Nuuk, Greenland: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Nuuk, Greenland? If you're planning to go to Nuuk, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Nuuk, Greenland

Based on the climate and weather in Nuuk, Greenland, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Nuuk, Greenland

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Nuuk, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Nuuk, Greenland by month

January

January in this region can be dangerously cold. Temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains or snows sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Greenland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuuk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, E, F and K. Make sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to go to the stunning Hans Egede Church, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Greenland National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

Traveling to Nuuk in February, you will notice that it is biting cold. Expect it to rain or snow sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Greenland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuuk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, E, F and K. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you are intending to go to the stunning Hans Egede Church, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Greenland National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Nuuk is beyond freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 80% to 80% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Greenland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuuk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, E, F and K. Check that you pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you are intending to go to the stunning Hans Egede Church, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Greenland National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you go to Nuuk in April, you will notice that it can be bitter cold. Expect it to rain or snow about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Greenland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuuk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, E, F and K. It's important that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to go to the stunning Hans Egede Church, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Greenland National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Nuuk is frosty. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Greenland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuuk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, E, F and K. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you are intending to go to the stunning Hans Egede Church, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Greenland National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you are traveling to Nuuk in June, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Greenland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuuk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, E, F and K. Check that you choose the right kind. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you are intending to go to the stunning Hans Egede Church, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Greenland National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you visit Nuuk during July, you may notice that it is brisk. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally around 80 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Greenland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuuk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, E, F and K. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to go to the stunning Hans Egede Church, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Greenland National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you vacation in Nuuk during August, you will probably see that it can be very chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Greenland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuuk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, E, F and K. Make sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you are intending to go to the stunning Hans Egede Church, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Greenland National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

In September, Nuuk can be very chilly. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Nuuk, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 80%. Additionally, it is breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Greenland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuuk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, E, F and K. Be sure to find the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to go to the stunning Hans Egede Church, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Greenland National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Nuuk is frigid. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Greenland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuuk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, E, F and K. Be sure to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you are intending to go to the stunning Hans Egede Church, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Greenland National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Nuuk can be bitter cold. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C) to high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Greenland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuuk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, E, F and K. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are intending to go to the stunning Hans Egede Church, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Greenland National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Nuuk can be bitter cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Greenland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuuk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, E, F and K. Make sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you are intending to go to the stunning Hans Egede Church, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Greenland National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Nuuk, Greenland

As the capital and largest city in Greenland, Nuuk offers an abundance of unique and breathtaking tourist attractions. Whether you are interested in exploring the rich cultural history of the Inuit people or in admiring the picturesque Arctic landscapes, there is certainly no shortage of things to see and do in this fascinating city. Here are the top tourist attractions you simply cannot miss when visiting Nuuk:

1. Nuuk fjord

One of the most spectacular natural sights in Nuuk is undoubtedly its stunning fjord. From the city, you can easily take a boat tour that will take you along the coastline, giving you a unique view of the city and the majestic mountains rising behind it. You will also have the chance to see the abundant wildlife, such as whales and seals, that call the fjord home.

2. National Museum of Greenland

If you are interested in learning about the history and culture of Greenland, the National Museum of Greenland is the perfect destination. The museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history of the Inuit people and their way of life, as well as Greenland's colonial past.

3. The Nuuk Art Museum

Art lovers won't want to miss out on the Nuuk Art Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of both traditional and contemporary Greenlandic art. The museum features works from a wide range of artists, including the highly respected painter Emmanuel A. Petersen.

4. Qornok

Just a short boat ride from the city, Qornok is a small island that has been abandoned since the 1970s. While the island may now be uninhabited, it still offers visitors an eerie and fascinating look into the lives of the people who used to live there. Be prepared for a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere as you explore the ruins and take in the breathtaking views of the Arctic landscape.

5. Nuuk Cathedral

Nuuk's Cathedral is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, easily recognizable by its bright yellow facade. Built in the mid-1800s, the cathedral is one of Greenland's oldest buildings and is a significant cultural and historical site.

6. The Old Harbour

The Old Harbour is another must-visit attraction in Nuuk, offering a glimpse into the city's past as a fishing port. The colorful wooden buildings and charming atmosphere make it the perfect place to take a stroll and snap some photos.

7. The Qinngorput District

Located just outside of Nuuk, the Qinngorput District is a fascinating example of modern Greenlandic architecture. The district is made up of a series of bright, colorful apartment buildings that are thoughtfully designed to fit in seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment.

In conclusion, while Nuuk may not be the most well-known tourist destination in the world, it certainly has a lot to offer. From the breathtaking natural beauty of its fjords and mountains to its fascinating cultural and historical attractions, Nuuk is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, pack your bags and head north to discover one of the most unique and unforgettable destinations in the world.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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