25 Places to Go in 2025 Spotlight: Nuuk, Greenland

It is hard to imagine a more apt coolcation destination than Greenland. The largest island in the world is more accessible than ever thanks to a new international airport in Nuuk, the capital city, that opened in November 2024. With the new airport come new flights, including the only direct air link between the United States and Greenland. The seasonal, bi-weekly, non-stop United Airlines flight from Newark to Nuuk starts in June 2025. It’s the perfect opportunity for the outdoorsy, culturally curious, and wildlife-oriented travelers to hike the Arctic Circle Trail, witness the wonder of the northern lights, sleep in igloos, learn about dog sledding and traditional garments in Inuit culture, and see whales and seals up close.

Easier accessibility is a big reason why Matador Network readers voted Greenland as the winner of 2024’s Next Big Destination Readers’ Choice Award.

Those who don’t want to plan their own trip can rely on operators like US-based travel company Adventure Life, which recently started offering land-based tours in the territory. Two more airports are scheduled to open in Greenland in 2026: one in Ilulissat (home to a UNESCO-listed Icefjord) and one in Qaqortoq (the northernmost city in the world). It’s safe to say that Greenland is bound to experience a surge of visitors in the next few years. Be ahead of the curve and visit in 2025 while it’s still quiet.