Iceland or Greenland: Which One Is Better to Visit

January 18, 2024

Iceland or Greenland: Which One Is Better to Visit

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Iceland and Greenland are neighboring nations, with the little island of Iceland just a short distance off the southeast coast of the much larger Greenland. However, despite their close proximity, the two countries are remarkably different, which can make it tricky when choosing which one to visit.

It’s also worth noting that the names of these two countries can be a little misleading! Despite having “Green” in its name, Greenland is actually much icier than Iceland, with around 80% of its landmass covered in glaciers, compared to approximately 10% in Iceland, which is comparatively milder than its big sibling.

Weather and wilderness are just two of the big factors separating Iceland and Greenland. And, while they may have a few things in common, like their Viking heritage and rugged wilderness, the two have many more differences which may make one of them much more appealing to you than the other.

So, which is best? Well, that’s what this guide is here to explore. Below, we’ll dig into Iceland vs Greenland, taking a deep dive into their climate, attractions, cities, cultures, culinary styles, and more. By the end, you should have a much clearer idea of what these two nations have to offer and which one is right for you.

Contents:

A Quick Overview Of Iceland vs Greenland
Which Has The Best Weather?
Which Is Best For Activities?
Which Is Best For Cities?
Which Is Best For Hiking And Outdoor Fun?
Which Is Best For Nightlife?
Which Is Best For Shopping?
Which Is Best For Food?
Which Is Best For Families?
Which Is Best For Couples?
Which Is Best For Backpackers?
Which Is Cheapest?
Where To Stay According To Your Budget
Iceland vs Greenland: Which Is Better?

Wandering Our World’s Ten-Second Comparison:

An infographic presenting Iceland vs Greeland showing some of the key differences that will be discovered later in the article.

A Quick Overview Of Iceland vs Greenland

Iceland: A Quick Overview

Reykjavik, Iceland's capital, transforms into a winter wonderland when viewed from above. Blanketed in snow, the cityscape sparkles with festive lights, creating a magical and serene atmosphere. — ***Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, transforms into a winter wonderland when viewed from above. Blanketed in snow, the cityscape sparkles with festive lights, creating a magical and serene atmosphere.***

Iceland is one of the Nordic nations of northern Europe. It’s an island country, situated in between the Arctic Ocean and the North Atlantic, around 175 miles off the southeast coast of Greenland. Covering 39,817 square miles of land, Iceland is home to around 380,000 people in total, with many of them – approximately a third – living in the capital city, Reykjavik.

Ranked as the second-largest island in all of Europe, Iceland is famed for its vast expanses of tundra and distinctive, volcanic landscape. A huge volcanic plateau stretches out across the center of the country, with the likes of black sands and lava fields dotted across the landscape. Iceland also has its own fjords, hot springs, and mountains.

The history of Iceland is quite fascinating, with records showing that Vikings first came to the island around 870. An influx of Norwegian settlers arrived soon after, forming towns and cities, and Iceland later formed unions with Norway and other Scandinavian countries, before becoming a truly independent nation in the 20th century.

A captivating aerial view of Reykjavik, Iceland, reveals the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church towering over the cityscape. The unique architecture stands amidst a picturesque blend of colorful rooftops and scenic landscapes.

These days, Iceland is enjoying a real emergence on the global stage, especially in the field of tourism. It may be a small nation, but it has a lot to offer, drawing in adventurers, backpackers, and explorers from across the globe who are eager to enjoy its peaceful tranquility, sublime scenery, and relaxing atmosphere.

Greenland: A Quick Overview

The enchanting town of Qeqertarsuaq on the south coast of Disko Island, Western Greenland, is adorned with colossal icebergs along its shores. Nature's frozen sculptures create a breathtaking backdrop to the charming coastal settlement. — The enchanting town of Qeqertarsuaq on the south coast of Disko Island, Western Greenland, is adorned with colossal icebergs along its shores. Nature’s frozen sculptures create a breathtaking backdrop to the charming coastal settlement.

Greenland is a country that’s part of the Kingdom of Denmark. It’s the biggest country in the Danish Kingdom, stretching out across an enormous 836,330 square miles of land, but being home to only 56,000 people. Located between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, Greenland is technically part of the North American continent, despite its strong ties with Europe.

The biggest island in the world, Greenland also has the distinction of being the northernmost piece of land on the planet. Since it’s so far north, it has some of the coldest temperatures of all, and around 80% of the country is covered in a vast ice sheet, with all of its towns and cities situated along the slightly milder and ice-free coastal areas.

Various Arctic peoples have made Greenland their home over the millennia. Vikings also sailed there and settled the southern part of the country in the 10th century, with Inuit people arriving a few centuries later. It was only in 1814 that Greenland became 100% Danish, though most of its residents are Inuit and the country has gradually gained more independence over the years.

In Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, vibrant houses paint the cityscape with a stunning array of colors as the sun sets. The warm hues reflect off the coastal town, creating a picturesque and tranquil Arctic evening scene.

While Iceland is famed for being quiet and sparsely populated, Greenland takes that concept even further. It’s the most sparsely populated region in the entire world, being exceptionally remote and largely untouched by humanity. Anyone seeking a genuine off-the-beaten-path adventure will certainty love it here.

Which Has The Best Weather?

From an aerial perspective, Nuuk, Greenland unfolds as a captivating tapestry of streets and buildings. The colorful structures harmonize with the Arctic landscape, showcasing the unique blend of modernity against a backdrop of pristine nature.

With Greenland and Iceland both being so far north, you shouldn’t expect sunshine and warm weather in either of these locations. In general, they’re both quite cool for large parts of the year, especially during the coldest winter months, with many of Greenland’s iciest areas being simply too frosty for people to live in.

However, in summer, both countries are notably milder, which is why the summer months tend to be the best time to visit. That’s when you can expect to enjoy temperatures between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit around Iceland, or between 40 and 60 in Greenland, depending on which part of the island you explore.

In terms of rainfall, Greenland is notably drier than Iceland and not quite as windy, for the most part. So, despite being a little cooler on the whole, travelers may find that Greenland’s climate is actually more comfortable.

Which Is Best For Activities?

If you’re planning a trip to an exciting and unusual vacation destination like Iceland or Greenland, you’re probably not planning to spend most of your time cooped up in your hotel room. Instead, you’re more likely to want to get out and explore, admiring the Northern Lights, learning more about the islands’ cultures, and enjoying their rich scenery. But which is best?

Iceland: The Activities

Captured by an action drone camera, the aerial view of Reykjavik, Iceland, reveals the renowned Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral as a prominent landmark. The city sprawls beneath, combining urban vibrancy with natural beauty in this stunning perspective.

Most people who visit Iceland tend to base themselves in the country’s capital and biggest city of Reykjavik. That’s the best place to fully embrace Icelandic culture and cuisine, with plenty of interesting landmarks to check out, like the distinctive Hallgrimskirkja Church. You’ll also find many museums here, like the National Museum of Iceland, to discover the country’s past.

Other attractions around Reykjavik include the intriguing Whales of Iceland museum, which boasts life-sized whale models and family-friendly interactive exhibits, as well as The Settlement Exhibition. Alternatively, you can stop off at some of Iceland’s other towns and cities, like Keflavík and Hafnarfjordur, to learn about its Viking past and fun folklore.

Of course, many people pick Iceland as their vacation destination not for its urban centers, but for its amazing landscapes. And, if you’re eager to get out into nature, enjoying activities like hiking and exploring, you’ll find no shortage of awesome places to visit, like the vast Thingvellir National Park, home of dramatic cliffs and the country’s largest lake.

Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland, a majestic spectacle, showcases diverse moods as its immense power and grandeur create ever-changing scenes. From thunderous cascades to serene beauty, nature's drama unfolds at this breathtaking destination. — Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland, a majestic spectacle, showcases diverse moods as its immense power and grandeur create ever-changing scenes. From thunderous cascades to serene beauty, nature’s drama unfolds at this breathtaking destination.

From the beauty of Asbyrgi Canyon to the romance of Gullfoss Waterfall, Iceland has an almost never-ending list of natural landmarks to visit and admire. Whether you want to sunbathe on a black sand beach, submerge yourself in a healing natural spring, take a horseback ride across the countryside, or even drive a 4×4 across lava fields, it’s all possible here.

Greenland: The Activities

In the Arctic capital Nuuk, the suburbs come alive with the vibrant colors of Inuit houses. Each dwelling stands as a colorful testament to the resilience and cultural richness of the community against the Arctic backdrop.

If you’re heading to Greenland and want to learn about the country’s unique culture and history, head to the capital: Nuuk. It’s not as big or busy as Reykjavik, with a much smaller population, but there’s still plenty to do here, like visiting the National Museum, with artifacts and archives telling the 4,500-year-old story of Greenland as we know it.

The National Museum also provides a great introduction to Inuit culture, and there are many other ways to connect with the island’s inhabitants, from tasting their food to admiring their artwork and traditions. Many people also look to book guided tours or expeditions, with expert native guides leading the way and sharing insights about their fascinating way of life.

Just like Iceland, Greenland mostly tends to appeal to adventurers and lovers of the great outdoors. And there’s simply so much to see here, with the kinds of landscapes you can’t find anywhere else on Earth. The vast Greenland Ice Sheet, for example, is simply amazing to admire from a helicopter ride or coastal cruise.

The icebergs in Ilulissat, Qaasuitsup Municipality, Greenland, present a whimsical display of textures and shapes. Carved by nature, these frozen sculptures showcase a mesmerizing array of forms, creating a surreal and enchanting Arctic landscape.

Hiking is also a hugely popular activity for visitors to Greenland, with hundreds of miles of Arctic trails, while kayaking is another super way to get around across glacial lagoons and along the shimmering blue rivers that stretch across the island. Meanwhile, if you love wildlife, make sure to book your spot on a Greenland whale-watching tour.

Overall, there’s lots to do in Iceland and Greenland, with a big focus on nature-based activities in both countries. Iceland has a little more going on in its towns and cities, and is also more compact, making it easy to get from place to place. But, with a smaller population and much larger landmass, Greenland can appeal to those seeking a peaceful escape from regular life.

Which Is Best For Cities?

Reykjavik, Iceland, bursts with vibrant hues as red, green, blue, and yellow houses, crafted from corrugated metal, line the streets. A lively tapestry of colors extends to cars and streets, creating a unique and picturesque cityscape.

While Iceland and Greenland primarily appeal to nature lovers, you may also want to spend some time exploring the towns and cities of these countries. If so, you’ll want to know which one is better-suited to urban exploration.

Well, despite being so much smaller than Greenland, Iceland has a significantly larger population, with bigger and more developed cities to explore. For example, the capital and largest city of Iceland, Reykjavik, is home to around 139,000 people, while Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, has less than 20,000 inhabitants.

That means you’ll generally find more engaging and exciting urban experiences in Iceland. Reykjavik has got everything from a lively nightlife scene to many museums, galleries, shops, and intriguing landmarks to visit. Other urban centers, like Kopavogur and Hafnarfjordur, are also worth checking out for their quirky attractions.

Nuuk, Greenland, on July 20, 2022, offers a striking contrast with multi-colored houses set against a pristine snow-covered mountain backdrop. The vibrant hues create a picturesque scene, blending urban vibrancy with the Arctic's serene beauty. — Nuuk, Greenland, offers a striking contrast with multi-colored houses set against a pristine snow-covered mountain backdrop. The vibrant hues create a picturesque scene, blending urban vibrancy with the Arctic’s serene beauty.

In contrast, Greenland’s towns feel much smaller and quieter. They’re still very charming in their own ways, like Ilulissat, with its classy restaurants and awesome ice fjord views, and Qaqortoq, which has cute, colorful homes, natural hot springs, and a lovely harbor. Just don’t expect to find vast shopping districts or long lists of attractions in any of these places.

Overall, Iceland is the better destination for urban excitement, with Reykjavik standing head and shoulders above any of Greenland’s towns or cities. However, if you love peaceful and characterful places, you’ll still appreciate the little coastal settlements of Greenland.

Which Is Best For Hiking And Outdoor Fun?

A serene blue walking trail winds along the mesmerizing Ilulissat Icefjord in Greenland. Framed by towering ice formations, the trail provides a breathtaking journey through the Arctic landscape, immersing travelers in the beauty of this pristine environment.

As mentioned above, one of the best things about visiting Greenland and Iceland is their amazing natural landscapes. In Greenland, you’ve got glacial lakes and ice fields, while Iceland is known as the “Land of Ice and Fire” for its distinctive mix of volcanic and arctic scenery. But which one is best for hikes and other outdoor activities?

Well, if hiking is one of your favorite ways to spend time in the great outdoors, you’ll surely adore Greenland. It’s got many, many miles of hiking trails to try, including a mixture of long, challenging treks and easier, more family-friendly paths. There’s also world-class kayaking in this country, along with cycling, dog sledding, and more.

In Iceland, too, there are many beautiful and inspiring hiking trails to follow, though they can be a little tough to find. The scenery here is wonderfully diverse, and it’s one of the best places in the world for those who enjoy volcanic landscapes, with black sands, geysers, and impressive peaks to ascend.

At sunrise, the expansive view of Reynisdrangar rock formations on Reynisfjara Beach, near Halsanefhellir, Iceland, unveils a captivating spectacle. Silhouetted against the dawn sky, the unique geological features stand as majestic sentinels on this picturesque black sand beach.

Overall, there’s no clear winner here, as both countries are so fantastic for nature lovers. Iceland has the benefit of being more compact, with its distinctive volcanic scenes. Meanwhile, Greenland is bigger and better for hiking, and also slightly better for wildlife, with over 15 species of whales, along with seals, polar bears, puffins, and more.

Which Is Best For Nightlife?

The city center of Reykjavik, Iceland, transforms into a magical scene as the northern lights dance across the night sky. Vibrant hues of green and purple illuminate the urban landscape, creating a celestial display above the city lights.

Nightlife might not be your No. 1 priority when planning a trip to either Iceland or Greenland. However, if you’re the kind of traveler who likes to stay out late and have fun in the evenings, it’s still worth considering the nightlife scenes of these two neighboring nations. And, when it comes to nightlife, there’s a clear winner.

Iceland is most definitely the better place to be for evening entertainment, especially Reykjavik. In fact, the Icelandic capital is gradually building up a reputation as one of the leading nightlife destinations in the Nordic region, with a growing selection of lively nightclubs, dance spots, and trendy bars to go along with its top class restaurants.

Since it’s much more sparsely populated and quieter in general, Greenland can’t quite compete with Iceland for nightlife excitement. However, there are still a few fun clubs dotted around Nuuk and a couple of the other larger towns, serving drinks and playing music until the early hours, with groups of friendly locals waiting to greet you.

Overall, Iceland is the clear winner in the nightlife department.

Which Is Best For Shopping?

Reykjavik's Skolavordustigur Street bustles with life in the downtown center. The road and sidewalk are lined with signs for restaurants and shops, while people, both locals and tourists, fill the scene, creating a lively atmosphere of exploration and activity. — Reykjavik’s Skolavordustigur Street bustles with life in the downtown center. The road and sidewalk are lined with signs for restaurants and shops, while people, both locals and tourists, fill the scene, creating a lively atmosphere of exploration and activity.

Shopping is something else you might like to partake in before leaving Greenland or Iceland and heading home. Both countries are great for buying one-of-a-kind souvenirs and handcrafted, traditional items, though one of them has a deeper and more diverse shopping scene than the other.

And, once again, it’s Iceland that emerges as the winner in this category, mainly thanks to Reykjavik. The capital has a lot of super places to shop, especially in the three main streets of Laugavegur, Bankastraeti, and Skolavoroustígur, with stores selling pretty much everything you could hope to find, from clothing and jewelry to books, toys, antiques, and more.

Greenland, meanwhile, isn’t exactly a leading destination for shopaholics, with mostly small towns and simple stores that sell the basic items people need to get by. With that said, you can still buy some truly unique souvenirs here, like tupilak figures, super warm wool accessories, beaded jewelry, and decorative glassware.

Qaqortoq, Greenland: Braettet fish market by the coastline. Colorful stalls exhibit the day's catch, providing a vivid snapshot of local life against the Arctic setting. — ***Qaqortoq, Greenland: Braettet fish market by the coastline. Colorful stalls exhibit the day’s catch, providing a vivid snapshot of local life against the Arctic setting.***

Overall, Iceland is best for shopping, but you can still find cool mementos and special gifts in Greenland.

Which Is Best For Food?

***Icelandic winter delight: Kjotsupa, a hearty lamb soup with vegetables and spices. Presented in a stainless steel casserole on a wooden table, this traditional dish exudes warmth and flavor.***

Tasting the local food is part of the fun of visiting Greenland and Iceland. However, you may find that one of these countries’ culinary styles is more appealing to you than the other.

Greenlandic cuisine is based around whatever ingredients the native hunters and fishermen can find nearby, with lots of meals being based around the likes of seal, birds, and fish. In short, Greelandic people tend to have quite meaty, high-protein diets, and some of the best dishes to try include suaasat seal soup and smoked seal meat.

Icelandic cuisine also revolves around local, accessible ingredients, like fish from the surrounding waters and lamb reared on the island. Many menus include fish and seafood dishes, along with cured meats and tasty flatbreads. Overall, there’s more variety here, with a wider range of foods to suit all preferences.

Greenland shark meat is a traditional dish prepared through fermentation. Known as "kiviaq," the process involves burying the shark, resulting in a distinct flavor. Consumption is regulated due to potential toxicity. — Greenland shark meat is a traditional dish prepared through fermentation. Known as “kiviaq,” the process involves burying the shark, resulting in a distinct flavor. Consumption is regulated due to potential toxicity.

So, if you want the best variety and tastiest flavors, you’ll most likely prefer the restaurants and eateries of Iceland over those of Greenland.

Which Is Best For Families?

***On Hrisey Island, Iceland, a family enjoys a unique adventure riding a vibrant red four-wheel, four-person bicycle. This whimsical scene captures the joy of exploration on this picturesque island.***

Greenland and Iceland can both be suitable destinations for family vacations, especially for families who are active and love spending time outside. But which one is best-suited for parents and kids?

Well, Iceland has the big advantage of being much more compact than Greenland, and that makes it much easier to get around and see the sights without having to worry about long flights or boat rides. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy here, from whale-watching tours to hot spring visits or even admiring the island’s “Elf Houses”.

Greenland also has many great outdoor recreation possibilities for families, with a myriad of hiking trails to check out. Kids may also enjoy learning all about the Inuit culture and visiting the glaciers and glacial lakes here. It’s almost like a tour of the North Pole, but much more family-friendly, ideal for adventurous spirits.

Greenland's summer landscape unveils a stunning sight, with a solitary iceberg glistening under the sunny sky. The tranquil scene epitomizes the Arctic's beauty during the warmer months. — ***Greenland’s summer landscape unveils a stunning sight, with a solitary iceberg glistening under the sunny sky. The tranquil scene epitomizes the Arctic’s beauty during the warmer months.***

Overall, both countries can work well for families, but Iceland arguably has a slight edge because of its more compact and accessible nature.

Which Is Best For Couples?

***An Icelandic senior couple embraces the beauty of the black beach, captivated by the unique landscape. Against the volcanic sands, their presence adds warmth to the striking natural setting.***

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life with someone special by your side? If so, a trip to Iceland or Greenland could be just what the doctor ordered. With their peaceful vibes and pristine nature, both of these countries provide idyllic conditions for couples in search of quiet, cozy romance.

And if peace and quiet is what you want most of all, head to Greenland. It’s so sparsely populated, you can almost feel like you’re entirely alone in certain areas. Plus, there’s plenty of potential for romantic moments on glacial lake cruises or incredible helicopter rides above the icy expanse.

At the same time, Iceland is also a prime destination for couples of all ages, with a more diverse range of experiences to enjoy. By day, you can set off exploring the country’s otherworldly landscapes. By night, you can hit up the trendy bars and restaurants of Reykjavik before retreating to your boutique hotel.

Overall, while both countries can appeal to couples, Iceland is the easiest of the two to recommend.

Which Is Best For Backpackers?

***Reykjavik, Iceland: A bustling summer scene unfolds in the downtown center. Tourists fill the sidewalks, exploring stores and restaurants adorned with vibrant signs, creating a lively atmosphere.***

Backpackers can also have a thrilling and memorable experience in either Iceland or Greenland, with both of these special countries drawing in the backpacking crowd.

Iceland has a couple of notable backpacking benefits. First, it’s cheaper. That’ll definitely be important to you if you’ve got a tight budget. It’s also more accessible, with many more flights and a stronger touristic scene to help you settle in and feel at home. Plus, since it’s so compact, it’s really easy to hop around from place to place and see all you want to see.

In contrast, Greenland is pricer to get to and tougher to traverse, without the same touristic amenities that Iceland has. While the more rugged nature of Greenland may appeal to seasoned adventurers in search of an authentic off-the-beaten-path expedition, inexperienced backpackers might find it a little too inaccessible.

Overall, Iceland is the better backpacking nation for the most part, but you shouldn’t rule out Greenland right away.

Which Is Cheaper?

***In winter, Reykjavik, Iceland, transforms into a snow-covered wonderland. The cityscape, dusted with white, presents a serene and picturesque view, capturing the magic of the season.***

When it comes to cost, it’s worth noting that Iceland is notably cheaper than Greenland in most of the key areas. That means flights, hotels, getting around, and even touristic activities usually cost less in Iceland, though food may be a little more expensive. So, if you’re looking for the best value for money or don’t have too much to spend, Iceland is the right choice for you.

Where To Stay According To Your Budget

Iceland

Budget: Hérað – Berjaya Iceland Hotels captivates with its unparalleled beauty. Nestled in a pristine landscape, this retreat immerses guests in stunning natural surroundings. Majestic vistas unfold, showcasing the ethereal charm of Iceland. Serenity and beauty converge in every corner, making it an idyllic haven for an unforgettable escape.

Luxury: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland is a sublime oasis of beauty. Nestled amid the rugged Icelandic terrain, its modern architecture harmonizes with nature. The azure waters of the lagoon seamlessly blend with the volcanic surroundings, creating a tranquil haven. This retreat epitomizes sublime luxury within a breathtaking natural masterpiece.

Greenland

Budget: Hotel Nordlys in Greenland is a gem of Arctic beauty. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, it seamlessly merges with nature. The hotel’s design complements the icy expanse, offering panoramic views of glaciers and mountains. A tranquil retreat, it captures the enchanting allure of Greenland’s pristine wilderness in every detail.

Luxury: Hotel Icefiord in Greenland stands as a testament to Arctic elegance. Nestled against a backdrop of majestic fjords, it captivates with its modern design blending seamlessly with the icy panorama. The hotel offers unrivaled views, immersing guests in the beauty of Greenland’s vast, untamed landscapes, a truly breathtaking experience.

Iceland vs Greenland: Which Is Better?

In the winter wonderland of Iceland, Vik I Myrdal church crowns the hill, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the picturesque village. The snow-covered landscape enhances the beauty of this enchanting scene.

Overall, both of these countries are so beautiful and wondrous, it’s almost impossible to say that one is better than the other. Each one has its pros, cons, and key features, like Iceland with its “Ice and Fire” landscapes and Greenland with its remarkably peaceful vibes and truly unique Inuit culture.

However, the aim of this guide is to decide which country is best for most travelers. And that’s Iceland. More compact, yet surprisingly diverse, Iceland is cheaper, easier to get to, simpler to get around, and a more exciting place to visit in many ways, offering the best of both worlds – all the dynamic fun of a big city in Reykjavik, coupled with majestic, magical landscapes galore.

At the same time, Greenland is also worth considering, especially if you’re looking for a place that is almost incomparably peaceful, where you can truly feel aligned with Mother Nature. With its icy, snowy scenery and intriguing cultural traditions, it’s a lovely place for couples, groups of friends, or even solo adventurers to have unforgettable experiences.

Greenland, Iceland

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Iceland or Greenland: Which One Is Better to Visit

Wandering Our World’s Ten-Second Comparison: