Greenland Getaway: What to Expect and Do on United Airlines

United Airlines’ Summer Flights to Greenland Come to an End, but the Adventure Isn’t Over

Next week, United Airlines will end its summer offering of nonstop flights to Greenland, marking the conclusion (for now) of the only direct link between North America and this Arctic territory. However, the airline has already announced plans to return to Nuuk, the capital city, in 2026, continuing its commitment to serving more remote and unique destinations.

Bookings for the 2026 season are already open, whether you’re paying out of pocket or using MileagePlus miles. While the prices may be high, the experience is worth considering for those seeking a unique adventure.

Nuuk offers some of the most breathtaking scenery I’ve seen in my travels. It serves as the perfect base for hiking, fishing, and iceberg-spotting. For a true off-the-grid glamping experience, consider staying in a heated yurt overlooking an icy fjord.

Greenland’s business minister, Naaja Nathanielsen, once said, “Instead of highways, we have hikes. And instead of fast food, we have food that moves fast before you catch it.” This sentiment captures the essence of what makes Greenland such a special destination.

Booking a Trip to Greenland

Traveling to Greenland might seem like it would require a long-haul flight, but it’s actually just a four-hour trip from United’s Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). The route operates with a Boeing 737 MAX 8, which includes 54 extra-legroom Economy Plus seats and 16 first-class recliners.

Fares for this epic destination are steep. Round-trip tickets in June start at $1,100 for basic economy and over $4,600 for premium seats. Alternatively, you can book an award flight for 40,000 miles in coach or 180,000 miles in premium economy each way.

If you don’t have enough United miles, you can transfer points from Chase Ultimate Rewards or use Star Alliance partners like Singapore Airlines and Air Canada for redemptions.

Hotels and Lodging

Before booking your flights, make sure you have lodging secured. Most travelers to Greenland who aren’t on a cruise base themselves in Nuuk, minutes from the main airport. While there are hotels and short-term rentals available, capacity can be tight, especially during peak season.

The Hotel Hans Egede and its affiliated HHE Express property offer affordable options, with prices starting around $190 per night. You’ll find smaller, independent properties rather than luxury chains like Marriott or Park Hyatt.

When booking accommodations, consider rooms with blackout curtains due to the long daylight hours in Nuuk during the summer months.

What to Expect Upon Arrival in Nuuk

Even though it’s summer, you’ll want to pack a heavy sweatshirt or coat. Temperatures in Nuuk can be just above freezing, and the cold air hits immediately upon landing at Nuuk International Airport (GOH).

The airport terminal is brand-new, with a small customs area, a shop for essentials, and a coffee shop. Taxis are available for the 10-minute ride to the city center, and most accept credit cards.

Downtown Nuuk

Nuuk is the largest city in Greenland, known for its colorful houses along the coastline. With a population of less than 20,000, it’s a quiet place where you can enjoy stunning mountain and water views while strolling through the town.

Restaurants and shops are scattered throughout the city, with seafood-focused spots and local markets like Kalaaliaraq Market offering freshly caught fish. Nearly every restaurant and store accepts credit cards, and the local currency is the Danish krone.

Getting Around

Don’t expect to rent a car or take a road trip. If you want to venture outside Nuuk, you’ll likely need a boat or plane. Public transportation is limited, so plan accordingly.

What to Do in Greenland

United Airlines targets adventure travelers with its Greenland flights. Activities include hiking, whale safaris, ice fjord cruises, and even a chance to see the northern lights in late August.

Companies like Nuuk Water Taxi offer guided excursions, including a three-hour hike on Quassussuaq Mountain and a boat tour into Nuuk Fjord. For a unique experience, stay at Camp Kangiusaq, a glamping site with heated tents and no Wi-Fi or cellular signal.

More adventurous travelers can book day trips by air or water to explore Greenland’s ice sheet, the largest in the world. Be prepared for unpredictable conditions, as nature often takes precedence in this remote region.

Helpful Tips for Traveling to Greenland

Greenland is not a destination with convenience stores on every corner. While you can find supplies in Nuuk, the untouched natural beauty is what makes the destination so appealing.

Consider getting travel insurance or checking your credit card’s protections before visiting. Bring extra clothes in case of flight delays, and always dress warmly. Tourism officials also ask visitors to respect the local environment.

As Tanny Por, head of international relations at Visit Greenland, said, “In a world where it's so noisy, Greenland can give you that silence.”

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced traveler, Greenland offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and find peace in its vast, untamed landscapes.