Nuuk

Nuuk, located on the west coast of Greenland, about 250 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle, is not only its capital, but also the largest city in Antarctica. The Gulf Stream, which brushes Greenland on this part, prevents the sea from freezing over in winter. The climate is subpolar.

Geologically, the area around Nuuk is one of the oldest on earth. But not only from a geological point of view the area carries a long history with it, already 2400 BC the first hunters came from Alaska to Greenland, whereupon further waves of immigration followed. Thus Nuuk also has a long history as a settlement area. Finally, the city of Nuuk was founded in 1728 by the missionary Hans Egede. When he founded the town, he named it "Godthab", which means "Good Hope" in Danish and was used for the town until 1979, when it was officially named Nuuk. There are now just over 18,000 inhabitants living in the town, which is almost a third of the population of Greenland.

Through history, a very diverse cultural life has developed in Nuuk itself. This is not only characterized by the Katuaq House of Culture, which is used as a concert hall, cinema, conference hall or for exhibitions, but rather by the diverse cultural interests of the people who animate the music, the National Theater, the House of Culture or the National and Art Museum. In Nuuk you will not only find traditional Greenlandic music, but also classical music, hip-hop or even techno. Moreover, you can always visit exciting exhibitions in the museums. Sports culture also plays a big role in Nuuk. You have the possibility to swim your laps in the Malik swimming hall and enjoy a beautiful view or ski on Nuuk's perfect slopes in winter. Inuit sports are also held in Nuuk. The so-called Inuit Games were practiced by the Native Americans of Canada and Alaska for centuries. The games are various sports that require strength and endurance. At the beginning of the millennium, they first became popular in Greenland.

Nuuk offers quite a few attractions both on land and at sea. What makes Nuuk special is its fjord, the Nuuk Fjord, which is called the second largest fjord system in the world. The water system is full of bays and islands that are perfect to explore on a trip by boat or kayak. The chance of encountering humpback or minke whales during the trip is very high, so you should keep your eyes open! If you go a little further by boat, you will reach a small island where you can observe the extraordinary puffins, also known as puffins. Another incredibly special experience can be had at one of the most remote restaurants in the world, "Qooqqut Nuan". The restaurant is located in Nuup Kangerlua, 50 minutes away from Nuuk by boat. On the boat trip to the restaurant, you will catch your own fish, which will then be turned into your delicious dinner by the experienced chefs at the restaurant.

But Nuuk also has a lot to offer on land. Visit the Culture Center, one of the many museums, the former home of Hans Edege, the Cathedral or the Nuuk Center for shopping. Sample traditional dishes at great restaurants and cafes. Walk through the enchanting streets of the city and watch the Northern Lights. During the winter months, Nuuk also hosts a number of festivals, such as the Nuuk Snow Festival, where sculptures of all shapes and sizes are carved from snow blocks, and Nuuk Multi Kulti, a celebration of cultural diversity. There is also the Maaji Nuan, which translates to "beautiful May." Maaji Nuan is a month-long initiative in which many free or low-cost sports activities are offered. The aim of this is to encourage people to lead a healthy lifestyle.

Nuuk is an incredible destination at any time of the year, so the best time to visit the city depends more on what you want to experience. For example, if you want to see the Northern Lights, then the months from September to April would be the most suitable. During this time, winter and spring are also the best conditions for snow-based outdoor activities such as skiing, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

Nuuk is a unique city that has something for everyone. A mix of culture, rich history, stunning nature and warm people makes the city something special to visit.