Nuuk is a fascinating place to explore, largely because it offers a mix of stunning natural phenomena and rich cultural experiences. Its remote Arctic location makes it a prime spot for seeing the Northern Lights, and the local history and art scene are equally compelling. Whether you’re hoping to witness the aurora borealis, learn about Greenlandic traditions, or sail through icy fjords, Nuuk has something to match your interests. We especially like the Northern Lights tour because of its promise of a magical night sky show, and the fjord boat trip for its chance to combine wildlife viewing with a scenic sail. But no matter what, you’ll find tours that promise authentic, memorable moments.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of tour types to suit different tastes and schedules. For those chasing the aurora borealis, Chasing Northern Lights in Nuuk offers a small-group experience with rebooking if you miss the lights. If you prefer to see the city’s highlights from the comfort of a vehicle, the Nuuk Greenland Private Guided Tour by Car provides a quick, insightful overview. For a deeper dive into Nuuk’s cultural scene, the Jewels of Nuuk – Guided Walking Tour is perfect. Food lovers can enjoy the Food and Culture Walking Tour with Tastings, while the City Highlights by Car with Greenlandic Tasting combines sightseeing with a tasty local meal. For adventure seekers, the Fjord Boat & Fishing Tour offers a chance to sail and fish with a marine biologist, and the Greenlandic Beers and Bites Tour is a relaxed way to sample local brews and snacks. Finally, those wanting a comprehensive cultural experience might enjoy the Walking Tour with Museum Visit & Greenlandic Tasting.
1. Chasing Northern Lights in Nuuk
At number one on our list, this tour is for anyone eager to see the Northern Lights in one of the best places on Earth. Greenland’s dark winter skies give you an excellent shot at catching the aurora borealis, and this tour takes you to the optimal spots around Nuuk for the best visibility. The experience lasts about 2 hours and includes heated transportation and hot beverages, making it comfortable even in the coldest weather. If the lights don’t appear, you can rebook for free, which adds peace of mind to a potentially unpredictable show. The round-trip transfer from your hotel or cruise ship makes it convenient and hassle-free.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of passion and knowledge from guides like Mads or Inesa, who keep a close eye on aurora forecasts and share insights about the science and local stories behind the lights. Multiple reviews highlight their dedication, with one guest recalling that Mads was determined to help them see the aurora, even if it took multiple tries. This tour is perfect for travelers with flexible schedules and a love of natural phenomena. The only downside? You’ll need clear skies, and the lights are a natural show — no guarantees, but the odds are very good here.
Bottom Line: A reliable, well-reviewed choice for aurora hunters who don’t want to miss their chance in Greenland’s prime viewing location.
2. Nuuk Greenland Private Guided Tour by Car
Number two on our list is the Nuuk Greenland Private Guided Tour by Car, which is ideal if your time in Nuuk is limited but you still want to get a good sense of the city. This 1.5-hour tour covers everything from the historic Colonial Harbour to modern neighborhoods, with the guide pointing out notable landmarks like Greenland’s oldest house (built in 1728) and sculptures based on Inuit tales. You’ll also visit the Nuuk Cathedral, take in panoramic views from Myggedalen, and explore the Nuuk Fjord area.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and personalized approach. The guide picks you up anywhere, whether at your cruise port, hotel, or airport, and customizes the route based on your interests. Reviews praise the guide’s professionalism, local knowledge, and ability to avoid crowds. It’s a great way to see Nuuk’s highlights without much walking, making it suitable for travelers with limited mobility or those wanting a quick overview.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers short on time who want a comfortable, private overview of Nuuk’s key sights in a relaxed setting.
3. Jewels of Nuuk – Guided Walking Tour
If walking is your preferred way to explore, the Jewels of Nuuk – Guided Walking Tour is hard to beat. This 2-hour journey takes you through Nuuk’s cultural and historical highlights, including the Katuaq Cultural Centre, Hans Egede Statue, and the vibrant public art like the Mother of the Sea statue. The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who shares stories behind each site, making history and art come alive.
What makes this tour special is the mix of museums, architecture, and local stories, all within a walkable route. Visitors love how it brings Nuuk’s character to life through its colorful houses and significant landmarks. The tour is particularly good for first-time visitors who want a deeper appreciation of Nuuk’s cultural fabric without exhausting themselves. The only drawback is the limited time for each stop, but it’s enough to spark curiosity.
Bottom Line: An engaging, compact way to connect with Nuuk’s arts, culture, and history on foot.
4. Nuuk: Food and Culture Walking Tour with Tastings
Number four offers a delicious way to experience Greenland’s local flavors on the Food and Culture Walking Tour with Tastings. This tour takes you through the historic Colonial Harbor and the hunters market, where you can sample fresh seafood like Arctic char and traditional Greenlandic dishes. Your guide explains the significance of these foods and shares stories about Inuit culture and legends.
The highlight is not just the tastings but also the chance to see Nuuk’s everyday life in action. It’s especially appealing for foodies and cultural enthusiasts who want an authentic taste of Greenland. Priced affordably at $59 per person, it offers good value, especially considering the local culinary insights you gain. It’s a shorter tour, making it suitable for travelers with a tight schedule who still want a meaningful culinary experience.
Bottom Line: A flavorful introduction to Greenlandic cuisine and culture, ideal for those who want to eat their way through Nuuk.
5. Nuuk City Highlights by Car with Greenlandic Tasting
For around $910 per group, the Nuuk City Highlights by Car with Greenlandic Tasting offers a relaxed 3-hour private tour, perfect for travelers who prefer comfort and convenience. It covers key sites like Nuuk’s cultural center, historic houses, and scenic viewpoints, with stops for photo opportunities along the way.
The highlight is the cozy Greenlandic tasting at Café Nuan, where you can sample local foods in a relaxed setting. The tour’s flexibility and the personalized attention from your guide make it a good choice for families or small groups wanting an immersive, yet laid-back experience. Reviewers note the guide’s responsiveness and local knowledge, which enhances the trip. While pricier than other options, it combines sightseeing, cultural insight, and culinary delights into one package.
Bottom Line: A good pick if you prefer a private, all-in-one experience with tasty Greenlandic bites included.
$910 per group up to 4
6. Nuuk Fjord Boat & Fishing Tour with Local Hunter Guide
Number six on our list is the Nuuk Fjord Boat & Fishing Tour. This 3.5-hour adventure combines sailing with a chance to fish Arctic waters, led by a local hunter and marine biologist. You’ll cruise through Nuuk Fjord, passing by Sermitsiaq Mountain and exploring the abandoned village of Kangeq, full of historic ruins.
Unique to this trip is the opportunity to try your hand at Arctic fishing and learn about Greenland’s wildlife and conservation efforts. Wildlife sightings like whales and seabirds are common, making it an exciting choice for nature lovers. The guide’s expertise and storytelling add depth to the experience, making it much more than just a boat ride.
Guests rave about the stunning views and the chance to connect with Greenland’s wild side. The trip is suitable for active travelers and those interested in marine ecology. The price reflects the personalized, small-group experience and includes fishing and wildlife insights.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want to combine scenic sailing with wildlife and cultural history.
$1,402 per group up to 4
7. Nuuk: Greenlandic Beers, Burgers and Samplers Tasting Tour
Number seven offers a fun, relaxed way to explore Nuuk’s craft beer scene and local flavors. The Greenlandic Beers, Burgers and Samplers Tasting Tour lasts about 2 hours and takes you to local pubs and breweries like Killut, where you can sample Greenlandic beers and finger foods.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a laid-back experience that combines socializing with tasting authentic Greenlandic snacks and brews. Reviewers appreciate the intimate setting and the chance to learn about Nuuk’s brewing culture from knowledgeable guides. The tour is perfect for an evening out after sightseeing or as a casual intro to Greenland’s beverage scene.
Bottom Line: A cozy, informal way to taste Greenlandic beers and bites, suited for relaxed evenings and social travelers.
$244 per person
8. Nuuk Walking Tour with Museum Visit & Greenlandic Tasting
Finally, the Nuuk Walking Tour with Museum Visit & Greenlandic Tasting combines history and culture into a 3-hour exploration. It starts at the cultural center, continues with a visit to the Greenland National Museum, where you’ll see artifacts and mummies, and ends with a tasting of local specialties.
This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive culture with a focus on history, art, and food. The museum visit adds depth, and the tasting provides insights into Greenlandic cuisine. It’s ideal for those who prefer structured, educational outings and want to understand Nuuk’s roots.
Bottom Line: An in-depth cultural experience ideal for history lovers and those seeking a balanced mix of museum visits and tasting.
$317 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Nuuk
When picking a tour, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend exploring. If witnessing the Northern Lights is your top priority, the Northern Lights chase offers a reliable and well-reviewed experience. For cultural and historical immersion, the Jewels of Nuuk walking tour or the museum and tasting combo are excellent choices.
If you prefer a relaxed, scenic overview with local cuisine, the City Highlights by Car with Greenlandic Tasting provides comfort and insight. For adventure seekers, the fjord boat trip delivers wildlife encounters and stunning scenery, while those who want to sample local drinks will enjoy the beer and burger tour.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the Northern Lights chase, which depends on weather and aurora activity. Consider the season: winter offers the best chance for aurora viewing, while summer is perfect for fjord cruises and hiking.
In summary, Nuuk offers a variety of tours tailored to many interests — from witnessing the spectacular Northern Lights to exploring its rich cultural fabric and marine wildlife. For a quick city overview, the private guided tour is unbeatable, while the fjord boat trip is fantastic for those craving outdoor adventure. Food and drink tours add a delicious local flavor to your trip, rounding out a well-balanced selection. No matter what you choose, booking in advance will ensure you get the experience that best matches your travel style and schedule.