Greenland is suddenly everywhere in the news. President Trump has brought it back into focus with talk about why the US needs this huge Arctic island. But long before the politics, people were already discovering how amazing it is to visit. It’s a place of giant icebergs, colorful towns, and Inuit culture that feels like nowhere else on Earth.
This massive island sits between New York and Moscow. Only about 56,000 people live there, most of them Inuit along the coasts. Thick ice covers 80% of the land, so folks stick to the edges in bright-painted houses. Winters are dark and freezing, with people hunting seals under the northern lights. But summer brings light that lasts almost all day.
What makes Greenland special for travelers? The nature hits hard. In Ilulissat on the west coast, you can watch huge icebergs float in Disko Bay like giant white ships. These come from the ice sheet and break off into the sea. Boats take you closeโbut not too close. One boat captain told a story about an iceberg splitting and sending a big wave his way. He didn’t stick around long!
Whales show up too. From June to September, humpbacks, fins, and minkes pop up to eat plankton. It’s one of the best spots to see them. And if you’re brave, try traditional food like mattakโwhale skin and fat that tastes like chewy gum. Locals hunt with care, using quotas for narwhals, polar bears, and more.
Getting there used to be tough with long connecting flights. Now it’s easier. The capital Nuuk got a new international airport late in 2024. United Airlines started direct flights from Newark twice a week in 2025. More airports open this year: one in Qaqortoq in the south in April, and a big one in Ilulissat in October. That should bring even more visitors.
Cruises have exploded too. In 2024, Greenland hit a record 141,000 visitors, thanks a lot to ships. Big lines like Virgin Voyages and Celebrity Cruises sail there. Some trips go from Iceland to New York and stop along the way. You pass pretty towns with houses in green, blue, yellow, and purple. You might see Viking ruins from the 10th century or ancient Inuit sites.
For something more real, try the coastal ferry Sarfaq Ittuk. It’s not fancy, but you ride with locals who use it every day. It’s cheaper than big cruises, though Greenland costs a lot overallโa head of lettuce can be $10!
The east coast feels wilder with fewer people. Only about 3,500 live there along a super long shore. Small expedition ships go to places like Scoresby Sound, the world’s biggest fjord system. You spot polar bears closer to shore in summer, plus musk oxen, Arctic foxes, walruses, and birds.
Winter brings its own magic. Dog sled rides with Inuit guides last from an hour to days. You might even learn to build an igloo. The northern lights shine bright with almost no city lights in the way.
Greenland is changing fast. Climate issues melt the ice, and politics add tension. But for now, it’s a top adventure spot. More flights, more cruises, and events like the 2026 solar eclipse make it buzz even louder.
If you love wild places, strong culture, and views that take your breath away, Greenland calls. It’s remote, expensive, and coldโbut the stories you come home with are worth it. People who go say it’s like stepping into another world. With all the talk right now, maybe it’s time to plan your trip before it gets even busier.