A Travel Guide to Ilulissat – The Town of Icebergs
I still remember my very first trip to Ilulissat back in 2012. I had come with my friend Alli, an experienced mountain guide from Iceland, who was also visiting Greenland for the first time. After days of exploring Disko Bay, we found ourselves sitting on the rocks by the UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord, watching colossal icebergs drift silently through the water. As we reflected on the scale and beauty of what we’d seen, Alli summed it up perfectly: “Greenland – it’s like Iceland on steroids.” That moment has stayed with me ever since. Ilulissat doesn’t just impress you with its landscapes—it overwhelms you with the sheer power of Arctic nature.
Getting there
Getting to Ilulissat isn’t as straightforward as you would hope for, yet the choices are clear since there are only a few main routes:
Air Greenland (year-round): The most frequent choice, flying from Copenhagen via Nuuk or Kangerlussuaq to Ilulissat.
Icelandair (summer only): Direct flights from Keflavik, connecting well with their extensive European, US, and Canadian network. Icelandair previously operated winter flights too, but at the time of writing no such flights to Ilulissat are scheduled.
United Airlines (summer & Nuuk only): Direct flights from New York to Nuuk twice a week — a new connection which started in summer 2025. These are not direct flights to Ilulissat, but they may be an interesting option for US travelers who want to combine a stay in Nuuk with Ilulissat. To continue to Ilulissat, you must change to Air Greenland, and since this cannot currently be booked on one ticket, it’s wise to plan buffer days before and after the Nuuk–Ilulissat connection.
Another way to reach Ilulissat is by taking the coastal ferry Sarfaq Ittuk. The best option is to fly into Nuuk and board the ferry there, or fly into Qaqortoq. The Sarfaq Ittuk travels up and down the coast once a week, stopping at small settlements and eventually bringing you to Ilulissat—the most authentic slow travel experience you can have in Greenland.
Getting around Ilulissat
Ilulissat is compact and walkable, but you often have to walk alongside the road. In winter, conditions can be slippery, and I recommend using spike attachments.
Bus: Runs every 30 minutes, per ride (pay by card onboard). The service is not always super reliable, so it’s wise to take an earlier bus than planned to avoid delays.
Taxi: Taxi’s are available but best to book in advance especially during peak season. The easiest way is through the reception or hosts of your accommodation in Ilulissat. Two local companies you can contact directly are: Ilulissat Taxi (+299 94 44 44) and Radio Taxi Ilulissat (+299 94 49 44).
Distances: As mentioned, Ilulissat is walkable, but have in mind that Hotel Arctic and Hotel Søma are located about from the town center and roughly from the Icefjord Centre. The walk into town is along a main road and not especially scenic. For convenience, it’s often better to book a taxi or take the bus.
The Ilulissat Icefjord – UNESCO World Heritage
The star of the show here in Ilulissat is the Ilulissat Icefjord, where the mighty Sermeq Kujalleq glacier produces around 35–40 km³ of ice each year—roughly the same volume of ice as all the water consumed annually in the United States.
A boardwalk leads you past breathtaking viewpoints. Follow the path to Sermermiut, an ancient Inuit settlement that tells 4,000 years of history. From here, massive icebergs float silently through Disko Bay. The atmosphere is magical during the midnight sun of summer or beneath the northern lights in winter.
The Icefjord Hiking Trails
I’ll never forget one evening hike in Ilulissat: walking towards the Icefjord at sundown in August, the light spread across the bay in the colors I had been hoping for. As I sat there, I could hear the ice crack and groan, and even spotted a whale feeding close by. Since then I recommend choosing one of these trails, slowing down, and spending time near the ice—it’s a chance to truly feel the Arctic atmosphere.
World Heritage Trail (Boardwalk): From the Icefjord Centre to Sermermiut. each way, about 30 minutes. Very easy, on a wooden boardwalk, accessible and easy to walk. It’s the fastest and easiest way to reach the Icefjord. In winter, trail conditions can vary greatly, so we recommend joining a guided Sermermiut hike instead.
Red Trail: From the Icefjord Centre to Holms Hill. each way, about 30 minutes. Easy–moderate with small inclines. A shortcut that rewards you with views from Holms Hill.
Yellow Trail: From the Power Plant to the Icefjord Centre. , 1.5–2 hours. Moderate, with some inclines but generally easy walking. Offers wide panoramic views of stranded icebergs.
Blue Trail: From the Quarry via Sermermiut back to the Icefjord Centre. , 4–5 hours. Challenging, with uneven terrain and climbs. This route offers varied landscapes and multiple perspectives of the Icefjord.
💡 You can download the free UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord Audio Guide, which includes the Sermermiut Walk. Make sure to download it before your trip, as there was no Wi-Fi at the Icefjord Centre when we visited last.
To help protect and preserve the UNESCO World Heritage Site Ilulissat Icefjord, the local municipality of Avannaata has introduced a site fee of per visitor in 2025. This contribution supports the continued safeguarding of this unique natural heritage.
In winter, trail conditions can vary greatly, with icy and snow-covered paths making routes more challenging or even impassable. For safety, we recommend joining a guided Sermermiut hike rather than going alone.
Cultural Highlights
When wandering through town, I always recommend stepping into one of its museums. Inside, you quickly sense how life here has always been shaped by the ice and the sea. Stories of explorers, Inuit traditions, and modern Greenlandic creativity all come together, adding depth and meaning to the natural wonders that surround you:
Icefjord Centre (opened 2021): A stunning piece of architecture telling the story of ice, climate, and human history. If you only have time to visit one cultural site in Ilulissat, this is the one to choose. As it is located at the trailhead, it’s best to combine a visit with one of the hikes mentioned above. Tickets can be prebooked online and advance booking is recommended, especially in summer. Opening times fluctuate, particularly in winter, so it’s best to check the website before your visit.
Ilulissat Museum (Knud Rasmussen House): Located in the polar explorer’s birthplace and childhood home, where he lived during his early years (1879–1891). It is one of Ilulissat’s most visited cultural sites. The museum not only showcases Inuit culture and daily life but also highlights Greenland’s exploration history and Knud Rasmussen’s key role in Arctic expeditions.
Ilulissat Art Museum: Features early 20th-century landscapes by Emanuel A. Petersen and contemporary Greenlandic art. In 2025, you could buy a combined ticket for DKK 100 / to visit both this museum and the Ilulissat Museum.
Summer in Ilulissat (June–September)
Summer in Ilulissat means endless daylight and mild temperatures between . What makes this season truly special is how alive the landscape feels. Sailing among the icebergs under the midnight sun, you hear the crackling of ice and see colors shifting from golden to pink across Disko Bay. On lucky evenings, whales surface close to the boats, their breath rising in the cold air like steam.
Kayaking here connects you with the traditions of the Inuit, gliding quietly past monumental icebergs as generations have done before. A few local operators also offer evening kayaking trips, and if you feel comfortable in a kayak, I consider this one of the must-do experiences in Ilulissat.
Day trips to settlements like Oqaatsut or Ilimanaq bring a glimpse of life in small Greenlandic communities, where time moves slower and the connection to nature feels stronger. In Ilimanaq, it is even possible to stay overnight in luxury lodges right by the water.
If you have more time, a trip to Disko Island reveals a completely different face of Greenland: volcanic cliffs, lush valleys, and inviting hiking trails. With a convenient ferry system between Ilulissat and Qeqertarsuaq, you can arrange both day excursions and overnight stays (1–2 nights), making it easy to experience the island’s unique landscapes.
Further afield, an excursion to the mighty Eqi Glacier offers the chance to witness dramatic ice calving—a sound and sight that stays with you long after you return home. I recommend to stay overnight here in one of the cabins situated close to the glacier, allowing you to experience its power and beauty over a longer period.
With so much to choose from, what would I recommend to first-time visitors to Ilulissat? Here are my Top 5 recommendations in summer:
Walk the World Heritage Trail to Sermermiut and spend time by the Icefjord, listening to the ice crack and groan. If you are an active traveller, take the Blue Trail for a longer challenge. Both walks combine perfectly with a visit to the Icefjord Centre.
Join an evening iceberg sailing tour, where the low sun paints the ice in shades of gold and pink. Even if the sun does not shine, there is nothing to worry—this trip is amazing in almost all weather conditions, even fog.
Try kayaking among icebergs, especially in the evening – a must-do if you are comfortable in a kayak. Check out Selina’s post for a personal take on what makes this experience so unforgettable.
Visit Disko Island for at least one night to experience its volcanic landscapes and hiking trails.
Take a day trip to Eqi Glacier, or even better, stay overnight in the lodge nearby for the full experience. They even have a sauna there.
Winter in Ilulissat (February–April)
Winter wraps Ilulissat in its icy embrace from October through April, transforming this remote Greenlandic town into a wonderland of crystalline beauty. While some might shy away from the harsh conditions, I believe February through early April offers the perfect sweet spot for winter visitors—you’ll find adequate daylight hours paired with an impressive array of Arctic activities, all set against a backdrop of pristine wilderness.
The winter here doesn’t apologize for its intensity. Temperatures plunge between , and sudden winter storms can sweep across the landscape with dramatic force. Yet these very conditions create the magic that draws travelers from around the world. The air is so crisp it seems to sparkle, and the silence is profound—broken only by the distant crack of shifting ice or the howling of sled dogs.
Clear winter nights in Ilulissat offer one of nature’s most spectacular performances. The aurora borealis emerges without warning, painting the darkness in ethereal ribbons of green and purple that dance across the star-filled sky. It’s a sight that renders even seasoned travelers speechless—the kind of moment that becomes permanently etched in memory. Keep in mind that as April arrives and daylight hours rapidly extend, your chances of witnessing these celestial displays diminish significantly.
Daylight hours may be limited, but they’re packed with possibilities. Guided walks to the ancient settlement of Sermermiut combine cultural discovery with breathtaking views of the UNESCO Icefjord. Guided tours through town reveal how locals have adapted to life in one of the world’s most extreme environments. For those willing to brave the elements, winter icefjord cruises offer a unique perspective of towering icebergs locked in frozen seas.
The real magic happens when you venture beyond the town’s borders. Dog sledding remains the quintessential Greenlandic experience—gliding across endless white expanses while listening to the rhythmic padding of paws on snow and the excited breathing of your canine team. For those craving different thrills, snowmobiling opens up vast backcountry territories, while snowshoeing provides a more contemplative way to explore the pristine wilderness.
The ultimate winter experience awaits at the Igloo Lodge, just outside town. Spending the night in a traditional snow shelter while northern lights shimmer overhead connects you to both Inuit heritage and the raw power of Arctic nature in an unforgettable way.
With so many magical options, what would I recommend to first-time winter visitors to Ilulissat? Here are my Top 5 recommendations in winter:
Take an iceberg sailing tour in winter light, when the low sun reflects beautifully off the frozen landscape.
Watch the northern lights on a clear night away from town lights—the colors and movement are unforgettable.
Join a guided hike to Sermermiut, where you can combine history, culture, and breathtaking views of the UNESCO Icefjord.
Stay overnight at Igloo Lodge with a dog sledding experience and immerse yourself in the winter silence under the aurora. Dominic, one of our team members, has shared his own story about this unforgettable stay—check out his post for a personal glimpse into the magic of the Igloo Lodge and what makes it such a special experience.
Visit the small settlement of Oqaatsut, accessible by boat or snowmobile depending on ice conditions in the bay, for a glimpse of authentic Greenlandic village life. To get a feel for what awaits, check out Dominic’s blog post detailing his dog sledding experience in Oqaatsut.
Bear in mind that winter in Ilulissat demands respect, preparation, and warm clothing—but rewards visitors with an Arctic experience that few places on Earth can match in its raw beauty and cultural authenticity.
Dining in Ilulissat
After days filled with adventure and exploration, you’ll find yourself working up quite an appetite. Luckily, Ilulissat has some memorable dining options that let you taste Greenland in every sense—fresh seafood, traditional recipes, and a touch of Arctic innovation. Most restaurants are part of the town’s hotels, which makes them easy to find and convenient after a long day outdoors.
In Town:
Hotel Hvide Falk: Beautifully located on the shores of Disko Bay, its restaurant combines a cozy setting with breathtaking panoramic views of Disko Bay. The restaurant focuses on high-quality Greenlandic ingredients sourced directly from local hunters and fishermen, with a menu highlighting fish and meat from the sea and surrounding mountains. It has been a popular choice for both tourists and locals for years.
Hotel Icefiord: Beautifully located with sweeping bay views, the restaurant reflects the country and culture of Greenland through its cuisine. The menu highlights fresh fish, Greenlandic reindeer, and musk ox, prepared with a New Nordic twist. A small smokehouse in front of the hotel supplies organic products for the kitchen, adding authentic flavors. Seasonal ingredients like crowberries, lumpfish roe, and mushrooms appear on the changing menu. It’s a warm dining experience that blends local tradition with modern taste.
Restaurant Ulo (Hotel Arctic): The hotel’s fine dining restaurant, known for Greenlandic halibut, snow crab, and musk ox, served with a New Nordic touch.
Brasserie Ulo (Hotel Arctic): A more casual option in the same hotel, offering lighter meals and a relaxed atmosphere while still highlighting local Greenlandic ingredients.
Inuit Café: A casual independent café offering local and international dishes, popular for lunch or a relaxed dinner.
Café Iluliaq: Centrally located with a varied menu and a cozy, informal atmosphere—perfect for light meals, desserts, or meeting locals. It is particularly appealing to vegetarians and vegans, as it offers a complete vegan and vegetarian menu.
Destination Dining:
There are only a few restaurant options in the nearby settlements, but they are definitely worth seeking out if you’d like to combine dining with a small excursion from Ilulissat.
Restaurant H8 (Oqaatsut): Traditional Greenlandic food in a historic trading post. In summer they usually serve both lunch and dinner, while in winter you can enjoy lunch here in combination with an excursion to Oqaatsut.
Restaurant Egede (Ilimanaq Lodge): Gourmet cuisine with Arctic ingredients and sea views, using locally sourced produce whenever possible. The restaurant is only open during the summer months (mid June to early September).
💡 Expect for lunch and for dinner. More for the fine dining options. In summer, demand is high and seating is limited, so it’s best to book ahead. The easiest way is to ask the reception staff at your accommodation to help with restaurant reservations.
If you’d like to learn more about food culture in Greenland, have a look at Caro’s post on eating in Greenland. It gives a nice overview of what to expect when dining here and how local ingredients shape the experience.
Practical Information
Best time to go: Summer (mid-June to mid-Sept) for hiking & whales; Winter (Feb–Mar) for northern lights and winter activities. April until mid-month is also a good time to visit if northern lights and snow-based activities are not the main focus.
Currency: Danish Krone (DKK), cards accepted almost everywhere.
Clothing: Dress in layers – waterproof and windproof outerwear is essential.
Electricity: Greenland uses 230V with standard European two-pin plugs (type C and K). Travelers from outside Europe may need an adapter.
Internet & Mobile: Most accommodations provide free Wi-Fi. Avoid using your home SIM card for roaming, as costs are extremely high. Instead, consider purchasing a Greenlandic eSIM for data during your stay.
Supermarkets: Ilulissat has well-equipped supermarkets such as Pisiffik and Brugseni. Fruits and vegetables are available but can be very expensive.
Health Services: Ilulissat has a regional hospital for basic and urgent care, with prescription medications dispensed on-site at Napparsimaviup Aqq. 4. Over-the-counter medicines are available at Brugseni (Alanngukasik 4, +299 94 77 00) and Pisiffik stores, kept behind counters and requested from staff. Due to limited selection and high prices, travelers should bring essential medications. Emergency services: 344 112. Severe cases require transfer to Nuuk, Reykjavik, or Copenhagen.
Arctic Location: Ilulissat lies well beyond the Arctic Circle. Be mentally prepared for unpredictable weather and potential flight disruptions, which are a normal part of travel in this region. It’s wise to build buffer days into your itinerary to accommodate such changes.
💡 Greenland Tours provides detailed FAQs and equipment lists for all of our trips, which are helpful resources when preparing for your journey.
Final thoughts
Ilulissat is the perfect first step into Greenland. Here you’ll find colossal icebergs, rich Inuit heritage, and a unique blend of wilderness and comfort. Whether you’re sailing under the midnight sun or watching the northern lights from a winter lodge, Ilulissat connects you to the raw magic of the Arctic.
When I first visited with my friend Alli, we were struck by how Greenland doesn’t just impress you—it overwhelms you with the sheer power of Arctic nature. Sitting by the Icefjord, that sense of awe was undeniable. Since then, I’ve believed that Ilulissat is a place everyone should experience at least once. I hope that when you make it here, you’ll feel the same wonder and connection to the Arctic that has stayed with me ever since.
