Sisimiut , Greenland

The Sisimiut Museum is a must-see attraction located in the heart of the historic colonial quarter near the harbor. This open-air museum consists of several beautifully preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings, including the Old Church and a traditional turf house, showcasing Greenlandic history and culture.

The iconic Bethel-kirken, also known as the Blue Church, is one of Greenland's oldest and most picturesque churches. Built in 1775, its blue wooden structure stands prominently above the old harbor and is a short walk from the pier.

For a dose of modern Greenlandic culture, visit the Taseralik Culture Centre. This modern building hosts art exhibitions, film screenings, and concerts, providing insight into the contemporary arts scene of the region. Hiking is also extremely popular, with well-marked trails leading into the mountains surrounding the town, offering spectacular views of the coastline and Davis Strait.

Due to the lack of roads between settlements in Greenland, nearby destinations are typically reached by boat. A popular excursion is a boat trip to the abandoned settlement of Assaqutaq, offering a glimpse into the region's history and beautiful fjord scenery.

Another significant nearby site is the Inuit hunting ground of Aasivissuit – Nipisat, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Organized boat tours may take visitors to parts of this area, such as the historic settlement of Sarfannguit, located approximately 40-50 km south of Sisimiut.

The vast fjord systems surrounding Sisimiut, like the Kangerluarsunnguaq Fjord, are destinations in themselves. Many local operators offer boat tours to see glaciers, search for marine wildlife like whales and seals, and experience the dramatic Arctic landscapes from the water.

The Port of Sisimiut is conveniently located directly adjacent to the historic town center. The harbor is the focal point of the town, with colorful houses rising on the hillsides around it.

From the pier, it is a very short and easy walk to the main attractions, including the Sisimiut Museum, the Blue Church, and the central shopping area. No shuttles are necessary to explore the core of the town.

The port can accommodate smaller cruise ships directly at the quay. However, larger expedition ships often anchor in the bay just outside the main harbor. In these cases, passengers are brought ashore via tender boats, which typically land at a dock centrally located for easy exploration.

The official currency used in Sisimiut is the Danish Krone (DKK). While Greenland has home rule, it uses the currency of Denmark.

It is highly recommended to use the local currency or credit cards for transactions. US Dollars and Euros are generally not accepted. ATMs can be found at the local bank, where you can withdraw DKK.

Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it is wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases or at local markets.

Sisimiut is considered a very safe destination with a low crime rate, and tourists can feel comfortable exploring the town independently during the day. Standard precautions apply, but the primary safety concerns are environmental rather than criminal.

The Arctic weather can change with extreme speed. Always dress in warm, waterproof layers, even if the day starts sunny. When hiking, stick to marked trails, inform someone of your plans, and carry water and snacks. The terrain can be rocky and uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential.

While wildlife sightings are a highlight, animals like musk oxen and arctic foxes should be observed from a safe distance and never approached. For more extensive wilderness exploration, such as long hikes or boat trips into remote fjords, booking a guided tour is strongly recommended for safety and navigation.

The cruise season in Sisimiut typically runs from June to September, coinciding with the Arctic summer. During this period, the climate is polar, characterized by cool temperatures. Average daily highs range from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F).

While the summer brings the midnight sun, the weather is highly unpredictable. Expect a mix of bright sunshine, cloud cover, fog, and rain, sometimes all in one day. The wind can be strong, adding a significant wind chill factor.

Passengers should pack in layers, with a base layer, a warm mid-layer like fleece, and a waterproof and windproof outer jacket. A warm hat, gloves, and sturdy, waterproof walking shoes or hiking boots are essential for staying comfortable while exploring. Sunglasses are also important due to the glare from the water and sun.

Sisimiut is a very compact and walkable town, and most visitors will find that getting around on foot is the easiest and most enjoyable option. Most of the town's main attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a 15-20 minute walk from the harbor.

A small fleet of taxis is available for those who prefer not to walk or need to travel further out. Taxis can usually be found near the port area when a ship is in or can be called by phone.

There is a local bus service that operates within the town, but its routes are primarily designed for residents. For cruise passengers, walking remains the most practical way to explore the central areas. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not available in Sisimiut.

Shopping in Sisimiut is centered around the main town area, a short walk from the port. The best souvenirs are local handicrafts that reflect Greenlandic culture. Look for unique items such as carvings made from reindeer antler, walrus tusk, or soapstone.

A particularly unique local craft is the tupilak, a small, often grotesque figure traditionally carved to ward off evil spirits. Sealskin products are also prevalent, but be aware that many countries, including the U.S. and the E.U., have strict regulations or bans on their importation.

Prices in stores are fixed, and bargaining is not part of the local culture. You can find general goods, groceries, and some souvenirs at the two main supermarkets, Brugseni and Pisiffik. There are no large duty-free shopping centers; the focus is on authentic, locally made goods.