Location & Transportation
When you arrive in Qaqortoq, your ship will tender you ashore—a short ride that gets you quickly into town. Right next to the pier, there’s a friendly souvenir shop and a Tourist Office that’s open throughout your cruise visit. It’s a great first stop to ask for local tips or pick up a memento.
Sightseeing
Qaqortoq is a small town of just under 3,000 residents, but it bursts with character:
- Stroll through the charming town center and enjoy the small square with Greenland’s oldest fountain.
- Admire the striking colonial buildings dating back to the town’s founding in 1775.
- Discover the “Stone and Man” art project—over 30 unique motifs have been chiselled into rocks by local and Scandinavian artists.
- Visit Vor Frelser Kirke (the Church of Our Saviour), built in 1832, which stands as a testament to Qaqortoq’s history.
- Explore the two local museums and the historic Great Greenland Fur House, often open to visitors.
- Enjoy a short hike around the large lake nearby for a breath of fresh Arctic air while soaking up the scenic views.
Tours & Excursions
There’s plenty to do beyond the town center:
- Go kayaking in the surrounding fjords – a fantastic way to experience Greenland’s icy waters and dramatic landscapes. Check out guided trips like those offered on kayaking tours.
- Hop on a small passenger boat to visit impressive sites like the church ruin at Hvalsey, or explore nearby settlements such as Narsaq and Igaliku.
- The tourist office can help you book excursions including boat trips to Eqalugaarsuit and cultural visits to the Norse Episcopal residence at Igaliku.
- For an extra adventure, ask about sports fishing trips, kayak sailing, or even overnight stays at traditional sheep-holding stations.
Shopping
If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind keepsakes, Qaqortoq won’t disappoint:
- Local artisans craft unique, handmade souvenirs that blend traditional Greenlandic styles with modern touches.
- Wander the small shops and market stands to find everything from hand-carved art to cozy knitwear that celebrates local culture.
Dining
Although Qaqortoq is small, it offers a warm taste of Greenlandic hospitality:
- Enjoy fresh seafood caught locally, including dishes featuring Arctic char and other regional fish.
- Savor traditional Greenlandic flavors in small cafés and local restaurants, where meals are hearty and homestyle.
- I always recommend trying a local specialty dish paired with stories from friendly locals who are proud to share their traditions.
Culture & Local Events
Qaqortoq feels like a close-knit community with a rich cultural tapestry:
- Local languages spoken are Greenlandic, Danish, and English, so you’re likely to hear a merry mix of tongues as you wander the streets.
- While credit cards are accepted in many places, it’s wise to carry a small amount of Danish kroner for local purchases.
- In town, you’ll find that many businesses follow a schedule similar to this: supermarkets on weekdays open approximately 10:00–17:30 (with Friday evenings stretching to 18:00) and smaller shops often open on Saturdays from 09:00–13:00. Some smaller corner shops may have longer hours.
- Cultural events vary by season—local exhibitions, traditional music, and community gatherings sometimes light up the town square. Check in at the Tourist Office for current happenings.
- As always in Arctic climates, be prepared for rapidly changing weather and follow local advice for safe exploration of the area.