
The story of Ilulissat: From fishing village to tourist magnet
Ilulissat, which means "icebergs" in Greenlandic, is a town with deep roots in Greenland's history. Originally a small settlement for Inuit cultures who lived by hunting and fishing in the rich Disko Bay. In the 18th century, Jakobshavn was founded as a trading post, and the town developed into a modern fishing village.
Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has always played a central role for the town. With its calving icebergs and impressive scenery, the fjord has become a global attraction. Tourism began to take off in earnest in the mid-20th century, and Ilulissat became a destination for adventurers and nature lovers from all over the world.
Today, Ilulissat combines its authentic charm and culture with a growing tourism industry. The town offers unique experiences such as dog sledding, whale watching and the Northern Lights – all while respecting nature and the town’s rich history. From a small fishing village to a tourist magnet, Ilulissat has retained its soul and continues to attract visitors from near and far.
Fun fact: Ilulissat Icefjord produces about 10% of all icebergs in Greenland waters, and some of them end up all the way out in the Atlantic Ocean.