Greenland is one of the most distinctive places in the world to shop for souvenirs, not because of variety, but because of authenticity. Many items reflect Arctic life, traditional skills, and materials shaped by the environment rather than mass tourism.

This guide focuses on souvenirs you can find across Greenland, not items tied to a single settlement. The emphasis is on locally made crafts, practical gifts, and objects that reflect everyday life in the Arctic while still being realistic to take home.

1. Soapstone carvings

• Why it’s worth buying: Soapstone carving is one of Greenland’s most traditional art forms. Many pieces reflect animals, hunting scenes, and Arctic life.
• Where to look: Craft shops, cultural centers, and local markets.
• Price range: $25–$120
• How to spot a good one: Genuine soapstone feels cool and heavy, with hand-carved details.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Choose small carvings and wrap them well in clothing.

2. Tupilak figures

• Why it’s worth buying: Tupilaks are symbolic figures rooted in Inuit mythology and are now widely made as carvings. Each piece is slightly different.
• Where to look: Artisan stalls and museum shops.
• Price range: $30–$150
• How to spot a good one: Hand-carved tupilaks show natural variations rather than identical shapes.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Smaller versions are easier to protect during travel.

3. Greenlandic wool knitwear

• Why it’s worth buying: Wool clothing is essential in Arctic climates and often made using traditional patterns. These items are practical and durable.
• Where to look: Clothing shops and local craft stores.
• Price range: $40–$120
• How to spot a good one: Look for natural wool rather than synthetic blends.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Wool items compress easily in luggage.

4. Handmade bead jewelry

• Why it’s worth buying: Beaded jewelry reflects traditional Greenlandic dress and color patterns. Many pieces are made by local artisans.
• Where to look: Craft markets and gift shops.
• Price range: $15–$60
• How to spot a good one: Handmade pieces often have slight irregularities in bead placement.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Store jewelry in small pouches to avoid tangling.

5. Seal skin products (where legal)

• Why it’s worth buying: Seal skin has long been used in traditional clothing and accessories. Modern items include gloves and small bags.
• Where to look: Specialized craft shops and cultural stores.
• Price range: $50–$200
• How to spot a good one: Look for certification labels explaining legal and ethical sourcing.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Keep documentation with the item for customs checks.

6. Greenlandic art prints

• Why it’s worth buying: Prints featuring Arctic landscapes and wildlife are easier to transport than original artwork. They still reflect local creativity.
• Where to look: Galleries and museum shops.
• Price range: $20–$70
• How to spot a good one: Signed or numbered prints usually indicate local artists.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Roll prints or keep them flat between clothing layers.

7. Arctic herbal teas

• Why it’s worth buying: Herbal teas made from Arctic plants reflect local foraging traditions. They make lightweight, practical gifts.
• Where to look: Food shops and cultural centers.
• Price range: $8–$20
• How to spot a good one: Look for clear labeling of plant ingredients and origin.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Choose sealed paper or tin packaging.

8. Local spices and seasoning salts

• Why it’s worth buying: Arctic seasoning blends often use sea salt and regional herbs. They are easy to use at home.
• Where to look: Food shops and souvenir stores.
• Price range: $6–$18
• How to spot a good one: Check for small-batch or locally packed labels.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Powdered seasonings travel better than liquids.

9. Antler or bone craft items

• Why it’s worth buying: Crafts made from naturally shed antler or bone reflect traditional resource use. Items include tools and decorative pieces.
• Where to look: Artisan shops and markets.
• Price range: $20–$90
• How to spot a good one: Ask how the material was sourced and avoid heavily polished imports.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Wrap sharp edges carefully before packing.

10. Greenlandic postage stamps and postcards

• Why it’s worth buying: Greenland is known for detailed and collectible stamps featuring wildlife and Arctic scenes. They are lightweight souvenirs.
• Where to look: Post offices and gift shops.
• Price range: $2–$15
• How to spot a good one: Official stamps come with clear country identification.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Store flat in a notebook or envelope.

11. Arctic skincare products

• Why it’s worth buying: Skincare products often use oils and ingredients suited to cold, dry climates. Many are produced in small batches.
• Where to look: Pharmacies and wellness shops.
• Price range: $12–$40
• How to spot a good one: Look for short ingredient lists and local branding.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Solid balms are easier to transport than liquids.

12. Greenland-themed books or notebooks

• Why it’s worth buying: Books and notebooks featuring Greenlandic culture or photography are meaningful and practical souvenirs.
• Where to look: Bookshops and museum stores.
• Price range: $10–$35
• How to spot a good one: Locally published titles often include bilingual text.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Keep books flat to prevent bending.

Quick buying tips for Greenland

• Card payments are common, but small settlements may prefer cash.
• Prices are fixed, and bargaining is not customary.
• Ask about material sourcing, especially for animal-based products.
• Keep receipts and certificates for customs inspections.
• Choose smaller, lightweight items for easier packing.
• Liquids should be packed securely in checked luggage.

Where to shop in Greenland

Shopping is focused on small craft shops, cultural centers, and museum stores rather than large markets. Many of the best souvenirs are sold directly by local makers.

Good places to start include:

• Cultural centers and museum shops
• Local craft and gift stores
• Artisan markets when available
• Bookshops with regional publications
• Food shops selling local products
• Post offices for stamps and postcards

What to skip (common tourist traps)

• Imported souvenirs with generic Arctic branding
• Low-quality replicas made outside Greenland
• Oversized carvings that are hard to transport
• Animal products without clear documentation
• Poorly labeled food items
• Fragile décor items with no practical use

If you only buy three things

• Soapstone carving: Deeply connected to Greenlandic art traditions.
• Wool knitwear: Practical and suited to everyday use.
• Art prints: Lightweight and easy to frame at home.

FAQ

What is Greenland known for making?

Greenland is known for soapstone carvings, beadwork, wool goods, and traditional crafts using natural materials.

What are the best edible souvenirs from Greenland?

Herbal teas, seasoning salts, and small packaged food items are the easiest edible souvenirs to bring home.

Are souvenirs expensive in Greenland?

Prices are generally high due to transport costs, but quality and authenticity are usually strong.

What is the easiest souvenir to pack from Greenland?

Jewelry, prints, teas, and stationery items are lightweight and easy to pack.

How do I know if something is truly local?

Ask who made it, check labeling, and buy from cultural centers or artisan shops.

Tip: Save your receipts, and keep fragile items in your carry-on.

Let me know in the comments if you have any other top “what to buy” ideas!

About the Author 

Colin is the founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com and a passionate traveller with a soft spot for ceramics, markets, and food tours. He writes practical, first-hand guides to help you bring home souvenirs that actually mean something — not just more clutter!