Things to do in Ilulissat
Welcome to Ilulissat and the Icefjord
Icebergs. Giant icebergs. These are synonymous with the city of Ilulissat, which also means "icebergs" in Greenlandic. The town is located at the mouth of Ilulissat Icefjord, with the most amazing scenery in the form of colossal icebergs. Ilulissat is a must see destination, even for Greenlanders.
Travel to Ilulissat with our costum trips or small-group tours:
Year-round tours in Ilulissat
Ilulissat has undeniably the largest variety of excursion opportunities for visitors to Greenland. In addition, you can indulge yourself with good food and drink at the city's lively restaurants and cafés, while you digest each day’s exciting impressions.
Traveling on a cruise ship? Please note that our excursions are only available as part of organised package tours. For bookings, please contact your cruise operator.
These tours are available year-round ↓
Icefjord Cruise Daytime or Evening
Set out from Ilulissat harbor on one of the Ilulissat Icefjord tours to the glacier front, where enormous icebergs rest on a moraine 350 meters below the surface. Get a close-up look at this impressive natural spectacle while learning about glaciology, the ice cap, and the calving process 65 kilometers up the fjord. The tour also covers the impact of climate change in the Arctic.
Duration: Approx. 3 hours
Price: DKK 695 / Euro 93
Guided Walk to Sermermiut
Sermermiut, known as the “glacier’s place,” is a historic settlement on the edge of Ilulissat, stretching down to the ice fjord. Three major Inuit cultures lived, hunted, and fished here, beginning with the Saqqaq people from Canada about 4,500 years ago, followed by the Dorset and Thule. Hear their stories and see traces of their challenging lives.
Duration: Approx. 2 hours
Price: DKK 295 / Euro 40
Guided tour of Ilulissat City
Many say, “Well, we can walk around the city.” Yes, you can, but this guided city walk takes you far deeper into Ilulissat’s history, culture, and unique stories. It’s a shortcut to fascinating local knowledge and tales you won’t find on your own. Founded in 1741, Ilulissat means “icebergs” and is Greenland’s third largest city with over 4,500 residents.
Duration: Approx. 2 hours
Price: DKK 250 / Euro 34
When are you traveling?
Visiting Ilulissat is a seasonal experience, and depending on when you embark on your adventure, different tours and activities are waiting for you.
Explore the different ways to experience Ilulissat:
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Hotels in Ilulissat
Our hotels in Ilulissat ↓
Hotel Icefiord
Hotel Icefiord is located right on the Disko Bay waterfront, close to the mouth of the ice fjord. All 30 rooms offer stunning sea views, with whales and massive icebergs as your closest neighbors.
Aurora Lodge
Remote cabin trip in the Ilulissat backcountry
Join us for a 3-day adventure far from the city’s lights and sounds, where silence, snow-covered landscapes, and the northern lights set the scene.
About Ilulissat
Ilulissat is located 350 km north of the Arctic Circle and has everything that represents Greenland for most visitors: Midnight sun in summer, northern lights in winter, whales & seals, lots of sled dogs, historical sites from the first Inuit cultures at Sermermiut, beautiful wooden houses from the colonial era, educational institutions, sports activities, etc.
Questions about Ilulissat ↓
Where is Ilulissat?
Ilulissat sits on Greenland’s west coast by Disko Bay, near the dramatic Disko Island, and is close to Qeqertarsuaq, Ilimanaq, and the breathtaking Eqi Glacier. Check our map of Ilulissat here.
Weather in Ilulissat
Ilulissat has an Arctic climate, with cold, snowy winters and cool, short summers. Winter temperatures often drop well below freezing, while summer temperatures are usually mild, rarely rising above 10°C.
The weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in wind and visibility, so it’s important to be prepared with warm, layered clothing throughout the year.
How to get to Ilulissat?
Ilulissat is accessible by flights from Nuuk and other Greenlandic towns. A new international airport opening in 2026 will enable direct international flights, making travel even easier from the airports of Copenhagen (Denmark) and Reykjavik (Iceland). Also check out our guide on how to get to Greenland.
From Nuuk, the easiest way is by direct flight, as there are no roads between the two towns. Boat travel is possible in summer but takes much longer.
What to do in Ilulissat?
Popular activities include hiking around the Ilulissat Icefjord, visiting the historic Sermermiut settlement, sailing among the icebergs, whale watching, dog sledding in winter, and experiencing the midnight sun in summer.
Where to eat in Ilulissat?
Ilulissat has a selection of restaurants and café's that serve both Greenlandic specialties but also international dishes. Local ingredients include fish, seafood, musk ox and reindeer. Check out our guide to restaurants in Greenland.
Where to stay in Ilulissat?
Staying near the town centre in Ilulissat makes it easy to access restaurants and activities. We recommend our own Hotel Icefiord that overlooks the Disko Bay and offers beautiful views. You can also check our guide on where to stay in Greenland.
Midnight sun in the summer: Yes, in summer
Northern Lights: Yes, during the darker months and with suitable atmospheric conditions
How to pronounce Ilulissat? Ilulissat is pronounced “ee-LOO-lee-sat,” with the emphasis on the second syllable.
Former Danish Name: Jakobshavn
Travel packages visiting Ilulissat
Summer
Summer in Ilulissat offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. The renowned Ilulissat Icefjord tours are especially popular, drawing visitors from around the world. Enjoy fishing trips, boat cruises, scenic hikes, city tours, and flightseeing—there’s something for everyone to experience in this Arctic wonderland.
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Tours by Boat I Excursions by Air I Activities in Ilulissat
Tours by Boat
Boat trips in Greenland, especially an icefjord cruise from Ilulissat, are a highlight for many visitors. You’ll have plenty of chances to photograph massive icebergs, some grounded on a moraine 350 meters below the surface. These cruises offer close-up views of this natural wonder, insights into glaciology, and discussions about climate change. Other options include visiting settlements and whale watching. The crisp air and unique Arctic light create a memorable atmosphere—don’t forget your hat and mittens!
Whale Watching
Many visitors are amazed by how close they can get to large whales in Greenlandic waters. Around 15 whale species are commonly spotted here. Three—beluga, narwhal, and Greenland whale—spend the winter in these waters. Sightings of blue whales and killer whales are rare but possible.
Duration: Approx. 4 hours
Price: DKK 1.195 / Euro 160
Day Trip to Qeqertarsuaq
Take a day trip to Qeqertarsuaq, or Disko Island, traveling by boat from Ilulissat. Discover the island’s vibrant town, unique black lava beaches, and beautiful natural surroundings at your leisure. The excursion includes a delicious dinner at Hotel Disko Island before you return to Ilulissat.
Duration: All day
Price: DKK 1.995 / Euro 160
Departure times from Ilulissat may vary—check the time when you book. The boat from Qeqertarsuaq leaves at 8:00 PM for all day trips.
Day Trip to Eqi - the Calving Glacier
Eqi Glacier, located 80 kilometers north of Ilulissat, is one of Greenland’s most stunning sights. You can take a boat right up to the glacier’s edge and watch as huge chunks of ice break off and crash into the fjord. The thunderous sound of calving ice is truly unforgettable.
Duration: Approx. 10 hours
Price: DKK 2.445,- / Euro 328,-
Fishing in Disko Bay
Would you like to catch your own cod for dinner? Join this 3-hour boat trip aboard a quality vessel from Disko Line and head to our favorite fishing spots. It's a unique opportunity to enjoy a cozy and relaxing fishing trip on the beautiful Icefjord.
Duration: 3 hours
Participants: Minimum 4 people
Price: DKK 995 per person + DKK 75 for a fishing license. The fishing license can be purchased here
Excursions by Air
Experience flightseeing over Kangia Icefjord by helicopter or fixed-wing airplane, offering breathtaking views of the glacier front where 43 million tons of ice break off each year. From above, watch massive icebergs travel from the glacier into the fjord. Helicopter tours include a 30-minute stop at the ice cap for an on-site talk, while fixed-wing flights follow a different route without landing. Seeing the icefjord from the air is truly unforgettable.
Airzafari – Unesco Icefiord & blue lakes
Aboard an Airzafari passenger plane, you’ll experience the best of Greenland in just one hour. The flight takes you over the northern glacier Sermeq Avangnardleq, Ilulissat’s glacier Sermeq Kujalleq, striking blue meltwater lakes on the ice cap, the Ilulissat Icefjord, and the small settlement of Ilimanaq.
Duration: 1 hour
Price: DKK 2895 / Euro 389
Helicopter Trip: Kangia Classic
This helicopter tour is one of two ways to fly over the UNESCO-listed area. The remote glacial front, unreachable by boat or on foot, is where the Ilulissat (Kangia) Glacier calves 43 million tons of ice each year, moving at 50 meters per day.
Spanning seven kilometers wide and over a kilometer thick, the glacier’s relentless movement and immense power are truly awe-inspiring.
Duration: Approx. 2 hours (the journey takes about 1½ hours, of which 50 min is flight time and 30 min at the glacier)
Price: DKK 1.995 / DKK 4.495 / Euro 604
Summer activities in Ilulissat
Ilulissat offers severeal guided activities in town itself. You can join the guided tour of Ilulissat City or the guided walk to Sermermiut all year round. But there is a few more options to explore without ever leaving town itself. These activities are perfect to add on the days where you don't have much planned and want an extra activity that don't take up all your day.
Sled Dog Visit
On this excursion, you’ll visit a team of sled dogs—up to 20 lively dogs eager for attention. You can see, touch, and hear them as they bark excitedly. The owner will introduce you to the sled and equipment, sharing insights into the daily life of Greenlandic sled dogs.
Duration: 2 hours
Price: DKK 300 / Euro 40
Kaffemik in Ilulissat
Take part in a traditional Kaffemik in Ilulissat and experience genuine Greenlandic hospitality. Savor coffee and homemade cakes prepared with local ingredients as you learn about everyday life in Greenland. Admire the national costume and watch as traditional handicrafts are created. It’s an inviting, authentic way to connect with local people and culture.
Price: DKK 275 / Euro 37
When are you traveling?
Visiting Ilulissat is a seasonal experience, and depending on when you embark on your adventure, different tours and activities are waiting for you.
Explore the different ways to experience Ilulissat:
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Travel packages visiting Ilulissat
Winter
Winter in Ilulissat transforms the landscape into a breathtaking Arctic scene, offering unique experiences you won’t find elsewhere. Popular activities include snowmobile adventures, dog sledding, ice fishing, and witnessing the Northern Lights. Ilulissat Icefjord tours remain a highlight, allowing visitors to explore the dramatic frozen fjord and its towering icebergs even in the heart of winter.
Winteradventure in Ilulissat backcountry
Begin your three-day journey with a snowmobile ride through the snowy landscape to a warm cabin with views of the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord. On the second day, travel by dogsled across the frozen fjord, meet local fishermen, and discover traditional winter life before enjoying your catch for dinner.
The final day features a scenic snowmobile ride back to Ilulissat.
Duration: 3 days including 2 overnight stays at Aurora Lodge
Price: DKK 11.995 / Euro 1.607 (Double)
Price: DKK 7.995 / Euro 1.071 (Single)
See Important Information about Snowmobile Tours for details.
Icefishing on Sikuiuitsoq
Enjoy a true Greenlandic ice fishing adventure. Begin with a snowmobile ride through the beautiful Ilulissat backcountry, then travel by dog sled across the frozen Kangia Icefjord to meet local fishermen.
Take in the spectacular Arctic scenery, experience the thrill of dog sledding, and try your luck at catching a fresh fish to bring home.
Duration: Day tour, 7 hours
See Important Information about Snowmobile Tours for details.
Dog Sledding
(Difficulty: 2 out of 5)
The dog sled is one of Greenland’s most iconic symbols, representing a 2,000-year-old Inuit tradition. Few forms of transport have lasted so long. The concept remains unchanged since before the Viking Age: dogs in harness pulling a simple wooden sled. This unique experience is difficult to describe—it truly has to be tried!
Duration: Approx. 1-4 hours
Price:
Family-friendly dog sled tour, 1 hour: DKK 1,495 / Euro 200
Dog sled tour, 2 hours: DKK 1,895 / Euro 254
Dog sled tour, 4 hours: DKK 2,495 / Euro 334
Guided Snowshoe Hike
Join us on a 3-hour snowshoe hike in the breathtaking hinterland of Ilulissat – part of the world-famous UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord. Here you’ll find silence, sparkling snowy landscapes, and views that will take your breath away.
This tour requires no prior experience – only a desire to experience Greenland’s winter in an authentic and active way!
Duration: Approx. 3 hours
Tour difficulty: Moderate
Included: Professional guide, snowshoes and poles, hot drink + snack during the tour
Price: DKK 595 / Euro 80,- (Please note that a valid UNESCO Site Pass is required and is not included in the price)
Kangia Viewpoint Snowmobile
Discover the beautiful wilderness around Ilulissat and the Kangia Icefjord on a snowmobile tour. Travel across diverse landscapes, passing mountains and frozen lakes, while enjoying spectacular Arctic scenery.
Stop at the frozen Kangia fjord for a hot drink and snack before heading back to town, bringing home lasting memories of your adventure.
Duration: Day tour, 3 hours
Price: DKK 1.495 / Euro 200
See Important Information about Snowmobile Tours for details.
Northern Lights hunt on Snowmobile
Embark on an enchanting snowmobile trip beyond the city lights to chase the spectacular Northern Lights. Guided through the darkness, you’ll venture deep into Ilulissat’s pristine wilderness, pausing on scenic ridges and frozen lakes.
With engines silent, gaze up at the sky’s brilliant show, sipping warm drinks and soaking in the magic of the Arctic night.
Duration: Night tour, 3 hours
See Important Information about Snowmobile Tours for details.
Overnight stay in Iglo Lodge
Igloo Lodge sits 15 km into the snowy backcountry, reached by snowmobile with chances to spot sled dogs along the way. It’s the perfect base for winter hikes and snowshoe walks to stunning views of Kangia Icefjord’s massive icebergs. Enjoy hearty meals, snacks, and hot drinks, and sleep warmly in a thermal sleeping bag or the communal cabin.
Duration: 24 hours including overnight stay
Price: 3.625 DKK / 486 Euro
Includes: Return transport by snow groomer, full board and all equipment (except your own appropriately warm clothes).
- Routes may change with weather and snow conditions.
- Snowmobiles are shared in pairs; solo travelers may be paired up.
- Not suitable for those with neck or back issues.
- Minimum age is 12; under 18s must be with an adult.
- Drivers need a valid license.
- Warm overalls and boots provided; bring your own gloves and hat, and wear two layers underneath.
When are you traveling?
Visiting Ilulissat is a seasonal experience, and depending on when you embark on your adventure, different tours and activities are waiting for you.
Explore the different ways to experience Ilulissat:
Travel packages visiting Ilulissat
On Your Own
Ilulissat offers plenty of activities and things to do on your own. Discover fascinating museums, art galleries, and the impressive Icefjord Center. Hike scenic trails with stunning views, sample delicious local food at restaurants and cafés, and wander through the lively harbor and shops to soak up the town’s unique atmosphere.
Ilulissat Icefjord Centre
Ilulissat Icefjord Centre is a great place to start, if you want to understand how the Icefjord has shaped life in this region for generations.
Your ticket allows access to the exhibitions about the changing ice conditions and daily life in the Diskobay.
Don't forget to step out on the roof walkway, and look at the mountains rising in the background and the icebergs drifting through the Kangia Icefjord.
Hiking routes in Ilulissat
Hiking is a favorite in Ilulissat, offering well-marked trails through stunning mountains to spectacular views of the Icefjord and Disko Bay. Four scenic routes, with hike durations from approx. 45 min. to 3 hours, await:
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Orange route – This long route leads to the small settlement of Oqaatsut. Most people hike one way and take a boat back.
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Yellow route – A popular trail that follows the icefjord and its mouth, with great views. A popular stop halfway is Café Asimut.
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Blue route – From the quarry to the Icefjord Center, through varied landscapes.
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Red route – A short route between the Icefjord Center and Holms Bakke. It can be combined with the blue or yellow trails for a longer walk.
Zion's Church & Church Bay
Church Bay is one of those places many locals return to year after year. Named after Zion's Church, the bay is especially popular in spring, when families gather to take confirmation photos with icebergs drifting across the water behind them.
On a calm evening, the short walk is well worth it. Find a spot by the shore, watch the light shift across the bay, and spend a little time in a place that remains part of everyday life in Ilulissat.
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Inuit Artists Workshop
On your way down to the harbour in Ilulissat, you'll find Ilulissat Artist Workshop, tucked into the old colonial buildings. Step inside and watch local artists work as they carve jewellery, tupilaks and other handicrafts from reindeer bone.
If you want to bring a souveneir home from the Arctic, this is a nice way to support the local artists in Ilulissat.
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Restaurants in Ilulissat
Ilulissat offers a variety of excellent restaurants and eateries, many focusing on fresh Greenlandic ingredients. Local fishermen supply halibut, redfish, cod, salmon, and more, while snow crab, shrimp, and blue mussels add to the selection. You’ll also find reindeer, muskox, South Greenlandic lamb, and specialties like whale and seal. Read more about food in Greenland »
A standout is the restaurant at Hotel Icefiord, which serves Nordic-inspired dishes crafted from the best local fish and game. Guests can enjoy their meal with a view of Disko Bay, either in the restaurant or on the terrace.
Ilulissat Art Museum
Ilulissat Art Museum is housed in the fine old colonial manager’s building, overlooking the harbour.
The museum houses a permanent exhibition of works by Greenlandic painter Emmanuel A. Petersen, along with a series of changing exhibitions by emerging and established Greenlandic artists.
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Ilulissat Museum
Ilulissat Museum was Polar explorer Knud Rasmussen's childhood home, where he was born in 1879. Learn about local history and of course the life of the well-known polar researcher and his many expeditions.
The museum features three permanent exhibitions: the Town and settlement history, Knud Rasmussen and the Arctic expeditions, as well as Sermermiut — the great settlement of the Icefjord.
📍Save on Google MapsMap of Ilulissat
To find your way through town, we have put together this map of Ilulissat in Greenland. It shows you where you find important buildings like the Zion's Churck, Ilulissat Museum, Knud Rasmussen Memorial Stone, Inuit Artists Workshop, Ilulissat Art Museum and the Icefjord Centre. We have also marked the beginning and end of important hiking routes: yellow trail, red trail and blue trail.
📍Find Ilulissat on Google Maps
When are you traveling?
Visiting Ilulissat is a seasonal experience, and depending on when you embark on your adventure, different tours and activities are waiting for you.
Explore the different ways to experience Ilulissat:
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