What to do in Nuuk in bad weather?

Rain, wind or snow doesn’t have to spoil your trip to Nuuk! With a few local tips, you can still make the most of Greenland’s capital, whatever the weather. Discover Guide to Greenland team’s recommendations for the best things to do in Nuuk on a rainy or snowy day, from cosy cafés and cultural attractions to guided city tours and local food experiences.

Warm up at Kaffivik – Nuuk’s local coffee roastery

When the autumn weather turns cold and rainy in Nuuk, there’s nothing quite like warming up with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Visit Kaffivik, Greenland’s first and only coffee roastery, and enjoy a cosy break from the Arctic elements.

What began as a small coffee roastery in 2018 has grown into a local café where you can enjoy freshly roasted coffee in Greenland’s capital. Tucked away in a developing part of Nuuk, surrounded by apartment buildings and an industrial area, Kaffivik is a little hidden gem worth seeking out. Pick up a bag of coffee roasted right here in Nuuk and take a taste of Greenland home with you.

Join guided tours in Nuuk

Explore Nuuk with local guides and discover the best of Greenland’s capital, whatever the weather. Join a private guided city tour by car to learn about Nuuk’s history, colourful neighbourhoods and scenic viewpoints from the comfort of a vehicle. 

Alternatively, join Arctic Beers and Burgers Tour, it will start with a short city walk followed by a delicious lunch featuring Greenlandic reindeer or musk ox burgers and local craft beer. It’s a great way to discover Nuuk’s food culture while experiencing the city like a local.

Shopping for souvenirs in Nuuk

Bad weather is the perfect time for looking for unique souvenirs from Greenland. Explore Nuuk’s local shops for Greenlandic fashion, traditional crafts and handmade gifts.

• Greenlandic fashion: Discover contemporary designs by Bibi Chemnitz and Inuit Quality Clothes.
• Musk ox wool and sealskin: Visit Qiviut for warm Arctic accessories and products made from traditional materials.
• Handmade glass art: Browse unique glass pieces and design gifts at Dooit Design.
• Traditional tupilak carvings: Look for Greenlandic art, jewelry, and tupilak figures at Anori Art and Nuuk Tourist Office.
• Greenlandic ceramics– Visit local pottery artist and buy something for your home from Ulaajuk Pottery – Ceramics.
• Ajagaq, workshop for bone, stone & wood carving– meet the artist, see where local art takes shape. You can buy crafts from local artists directly if you have Danish Krona in cash. 

Take a swim at Malik swimming pool in Nuuk

Looking for a relaxing activity in Nuuk, especially on a cold or rainy day? Visit Malik Swimming Pool, a perfect place for swimming and unwinding. The name Malik means “wave” in Greenlandic, and the building’s distinctive architecture is inspired by the movement of waves, reflecting Greenland’s close connection to the sea.

Discover Nuuk’s culture, art and history

Explore Greenlandic culture through Nuuk’s museums and cultural venues:

• Katuaq Cultural Centre: Watch a film or discover temporary art exhibitions and cultural events.
• Nuuk Art Museum: Admire Greenlandic art, paintings and traditional crafts.
• Greenland National Museum: Discover Greenland’s history, archaeology and cultural heritage.
• Nuutoqaq – Nuuk Local Museum: Learn about local history and everyday life in Greenland’s capital.
• Ajagaq Art Workshop: Discover handmade Greenlandic art and traditional carvings crafted from bone, stone, antler and wood. Meet local artists and find a unique souvenir to take home.

Community dining at Kiliut restaurant

Visit Kiliut Restaurant in Nuuk on Wednesdays or Thursdays for a simple, homemade meal that supports a good cause. All proceeds go to local initiatives; every month, the charitable cause is different, including children’s homes, families, or animal shelters. It’s a lovely way to enjoy local food while giving back to the Nuuk community.

Try Greenlandic food in Nuuk

Want to taste traditional Greenlandic food in Nuuk? From reindeer and musk ox burgers to local fish soup and Arctic fine dining, these spots offer a taste of Greenland’s unique food culture.

• Søma Hotel: Try reindeer or musk ox burgers and steaks.
• Katuaq Cultural Centre: Sample a plate of Greenlandic specialities.
• Safalik: Enjoy fine dining inspired by Greenlandic ingredients and Arctic flavours.
• Inuk Hostels: Warm up with traditional Greenlandic fish soup.
• NIVI: International tapas and small sharing dishes, combining Greenlandic ingredients with flavours from the Nordic countries, Europe, Asia and beyond. 

Whether you prefer local comfort food or creative Arctic cuisine, these places are a great starting point for discovering Greenlandic food in Nuuk.

Visit Kalaaliaraq – Nuuk’s local fish and meat market

Visit Kalaaliaraq, Nuuk’s local fish and meat market, where hunters and fishermen bring their fresh catch and game. Staying in an Airbnb or holiday apartment? Pick up local ingredients and try cooking a traditional Greenlandic meal at home for an authentic taste of Greenland.

How to find local events in Nuuk

Visiting Nuuk and looking for local events, concerts or cultural activities? Facebook is one of the main places to find event information in Greenland. Check local Facebook pages and event listings for upcoming concerts, festivals, community gatherings and other activities during your stay. You can also keep an eye out for posters and advertisements at bus stops around the city to discover events happening in Nuuk.

Our best advice? Embrace the Arctic weather, dress in layers, and stay flexible with your plans. Sometimes, the most memorable moments in Nuuk happen when you slow down, explore indoors and experience the city like a local.

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