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Nuuk, Greenland

Although Greenland is the world's largest island, it remains relatively unknown to most people. Only about 15 percent of Greenland is NOT frozen year-round. Although city's are a relatively new concept for Greenlanders, Nuuk is the island's capital and largest city, at about 16,000 people. It lies on a peninsula along the central west coast and is the key to an extensive system of fjords. Like most places in Greenland, it displays a magnificent vista of mountains and valleys. Nuuk's formal history generally dates from 1728, when a Lutheran missionary Hans Egede, came from Denmark to join 12 Greenlandic families in this place, which was then called Godthåb. He built a trading post, a Lutheran mission, and opened the doors to slow, but steady integration between Inuit and European people.

A limited number of shore excursions are offered, but the town is easy to explore on your own as well. The ship's tender drops you off at the pier, providing you with the opportunity to stroll the streets, talk to the local residents, buy a souvenir stamp at the Post Office and perhaps purchase an Inuit handicraft as a remembrance of your visit to one of the unique communities on the planet.

Points of Interest

  • Greenland National Museum
  • Vor Fresler Krike (Our Saviour Church)
  • Katuaq Culture Center
  • City Hall (Inuit tapestries)
  • Cruising the Fjords

More about Nuuk, Greenland Points of Interest

  • Greenland National Museum -

    Celebrate Greenland's cultural heritage as you peruse diverse exhibits such as an Inuit Archeological Collection, a Gustav Holm display, Norse artifacts and wonderful indigenous handicrafts and art.

  • Vor Fresler Krike (Our Saviour Church) -

    This quaint 18th century church is the centerpiece of Colony Harbour, the oldest town in Nuuk, founded in 1728. Delight in its signature red paint, colonial architecture, statues and stunning views.

  • Katuaq Culture Center -

    The building's undulating wood surface, reminiscent of the northern lights, gives the structure dramatic presence. The striking interior showcases artistic interpretations of artic life and scenery.

  • City Hall (Inuit tapestries) -

    View a series of tapestries featuring motifs of Greenlandic culture at the city council chamber. Paying homage to ancient Greenland, the works of art depict local myths, legends, rituals and history.

  • Cruising the Fjords -

    From Nuuk head to the deep fjords between the grandiose mountains with 3.7 billion year old rock. You will get a closer look at clear waterfalls and have a taste of the pure water.

7 Excursions

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Nuuk, Greenland

Local Home Visit

Average Guest Rating
1.5 hours
Moderate Activity
from $84.95
Nuuk, Greenland

Nuuk on Foot and National Museum

Average Guest Rating
2 hours
Moderate Activity
from $79.95
Nuuk, Greenland

Easy Nuuk

Average Guest Rating
1.5 hours
Easy Activity
from $89.95
Nuuk, Greenland

Greenlandic Tales & Tasting

Average Guest Rating
1.5 hours
Easy Activity
from $209.95
Nuuk, Greenland

Hiking around Quassussuaq

Average Guest Rating
5 hours
Strenuous Activity
from $169.95
Nuuk, Greenland

Wildlife Fjord Safari by Boat

Average Guest Rating
1.75 hours
Moderate Activity
from $299.95
Nuuk, Greenland

Scenic Island Cruise

Average Guest Rating
2 hours
Moderate Activity
from $249.95