A long layover in Sisimiut is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Sisimiut Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at JHS:
First, verify that you can enter Greenland — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 60 minutes into Sisimiut, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Sisimiut, two standouts are:
- Sisimiut Museum — You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
- Old Town & Harbor Walk — No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at JHS, check out Arctic Scenery Viewing or Local Souvenir Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
How to Get Into Sisimiut
From JHS, the local transport gets you to Sisimiut in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 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.
Eating Well on a Sisimiut Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Sisimiut: Restaurant Nasaasaaq and Café Taseralik. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Sisimiut Airport Cafeteria or Airport Grab-and-Go Counter. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Sisimiut might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at JHS for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Sisimiut or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Storing Your Luggage at Sisimiut Airport
Luggage storage options at JHS can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Sisimiut for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Sleep & Lounge Options at JHS
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, JHS 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Sisimiut genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.