The Faroe Islands are a collection of 18 rugged volcanic islands situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, about halfway between Iceland and Norway. With their dramatic sea cliffs, deep fjords, colorful turf-roofed villages, and abundant seabird colonies, they are a destination like no other in Europe. The islands are home to just over 55,000 people, yet the culture is vibrant, the landscapes are untouched, and the sense of community is strong. Because of their location, the Faroes feel remote and mysterious, yet they are surprisingly accessible from several European cities.
Travelers come here to experience nature at its wildest, whether it is hiking across wind-swept mountains, watching puffins on Mykines, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of a fishing village. The Faroes are also increasingly known for their culinary scene, which blends Nordic traditions with local ingredients such as lamb, seafood, and foraged herbs. For those who long for adventure but also appreciate comfort and authenticity, the Faroe Islands offer the perfect balance.
This guide will give you everything you need to plan your trip, from the best time to visit to suggested itineraries and hotel recommendations:
Best Time to Visit
The climate in the Faroe Islands is famously unpredictable, with locals often joking that you can experience all four seasons in a single day. However, each season has unique advantages, and the right time to visit depends on the type of experience you want to have.
- The summer months of June through August are by far the most popular time to visit. Temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50–59°F), and daylight lasts well into the evening, making it perfect for long hikes and sightseeing. Summer also brings vibrant cultural celebrations, such as Ólavsøka, the Faroese national holiday at the end of July, when Tórshavn comes alive with traditional music, rowing competitions, and colorful parades.
- Spring (April and May) is a quieter time, when the weather is slightly cooler, but the landscapes begin to bloom with wildflowers and seabirds return to the cliffs to nest.
- Autumn (September and October) offers dramatic golden scenery as the grasslands change color, and while rain is more frequent, the tourist crowds are gone, making it easier to enjoy peaceful moments.
- Winter (November through March) is the most challenging season due to short daylight hours and stormy weather, but it offers moody, atmospheric landscapes and even occasional sightings of the Northern Lights.
For most first-time visitors, late June through early August is the ideal window, as it provides the best balance of accessibility, activities, and natural beauty.
Travel Requirements
Traveling to the Faroe Islands is relatively straightforward, but it is important to know the entry requirements before you go. Although the islands are part of the Kingdom of Denmark, they are not part of the European Union or the Schengen Zone. However, most visitors from the EU, UK, USA, and Schengen countries do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Always check the latest visa requirements before traveling, especially if you are visiting from outside Europe.
The local currency is the Faroese króna (DKK), which is pegged to the Danish krone. Danish banknotes are accepted throughout the islands, but Faroese banknotes are generally not accepted outside the Faroes, so spend or exchange them before you leave. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, and ATMs are available in larger towns.
The official language is Faroese, a unique Nordic language with roots in Old Norse, but Danish is also widely spoken, and many Faroese speak English fluently. As a visitor, you will find communication relatively easy. In terms of health and safety, the islands are clean, modern, and have excellent healthcare.
Please note this information serves as a guide only. Travelers should check for visa requirements pertaining to their citizenship, as entry requirements can vary.
Make sure you read my 10 tips to plan a worry-free trip.
How to Get There
The main gateway to the Faroe Islands is Vágar Airport (FAE), located on the island of Vágar. The airport is small but modern and well connected to the rest of the islands by an undersea tunnel to Streymoy. Flights are operated by Atlantic Airways, IcelandAir and Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), with direct routes from Copenhagen, Reykjavik, Edinburgh, Paris, Oslo, and other seasonal destinations in Europe. Flight times are short, usually between one and two hours, which makes the Faroes surprisingly easy to reach despite their remote location.
It is important, however, to understand that flying to the Faroe Islands requires a certain amount of flexibility. Vágar Airport has only a single runway, and the islands are exposed to strong winds, fog, and rapidly changing weather conditions. As a result, flights are sometimes delayed or even canceled, particularly during the autumn and winter months. Travelers are advised to keep their schedules flexible, avoid tight connections, and consider arriving a day earlier than necessary if they have important plans such as a cruise or tour departure. Most airlines will rebook passengers quickly, but patience and preparation are key when traveling to this remote archipelago.
For those who prefer traveling by sea, the Smyril Line ferry sails from Hirtshals in Denmark to Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroes. This ferry journey takes about 36 hours and is especially popular with travelers who want to bring their own cars, motorhomes, or bicycles. The ferry is well equipped with cabins, restaurants, and lounges, so it becomes part of the adventure rather than just a means of transport.
Before you buy a plane ticket, consider reading my tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket.
Getting Around
Once you arrive in the Faroe Islands, the most practical and rewarding way to explore is by rental car. Driving gives you complete freedom to reach remote villages, follow scenic coastal routes, and stop at hiking trailheads whenever you please. The road network is well maintained, but travelers should be prepared for narrow single-lane roads, steep mountain passes, tunnels through mountains and under the sea, and plenty of sheep wandering across the road without warning. Driving in the Faroes can feel adventurous at times, but it is never overwhelming as long as you drive slowly and remain cautious. Automatic transmission cars are limited and tend to sell out quickly, so if you are not comfortable with manual gearboxes, it is essential to book your vehicle well in advance.
Public transportation in the Faroe Islands is reliable and affordable, but it does not always suit visitors who want to move quickly or spontaneously. Local buses connect the larger towns and villages, and ferries run to the smaller islands, offering a scenic and traditional way of traveling. However, timetables can be infrequent, and services are reduced on weekends and holidays. For travelers who enjoy slow, deliberate travel, the bus and ferry system can be a charming option, but those hoping to see as much as possible in a short time will find it restrictive.
One of the most unique ways to travel between islands is by helicopter. The Faroese government subsidizes helicopter services, making them surprisingly affordable compared to other destinations. Flights are short, efficient, and provide breathtaking aerial views of cliffs, fjords, and remote villages that are otherwise hard to access. It is important to note, however, that these flights are primarily designed for locals and should not be used as round-trip sightseeing tours. Instead, travelers can book them as one-way journeys and combine them with ferries or other transportation options.
For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking remains a traditional and rewarding way to get around. Many villages are linked by old footpaths that once served as the main routes before roads and tunnels were built. These trails offer spectacular scenery and a sense of connection to Faroese heritage, but hikers must come prepared. Some paths cross private land and now require permits, while others can become dangerous in poor weather conditions. Sudden fog, rain, and wind are common, even in summer, and visibility can disappear quickly. For safety and a deeper cultural experience, consider hiring a local guide, especially for longer or more remote treks.
Overall, getting around the Faroe Islands is part of the adventure. Whether you are navigating a mountain road in your rental car, hopping on a local ferry with islanders, or soaring by helicopter over dramatic cliffs, each mode of transport adds to the sense of discovery in this remarkable destination.
Inspiration, Highlights & Travel Tips
The Faroe Islands are overflowing with natural wonders and cultural treasures, making every day of exploration feel like a new adventure. One of the most striking sights is Sørvágsvatn Lake, also known as the “Lake Above the Ocean,” which creates a breathtaking optical illusion as it appears to hover dramatically above the surrounding sea when viewed from certain angles. Another unforgettable destination is Mykines Island, a remote paradise for birdwatchers, where thousands of puffins nest during the summer months, filling the cliffs with life and color.
The charming village of Gjógv is beloved for its traditional turf-roofed houses and a dramatic natural gorge that once served as a harbor, while the tranquil settlement of Saksun offers a fairytale-like setting with a tidal lagoon encircled by towering cliffs and an old farmhouse museum that brings Faroese history to life. Meanwhile, the northern islands are home to some of the archipelago’s most iconic views, including the Kallur Lighthouse on Kalsoy Island (often referred to as Kilroy Island), which has become one of the most photographed spots in the country thanks to its dramatic cliffs and cinematic panoramas.
At the heart of it all lies Tórshavn, Europe’s smallest capital, where history and modern culture blend seamlessly. In the historic district of Tinganes, red-timbered government buildings with grass roofs recall Viking traditions, while cozy cafés and shops invite visitors to linger. The city also boasts a thriving food scene, where innovative chefs highlight local ingredients in modern Nordic cuisine. A standout dining experience is Paz Restaurant, known for its creative dishes and stylish atmosphere, offering travelers the chance to savor Faroese flavors with a contemporary twist.
Travelers should pack for all weather conditions, as sun, rain, fog, and wind can all appear in a single day. Respecting nature and private property is very important, as many hiking routes cross farmland. Finally, book hotels, car rentals, and certain activities well in advance, especially in the summer season, as the islands have limited capacity for visitors.
Be sure to read my article on top 10 best things to see & do in the Faroe Islands.
Suggested Itineraries
Whether you have just a few days or a full week, the Faroe Islands offer unforgettable experiences. From dramatic cliffs and waterfalls to charming villages and historic sites, you can shape your trip to match the time you have. Here are two suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your visit.
3-Day Short Escape
A short trip to the Faroes is enough to give you a taste of their beauty. On Day 1, arrive in Vágar, rent a car, and explore local highlights such as Sørvágsvatn Lake and the stunning Gásadalur waterfall. On Day 2, take a day trip to Kilroy to enjoy some of the archipelago’s dramatic coastal scenery. On Day 3, explore Tórshavn’s historic Tinganes district, visit the medieval ruins of Kirkjubøur, and enjoy a final Faroese meal before departure.
7-Day Adventure
With a week, you can cover many of the highlights. Spend Days 1 and 2 exploring Vágar and Mykines. On Day 3, drive to Streymoy and visit villages such as Saksun and Tjørnuvík. Day 4 can be dedicated to Tórshavn, with time for museums, shopping, and fine dining. On Day 5, head to Eysturoy to explore Gjógv and nearby mountains. Day 6 should focus on the Northern Islands, including Klaksvík and a hike to the Kallur Lighthouse. Use Day 7 to relax, visit local markets, or enjoy a final scenic drive before heading back to Vágar.
Recommended Hotels (+ Reviews)
Accommodation in the Faroes is limited but cozy and welcoming, with options ranging from 4-star hotels to family-run guesthouses. While there are no true five-star or ultra-luxury hotels in the islands, the available properties make up for it with charm, comfort, and stunning views. For many travelers, the lack of glitzy luxury is part of the appeal, as it keeps the Faroes authentic and connected to their natural surroundings.
Hotel Føroyar in Tórshavn is one of the most iconic places to stay. Perched on a hillside above the capital, it offers sweeping views of the city and fjord below. The rooms are modern with clean Nordic design, and the breakfast buffet is consistently praised. Another excellent choice in Tórshavn is Hotel Brandan, a newer four-star property that blends stylish design with sustainability. Its central location, comfortable rooms, and wellness facilities make it one of the top options for visitors looking for modern convenience in the Faroes. Hotel Hafnia, also in Tórshavn, is another standout, especially for travelers who prefer to stay right in the heart of the city. With its classic Faroese atmosphere, welcoming service, and easy access to cafés, restaurants, and shops, it is a perennial favorite.
For those looking beyond the capital, Gjáargarður Guesthouse in Gjógv offers a family-run experience with warm hospitality and an unbeatable location for exploring the northeast. For something more intimate, The View in Sørvágur is a small eco-friendly lodge with breathtaking fjord views—an ideal choice for your first or last night near the airport. Meanwhile, budget-minded travelers may consider camping, as several campsites around the islands provide affordable options, although weather conditions must always be taken seriously.
Hotel Reviews
Final Thoughts
The Faroe Islands are not simply a destination to check off your list—they are an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. Every moment feels like a discovery, from standing on cliffs overlooking the endless Atlantic to sharing a conversation with a local fisherman in a small village café. The pace of life here is slower, the landscapes are untouched, and the culture feels deeply rooted in the natural rhythms of the land and sea.
Whether you are hiking across misty mountains, enjoying a locally prepared meal, or simply watching the light shift over the ocean, the Faroes remind you of the beauty of simplicity and the power of nature. For adventurous travelers who long for authenticity and unforgettable scenery, this remote archipelago is one of Europe’s last true hidden gems.
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