At LocalsInsider, we’re naming Greenland as the top travel destination for 2025. It’s the best emerging tourist spot, which has just become easier to get to.
While mainstream travel media has highlighted Thailand as their 2025 destination pick, we beg to differ. Though Taiwan deserves its due as our top choice in the Asia-Pacific region, we believe Greenland is the real standout for 2025.
Here’s why we’re prioritizing Greenland over more conventional and sponsored options.
Why Greenland is the Top Destination for 2025?
Greenland, part of the Danish Kingdom and the world’s largest island, is stepping into the global spotlight like never before. Once striving for independence and famously receiving a purchase offer from former U.S. President Donald Trump to Denmark’s Mette Frederiksen, this Arctic gem is now opening its doors in a whole new way.
With Nuuk’s first-ever international airport to welcome direct flights from the USA and Europe from November 28, 2024, including a direct SAS route from Copenhagen starting on 27th of June 2025, Greenland is primed for a surge in tourism. Before this, visiting often required cruise expeditions to more remote areas.
This nation, home to about 57,000 people, is experiencing a wave of growth and international attention. Its annual gay pride parade, first held in 2015 with an impressive 1,000 participants, highlights its commitment to freedom and inclusivity.
The island’s breathtaking natural wonders—from colossal, majestic icebergs (which climate change advocates warn are rapidly melting) to vast untouched landscapes—are unparalleled and worth the journey alone.
Tourism is proving to be a vital economic boost for Greenland, fostering development and reshaping how we understand the North. Tourism is a significant contributor to Greenland’s economy. In 2023, foreign tourism generated nearly DKK 1.9 billion in revenue, equating to approximately USD 270 million.
This sector also added a gross value of DKK 1.2 billion (around USD 170 million). It contributed DKK 48 million (about USD 7 million) in direct taxes and DKK 87 million (approximately USD 12 million) in duties. Additionally, foreign tourism directly accounted for 1,075 jobs in Greenland.
And with direct flights, it’s never been easier to experience this remarkable destination. Plus, for U.S. citizens, there’s no visa required.
Forget Thailand (for a year at least) — Greenland is calling, and it’s ready to show why it deserves the title of the best travel spot for 2025.
Why Greenland is the Must-Visit Destination in 2025
Greenland offers a unique blend of natural beauty that can only be seen there and special cultural experiences. Here are some top towns and attractions to consider:
- Siorapaluk: The northernmost settlement in Greenland, offering a glimpse into traditional Inuit life and stunning Arctic landscapes.
- Ilulissat Icefjord: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning icebergs and the active Sermeq Kujalleq glacier.
- Nuuk: The capital city, combining modern amenities with traditional culture, featuring attractions like the Greenland National Museum.
- Disko Bay: Famous for its massive icebergs and opportunities for whale watching.
- Kangerlussuaq: Gateway to the Greenland Ice Cap, ideal for hiking and experiencing the vast ice sheet.
- Qaqortoq: Known for its colorful houses and the “Stone and Man” art project, showcasing carvings on rocks throughout the town.
- Tasiilaq: The largest town in East Greenland, surrounded by breathtaking fjords and mountains, perfect for hiking and exploring Inuit culture.
- Uunartoq Hot Springs: Natural hot springs where you can bathe amidst icebergs—a unique Arctic experience.
- Sermermiut Settlement: An ancient Inuit settlement near Ilulissat, offering insights into Greenland’s history and panoramic views of the Icefjord.
- Eqi Glacier: Accessible from Ilulissat, it’s one of the most active glaciers in Greenland, providing spectacular calving displays.
New Direct Flights to Nuuk by SAS and Major US Airlines in 2025
SAS will launch direct flights from Copenhagen to Nuuk on June 27, 2025. These flights to Nuuk Airport (GOH) will operate three times a week: on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. This is the first major route connecting Greenland directly to mainland Europe, making travel more convenient for visitors.
For the first time, direct flights to Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, will be available for major international airlines and are expected to include routes from major U.S. cities like New York and Boston. While specific carriers are still being confirmed, keep an eye on major airlines such as Delta and United for potential routes.
Flights with layovers in Reykjavik (Icelandair) or Copenhagen (SAS) are also options for U.S. travelers who don’t have access to direct flights.
