A long layover in Attu is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Attu Heliport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of QGQ:
- Can you legally enter Greenland? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the DKK. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Attu, we’d suggest Aasiaat Museum and Aasiaat Harbour & Waterfront. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at QGQ, check out Arctic Airfield Observation or Aasiaat Airport Kiosk & Souvenirs to keep yourself occupied.
Getting to Attu from the Airport
From QGQ, the local transport gets you to Attu in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Attu, local travelers recommend Restaurant Sikiq (Hotel Sikiq). If you have time for a second stop, Café Maaji is another popular pick.
Back at QGQ, Aasiaat Airport Café is the go-to. Airport Quick Bites & Snacks rounds out your in-terminal options.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Attu, budget roughly $49 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $26 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $13 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at QGQ, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Attu itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Greenland that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Bag Storage Near QGQ
Dedicated luggage storage at QGQ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Attu’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, QGQ has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Attu with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Attu may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.