Qaqortoq Museum
Discover Greenland's rich history and vibrant art scene at the Qaqortoq Museum, housed in a former smithy.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Qaqortoq Museum
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Greenland's rich history and vibrant art scene at the Qaqortoq Museum, housed in a former smithy.
"A must-see if visiting Qaqortoq on one's own, offering fascinating exhibits and a passionate curator."
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
Your ticket includes access to the main museum and the nearby Norse history building.
🚶♂️ Easy Town Walk
The museum is easily accessible on foot from the cruise ship docks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Inuit Transportation & Tools
Main Museum
See a great collection of Inuit vessels, tools, and home goods that tell stories of survival and ingenuity.
Greenlandic Art Collection
Main Museum
Admire both traditional carvings and contemporary modern art pieces, offering a diverse artistic perspective.

Norse Influence Exhibit
Nearby Norse Museum
Explore the history of Norse settlers in the area, included with your museum ticket.

Preserved Guest Rooms
Main Museum Loft
Step back in time by viewing preserved historical guest rooms in the museum's loft.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Dual Museum Access
Accessibility and Mobility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
Your ticket includes access to the main museum and the nearby Norse history building.
🚶♂️ Easy Town Walk
The museum is easily accessible on foot from the cruise ship docks.
🗣️ Knowledgeable Curator
Engage with the passionate curator for deep insights into local history.
🖼️ Tupilak Art
See Tupilaks displayed with mirrors to view all sides of these unique sculptures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
Your ticket includes access to the main museum and the nearby Norse history building.
🚶♂️ Easy Town Walk
The museum is easily accessible on foot from the cruise ship docks.
🗣️ Knowledgeable Curator
Engage with the passionate curator for deep insights into local history.
🖼️ Tupilak Art
See Tupilaks displayed with mirrors to view all sides of these unique sculptures.
👢 Greenlandic Boots (Kamik)
Discover traditional Greenlandic boots, known as Kamik, on display.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Qaqortoq Museum to be an interesting and informative stop, especially given its accessible location for cruise ship passengers. The combined ticket offering access to both the main museum and the Norse exhibit is highly praised for its value. The curator's passion and knowledge are frequently highlighted as a significant positive aspect of the visit. However, some visitors note that upper floors may present accessibility challenges.
"We recently visited Qaqortoq by ship and felt we could enjoy walking around town rather than booking an excursion through the cruise line. One of our stops on our walk was the Qaqortoq Museum. The entry fee was slightly less than $20 US for two adults and the exhibits were quite interesting. The fee also covers entry into a smaller, nearby museum regarding the Norse influence and lives in the area. A must see if visiting Qaqortoq on one’s own."
Kevin Fitzgerald
"A great collection of Inuit transportation vessels, tools, and home goods. The historical timeline of Greenlandic events was very informative. The displayed modern art pieces were a wonderful addition to the viewing material. We were unable to visit the Norse museum that is located about 100 meters away, but both museum buildings are included in the price."
Casey Leaf
"The curator has a wealth of knowledge and passion for his country and its history. I was both enthralled and humbled by the visit to this town and museum. I am forever grateful."
Laura Elek-Abe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Qaqortoq Museum is conveniently located within walking distance from the cruise ship docks, making it an easy stop during your town exploration.
Yes, the roads in Qaqortoq are generally tarmac and easy to walk on, even with a walker or scooter, making it accessible for most visitors.
Given its central location and proximity to the port, public transport is generally not needed to reach the museum. Walking is the most common and recommended method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees are around 10 euros or slightly less than $20 US for two adults, which includes access to both the main museum and the nearby Norse museum.
Your admission covers entry to the main Qaqortoq Museum, featuring Inuit artifacts and art, as well as a smaller, adjacent museum dedicated to the Norse influence in the area.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, the combined ticket for two buildings offers excellent value for exploring local history and art.
Opening hours can vary, especially seasonally. It's advisable to check the museum's official Facebook page or inquire locally upon arrival for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a diverse range of exhibits including traditional Inuit transportation vessels, tools, home goods, historical artifacts, Greenlandic art (carvings and modern pieces), and preserved historical guest rooms.
The ground floor and main exhibits are generally accessible, but the upper floors, including preserved guest rooms, may present challenges for those with mobility issues.
Yes, there is a small gift shop offering postcards, posters, jewelry, and some books for sale.
The curator is often present and eager to share their extensive knowledge and passion for Greenland's history and local life.
Tupilaks are traditional Inuit sculptures, and you can see them displayed at the Qaqortoq Museum, often arranged with mirrors to showcase all angles.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask the staff at the information desk before taking pictures, especially of specific artworks.
The unique Inuit artifacts, the diverse Greenlandic art collection, and the preserved historical rooms offer excellent photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The dual museum access is a bonus, offering more to explore without significant extra travel. The gift shop also provides a chance for kids to pick out a small souvenir. Remember to check for any specific family-friendly programming or exhibits that might be available during your visit.
🚢 Cruise Ship Visitors
Engaging with the curator is highly recommended, as they can provide invaluable insights that go beyond the written descriptions. Allow ample time to explore the exhibits, especially if you're interested in the art collections or the preserved rooms. The museum provides a perfect opportunity to delve into Greenland's unique culture and history during your port call.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of Qaqortoq
Beyond the Inuit heritage, the museum's ticket also grants access to a separate, nearby building dedicated to the Norse influence in the area. This dual focus allows visitors to grasp the layered history of Qaqortoq, from its earliest inhabitants to the medieval Norse settlers and beyond. The curator's passion and extensive knowledge further enrich the visitor experience, providing personal anecdotes and historical context that bring the exhibits to life.
The museum's commitment to preserving and presenting this history is evident in its diverse displays, including preserved guest rooms in the loft that offer a tangible glimpse into past living conditions. This blend of artifacts, art, and historical context makes the Qaqortoq Museum a vital stop for anyone seeking to understand the soul of Greenland.
Artistic Expressions at Qaqortoq Museum
Recent exhibitions have highlighted specific artists and themes, such as the works of Gert Hansen, a photographer and artist whose exhibition was featured at the museum. Another notable exhibition involved artists illustrating the story of the priest Hans Egede, showcasing a blend of historical narrative and artistic interpretation, sometimes with a more daring, erotic edge. The museum also features unique items like Greenlandic boots (Kamik), demonstrating the intersection of practical craftsmanship and artistic design.
The presentation of Tupilaks, traditional Inuit sculptures, is particularly noteworthy, with displays often incorporating mirrors to allow viewers to appreciate the intricate details from all angles. This thoughtful curation enhances the appreciation of the artistry and cultural significance embedded in each piece.
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