Ilulissat Greenland Travel Guide: Explore the Arctic Icefjord Gem
Ilulissat Greenland Travel Guide to the Arctic Icefjord Gem
Nestled on the western coast of Greenland above the Arctic Circle, Ilulissat is a destination that feels like stepping into another world. Known as the gateway to the UNESCO listed Ilulissat Icefjord, this remote town offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, untouched wilderness and unique cultural experiences. I’ve recently visited this stunning place and it was undoubtedly one of my favourite trips ever. In this Ilulissat Greenland Travel Guide, I reveal everything you need to know to explore this Arctic Gem.
Ilulissat is the third biggest city of Greenland, and it is one of the most famous destinations in the biggest island in the world that is not a continent. Known as the world’s iceberg capital, the word Ilulissat means “iceberg” in Greenlandic. With arms wide open to the stunning Disco Bay and its towering icebergs drifting serenely in the Arctic Ocean, it offers some of the most raw and untamed landscapes in the planet.
In Ilulissat ancient traditions merge with the modern comfort of Arctic living, offering visitors a rare glimpse into Greenlandic life. The town is very interesting to visit and it’s the perfect hub for an adventurous Arctic exploration.

There is no shortage of things to do in Ilulissat. You can embark on thrilling boat tours among colossal icebergs, hike along the edges of the Icefjord, experience the magic of dogsledding, watch whales or chase the Northern Lights. No matter the season, this Arctic wonderland promises unforgettable experiences.
Many visitors head to Ilulissat in Summer months, but I traveled there in Wintertime. Despite the very cold weather, I couldn’t recommend it more for a very unique experience of exploring this remote region with snow-covered wilderness. And you have the additional bonus of having a chance to see the Northern Lights. Even if you go during the polar night season (from end of November to mid-January), you will have some hours of daylight allowing you to enjoy the landscapes of one of the most remote corners of the Earth.
The best way to reach Ilulissat, Greenland, is to fly from Copenhagen, Denmark or from Reykjavik, Iceland, to Nuuk, Greenland’s capital. From Nuuk, you will need to take an internal flight to Ilulissat, which takes approximately one and a half hours. It’s a great idea to combine your Ilulissat trip with other destinations in Greenland. I spent one extra day in Nuuk and was also amazed by this vibrant city, which is considered one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Plan your Greenland itinerary for an unforgettable adventure in this Arctic Gem.

Whether you’re chasing the spectacle of calving glaciers, enjoying the midnight sun, or braving the long polar nights, Ilulissat is a bucket list destination for adventurous travelers seeking something truly extraordinary.
In this article, I will cover everything you need to know to plan your trip, including Ilulissat attractions, top things to do in Ilulissat, outdoor activities and insider tips. This Ilulissat Greeland Travel Guide aims to help you make your trip to this Arctic Gem a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you will never forget.
Explore Beautiful Ilulissat: A Stroll Through the Arctic Town
Walking around Ilulissat offers a glimpse into the life of one of the Arctic’s most remote and breathtakingly beautiful towns. Despite its relatively small size, Ilulissat is brimming with charm, from its brightly coloured houses perched on rocky hills to its stunning backdrop of Disko Bay dotted with massive icebergs.
As you wander through the quiet streets, you will notice how seamlessly traditional Greenlandic culture blends with modern Arctic living.

Don’t miss Zion Church at the seashore. Built in 1779, this is the oldest church in Greenland. Nearby there is one of the best viewpoints in Ilulissat, with an ideally located bench where you can seat and admire the mesmerising views of Disco Bay.

Stop by the harbour to watch fishermen returning with their daily catch, and explore the quaint shops and cafes offering local crafts and delicacies. You can also visit Ilulissat Cultural History Museum, housed in the former home of the famed Arctic explorer Knud Rasmussen, to delve deeper into the town’s rich history.

Iceberg Cruise in Ilulissat: An Unforgettable Journey
Ilulissat is famous for its icebergs and Ilulissat Glacier (Sermeq Kujalleq) is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2004, and one of Greenland’s most iconic natural wonders. It is one of the most active and fastest glaciers in the planet. Every day tonnes of ice flow from the glacier into Disko Bay, resulting in huge icebergs floating high above sea level.
Embarking a cruise and sailing in this Arctic gem to the mouth of the Ilulissat Icefjord to admire the beauty of the icebergs is a bucket list activity. It is also an unforgettable adventure that offers a front-row seat to one of Earth’s most spectacular displays of nature.

I joined a cruise with Disko Line Explorer and it was undoubtedly one of the most amazing experiences ever. The boat trip takes approximately 3 hours and during this time you can stand in the ship deck admiring the views. You can also seat comfortably inside the ship listening to the guide providing valuable information about this unique place. It’s important to bring warm clothes, especially during Winter, as it can get quite cold in Ilulissat Icefjord.
When the cruise leaves Ilulissat harbour, you are awarded with beautiful views from the town and its picturesque colourful wooden houses standing out in the distance.

As the boat glides through the serene waters, you start to be surrounded by towering icebergs sculpted by time and tides, and magic happens. These massive ice formations shimmer in shades of blue and white, reflecting the Arctic sun in an almost surreal display of light and color.
The highlight of the journey is undoubtedly the opportunity to witness the Ilulissat Icefjord, where icebergs calve off the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier. As you drift closer, the sheer scale and grandeur of this frozen landscape takes your breath away.

Ilulissat Icefjord Centre: An Architectural Marvel
The Icefjord Centre is an interesting place to visit while in Ilulissat. Located halfway between the town and the stunning Icefjord, this centre hosts a permanent exhibition about Greenlandic nature and culture, and the story of Ilulissat Icefjord. It also offers some art installations, a cafe and a shop.
When I traveled to Ilulissat in early January it was temporarily closed, so I could only see it from the outside. Check if it’s open before you go, but anyway it’s really worth even to just walk around it. The building itself is a striking architectural marvel that perfectly complements the natural beauty of its Arctic surroundings.
Designed by the renowned Danish architect Dorte Mandrup, it features a unique, boomerang-shaped structure that seems to float above the snow. Constructed with sustainable materials and inspired by Greenland’s landscapes, its design minimizes environmental impact while offering panoramic views of the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord.

Hike to Sermermiut: Stunning Views of the Icefjord
Ilulissat is the gateway to unforgettable hikes in the region. One of the most famous is the hike to the old Inuit settlement of Sermermiut, located on the northern shore of Ilulissat Icefjord. From The Icefjord Centre it is less than a 2 quilometres hike to Sermermiut, which takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on the weather conditions. Even if it is a relatively short hike, the views to Disko Bay and the iconic Ilulissat Icefjord are absolutely stunning.
There is a wooden trail meandering through Greenland’s tundra. Be aware that in Wintertime it can be completely covered with snow, so you should be careful before starting the hike and always check the weather and safety conditions.

Along the way, you will pass the ancient Sermermiut settlement, once home to Inuit cultures for thousands of years. The hike culminates at the Sermermiut viewpoint, where you will be rewarded with a breathtaking perspective of Ilulissat Icefjord’s majestic icebergs.

Accomodation with a View: Hotel Icefiord in Ilulissat
I stayed in Hotel Icefiord during my visit to Ilulissat and it was the perfect place for my ultimate bucket list experience in this Arctic gem, blending comfort, luxury and unforgettable views of Greenland’s stunning beauty.
Perched along the shores of Disko Bay, Hotel Icefiord offers an unparalleled location to admire the bay’s ever-changing icebergs, whether from the terrace of the restaurant or from the private room balconies.

The comfortable and cozy rooms are designed with thoughtful touches like stargazing windows that frame the Arctic night sky, and private balconies providing a mesmerizing view to the natural spectacle of Disko Bay.
Hotel Icefiord’s dedication to top-notch service enhanced my stay even further. The attentive and knowledgeable staff made everything to ensure my trip to Ilulissat was unforgettable. They provided insider tips on must-visit spots, top things to do in Ilulissat and helped me organize the cruise to see the icebergs with Disco Line Explorer.
Dining at the restaurant is another highlight of Hotel Icefiord. The menu combines local and international flavours in delicious meals, all served against the stunning backdrop of Disko Bay’s icy panorama.

Meet the Greeland Dogs and Experience Dogsledding
The sled dogs are an integral part of Greenlandic culture, embodying centuries of tradition in the Arctic. During the Winter months, dogs excited howls fill the air as they prepare to lead sleds across frozen landscapes, just as they have done for generations.

It’s possible to experience a dogsledding adventure in Ilulissat. Guided by experienced mushers, visitors can glide through the snow-covered wilderness of Ilulissat’s Arctic backdrop and have a glimpse into this unique heritage in Greenland.
I had already experienced dogsledding a few years ago in Finnish Lapland, so I haven’t done it this time. But I had the opportunity to meet the playful and friendly traditional dogs of Ilulissat in the road from the town to The Icefjord Centre, where several kennels are located.
Snowmobiling Adventure in Ilulissat
Driving a snowmobile in Ilulissat is an exhilarating way to explore Greenland’s pristine Arctic landscapes. It was in my plans, but in the day I was supposed to do it, the weather conditions were not ideal with some heavy snow. But I’ve heard it is a bucket list experience navigating the vast and snow-covered surrounding region in a snowmobile.
There are different options of guided snowmobile tours, allowing you to venture deep into areas inaccessible by foot, and offering an unique perspective of Ilulissat’s dramatic scenery.
Chase the Northern Lights in Ilulissat: A Magical Spectacle
Located 250 quilometres above the Arctic Circle, Ilulissat is also a great place to chase the Northern Lights from September to early April. The dramatic backdrop of Ilulissat’s towering icebergs and the stillness of Disko Bay amplify the magic, creating a surreal atmosphere to see the aurora borealis.
If you are lucky and you have the right conditions like clear skies and strong solar activity (for more information, check my guide about How to See the Northern Lights), you will have a good chance of seeing the celestial dance of the auroras across the Arctic sky. As darkness falls over the icy landscapes, the auroras often begin to shimmer, painting the sky with hues of green, or even pink and purple.
Far from city lights, the clarity of the Arctic night sky makes Ilulissat an ideal location to marvel at this natural phenomenon. There are difference experiences you can have to try to see the Northern Lights, one of Ilulissat’s attractions, from viewing the auroras from the shore, doing a Northern Lights cruise, a snowmobile tour, or go hiking.
I was lucky to see one night the Northern Lights from my room balcony at Hotel Icefiord. There are no words to describe the experience of admiring the lights dancing in the sky over Disco Bay.

Whale Watching in Ilulissat: A Must-Do Summer Experience
I visited Ilulissat in Winter, so I didn’t have the opportunity to watch the whales. But if you visit in Summer months, this is for sure a must do activity to see some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
The waters surrounding Ilulissat are very rich in marine life. During Summer humpback, fin, and minke whales migrate to the Arctic waters to feed. Whether from the deck of a boat or even from the shore, witnessing the gentle giants breach, dive or spout in Disko Bay’s iceberg-filled landscape is an awe-inspiring sight.
Ready to plan your adventure in Ilulissat, Greenland? I’m sure you will have a memorable experience in this Arctic Gem that is one of the most amazing and unique places in the world.
For more travel inspiration in the Arctic Circle visit my articles Travel Guide to Kiruna Winter Wonderland or Discovering Alta, the City of the Northern Lights.