If you’ve got a layover in Ilulissat, don’t let it go to waste sitting at JAV. The city, in Greenland, is within easy reach — roughly 40 minutes by Taxi. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave JAV:
- 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 Ilulissat takes about 40 minutes by 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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Ilulissat
If you head into Ilulissat, here are two things worth checking out:
Walk to Ilulissat Icefjord Viewpoint is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Explore Ilulissat Town Center is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at JAV, check out Enjoy the Scenic Views from Ilulissat Airport Terminal or Browse the Ilulissat Airport Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Transport from Ilulissat Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Ilulissat Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Restaurant Ulo at Hotel Arctic and Restaurant Mamartut are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Ilulissat.
- At the airport: Ilulissat Airport Cafe and Ilulissat Airport Grab & Go will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Ilulissat, budget roughly $54 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $29 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $15 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at JAV, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Ilulissat 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.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at JAV aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Ilulissat itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Need a Nap? Options at JAV
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at JAV.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Ilulissat is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Ilulissat.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.