What to see in Greenland, the world’s largest island and gateway to the North Pole

To speak of Greenland is to delve into one of the most extreme, remote, and fascinating territories on the planet. With over 80% of its surface covered by ice , this immense island not only holds the title of the world's largest island , but is also considered the main natural gateway to the North Pole .

Greenland is a destination that captivates travelers seeking pristine landscapes , untamed nature , unique Arctic experiences , and a profound connection to ancestral cultures. Far removed from conventional tourism, this territory offers colossal fjords , active glaciers , monumental icebergs , polar wildlife , and a cultural identity shaped by the Inuit people.

Why Greenland is recognized worldwide

The history of Greenland dates back more than 4,500 years , when the first Arctic peoples began to inhabit these extreme lands. The Inuit of today are heirs to these ancestral cultures, masterfully adapted to one of the harshest climates on the planet.

In the 10th century, the Vikings established settlements in the south of the island. Although these disappeared over time, they left a significant historical mark.

Centuries later, Greenland became part of Denmark, and today it maintains the status of an autonomous territory with its own language, living traditions, and a distinct cultural identity. This blend of Inuit heritage , Viking past , and Scandinavian modernity is one of the destination's greatest cultural attractions.

Greenland is a unique destination because it offers extreme and genuine experiences : sailing among icebergs , whale watching , hiking in virgin territories , northern lights , midnight sun and direct contact with ancestral cultures .

Best time to travel and weather

Unlike other Arctic destinations, here nature reigns supreme , with no large infrastructures or mass tourism. Every trip is unique, shaped by the ice, the light, and the weather, making Greenland an unpredictable and profoundly authentic destination.

The best time to visit Greenland is between June and September , when temperatures are more pleasant and allow you to sail through fjords , explore glaciers, and enjoy the midnight sun . During these months, the average temperature ranges from 5°C to 12°C , depending on the region.

Winter, between October and April , is ideal for those seeking northern lights , completely snowy landscapes and experiences such as dog sledding , with temperatures that can drop below -20°C .

Rainfall is scarce throughout the year and is mainly concentrated in the summer months, generally in the form of light rain .

Expan Experience: Denmark and Greenland – June 2026 (12 days / 11 nights)

Nuuk, the capital of Greenland

Nuuk , both traditional and contemporary, is the world's northernmost capital and the country's main urban center, surrounded by mountains, sea and fjords .

Among its essential tourist attractions is the National Museum , where the famous Inuit mummies are preserved, an exceptional testimony of ancestral life in the Arctic.

The historic Kolonihavnen neighborhood, with its colorful wooden houses, allows you to understand the colonial past, while the local Kalaaliaraq market offers a direct look at local products and customs.

Also noteworthy is the modern Katuaq Cultural Centre , which symbolizes present-day Greenland: art, music and contemporary design inspired by Arctic nature.

From Nuuk, one of the most memorable experiences is sailing towards the Qooqqut Fjord , a spectacular environment dominated by mountainous landscapes , waterfalls , large ice formations and an absolute calm that defines the spirit of the Arctic.

The capital is ideal for sampling Greenlandic cuisine , deeply connected to the natural environment. Fresh fish , Arctic shellfish , and meats such as reindeer , seal, and musk ox predominate. One of the most representative traditional dishes is suaasat , a hot soup.

Ilulissat: Icebergs, glaciers and whales

The adventure continues in Ilulissat , one of Greenland's most iconic and photographed destinations. Located next to the famous Ilulissat Icefjord , a UNESCO World Heritage Site , this town is synonymous with giant icebergs and nature in motion.

In Ilulissat it is possible to take excursions among icebergs , explore the impressive Ilulissat Bay and walk through Sermermiut , an ancient Inuit settlement with privileged views of the ice slowly moving towards the sea.

From here you can also access Disko Bay , renowned as one of the best spots on the planet for whale watching . During the summer, humpback, minke, and even blue whales migrate through these cool waters, offering an unforgettable natural spectacle.

Another must-see is the visit to the Eqi Glacier , an active glacier where you can observe the detachment of enormous blocks of ice , a stunning demonstration of the force of nature.

A short distance from Ilulissat lies Oqaatsut , also known as Rodebay. This small, historic whaling village offers an intimate and authentic experience, far removed from any trace of mass tourism, allowing visitors to discover daily life in Greenland: traditional fishing , dog sledding , colorful houses, and a deep respect for the natural environment.

In Ilulissat you can also visit the house of Knud Rasmussen , one of the most important polar explorers in history.

Greenland: A journey to the edge of the world

Traveling to Greenland is much more than tourism: it's an experience of exploration , silence, and a profound connection with nature. It's discovering a territory where ice dominates the landscape, where human history is brief compared to the ancient geology, and where every landscape seems to belong to another planet.

For those seeking adventure , authenticity and real emotions , Greenland stands out as one of the most impressive and memorable destinations in the world.

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