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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Greenland

Accommodation Types

Hotel & Guesthouse Choices

  • Hotels

    These range from modern, full-service hotels with amenities like restaurants and conference facilities to smaller, comfortable hotels with a more intimate feel. Hotels are a reliable option for consistent service and comfort.

  • Guesthouses/Hostels

    These are often more budget-friendly options. They may offer dorm beds or simple private rooms, often with shared bathroom facilities. Many guesthouses and hostels feature shared kitchen access, beneficial for budget travelers aiming to self-cater.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

    Platforms like Airbnb feature private apartments or houses for rent. These are ideal for longer stays, families, or groups, as they often include self-catering facilities and more living space, creating a home-away-from-home experience.

  • Unique Local Accommodation Types

    While Nuuk has no widely developed traditional homestay programs, some smaller, locally-run guesthouses give a more intimate and personal experience, allowing for interaction with local hosts. Community-based tourism, where you stay directly with families, is more common in smaller, more remote villages outside Nuuk.

Outdoor Stay

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Camping is generally not allowed within Nuuk city limits. While some designated campsites might exist further afield, they are very basic and need self-sufficiency. This option is mostly for experienced campers with proper Arctic gear.

Neighborhood Guide

Nuuk's neighborhoods each feature a distinct character and proximity to attractions.

Downtown / City Centre

Good Aspects
  • Excellent proximity to amenities, major attractions like the Katuaq Cultural Centre, Nuuk Centre shopping mall, and the Parliament.
  • Easy access to the Colonial Harbour.
  • Public transport links are strong here.
Considerations
  • Can be pricier for accommodation due to its central location.
  • It has a more urban feel, less immediately connected to nature.

Kolonihavnen Colonial Harbour

Good Aspects
  • Enjoy a charming atmosphere.
  • You are close to significant cultural sites and scenic views of the harbor.
  • Still easily walkable to the main city center.
Considerations
  • Fewer dining options directly within the immediate area compared to the main downtown.

Nuussuaq and Qinngorput

Good Aspects
  • Potentially more quiet than the bustling city center.
  • Often features newer, more spacious apartment rentals, suitable for families or those seeking modern facilities.
Considerations
  • Relies on public buses or taxis to reach the city center and main attractions.
  • Expect a 15-30 minute bus ride.
  • Fewer direct restaurant and major shop options within these areas.

Safety Notes

General Safety

All mentioned neighborhoods (Downtown, Kolonihavnen, Nuussuaq, and Qinngorput) are very safe for visitors.

Additional Tips

As with any travel, awareness of surroundings is always recommended.

Booking Strategies

Booking accommodation in Nuuk is highly recommended. Demand often exceeds supply, especially during the peak summer season (June-August).

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • Summer (June-August): Book at least 6-12 months in advance.
  • Shoulder and Low Seasons: 2-3 months in advance is usually sufficient, but booking early still gives more options.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Booking.com: Features a wide selection of hotels and guesthouses in Nuuk.
  • Hotels.com: Another popular platform for hotel bookings.
  • Expedia: Presents options for hotels and vacation packages.
  • Airbnb: Beneficial for finding vacation rentals and apartments, especially for longer stays or groups.

Deposit and Cancellation Policies

Policy Variations
  • Policies vary by accommodation. Always check the specific deposit requirements and cancellation policies carefully before finalizing your booking.
  • Non-refundable rates are often cheaper but present no flexibility if your plans change.
  • Given Greenland's unpredictable weather, which can affect travel, a flexible cancellation policy might be a worthwhile investment.
  • Direct through Hotel Websites: Often presents the best rates or exclusive packages not available elsewhere. Check hotel websites directly once you have identified potential options.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Accommodation prices are significantly higher during the summer (June-August) and around major holidays (e.g., Christmas, New Year's).
  • Consider traveling in the shoulder or low season for potentially lower rates.

Negotiation Customs

Walk-in Rates

It is not customary to negotiate walk-in rates in Nuuk. Prices are generally fixed, especially at hotels and formal guesthouses.

Accommodation Recommendations

This section details examples of accommodation types and their general characteristics in Nuuk.

Budget Hostels/Guesthouses

Inuk Hostels

Modern, clean facilities. Located further from the city center, but with good access via public bus.

  • Approx. 400-600 DKK/night
  • Dorms or simple private rooms
  • Shared bathrooms
  • Often kitchen access for self-catering.
Features

Good for solo travelers and budget-conscious visitors.

  • Creates a social atmosphere.

Mid-Range Hotels/Apartments

Hotel SØMA Nuuk

Central location, modern rooms, and a restaurant on-site.

  • Approx. 1200-1800 DKK/night
  • Easy for exploring downtown Nuuk.
Hotel Aurora

Conveniently located near Nuuk Airport, making it good for transit.

  • Approx. 1000-1500 DKK/night
  • Features comfortable rooms and is a short taxi or bus ride from the city center.

Luxury Hotels

  • Hotel Hans Egede

    Nuuk's premier hotel. Centrally located with excellent restaurants (Sarfalik, Hereford Beefstouw) and a popular rooftop bar. Features comprehensive services.

  • Price

    Approx. 2000-3500+ DKK/night

Vacation Rentals Airbnb/local

  • Availability

    Private apartments or houses with kitchens, featuring more space and privacy.

  • Ideal For

    Suitable for families, groups, or longer stays where self-catering is desired.

  • Price

    800 - 2000 DKK/night

  • Platform

    Check Airbnb for options.

Considerations

Location Check

When booking, check the location carefully relative to the attractions you plan to visit. While Nuuk is small, being within walking distance of areas saves time and money on transportation.

Kitchen Facilities

If you plan to self-cater, verify that your chosen accommodation features kitchen facilities.

More Accommodation Resources

Global Booking Platforms

Booking.com
Agoda
Hotels.com
Expedia

Direct Booking

Always check hotel websites directly for potential exclusive packages or better rates.