Passing through Godthaab / Nuuk Airport? A layover in Godthaab is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Before You Step Outside GOH
A few things to sort out before you leave GOH:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Greenland. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Godthaab takes about 30 minutes by Local Bus / Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is DKK. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Getting from GOH to Godthaab
From GOH, the Local Bus / Taxi gets you to Godthaab 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 Bus / Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Godthaab layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$15 |
| Meal | ~$29 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$54 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Godthaab, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at GOH aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Godthaab itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Exploring Godthaab on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Godthaab:
Start with National Museum of Greenland. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history. Then, if time allows, make your way to Nuuk Cathedral & Colonial Harbour. Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
If you’d rather stay inside GOH — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Nuuk Airport Souvenir Shop
- Arctic Views from Terminal
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Godthaab: Restaurant Sarfalik and Café Esmaralda. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Nuuk Airport Cafe or Grab & Go Snacks. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, GOH 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.
Staying Connected
WiFi at GOH should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Greenland and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Godthaab with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Godthaab 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.