Location & Transportation
When your ship docks in Ilulissat, you’ll be tendered ashore by Zodiac boats or regular tenders. A charming wooden staircase will lead you from the small port area right into town. I love that you can explore the town entirely on foot—in about a half hour you’re in the heart of Ilulissat, taking in the views and local life.
Sightseeing
Ilulissat literally means "icebergs" in Greenlandic, and it’s easy to see why. The town sits at the mouth of a 56 km long ice fjord filled with enormous, slowly drifting icebergs from the highly productive Sermeq Kujalleq glacier. This magnificent Icefjord was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.
A few must-sees:
- The dramatic display of ice calving at the fjord’s edge.
- The historic Sermermiut valley, located just a couple of kilometers from town. Once Greenland’s largest settlement in 1727, excavations here have revealed thousands of years of history along the west coast.
- The active harbor, where fishing boats and trawlers underline the importance of fishing in this vibrant community.
Tours & Excursions
There are plenty of ways to get outside of town and explore the natural and cultural wonders of the region:
- Consider a guided boat tour to see the icebergs up close.
- Try a sled dog tour in Jakobshavn (another name for Ilulissat), where you’ll witness firsthand the vital role of the more than 4,000 sled dogs in local transport and tradition.
- Head north for a visit to the quaint settlement of Oqaatsut (also known as Rodebay), where old colonial buildings have been transformed into welcoming restaurants.
- For the adventurous, a boat trip further north will take you to the Eqi glacier—an ideal spot if you’re up for spending a couple of days in a remote hut.
- South of the Icefjord, the historic settlement of Ilimanaq offers a glimpse into one of Greenland’s oldest communities.
Because there are no roads connecting the towns in Greenland, travel between settlements is typically by air or sea. Locals also use small boats, dogsleds, or snowmobiles to navigate the snowy and icy landscape.
Shopping
Greenlandic souvenirs make for truly unique keepsakes. I’ve found that:
- Handcrafted art and locally made carvings bear the unmistakable mark of Greenlandic tradition and creativity.
- Small boutiques and market stalls offer everything from traditional clothing to handmade jewelry. Each piece is the work of a Greenlandic artist who merges age-old customs with new ideas—perfect mementos from your Arctic adventure.
Dining
Dining in Ilulissat is a treat for those who enjoy fresh, local flavors. Many of the town’s restaurants serve up delicious seafood straight from the icy waters. When you’re there:
- Try local catches like Arctic char, or enjoy dishes featuring game meats.
- Grab a cozy meal at a harbor-side café and enjoy the unique ambiance.
- Indulge in freshly baked treats at small local bakeries. The combination of traditional Greenlandic recipes and a modern twist makes every meal an adventure in itself.
Culture & Local Events
Ilulissat offers more than just breathtaking scenery—its culture and local practices add to the charm of your visit. Here are a few practical tips and insights:
- • Payment: Although credit cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and shops, I always recommend carrying some cash in Danish kroner for smaller vendors.
- • Communication: Greenlandic is the main language, followed by Danish. You’ll find that some locals speak English, but learning a few words in Greenlandic can be a great icebreaker.
- • Opening Hours: In the major towns, supermarkets typically open on weekdays from 10:00 to 17:30, on Fridays until 18:00, and on Saturdays from 09:00 to 13:00.
- • Local Events: Check with local tourist offices for seasonal festivals. During the summer months, the town often hosts cultural events celebrating Greenlandic art, music, and traditions.
Safety & Awareness
- The Arctic weather can change rapidly, so always dress in layers and be prepared for sudden shifts—waterproof and warm clothing are essential.
- I always remind visitors to watch their step on icy sidewalks and follow local advice when exploring outside town.
- For any emergencies, the local number is 112.