Top 6 things to do in Nuuk during the summer

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Explore Nuuk’s fjords and wildlife

Take a boat tour through Nuuk’s stunning fjords, where you may encounter icebergs, waterfalls, whales, seals, and eagles. A two-hour trip offers a taste of the grandeur, while longer excursions explore abandoned settlements or include a ‘catch-and-eat‘ adventure – where a restaurant prepares the fish you catch with help from the crew.

Explore Nuuk’s museums and cultural center

The Greenland National Museum offers a deep dive into Greenland’s cultural history, featuring preserved Norse and Inuit artifacts, including the famous Qilakitsoq mummies. Art enthusiasts will enjoy the Nuuk Art Museum, showcasing rotating exhibitions of local and contemporary art alongside a permanent collection.

For a more immersive experience, consider a guided city walk or a ‘myth and sculptures’ tour.
End your day at Katuaq, the national cultural center, home to exhibitions, a cinema, and a cozy café. Be sure to admire its architecture, inspired by the northern lights.

Hiking and walking in Nuuk

Discover Nuuk on foot by strolling along the boardwalk, where you can enjoy views of the fjord and watch local boats pass by. For hikers, the trails offer something for everyone – choose an easy hike to the top of Lille Malene or a more demanding climb up Store Malene for panoramic views of Nuuk and its fjords.

For a unique adventure, sail to the edge of the ice fjord and enjoy a flat, 45-minute hike to a breathtaking viewpoint over the ice. Experienced hikers can take on the 110 km marked trail to Kapisillit, camping along the way.

Colorful houses, crafts, and local cuisine

Stroll through Nuuk’s historic colonial harbor and old town to admire its iconic colorful houses. Savor Greenlandic cuisine at one of the many restaurants, where local ingredients like seal, musk ox, reindeer, and fish are given a modern twist. Explore local shops for unique souvenirs, from hand-carved tupilak figures to beautifully knitted wool clothing.

Kayaking and paddleboarding in Nuuk

Did you know the word ‘kayak’ originates from the Greenlandic ‘qajaq,’ used by Inuit for over 4,000 years? Experiencing kayaking or paddleboarding in Nuuk is a must. Choose a sea kayaking adventure or try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), with options available for both beginners and experienced paddlers.

Camping and glamping around Nuuk

Nature lovers can immerse themselves in the heart of Nuuk Fjord by spending five days at an adventure camp, surrounded by breathtaking, untouched landscapes. Reflect in nature’s silence or join daily activities like stunning hikes or a refreshing polar plunge.

For those seeking an escape into nature without sacrificing comfort, a 1- or 2-day glamping tour is the perfect choice. Sleep in a real bed inside a heated tent while enjoying the serenity of the wilderness.

Curious to learn more about Nuuk? Discover the ultimate guide to Greenland’s capital here.

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