Where to stay in Ilulissat – finding the base that suits you best
I'll be honest with you – I'm that person who can spend hours online searching for the perfect accommodation. When my family and I plan a holiday, I dive deep into every detail, comparing locations, reading between the lines of reviews, studying photos to understand the real feel of a place. It's not just about finding somewhere to sleep; it's about finding a home base that enhances your entire experience. So when clients ask me about where to stay in Ilulissat, I completely understand the challenge. That's why I want to share what I've learned from my personal visits to this remarkable town, from conversations with the wonderful teams running the places who've become trusted partners over the years, and from listening closely to the feedback our travellers share with us.
Before we dive into the specific stays, let me paint a picture of what makes Ilulissat so special — because knowing this place helps you understand what kind of base will feel right for you.
Staying in the Town of Icebergs
Ilulissat, whose name means "icebergs" in Greenlandic, sits right beside Kangia – the UNESCO-listed Icefjord where huge icebergs begin their long journey into Disko Bay. Sermeq Kujalleq, the glacier feeding the fjord, is one of the fastest and most active in the world, pushing out an astonishing amount of ice each year. You don’t need to be a glaciologist to feel the significance of this place; just standing near the fjord and watching the ice move at its own pace tells you why people from all over the world come here. It's a place that quietly stays with you, and for the people who live here, even more so.
Lisbeth, who used to run the reservations team at Hotel Arctic, once told me she grew up with this view right outside her window. For her, the Icefjord wasn’t a backdrop to be admired only on special days — it was part of her every day, woven into the rhythm of family life, the seasons, the light. And still, she said, she finds herself pausing, taking a breath, and marvelling at the sight of it. That quiet, enduring appreciation has stayed with me.
It's a truly unique corner of the world — remote, shaped by nature, and unlike anything most of us experience in our everyday lives. When you spend a moment taking in a place like this, you start to sense how its remoteness and powerful nature influence everything — and even shape the kind of accommodation you find here.
What to Expect from Accommodation in Greenland
Here's something I always emphasize, and I think it's important to be transparent about: Greenland accommodation is wonderfully distinct, but it's different from what you might expect elsewhere. The style is typically Nordic – simple, minimalistic, and functional with clean lines. Think Scandinavian design philosophy rather than grand hotel luxury.
Everything in Greenland, from building materials to furniture, must be imported, which naturally affects both availability and cost. You won't find porters rushing to carry your luggage or the kind of elaborate service you might encounter in other destinations. But here's what you will find: authenticity, incredible views, local artwork adorning the walls, and warm, welcoming hosts who take genuine pride in sharing their culture and looking after their guests.
Our Hotel Selection in Ilulissat
One thing I'd like to share upfront is this: this guide focuses on the accommodations we work with as trusted partners at Greenland Tours. These are properties we've personally visited, where we've met the people running them, and where we're confident our adventurers will have a wonderful experience. There are other options in Ilulissat, and we may expand our selection over time, but what you'll find here represents our carefully curated choices based on quality, character, and the diverse needs of our travellers.
Two things I find especially helpful when choosing where to stay in Ilulissat: the distance to the town centre and the proximity to the trails leading to the UNESCO Icefjord. And of course, understanding the distinct personality of each property – because the right choice really depends on what kind of traveller you are.
Hotel Søma Ilulissat – Cozy Warmth with Community Spirit
If you're looking for a warm, homely atmosphere, Hotel Søma is a lovely place to stay. This cosy small hotel sits just above Disko Bay, offering stunning views of floating icebergs and a genuine, personal feel that sets it apart from larger hotels — to me, it really has the charm of a guesthouse.
The Søma hotel concept is rooted in benefiting the well-being of seafarers and the local community, and you can feel that welcoming spirit the moment you arrive. The 22 Nordic-style rooms are simple and bright, each with a private bath and access to an outdoor gallery. Half face the bay and its icebergs, while the other half look toward the mountains – both options have their charm.
Most rooms feature a useful small kitchenette (great for preparing simple meals or storing snacks), and Wi-Fi is free. Breakfast is served on the ground floor where guests naturally gather and chat in the reception and common area – it's the kind of place where you might make friends with fellow travellers.
For small groups or families, there's a spacious flat on the third floor with two double rooms and an open-plan kitchen and living area. One important note: all rooms and the flat are accessed via an outside staircase – there's no elevator – so this isn't the best choice if mobility is a concern.
Because Hotel Søma is right next to Hotel Arctic, you’re welcome to dine at Hotel Arctic’s brasserie and restaurant. Both hotels are perched higher up the hillside, overlooking the town and bay. The town centre and its main amenities are about !!KM(1.5–2) away, while the Icefjord Centre—the starting point for hikes to the Icefjord—is around away. Here's a great tip: there's a bus stop right in front of Hotel Søma where the public bus stops around twice per hour. The ride costs only about , and you can buy tickets directly on the bus with a credit card.
Who is it perfect for? Travelers seeking a more intimate, community-focused experience. Budget-conscious visitors who want great views and a kitchenette option. Independent travellers who don't mind the outdoor staircase access and are comfortable getting around on foot—whether heading into town, down to the harbour, or to the starting points for excursions. Those who enjoy a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere and don't need extensive on-site facilities.
Hotel Hvide Falk – For Those Who Want to Be in the Heart of It All
If you're someone who appreciates having everything just a short stroll away, Hotel Hvide Falk is a wonderful choice. Perfectly situated right at the bay with the town's amenities within very close reach, this hotel is ideal for travellers who want amazing views and convenience.
The 37 rooms in the main building showcase fresh, comfortable Nordic design, and here's a nice touch – half of them face directly onto the sea. You can step from your room onto a gallery to breathe in that crisp Arctic air and take in the ever-changing sea views. This historic hotel from the 1970s has been extensively renewed in recent years, with all rooms and their bathrooms fully refurbished in 2023–24. Each room now offers a modern en-suite bathroom and Wi-Fi, plus direct access to the outdoor gallery. There is also an additional building right down at the shore, housing apartments that overlook Disko Bay. They haven’t been refurbished yet, but their location is fantastic — and they’re a great fit for families or anyone who’s happy with a simpler, older standard in exchange for extra space and those beautiful bay views.
The restaurant deserves special mention – it serves fine cuisine based on Greenlandic ingredients, featuring specialties like reindeer, musk ox, fresh local fish, and herbs, and they also offer a weekly Greenlandic buffet that gives you a wonderful taste of local flavours.
What many guests also appreciate is the convenience: right next to Hotel Hvide Falk you'll find Shop Siku, where many excursions start. A dock for boat departures is also just down the shore, so joining boat tours, hikes, and other adventures is wonderfully easy—ideal if you like having everything close at hand.
Who is it perfect for? Travellers who value being wonderfully well located, with easy access to excursions, cafés, and shops. Foodies who want quality dining steps from their room. And those who appreciate enjoying bay views, modern and cosy rooms, and warm, attentive hospitality — all within an easy, comfortable base.
Hotel Icefiord – Quiet Elegance with World-Class Dining
Nestled in a tucked-away corner of Ilulissat and beautifully set on the shoreline, Hotel Icefiord enjoys a truly standout location. With the bay opening out directly in front of you, the hotel offers a wide viewing angle—so expect sweeping panoramic bay views—paired with what many guests describe as world-class cuisine.
All 36 rooms overlook the bay – each featuring a private bath and modern, cosy interior. The 16 Deluxe Explorer rooms take it up a notch with private balconies and skylights, creating an even more immersive connection with the Arctic environment. About 50 metres behind the main hotel, you'll find three hotel apartments with a bedroom and living room with kitchen, ideal for families and still including breakfast at the hotel.
But let me tell you what really sets Hotel Icefiord apart: the restaurant. Highly praised by guests, it serves exceptional dishes made with fresh local ingredients—along with house-smoked specialties from the hotel’s own smokehouse. The combination of culinary excellence and that fantastic view of the icefjord from the restaurant, bar, or the swing on the terrace creates memorable dining experiences. In summer, you might even spot a whale from your table!
The centre of town is a brief 20-minute walk away, and the friendly staff will happily help arrange a cab if you prefer. The Icefjord Centre and the main trailhead are also within easy reach—around (a brief 30-minute walk) from the hotel.
Who is it perfect for? Food enthusiasts who want exceptional dining as part of their Greenland experience. Travelers who value a tucked-away location while still being relatively close to town. Those who want guaranteed iceberg views from their room. Romantics, drawn by skylights for gazing at the stars or the Northern Lights.
Hotel Arctic – The Icon Above the Bay
Here's a claim to fame: Hotel Arctic is the world's northernmost four-star hotel. Situated up above Disko Bay, it commands magnificent views of the traveling icebergs that have calved from the glacier – that UNESCO World Heritage Site that draws visitors from around the globe.
With 90 well-appointed rooms of varying types, most overlooking the bay or the harbour and town, this is the most established hotel in Ilulissat. The modern interior beautifully combines Nordic design with Greenlandic art, and the facilities are comprehensive: 24-hour reception, elevator, laundry and room service, a fitness area, free Wi-Fi, and two restaurants. You can enjoy authentic Greenlandic cuisine at the casual Brasserie Ulo or elevate your evening at the Arctic Fine Dining Restaurant Ulo.
The Aurora Cabins, located close to the main hotel, deserve their own mention. With huge windows and a glass roof, they're absolutely perfect for gazing at the Northern Lights during winter visits – imagine lying in bed watching the aurora dance above you. I also love the angle at which the cabins are positioned, facing a quieter part of the bay where, in summer, you might even spot a whale passing by in the distance.
Now, about location: Hotel Arctic sits about 20–25 minutes’ walk from the town centre ( to the main amenities and around to the Icefjord Centre and main trailhead). While this means you’re not right in the middle of town, its elevated hillside position gives you wide, beautiful views over the bay and the icebergs drifting through it. Most guests staying here tend to take a cab, and that’s often the easiest option — though the public bus also runs regularly if you prefer.
Who is it perfect for? Travelers who want the full-service, four-star hotel experience in an established, comfortable property with dining options on-site. Those drawn to unique accommodation options, such as the Aurora Cabin. Anyone who appreciates having more amenities like a fitness area and doesn't mind a short journey into town.
Best Western Plus Hotel Ilulissat – Modern Comfort in the Centre
Built in 2021, this is Ilulissat's newest hotel, and it brings a contemporary edge to the town. The modern high-rise stands in the centre of Ilulissat, making it a great choice for those who like to be where things are happening.
With 78 rooms, it's one of the larger hotels in our selection, offering various room types – standard, executive, family, and superior rooms. All rooms come with private bathrooms and Wi-Fi. Family rooms include fold-down beds for younger guests, while Superior rooms treat you to the best bay views from the upper floors. The property features a 24-hour front desk (handy for those unpredictable Arctic adventures), an elevator (not something you find everywhere in Greenland!), a lounge area, small gym, and room service.
The crown jewel here is literally at the crown – although the hotel isn’t located at the shoreline, the rooftop restaurant and bar with its terrace more than make up for it, offering sweeping views over Ilulissat and Disko Bay from above. It’s the perfect place for a drink, with the town below and icebergs in the distance.
Who is it perfect for? Travellers who appreciate modern amenities and contemporary design. Families who’d like to stay together in a room with their little ones. Anyone who values having an elevator and 24-hour reception. Those who like being able to easily explore the town on foot with convenient access to shops, cafés and tours.
Before You Make Your Choice
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Ilulissat, there’s no single “best” option. Each place offers its own character, strengths, and way of connecting you with Disko Bay and the Icefjord. The right match depends on your travel style, your priorities, and how you imagine experiencing Greenland. And I hope this guide has helped you get a feel for what might suit you best. No matter which base you choose, Ilulissat will give you moments you’ll carry with you long after you’ve returned home. The light, the ice, the quiet moments — they become part of your rhythm for a little while.
One practical tip I always highlight: please book early. Ilulissat is a small town with limited accommodation, and during summer and Northern Lights season, rooms can fill up many months in advance. Planning well ahead gives you the best chance of securing the place that truly fits your needs.
If you’d like more guidance as you plan your trip — from the best time to visit to getting there and exploring Ilulissat and the Icefjord — you’ll find a detailed overview in Henry's article here.
And if you’re unsure which option feels right for you, please don't hesitate to reach out — helping you find the perfect base for your Greenland adventure is something we genuinely love to do.
Posted in
- Staying in the Town of Icebergs
- What to Expect from Accommodation in Greenland
- Our Hotel Selection in Ilulissat
- Hotel Søma Ilulissat – Cozy Warmth with Community Spirit
- Hotel Hvide Falk – For Those Who Want to Be in the Heart of It All
- Hotel Icefiord – Quiet Elegance with World-Class Dining
- Hotel Arctic – The Icon Above the Bay
- Best Western Plus Hotel Ilulissat – Modern Comfort in the Centre
- Before You Make Your Choice
