Planning a trip to one of the most remote and mysterious corners of the planet? Find out how to get to Greenland in 2026: what flights are available from Europe, the USA and Iceland, which airports accept international flights, when is the best time to choose a cruise and what tourists should pay attention to when planning their route

Greenland is the largest island in the world, a land of icebergs, fjords and Arctic silence. Despite its remoteness, getting here is quite possible if you plan your route in advance. We tell you how to get to Greenland in 2026 most conveniently, taking into account current routes and forecasts based on past seasons.

In 2025 and 2026, there was active talk of Greenland joining the USA. Read the link to find out why the USA is interested in Greenland? Learn about the geography, political status, resources of the island, the strategic importance of the Arctic, and what the largest island in the world can be interesting for tourists.

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How to get to Greenland?

For most travelers, air travel remains the only practical way to get to Greenland, if you don’t take into account cruise ships or private boats.

International flights to Greenland from Denmark, Iceland, Canada, the USA (direct flights launched in the summer of 2025), which arrive at Greenland’s international airports. Currently, the country has six international airports:

- Nuuk (GOH) – the capital.

- Kangerlussuaq (SFJ).

- Ilulissat (JAV).

- Narsarsuaq (UAK).

- Kulusuk (KUS).

- Nerlerit Inaat / Constable Point (CNP).

Important! According to official infrastructure development plans, new airports are expected to open in Ilulissat and Qaqortoq in 2026, which should significantly simplify tourist access to North and South Greenland.

Greenland is one of the few regions in the world that combines autonomy, Arctic nature and strict migration rules. We have already told you whether it is possible to move to Greenland, what visas are needed, how immigration, employment and life on the island actually work.

How to get to Greenland from Europe?

For travelers from mainland Europe, the most convenient route is traditionally via Copenhagen.

Air Greenland operates regular flights from Copenhagen to Nuuk throughout the year.

In addition, flights to Narsarsuaq are usually available during the summer season (June-August).

Direct flights between Copenhagen and Kangerlussuaq have been operated from February to November in previous years - the seasonality is expected to remain similar in 2026.

Domestic connecting flights are available from Nuuk to: Ilulissat, Kangerlussuaq, Sisimiut, Aasiaat, Maniitsoq and other cities.

How to get to Greenland from the USA and Canada?

For travel from the USA, Canada and the UK, the fastest option is to fly via Iceland.

Air Greenland operates flights from Keflavík International Airport (near Reykjavík) to Nuuk throughout the year.

Icelandair flies from Reykjavík Airport (RKV) to Ilulissat, Kulusuk, Narsarsuaq and Nuuk.

Norlandair connects Akureyri with Nerlerit Inaat in Northeast Greenland.

There is also a summer route between Nuuk and Iqaluit, Canada, which is expected to continue into the 2026 season.

Direct flights from the US to Greenland

United Airlines launched direct flights between Newark (EWR) and Nuuk in 2025. The route is expected to be available again seasonally in the summer of 2026.

Major airlines flying to Greenland

- Air Greenland – national carrier, international and domestic flights.

- Icelandair – key operator of routes through Iceland.

- SAS – seasonal flights from Copenhagen.

- United Airlines – direct connection from the USA.

- Norlandair – flights to remote regions of East Greenland.

Greenland, a country of glaciers and incredible landscapes, is becoming a new magnet for travelers looking for unique adventures at the edge of the world. In this article, we will tell you what to see on the island.

How to get to Greenland by sea?

Cruises to Greenland

There is no regular ferry service between Greenland and other countries, but cruises are a popular alternative to air travel.

Cruise liners:

- Depart from Iceland, Denmark, Canada, the USA and other European countries;

- Usually call at Kangerlussuaq, Ilulissat, Qaqortoq, Nanortalik and Nuuk;

- Operate mainly from June to October, peak season is July-August.

The route between Ilulissat and Narsarsuaq is considered one of the most beautiful cruise destinations in the Arctic: icebergs, fjords, Viking ruins and UNESCO sites.

Why is a cruise a special way to see Greenland?

A cruise in Greenland is not just transportation, but a full-fledged expedition:

1. Observation of icebergs and whales;

2. Getting to know local communities and culture;

3. Midnight sun in summer and northern lights in early autumn;

4. Possibility of disembarking in dozens of remote settlements.

Most expedition cruises focus on East Greenland, while classic itineraries often start or end in Kangerlussuaq.

What is important to know before traveling to Greenland?

1. Special permits are required to travel to some regions (National Park, certain areas of East Greenland).

2. The Ilulissat Ice Fjord has special visiting rules as a UNESCO site.

3. Although Visa and MasterCard are accepted in most cities, it is always a good idea to have cash on hand.

Whether you choose to fly via Europe or Iceland or cruise along the Arctic coast, a trip to Greenland in 2026 will be a unique experience. The main thing is to plan your route in advance, take into account seasonality and respect the fragile nature of the island.

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Reminder! Popular tourist destinations can become a trap. We have already told you which 8 places in the world Fodor's advises to avoid in 2026 due to overtourism, environmental risks and social tension - and what alternatives to choose instead.

Photo - generated by Gemini

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