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Greenland, the biggest island in the world, is a land of breathtaking glaciers, stunning fjords, and endless Arctic beauty. This icy paradise offers a rare escape into untouched wilderness, where the Northern Lights illuminate the skies and massive icebergs drift through deep blue waters. Explore Ilulissat Icefjord, meet welcoming Inuit communities, and cruise past majestic ice formations. Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Greenland awaits with its mesmerising charm and rugged landscapes!
Location
Photo: Quintinsoloviev / Wikimedia Commons
Greenland is located in the North Atlantic, between North America and Europe. It lies east of Canada’s Arctic Archipelago and northwest of Iceland. Covering over 2.16 million square kilometres, it is the world’s biggest island. The island is 2,670 km long from north to south and 1,050 km wide at its broadest point. Greenland’s coastline stretches over 44,000 km, featuring deep fjords and massive glaciers. Although politically linked to Denmark, it is geographically part of North America.
How To Reach
Photo: Quintin Soloviev / Wikimedia Commons
Greenland is remote, with no direct roads or rail connections from other countries. It can only be reached by plane or by water. Most visitors fly from Denmark or Iceland.
By Air: Greenland’s main international airports are Kangerlussuaq Airport and Nuuk Airport. Direct flights operate from Copenhagen, Denmark and Reykjavik, Iceland. Air Greenland and Icelandair are the primary carriers.
By Train: There are no railway connections to Greenland.
By Road: No roads connect Greenland to other countries due to its icy terrain. Travel within the island is by boat, air, or dog sledge.
Places To Visit In The Biggest Island In The World
Experience Greenland in the best way possible with our 3 must-visit places on the world’s biggest island:
1. lulissat Icefjord
Photo: Christoph Strässler / Wikimedia Commons
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ilulissat Icefjord is home to some of the world’s fastest-moving glaciers. Towering icebergs drift through its icy waters, creating a breathtaking Arctic spectacle.The Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier feeds the fjord, moving at an astonishing speed of 40 meters per day. Visitors can witness the icebergs up close on boat tours or hike along the marked trails offering panoramic views.
Location: Ilulissat, Western Greenland
Major Attractions: Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier, Icefjord boat tours, Northern Lights in winter
2. Nuuk – Greenland’s Capital
Photo: Algkalv / Wikimedia Commons
Nuuk blends modern culture with Arctic traditions. The city offers museums, colourful Nordic houses, and stunning fjord landscapes. It is Greenland’s largest city and the centre of governance, housing the Parliament of Greenland. Visitors can explore the Greenland National Museum, which displays Viking artifacts and Inuit mummies. The nearby Nuuk Fjord is the second-largest fjord system in the world, ideal for whale watching and kayaking.
Location: Southwestern Greenland
Major Attractions: Greenland National Museum, Nuuk Fjord boat tours
3. Disko Island
Photo: Göran Ingman / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Famous for its dramatic basalt mountains, Disko Island offers pristine Arctic landscapes, hot springs, and rich Inuit heritage. The island’s unique geology, shaped by volcanic activity, contrasts with Greenland’s icy terrain. Qeqertarsuaq, the main settlement, is home to a small but welcoming community and a historic research station. The black sand beaches provide an otherworldly setting for hiking and photography.
Location: West Greenland
Major Attractions: Qeqertarsuaq town, black sand beaches, dog sledding in winter.
Must-Have Experiences In The Biggest Island In The World
Enjoy your visit to the largest island in the world with our list of the 3 must-have experiences in Greenland:
1. Witness The Northern Lights
Photo: Greenland Trave / Wikimedia Commons
Greenland is one of the best places on Earth to see the Aurora Borealis. The dark Arctic skies provide a perfect backdrop for this natural light show. The best time to see the Northern Lights is between September and April, when the nights are longest. Popular viewing spots include Ilulissat, Kangerlussuaq, and Nuuk, where minimal light pollution enhances the experience. Many guided tours offer a chance to learn about the science and legends behind the auroras.
2. Sail Among Icebergs
Photo: Greenland Travel / Wikimedia Commons
A boat trip through Greenland’s icy waters is a must for any visitor. Towering icebergs, some as large as buildings, float majestically through fjords and along the coastline. The Ilulissat Icefjord is one of the most famous places to experience this breathtaking sight. Cruises take visitors close to the icebergs, offering spectacular photo opportunities. In summer, some tours even provide the chance to see whales swimming among the ice.
3. Explore An Inuit Settlement
Photo: ezioman / Wikimedia Commons
Greenland’s Inuit culture is deeply rooted in its history and daily life. Visiting a local settlement offers a unique insight into Arctic traditions. Many villages are only accessible by boat or helicopter, adding to the adventure. Towns such as Oqaatsut and Kulusuk showcase traditional Greenlandic houses, handmade crafts, and indigenous storytelling. Visitors can try local foods, such as dried fish and musk ox meat, and learn about the strong connection between Greenlanders and their environment.
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Greenland offers a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and lodges, catering to different budgets. In Nuuk, options such as Hotel Hans Egede provide modern comforts, while Ilulissat boasts scenic stays such as the Hotel Arctic, offering stunning iceberg views. Remote areas feature eco-lodges and homestays, ideal for an immersive experience. For adventure seekers, camping is popular in summer. Accommodations fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons, so booking in advance is recommended.
Where To Eat
Photo: Greenland Halibut / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Greenland’s cuisine blends Arctic traditions with modern influences. In Nuuk, restaurants such as Sarfalik and Inuit Café serve fresh seafood and local specialities. Ilulissat offers stunning views with meals at Restaurant Ulo, known for Greenlandic tapas. For a traditional experience, try Roklubben in Kangerlussuaq, famous for musk ox dishes. Smaller towns have cosy cafés serving reindeer soup and local fish. Many hotels offer Greenlandic buffets, and in summer, food markets provide fresh local produce and street food options.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Nanopixi / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Greenland depends on the experience you seek. Summer offers long daylight hours, ideal for hiking, boat tours, and whale watching. The midnight sun provides nearly 24-hour daylight, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. Winter is best for Northern Lights, dog sledding, and Arctic exploration. Snow covers the landscapes, creating a magical winter wonderland. Shoulder months such as May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices. Each season has something unique, so plan according to your preferred activities and weather conditions.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Precondo / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
- Greenland’s climate is unpredictable. Winters are extremely cold, while summers remain cool. Pack accordingly.
- No roads connect towns; travel is by boat, air, or dog sled. Plan internal transport in advance.
- Greenland is expensive due to remote access. Accommodation, food, and tours can be pricey. Budget wisely.
Visiting Greenland, the world’s biggest island, is an adventure like no other. Marvel at majestic icebergs, the mesmerising Northern Lights, and rich Inuit culture. Whether you seek Arctic thrills or serene beauty, Greenland offers unforgettable experiences. Explore its pristine wilderness, savour local delicacies, and embrace nature’s raw splendour. Plan your extraordinary journey today with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Christine Zenino / Wikimedia Commons
