Nuuk Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the stunning Sermersooq region of Greenland, the capital city of Nuuk is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. From its picturesque fjords to its vibrant arts scene, Nuuk has something to offer every traveler.

One of the most striking features of Nuuk is its breathtaking landscape. Surrounded by majestic mountains and pristine waters, the city is a gateway to some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the nearby fjords, where towering icebergs float serenely against a backdrop of rugged cliffs. For those seeking adventure, hiking trails abound, offering unparalleled views of the Arctic wilderness.

Nuuk is also a cultural hub, with a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The Greenland National Museum is a must-visit attraction, offering a fascinating insight into the Inuit culture and the region's history. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including ancient tools, traditional clothing, and archaeological finds. Visitors can also immerse themselves in the local art scene by visiting the Nuuk Art Museum, which showcases contemporary and traditional Greenlandic art.

For a taste of modern Nuuk, visitors can explore the city's vibrant culinary scene. From traditional Greenlandic cuisine to international fare, there are plenty of options to satisfy every palate. Local delicacies such as whale meat and seal are must-tries for the adventurous foodie, while seafood lovers will delight in the fresh catch of the day. Cafes and bars offer a cozy atmosphere to relax and sample local craft beers or indulge in a cup of Greenlandic coffee.

In addition to its natural wonders and cultural treasures, Nuuk also boasts a range of modern amenities. The city is home to a variety of shops, including boutiques that showcase Greenlandic fashion and design. Visitors can also enjoy the convenience of modern infrastructure, with comfortable accommodations and excellent transportation links.

Alternative names: Founded: 29 August 1728 (295 years ago)Population: 14.8 thous. (2020)Area: 264.98 mi²Elevation: 13 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 64°10'35"N, 51°44'19"W

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SermersooqGreenland

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Nuuk Top Attractions

Nuuk Attractions - What to See and Explore

Nuuk offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Nuuk Cathedral, Kalaaliaraq Market, Greenland National Museum, Statue of Hans Egede. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Iconic red wood church dating to 1849
Nuuk Cathedral
Nuuk Cathedral or Church of Our Saviour is a wooden Lutheran cathedral in the Old Nuuk neighborhood of Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. It was established in 1849. The red building with its spire is a prominent site on the landscape. During National Day celebrations, large crowds usually gather around the church.
Shopping • Market
Kalaaliaraq Market
Kalaaliaraq Market is a fresh food market in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. It is located in the Old Nuuk neighborhood, approximately 150 m to the southeast of the Nuuk Cathedral, and its name means "The little Greenlander" in the Greenlandic language.
Excavated artifacts and archived records
Greenland National Museum
The Greenland National Museum is located in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. It was one of the first museums established in Greenland, inaugurated in the mid-1960s. The museum has many artefacts related to archaeology, history, art, and handicrafts and also has information about ruins, graveyards, buildings etc.

Memorial
Statue of Hans Egede
The Statue of Hans Egede is a prominent monument in Nuuk, Greenland. It commemorates the Dano-Norwegian Lutheran missionary Hans Egede who founded Nuuk in 1728. The statue lies on a hill near the shore above Nuuk Cathedral in the historical Old Nuuk area of the city.
Church
Moravian Brethren Mission House
Moravian Brethren Mission House or Herrnhut House is a historical building in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, established in 1747 from timber shipped to the United Brethren from the Netherlands.
Church
Hans Egede Church
Hans Egede Church is an evangelical Lutheran church in Nuuk, Greenland, located in the district of Old Nuuk. The church was consecrated on the 250-year anniversary of the founding of Hans Egede's mission.
Art museum in a pared-down setting
Nuuk Art Museum
Nuuk Art Museum is a national museum in Greenland, located in Nuuk, the capital. The museum contains a notable collection of paintings, watercolors, drawings, graphics, figures in soapstone, ivory, and wood, with many items collected by the businessman Svend Junge.
Concerts and shows • Entertainment • Cinema
Katuaq
Katuaq is a cultural centre in Nuuk, Greenland. It is used for concerts, exhibitions, conferences, and as a cinema. Designed by Schmidt Hammer Lassen, it was constructed as a joint project of the Greenland Home Rule Government, the Nuuk Municipal Council and the Nordic Council of Ministers and was inaugurated on 15 February 1997.
Church
Christ the King Church
Christ the King Church is the Roman Catholic church in the city of Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. It is the only functional Catholic church in Greenland. The church follows the Roman or Latin rite and belongs to the jurisdiction of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Copenhagen.
Library
Public and National Library of Greenland
The Public and National Library of Greenland is the public and national library of Greenland, located in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland.
Universities and schools
University of Greenland
The University of Greenland is Greenland's only university. It is in the capital city of Nuuk. Most courses are taught in Danish, a few in Greenlandic and classes by exchange lecturers often in English.
Harbor
Nuuk Port and Harbour
Nuuk Port and Harbour is the largest port in Greenland. It is located in the southeastern area of the city of Nuuk known as Old Nuuk. The harbour entrance is restricted due to tides during much of the year, and ice during winter. The inner port area is home to a marina for smaller vessels and ferries.
Neighbourhood
Old Nuuk
Old Nuuk may refer to several neighborhoods of Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. The Lutheran mission was originally based on Hope Island at the head of the fjord but was moved to the mainland and christened Godthaab by the royal governor Claus Paarss in 1728.
64°10'42"N • 51°44'42"W
Hans Egede House
Hans Egede House is located in Nuuk, Greenland. It is oldest house in the country and was built in 1728. It was originally the residence of Hans Egede, a Dano-Norwegian Lutheran missionary. Later it was the residence of the Greenlandic prime minister. It is currently used for official government receptions.
64°10'40"N • 51°44'35"W
Anori Art
Museum • Art gallery
Neighbourhood
Nuuk Centrum
Nuuk Centrum is a district of Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. Together with the Old Nuuk neighborhood, it encompasses the southern and central part of the town. Most of the institutions and businesses are based in the district.
64°10'35"N • 51°44'48"W
Nuutoqaq
Museum
64°10'52"N • 51°43'51"W
Inussivik
Inussivik is an indoor arena located in Nuuk, the capital city of Greenland, that was originally constructed for the 2002 Arctic Winter Games.
Neighbourhood
Nuussuaq
Nuussuaq is a district of Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, It is located in the northern part of the city, west and southwest of Nuuk Airport, approximately 4 km outside the city center.