local and international artists.

  • Qornok

    The ancient village, Qornok, is an abandoned village in Nuuk but still offers enough to grab your attention. Rent the old houses, and relax in this peaceful village while enjoying beautiful views of snow capped mountains, icebergs and glittery waters. Don’t forget to taste the delicious local food in the village's only restaurant.

Best places to stay in Nuuk

Greenland tours featuring Nuuk