· GL

Nuuk

Nuuk, Sermersooq, Greenland

Nuuk, the capital city of Greenland, is a unique destination that offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and historical significance. Located in the Sermersooq municipality, Nuuk is situated …

#Arctic#Capital city#Greenland#Northernmost capital#Sermersooq

1/4

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Nuuk.

Top Hotels in Nuuk

Top Flights to Nuuk

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Nuuk.

Tours

Explore the Nuuk National Museum

Discover the history and culture of Greenland at the Nuuk National Museum, featuring diverse exhibits including archaeological discoveries, historical artifacts, and art.

Katuaq Cultural Centre Visit

Visit Katuaq for a taste of Greenlandic culture through exhibitions, concerts, and films.

Visit Nuuk Art Museum

Delve into modern Greenlandic art and international works at the Nuuk Art Museum.

City Walk Through Colonial Harbour

Stroll through the historic Colonial Harbour of Nuuk and learn about Greenland's past.

Shopping

Shop Local at Nuuk Center

Explore Greenlandic fashion, crafts, and books at Nuuk Center, Nuuk's largest shopping mall.

Outdoor

Hiking at Mount Sermitsiaq

Challenge yourself with a hike up Mount Sermitsiaq for breathtaking views of Nuuk and the surrounding fjords.

Cruise the Nuuk Fjord

Enjoy a boat tour through one of the world's largest fjord systems, offering stunning views and potential wildlife encounters.

Nuuk Food Tour

Experience authentic Greenlandic cuisine with a guided food tour across Nuuk's best eateries.

Experience Kangerluarsunnguaq Bay

Paddle through serene waters and enjoy the beautiful landscapes around Kangerluarsunnguaq Bay.

Aurora Borealis Gazing

Witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights in the clear skies of Nuuk.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Nuuk.

Currency

kr | DKK | Danish Krone

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Nuuk, Sermersooq, Greenland is around 19,000.

Languages

Greenlandic, Danish, English

Average weather

Nuuk

Jan

-5°-10°

Feb

-6°-11°

Mar

-5°-11°

Apr

-1°-6°

May

3°-2°

Jun

7°2°

Jul

10°5°

Aug

9°4°

Sep

6°1°

Oct

1°-3°

Nov

-2°-7°

Dec

-4°-9°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Nuuk.

What people love

There are several pros of traveling to Nuuk, Greenland:

Unique Arctic Experience: Nuuk offers a unique opportunity to experience the Arctic environment with its stunning landscapes, icebergs, and wildlife such as whales and seals.
Cultural Immersion: Nuuk is the capital of Greenland and has a rich Inuit culture and history. Travelers can immerse themselves in the local traditions, arts, and cuisine.
Outdoor Activities: Nuuk is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and dog sledding. The surrounding wilderness provides fantastic opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Northern Lights: Nuuk is located within the Arctic Circle, making it an ideal location to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights during the winter months.
Sustainable Tourism: Greenland is known for its commitment to sustainable tourism practices, providing travelers with the opportunity to experience nature responsibly.

Overall, traveling to Nuuk can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty in a unique Arctic setting.

What to know

Traveling to Nuuk, Greenland, like any destination, has its own set of challenges and cons. Here are some potential drawbacks of visiting Nuuk:

Extreme Weather Conditions: Nuuk experiences harsh weather conditions, with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. Travelers may find it difficult to adjust to the extreme cold temperatures, especially if they are not accustomed to such conditions.
Limited Transportation Options: Getting to Nuuk can be challenging as there are limited transportation options available. Flights to Nuuk may be expensive and not as frequent as to other popular destinations.
Isolation: Nuuk is a remote destination, and travelers may feel isolated due to the lack of connectivity and amenities compared to more urban areas. This could be a concern for those who are used to a bustling city life.
Language Barrier: The primary language spoken in Nuuk is Greenlandic, along with Danish. English is not as widely spoken, so travelers may face communication challenges, especially when trying to navigate or seek assistance.
High Cost of Living: Greenland is known for its high cost of living, and Nuuk is no exception. Travelers may find that prices for accommodation, food, and activities are higher compared to other destinations, which could impact their travel budget.
Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Nuuk is not a typical tourist destination, so the infrastructure for tourism may not be as developed as in other places. This could mean fewer accommodation options, limited dining choices, and fewer tourist attractions to visit.

Overall, while Nuuk offers unique and stunning natural landscapes, travelers should be prepared for the challenges that come with visiting a remote and less tourist-friendly destination.

Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, is a city with a rich history that reflects the broader cultural and historical narratives of Greenland. Here’s a detailed overview:

Early History

Pre-Colonial Period: The area around Nuuk has been inhabited for thousands of years. The earliest known inhabitants were the Paleo-Eskimo peoples, including the Saqqaq culture, which existed around 2500–800 BC. They were followed by the Dorset culture and later the Thule culture, which are considered the ancestors of the modern Inuit.

Colonial Era

1728 - Establishment: Nuuk was founded in 1728 by the Danish-Norwegian missionary Hans Egede, who arrived to convert the Greenlandic Inuit to Christianity. The settlement was initially named "Godthåb," meaning "Good Hope." Egede played a significant role in the cultural and religious transformation of the area.
18th to 19th Century: Throughout this period, Godthåb grew as a small settlement largely focused on mission work, trade, and hunting. The Danish colonial presence expanded, and Nuuk became a center for administration and education.

Modern Era

Post-World War II Developments: After World War II, Greenland's strategic importance increased, and Nuuk's development accelerated. Greenland attained home rule in 1979, and Nuuk became the administrative center of this new political arrangement.
1990s to Present: Nuuk has continued to grow and modernize, becoming the cultural and economic hub of Greenland. It now hosts various institutions, including the University of Greenland (Ilisimatusarfik), which was established in 1987.

Significant Events

1979 - Home Rule: The introduction of home rule was a significant milestone for Nuuk, giving Greenland greater autonomy from Denmark and making Nuuk the center of Greenlandic government and politics.
2009 - Self-Government Act: This act further expanded Greenland’s autonomy, allowing more control over domestic affairs and resource management.

Important Landmarks

Hans Egede's House: One of the oldest buildings in Nuuk, built in 1728. It is a key historical site and a reminder of the city's colonial past.
Katuaq - The Cultural Center of Greenland: Opened in 1997, Katuaq is a focal point for cultural events, art exhibitions, and performances, symbolizing Nuuk's role as Greenland's cultural heart.
Nuuk Cathedral (Vor Frelsers Kirke): Originally built in 1849, it is a prominent religious and historical landmark in the city.
Greenland National Museum and Archives: This museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts that illuminate Greenland's history and culture, including the famous Qilakitsoq mummies.

Historical Figures

Hans Egede (1686–1758): Known as the Apostle of Greenland, Egede is a central figure in Nuuk's history due to his role in establishing the town and spreading Christianity.
Jonathan Motzfeldt (1938–2010): A significant political figure in modern Greenland, he was the first Prime Minister after the introduction of home rule.

Nuuk today is a vibrant city that balances its rich historical heritage with modern development, serving as the political, economic, and cultural center of Greenland.