Greenland Bed and Breakfasts and Boozy 5 Nights Out
Greenland may not be known as a party destination, but its towns offer unique, intimate nightlife experiences combined with local culture. If Im honest Ive no idea why I came … but hey ho something unique and bonkers. Here’s how my 5 nights out in Nuuk, Sisimiut, Ilulissat, Qaqortoq, and Aasiaat unfolded:
Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, is a fascinating blend of Arctic wilderness and urban culture. It offers visitors a chance to experience breathtaking landscapes, Inuit culture, and modern Scandinavian influences in a compact yet vibrant city. Surrounded by fjords, mountains, and glaciers, Nuuk is the perfect destination for adventurers, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking solitude in one of the world’s most remote capitals.
Tourism in Nuuk
Nuuk has become increasingly popular among travelers seeking unique Arctic experiences. Key draws include:
Adventure tourism: Hiking, kayaking, and fjord cruises provide opportunities to explore Greenland’s stunning landscapes.
Cultural immersion: Museums, galleries, and local events offer insights into Greenland’s history and traditions.
Photography: Nuuk’s dramatic scenery, colorful houses, and Arctic wildlife make it a photographer’s dream.
History of Nuuk
Nuuk, founded in 1728 by Danish-Norwegian missionary Hans Egede, is Greenland’s oldest town. It was originally called “Godthåb” (Good Hope) and served as a trading post and mission. The town grew into a hub for government, trade, and culture, becoming the capital when Greenland was granted home rule in 1979. Today, Nuuk reflects Greenland’s blend of Inuit traditions and Danish influences.
Culture in Nuuk
Greenlandic culture is deeply rooted in Inuit traditions, with a focus on storytelling, music, and connection to the land. Nuuk is a cultural hotspot, where visitors can experience throat singing, traditional clothing, and unique arts and crafts. The city also embraces modernity, seen in its contemporary architecture, museums, and growing food scene.
How I Got There
Traveling to Nuuk is an adventure in itself:
By air: The easiest way to reach Nuuk is via flights from Iceland (Reykjavík) or Denmark (Copenhagen). Air Greenland operates direct flights to Nuuk from Reykjavík Domestic Airport, a journey of about 3 hours.
Local transport: Nuuk is small, so once there, most places can be reached on foot or by local buses.
I flew in from Reykjavík, enjoying stunning views of icebergs and fjords during the descent.
1) Nuuk, Greenland
Stay: Theres lots of Hotels and a couple of Nuuk Bed and Breakfasts. I stayed at Inuk Hostels, a cozy and scenic place overlooking the fjord. The atmosphere was warm, and the hosts were very welcoming.
Restaurant: I dined at Sarfalik, located in Hotel Hans Egede. It’s a fine-dining experience, where I tried local delicacies like musk ox carpaccio and Arctic char. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was modern and relaxed.
Bars: Godthåb Bryghus: A craft brewery with a lively yet relaxed vibe. The crowd was a mix of locals and tourists, and the beer, brewed on-site, was exceptional.
Tupilak Bar: A more casual spot with Greenlandic decor and a friendly local crowd.
Nightclub: Manhattan Nightclub was buzzing with energy. The music was a mix of pop, electronic, and Greenlandic hits. The crowd skewed young, with an open and friendly atmosphere.
Atmosphere and Crowd: Nuuk’s nightlife is vibrant for its size, with a mix of locals and travelers. The vibe was welcoming, and conversations flowed easily.
2) Sisimiut, Greenland
Stay: Sisimuit has a variety of Sisimiut Guesthouses – I stayed at Hotel Sisimiut & Hostel, which offered both private rooms and dorms. It had a comfortable and community-oriented vibe.
Restaurant: Restaurant Nasaasaaq was the highlight, offering hearty Greenlandic meals like reindeer stew. The restaurant had panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and a warm, rustic charm.
Bars: Café Taseralik: A cultural hub and café by day, it transforms into a laid-back bar in the evening. The crowd was friendly, and the drinks were simple but well-made.
Nightclub: Sisimiut’s nightlife isn’t bustling, but Diskotek Inuk hosts occasional events with live DJs. The club had a small but energetic crowd, with a mix of locals and adventurous travelers.
Atmosphere and Crowd: Intimate and friendly, with most people keen to chat. Sisimiut’s nightlife feels more community-driven and less tourist-focused.
3) Ilulissat, Greenland
Stay: I stayed at Guesthouse Ilulissat, a quaint B&B with stunning views of the ice fjord. It was clean, cozy, and run by a hospitable local family.
Restaurant: Mamartut Restaurant offered delicious Greenlandic cuisine. I tried the Greenlandic tapas platter, which included whale, musk ox, and smoked fish. The atmosphere was relaxed, and the food was exceptional.
Bars: Ice Rock Café: A cozy bar with great cocktails and a friendly crowd. It was a great place to warm up after a day exploring the ice fjord.
Nightclub: Ilulissat doesn’t have a large club scene, but Café Iluliaq transforms into a lively bar with music on weekends. The crowd was small but enthusiastic, with lots of dancing and laughter.
Atmosphere and Crowd: The nightlife here was low-key but welcoming, with a mix of locals and tourists sharing stories and drinks. The stunning natural surroundings seemed to bring everyone together.
4) Qaqortoq, Greenland
Stay: I stayed at Siniffik Inn, a small guesthouse in the town center. The rooms were simple but comfortable, and the staff were incredibly kind.
Restaurant: Restaurant Klara was my go-to spot. They served a mix of Greenlandic and Danish cuisine, and their fish dishes were especially memorable. The atmosphere was cozy and intimate.
Bars: Sulisartut Højskole Café: A lively gathering spot where locals and visitors mingled over beers and snacks.
Nightclub: Qaqortoq’s nightlife was more subdued, but Club Qajaq hosted weekend parties. The music leaned heavily on Greenlandic and Danish pop, and the dance floor was alive with energy.
Atmosphere and Crowd: The crowd was mainly locals, very friendly and welcoming. The intimate size of Qaqortoq made the night feel more personal and community-oriented.
5) Aasiaat, Greenland
Stay: I stayed at Hotel Sømandshjemmet Aasiaat, which had a mix of cozy rooms and a homely atmosphere. The staff provided great tips for exploring the town.
Restaurant: Restaurant Hotel SØMA was my dining choice. The reindeer steak was a standout, and the service was warm and attentive.
Bars: Café Tuilik: A small and relaxed bar where the crowd was predominantly locals. I enjoyed chatting with fishermen and learning about life in Aasiaat.
Nightclub: Aasiaat doesn’t have a dedicated nightclub, but Café Tuilik occasionally hosts live music nights, which turned into impromptu dance parties.
Atmosphere and Crowd: Very local, with a warm, close-knit vibe. Everyone was curious about my travels and eager to share stories about Greenland.
Final Thoughts
Greenland’s nightlife might not rival large cities, but each town offers unique, intimate experiences full of local charm. From Nuuk’s buzzing scene to Aasiaat’s close-knit gatherings, the evenings were filled with good food, interesting conversations, and welcoming people. If you’re looking for an authentic and off-the-beaten-path night out, Greenland doesn’t disappoint.
