Greenland (GL)

Greenland is the world's largest island and an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, known for its vast ice sheet, dramatic fjords, and indigenous Greenlandic (Kalaallit) culture.

Capital: Nuuk

Region: Americas

Language: Greenlandic

Currency: DKK (kr)

Cost of living: Very expensive (index 95)

Emergency: 112

Getting Around

Transport options for living in Greenland.

Public Transport Overview

There are no roads between towns. Transport is by domestic flights, helicopters, coastal ferries, local buses in towns, taxis, boats, snowmobiles and walking. Weather disruption is normal, not exceptional.

Main operators:

Air GreenlandArctic Umiaq LineDisko LineNuup BussiiMittarfeqarfiit / Greenland AirportsRoyal Arctic Line

🎫 Transit Passes

Nuup Bussii ticket/pass Local fare (updated February 2026)

Nuuk city buses

💡 Useful for daily life if housing and work are on bus routes. Student 50% discount with valid ID.

Arctic Umiaq Line ticket Route and cabin dependent

West coast passenger ferry

💡 Seasonal and slow but important for coastal travel.

Air Greenland domestic ticket High and route dependent

Domestic flights and helicopters

💡 Book early and budget for weather delays.

Taxi & Rideshare

Taxis exist in towns but can be limited at peak times, bad weather and late nights. In settlements, local arrangements matter.

Rideshare (Long-distance)

No large ride-hailing ecosystem comparable to major cities. Use taxis, employer transport, walking or local contacts.

Cycling

Cycling is possible in larger towns in summer but limited by hills, weather, snow, ice and short road networks.

Intercity Trains

No rail system. Intercity movement is by air, helicopter, ferry or boat.

Driving

Cars are useful only within towns because settlements are not road-connected. Winter tyres and ice driving skills are essential. Driving is on the right.

Airports

Nuuk's new international airport (opened November 2024) has a 2,200-metre runway handling transatlantic flights; Air Greenland and United Airlines serve it. Kangerlussuaq remains a hub for some routes. Qaqortoq Airport opened April 16, 2026 (replacing Narsarsuaq as the south Greenland gateway; Air Greenland domestic + Icelandair Jun–Sep routes). Ilulissat Airport is under construction with opening targeted October 2026 (2,200-metre runway, direct Copenhagen service planned). Always build buffer days for weather delays.