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One of the many special features of the Faroe Islands is that you don’t have to go far to experience magnificent hiking routes and raw nature. Look around you. Take a few steps. Take a deep breath and listen. It’s all right there! 

We are located only 2-3 hours flight time from mainland Europe and have direct flights from various destinations depending on the season. 

Although the Faroe Islands are one of the safest countries in the world, travelling in the Faroe Islands might be different to what you are used to. It is important you are well aware of things like weather extremes, narrow, windy roads and different road rules before you begin your journey. 

Start your journey on board the ferry, M/S Norröna – you’ll feel you’re on holiday as soon as you have the water beneath you. Direct link from Iceland and Denmark to the Faroe Islands

“Góðan dag”

Come and experience what the Faroe Islands have to offer

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“Everything about the Faroe Islands is extreme and slightly bonkers”   Jo Ellison, Finanical Times, 2022

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18 Reasons to Visit the Faroe Islands

By CNT Editors

If you haven't already heard of the Faroe Islands , you will soon. Tucked between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean (and politically part of Denmark), this self-governed group of 18 volcanic islands is fast becoming a favorite Nordic destination. Music lovers may already recognize the region for its festival scene —it typically hosts five live music festivals throughout the year—but adventurers are also starting to catch wind of the archipelago's steep cliffs, hiking trails, waterfalls, and rocky coastlines . And for Instagrammers, there are more than enough sites to keep you snapping photos (hello, puffins and grass-roofed houses). Here are 18 reasons to pack your coat and head to the Faroe islands.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

You don't have to worry about crowds (yet).

The 18 islands have a total population of around 50,000 —a drop in the bucket compared to Nordic neighbors Sweden and Norway or tourist-heavy Iceland. Faroe Islands tourism arrivals were around two million visitors in 2019, and American visitors alone already outnumber the locals .

In fact, sheep outnumber humans nearly 2:1.

Good news for people desperately seeking sweaters , or who simply find wind-blown hills filled with lambs to be pure magic. In 2016, the Faroese even turned to these trusty residents to serve as a four-legged tourism board, strapping cameras to some of the sheep to capture footage for Google Street View, calling it—naturally— Sheep View 360 .

Surprisingly cheap flights

You can now fly directly to Vágar Airport (the only airport in the Faroe Islands) from Edinburgh, Reykjavik, and Copenhagen on Atlantic Airways; or you can fly directly from Copenhagen on Scandinavian Airlines (SAS). If you can find a good flight deal to one of those cities, the flight over to the Faroes will usually only set you back about $120.

The coziest capital city

The capital of Tórshavn (pop. 13,083) is also the largest city on the Faroe Islands, settled behind a busy harbor on the east coast of Streymoy Island. Within the 66.8-square-mile city are eighteenth-century churches , a handful of museums, a tiny Old Town, and rows of brightly painted houses .

Meredith Carey

Abbie Kozolchyk

Jessica Puckett

Rachel Chang

Unrivaled natural beauty

The archipelago has the type of striking views typical of volcanic islands, like windswept mountains, crashing waves, and jagged coastlines like the rock formations of Drangarnir, (pictured) the name of two sea stacks between Tindhólmur and Vágar.

Pinterest-worthy waterfalls

Scan some Pinterest travel boards or do a quick "Faroe Islands" image search, and chances are you'll see more photos of Mulafossur Waterfall than any other site on the archipelago. The waterfall is like something from a fantasy novel, falling over the rocky cliffs of Vagar Island to the ocean below, with the the green hills of Gásadalur village as a backdrop.

Ease of travel

Despite their remote location and rugged terrain, it's easier to road trip and island hop around the archipelago than you might expect. Thanks to relatively new infrastructure, like sub-sea tunnels connecting islands and paved roads cutting through mountains, getting to all of the country's best attractions has been relatively easy since the early 2000s.

Incredibly friendly locals

The Faroese have a word, “heimablídni,” which translates to “home hospitality,” and you can find that hospitality all over the islands. In fact, the nation has a program in which tourists can have dinner in locals’ homes, eating traditional food and hearing stories about their particular village. (You can learn more and sign up here .)

Scenes pulled from Middle Earth

Aside from Mulafossur, perhaps the most iconic landscape in the country is the Shire-like village of Saksun on the northwestern coast of Streymoy. The hamlet and its mid-nineteenth-century church sit in a natural amphitheater above a lagoon, with views of mountains stretching in every direction.

Sustainability

The Faroe Islands made headlines in 2019 when they launched the “Closed for Maintenance, Open for Voluntourism” campaign , in which the Faroes completely closed to tourists—aside from 100 volunteers chosen to help preserve the nation’s lands. For the 2020 event (which was rescheduled for 2021), 5,886 people signed up to volunteer within the first 24 hours of registration, so the campaign is likely to continue on for years to come.

A literal puffin paradise

If you're dying to see the most laughably adorable bird on the planet, there's no place better than petite Mykines. While only 14 people live on the westernmost Faroe Island, its rugged terrain and precipitous cliffs draw thousands of breeding puffins during the summer months.

Epic hiking opportunities

Take Kalsoy, a long, slender island with verdant hills and vertical cliffs, is just one of many hiking options in the Faroes. The best way to enjoy this particular island is to hike to Kallur Lighthouse, which sits on a northern promontory and grants panoramic views of five other islands (on clear days).

Those charming, turf-roofed houses

Turf-roofed houses are something of a symbol of the islands, appearing everywhere from sporadic seaside villages to the capital city of Tórshavn (pictured). They are more than just Instagram fodder , however: The Faroese use the architectural style to protect dwellings from the rainy climate (300 rainy days per year is no joke).

Cliffs that rival Moher and Na Pali

One of the most popular excursions in the Faroes are boat trips to the Vestmanna bird cliffs—rock walls that rise nearly 2,000 feet above the Atlantic waters on Streymoy Island. Day-trippers can enjoy the impressive sight of moss-speckled sea stacks, dark grottoes, and thousands of birds that nest here during the summer. Another famous cliffside site is Trøllkonufingur (pictured); translating to “Trollwoman's Finger,” the 1,027-foot monolith juts off the southeast side of Sandavágur.

Events for music lovers

Europe’s major cities are known for their high-energy music festivals, and the Faroe Islands offer their own version of that tradition—albeit a way more low-key version. Each summer the three-day G! Festival draws crowds to the seaside village Gøta on Eysturoy with a lineup of electronica, folk, and pop performances. (The festival was canceled this year due to the pandemic, but it plans to return in 2022.)

An optical illusion come to life

Lake Sørvágsvatn, the largest lake in the Faroe Islands, looks like it's perched hundreds of feet above the ocean and tilts outwards—but this is actual body of water an optical illusion. In actuality, the lake sits in a deep depression about 90 feet above sea level. The steep cliff in front of the water (and high camera angles) gives the body of water its seemingly impossible "floating" appearance.

Beautiful winters

Winters are surprisingly mild here, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. But when the islands and villages are graced with a dusting of snow, they somehow look even more magical than they do during the green summer months. Just be sure to get a peek during this season's narrow five-hour windows of daylight, which occur from November to January.

Prime Northern Lights viewing

The Faroe Islands are far enough north to see the Northern Lights in all their glory—weather permitting, of course. Some good viewing spots are the villages of Gjógv on the northern tip of Eysturoy, and Klaksvík on Borðoy (pictured). The best time frame for spotting them is from September to March or April.

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8 of the best places to visit in the Faroe Islands

Mar 1, 2024 • 6 min read

Get to know the Faroe Islands with these top places to visit © Bastian Linder / 500px / Getty Images

For once, you can have it all in one trip: waterfalls and superlative seafood restaurants, windy mountain roads and surf beaches.

The joy of being in the Faroe Islands  – a small island group with a population of 53,000 and a total landmass of 1399 sq km – is that everything is close by. As long as the weather is on your side, you can see just about all of these key sights during a short break. 

Travel here is highly seasonal and very weather dependent. You might plan to visit a certain island, but as to whether you will be able to or not during your stay… you’ll have to wait and see. Here are just a few of the must-visit spots of the Faroe Islands. 

1. Múlafossur waterfall

Best for awesome nature

Until 2004, the only way you could get to the village of Gásadalur and the location of Múlafossur waterfall, was to walk the steep cairn-marked hiking trail over the mountain and back. Just ask the postie, who used to do it three times a week. Today, a tunnel links it with the road from Vágar airport, making it an easy first or last stop on your trip. 

Park in the main car park and then follow the path down to the cliffs for views of the waterfall. You can feel the sea spray from the cliff top as you watch the torrent of water pour over the edge and shatter the sea below; in summer you might see a few fat-footed puffins flapping around the sandy, grassy cliffs here too. 

Planning tip: Drop into the local shop, Uanni, for something special to take home, including hand-knitted jumpers from Faroese wool. 

2. Tórshavn

Best for food

The capital of the Faroe Islands is a characterful place, with ancient alleyways, a colorful harbor and some great places to eat. If you’re looking for nightlife, bars, and shopping, this is where to go.

Mikkeller , an offshoot of the successful Danish microbrewery, doubles as a place to shelter and play board games in the rain; across from it down the wonky Gongin alley, Roks is the best place to eat on the island, now that its sister restaurant, Koks, has moved to Greenland . Expect everything from sea urchin roe to the long spindly legs of snow crabs, and dishes dusted with fish scales that look like confetti. Ræst , just down the street, also has a great reputation. 

Planning tip: If you’re looking for something less extravagant, the city’s fish and chips scene is said to be the best in the country.

3. Tjørnuvík

Best for beach lovers

I have a soft spot for the remote village of Tjørnuvík on Streymoy, with its black-sand beach looking out to the sea stacks of Risin og Kellingin (the Giant and the Witch). It’s a sweet little village at the end of a long road winding through the hillsides, with a hike to the remote village of Saksun leading over the back of its mountains and a little surf shack offering lessons just off the beach. 

It’s a place where you can discover antiques and whale bones in a little local shop, or buy waffles and coffee at a cafe. In winter, thanks to the dominating mountain behind it, Tjørnuvík is one of the few spots on the island to experience 24 hours of darkness. It feels like the setting for a dark historical drama or a strange love story.

4. Trelanípan

Best for easy hiking

You may have seen Lake Leitisvatn (also called Lake Sørvágsvatn) on social media – it’s one of the Faroe Islands’ most famous landscapes. In drone shots, taken from across the cliffs from the lake, it appears to hang suspended over the ocean thanks to an optical illusion. The hike to Trelanípan – the "Slave Cliff" – is currently one of the islands’ paid hiking routes, where you can walk on a relatively flat path through the old peat fields to the lake, and then on to the cliff with views of towering sea stacks including one named "The Witch’s Finger". It takes around an hour each way.

Planning tip: Guided tours bring the landscape alive and include grisly stories about Vikings and disobedient slaves who were thrown off the cliffs, along with tales of local myths and legends.

Best for coastal walks

The fishing village of Gjógv is named after its gorge, a great natural scar in the cliff that offers a safe harbor. It’s worth a visit for the drive there alone, on a road that swoops down the green sheep-filled hillsides to the sea. The road was created over 400 years ago, so a local told me, as a shortcut to the best fishing grounds. 

Today the tiny village has whitewashed, turf-roofed houses, a little church and few inhabitants. If you walk down past the gorge you can catch a view of dark islands on the horizon and nesting birds in the cliffs in summer. There’s also a bench on the clifftop commemorating the 2005 visit of then Crown Princess Mary, now Queen Mary of Denmark. A moving statue in the village graveyard depicts a lady with two children looking out to sea, wondering if her husband will ever return.

Planning tip: There are lovely walks from Gjógv, including a 4km (2.5 mile) hike to Funningur, a quiet seaside village at the foot of the Faroes’ highest mountain. Allow a half day to get there and back.

6. Dranganir sea arch

Best for drama

The natural sea arch of Dranganir is on an island shaped like a triangle just off the coast of Bøur. You can admire it from the shore or take a boat ride around it and the neighboring island of Tindhólmur. Birds breed on the basalt cliffs in spring and summer, and the sea rages around the sea stacks all year round, adding a little more drama to the mix.

Planning tip: Ferry trips to the popular puffin island of Mykines come back via the sea arch, giving you two attractions in one. Book this trip early in your stay so if it is canceled due to bad weather you can hopefully rebook for a calmer day.

Best for Bond enthusiasts

In the northeast of the Faroe Islands, Kalsoy is accessible by car ferry from Klaksvík. Its claim to fame is its starring role in the 2021 James Bond film No Time To Die . Daniel Craig’s James Bond dies standing on Kallurin looking out to the horizon, on the hiking path that leads to the islands’ lighthouse. Enterprising tourism people have erected a tombstone in his memory, etched with the words: “The proper function of man is to live, not to exist.” Adventurers visiting this epic spot in the Faroe Islands will surely nod their heads in agreement.

Best for off the beaten track

Sandoy has always been connected to the rest of the archipelago by ferry, but from the start of 2024, its new undersea tunnel has put this southerly island on the map. Tour the tiny villages, try dining with some locals and don’t miss the island’s claim to fame: a yarn-bombed rock.

Planning tip: For a superlative bird-watching experience, and an alternative to the popular Mykines trip, take a boat trip from Sandoy to the island of Skúvoy. The island is named after the Great Skua, many of which nest there.

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Fjords, Puffins and Music Festivals: An Insider’s Guide to the Faroe Islands

Thanks to an enlightened tourism approach, there are myriad opportunities to venture beyond hotels and immerse yourself in authentic Faroese life.

You likely won't find the Faroe Islands on most travelers' radars, but these craggy North Atlantic rocks stand poised to jolt even the most jaded globetrotter. The Faroe Islands are at once ancient and utterly modern—a wind-whipped 18-island archipelago that's easier to reach than you'd imagine, yet begets the thrilling sense of having arrived at the ends of the earth. Even so, from European gateways like Copenhagen (the Faroe Islands are a territory of Denmark) and Edinburgh , the capital of Tórshavn is just a short flight before you're touching down amid the swirling swells. Brace yourself for what awaits beyond the tiny airstrip: an epic, time-warped wonderland of treeless moors crisscrossed by centuries-old footpaths and gnarled mountains shearing towards the horizon. Even the tiniest, once-inaccessible hamlets are now connected by a network of tunnels bored straight through those towering crags. And the weather? Always a spectacle, from ferocious gales and slashing rain to brilliant stillness revealing every crenellated peak and thundering cascade in high-def clarity.

Thanks to an enlightened tourism approach, there are myriad opportunities to venture beyond hotels and immerse yourself in authentic Faroese life. Join locals in their living rooms for intimate concerts like October's Hoyma Festival , where you'll be treated to Faroese music, food and hospitality while making the rounds from home to home. Or celebrate summer's arrival at the raucous G! Festival , a multi-stage music blowout drawing crowds from across the archipelago. No matter the season, you can find yourself knitting shoulders-to-shoulders with islanders, savoring home-cooked åsturin fish soup or clinking glasses of local beer at impromptu kitchen festas. But the islands' true giants roam the skies and waters. Come spring, guillemot colonies and comically rotund puffins blanket the cliffs by the thousands, porpoising in and out of their grassy burrows. Lower your gaze and shoals of fish rush the currents, ushering in a journey ahead.

The Ultimate Travel Guide for the Faroe Islands

Hotel føroyar, hotel brandan, hotel havgrím, go surfing in tjørnuvík, national gallery of the faroe islands, breyðvirkið, fiskastykkið, katrina christiansen, mikkeler bar, the tarv grillhouse, guðrun & guðrun, where to stay.

• 45 Oyggjarvegur, Tórshavn 100, Faroe Islands

This modernist aerie, perched above the Tórshavn fray, offers a sublime Faroese retreat. The sleek, elongated design by Danish architects Friis & Moltke A/S echoes the rugged contours below, while each austere yet cozy room is a canvas for notable local artists' works. After a 2020 refresh, the cloudlike suites and forthcoming expansion to the property’s Ress Spa elevate the indulgence. But it's those panoramic windows framing the craggy peaks that provide the real luxury.

• Oknarvegur 2, Tórshavn 100, Faroe Islands

The eco-minded Faroese know how to elevate off-the-grid getaways with Nordic flair. Hotel Brandan is a beacon of high-design sustainability—snug yet chic, from its exclusive Edward Fuglø artworks right down to the handcrafted Stua furniture. All 124 rooms are cocoons of green luxury, but the real draw sits downstairs at the inventive Húsagarður restaurant. Chef Leif Sørensen puts a playful spin on New Nordic cuisine, dreaming up clever pairings that tap into the deep wine cellar's global bounty . Order the multi-course tasting menu to savor the full locavore experience, from slivers of air-dried lamb to bounties from the surrounding fjords.

• 14 Yviri við Strond, Tórshavn 100, Faroe Islands

If walls could talk, this charming new boutique hotel would surely regale tales of the 21 commodores who called it home starting in the 1950s. The lovingly restored 14-room seaside sanctuary pays homage to its storied past with elegant maritime accents. Picture showpiece river rock fireplaces, antique barometers and plaques listing each former resident. The airy rooms are equally inextricable from their setting, from the ocean-inspired blue-green palette and tumbling-in views to the glassed-in showers overlooking the fjord and wandering sheep outside.

For intrepid wave-riders, no swells get more epically North Atlantic than Tjørnuvík's. This petite black-sand cove on Vágar is the domain of the local surfing legends of Faroe Islands Surf Guide , who brave the frigid fjord breaks come mittened hell or frozen high water. Game to give it a go? Their surf shack sits mere steps from mythical sea stacks and monumental mountains that make even the most benign whitecaps feel like liquid monsters. If conditions are calmer, opt for guided stand-up paddleboarding or snorkel tours, or go gonzo with some cliff jumping. Wetsuits required.

Nature puts on quite the ornithological spectacle on little Mykines. Scramble the clifftop trails of this rugged outpost come spring and you're all but guaranteed an intimate encounter with thousands of plump, waddling puffins, those comic pocket penguins of the northern seas. Find a spot amid the grassy burrows and watch the show unfold as they launch to and from the sea, brightly-hued beaks brimming with fish. Or join a guided boat tour venturing beneath the Vestmanna sea cliffs to face off with these striking little Auks up close.

• 4H57+2QG, Gasadalur 387, Faroe Islands

Nature drops the mic with Múlafossur, one of the Faroes' most iconic sights. This spellbinding waterfall seems to cascade straight out of the mossy cliff face into the serene, black-pebbled fjord below in the isolated village of Gásadalur. The classic vantage requires reaching the end of a long (but flat) walking path after emerging from a road tunnel. For an adventurous twist, opt instead for a proper hike into Gásadalur along the historic stone-step trail from the village of Víkar. Whichever way you witness it, Múlafossur's thundering cascade cascading into those glassy waters is nothing short of sublime.

• 9 Gundadalsvegur, Tórshavn 100, Faroe Islands

Searching for a primer on Faroese art and culture? This bright, modern gallery spanning 10,000 square feet has got you covered. The airy rooms provide a thoughtful overview of renowned painters and sculptors spanning the centuries, from pioneering 19th-century figures like Sámal Joensen-Mikines to contemporary talents like the whimsical illustrator William Heinesen . Don't miss the trippy mirror-and-stained glass installations transporting you inside a Faroese dream state. Keep an eye out for visiting exhibitions and textile shows celebrating the islands' rich knitting traditions.

Where to Eat

• 5, 100 Gongin, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands

Don't be fooled by the rustic façade of this turf-roofed gem—the kitchen behind Roks is all about elevated, playful coastal cuisine. Sister to Michelin-starred Koks in Greenland, Roks similarly champions the bounty of the North Atlantic, from snowcrab claws to buttery sea urchin and cod so fresh it was swimming yesterday. Be sure to reserve the "totally on the rocks" tasting menu to indulge in the full terroir-inspired experience. And prepare to dive deep into the quirky "octopus cellar" showcasing wines both cult and conventional.

• 44, 100 Jónas Broncksgøta, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands

Leave it to a couple of enterprising young bakers to make waiting in line a pleasure in these uncrowded isles. Friends Fríða and Randi opened Breyðvirkið as an organic sourdough passion project, but their fresh breads and Scandi sweets emerged as a national obsession. Lining up early for loaves like the Islensk Rúgbrauð (studded with rye and caraway) has become a Tórshavn morning ritual.

• 12 Úti á Bakka, Sandavágur 360, Faroe Islands

There's always been a wait at this tucked-away Faroese fish shack—long before influencer mania put it on the tourist radar. That's because the food, from steaming bowls of savory fishasúpa to tender planks of wind-dried cod, represents the true taste of the isles. For an authentic slice of Faroese life, order up at the creaky old counter and grab a rickety wooden chair overlooking the harbor. Sip an obligatory cup of muddled rhubarb juice while keeping one eye trained on the docks, where the fishermen who landed today's catch are likely steering in their latest haul.

• 6 Bringsnagøta, Tórshavn 100, Faroe Islands

In a land where every home seems to have its own origin tale, this salon-style restaurant set inside an 18th-century house offers a rich backstory. The birthplace of revered Faroese artist William Heinesen , it has also served as a barber shop and grocer over the centuries. Today, the kitchen pays homage to the building's layered history with an idiosyncratic fusion menu that blends Spanish tapas traditions with Faroese seafood, lamb and more. Besides small plates like langoustine skewers, expect a leisurely meal sweeping you through the timelines chalked inside the exposed wooden beams.

Craving smørrebrød traditionally crafted from start to finish by two passionate chefs? Make a beeline for the intimate Bitin, Tórshavn's go-to for elevated Scandinavian open-faced sandwiches. Despite the casual vibe, every component arrives with artisanal flair, from the rye-crusted sourdough piled with local seafood and hand-peeled shrimp to the tangy house pickles and dilled creams. While the prices aren't cheap, each carefully composed bite delivers deeply satisfying Nordic flavors. Browse the concise checklist menu while soaking up the unfussy hygge ambiance. Don't skip the fried chicken skin scattered like savory croutons.

Where to Drink

• 23 Niels Finsens gøta, Tórshavn 100, Faroe Islands

Follow the sounds of jazz spilling onto Tórshavn's rain-slicked streets to find Blábar, the Faroes' quintessential music haunt. This funky cafe and bar prioritizes highlighting the sounds, flavors and arts of the islands, from traditional blues and folk concerts to seriously crafted coffee and cocktails incorporating hyper-local botanicals and brews. Not in a drinking mood? Settle into one of the mid-century modern lounges and order up a round of Faroese specialties like beloved heimabakað kleinur (twisted doughnut-like fritters).

• 2 Gríms Kambansgøta, Tórshavn 100, Faroe Islands

When vertigo-inducing cliffs and ferocious winds beget the need for an escape, Tórshavn's most defiantly tropical hideaway calls. As soon as you slip through the door, Sirkus's quirky decor and heady rum cocktails transport you to an imagined tiki paradise far from the North Atlantic's bite. But the real jungle thrives upstairs, where the lively second-floor bar showcases cutting-edge Faroese DJs, bands and artists shaking up the islands' creative scene between beers and dancefloor hilarities.

• Gongin 2 Tórshavn, 100, Faroe Islands

Among a cluster of centuries-old wooden houses tucked along the capital’s corridors, you'll find Mikkeller's Faroese outpost. This beer lair is situated inside a 500-year-old homestead, yet despite its hyper-local trappings, the 16 taps showcase an audaciously global rotation of cutting-edge craft brews from Mikkeller's far-flung collaborators.

• Bryggjubakka 3-5 Tóshavn, 100, Faroe Islands

When the islands' relentlessly briny gusts and aquatic environs beget a serious thirst, Tarv Grillhouse stands at the ready with its deeply cultured cocktail program. Belly up to the perpetually bustling bar for measured pours of stiff libations like bracing negronis, briny martinis and chocolatey espresso numbers. The mood is irreverent but the execution is earnest—this is serious drinking territory for those who like their elixirs potent.

Where to Shop

• 13 Niels Finsens gøta, Tórshavn 100, Faroe Islands

For the ultimate in Faroese knitting culture, seek out the studio of Guðrun & Guðrun, the fearlessly innovative duo marrying age-old tradition with contemporary Nordic cool. Founded by two visionary women—sisters Guðrun Róðvadóttir and Guðrun Ludvig—the line translates the region's hand-crafted history into avant-garde garments and accessories that are at once timeless and utterly modern. Named for the founders' similarly-spelled first names, the brand celebrates the Faroes' revered knitting circles while challenging convention with unexpected colors, silhouettes and twists.

• 16 Skálatrøð, Tórshavn 100, Faroe Islands

For a full immersion into the Faroes' thriving contemporary art scene, carve out time to explore Steinprent, the capital's graphic arts collective housed inside a former factory. Founded by a ragtag crew of printmakers and painters in 1999, it has emerged as a dynamic hub showcasing new talents while hosting visiting luminaries like Per Kirkeby and Bjørn Nørgaard. Beyond the airy ground-floor galleries, venture upstairs to the bustling workshop itself, where you're likely to encounter artists mid-masterpiece run-off.

• Öström, 18 Skálatrøð, Tórshavn 100, Faroe Islands

Set aside ample time for a meandering stroll through Østrøm's chic Scandinavian design emporium. Housed inside an atmospheric former fish factory, its light, minimalist interior provides the perfect canvas to showcase all manner of Faroese handicraft goodness. In addition to classic woolen sweater-shirts and cozy knitwear, you'll encounter home accessories crafted from sheepskin, ceramics, cutting-edge fashions and some seriously frame-worthy photography books celebrating these mythic isles.

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Faroe Islands Travel Guide: the ultimate 10 recommendations

Welcome to the ultimate travel guide to the Faroe Islands, a destination of rugged beauty and unspoiled landscapes that beckon travelers seeking an extraordinary adventure. If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring a remote and breathtakingly scenic destination, you’re in for a treat. My mission in this blog post is to equip you with the most practical and comprehensive information on how to plan your perfect Faroe Islands getaway. I’ll take you on a journey through the essential details, from understanding the unique geography and location of these North Atlantic gems to providing expert insights on booking the best trip.

In this travel guide, I aim to demystify the Faroe Islands, helping you navigate the logistics and create a memorable travel experience. You’ll discover the where, when, and how of visiting this remote archipelago, as well as invaluable tips on making the most of your time there. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a photographer looking for the perfect shot, this post is your one-stop resource for everything Faroe Islands.

So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey. By the time you’ve finished reading, you’ll have all the practical information you need to book the best trip to the Faroe Islands and create memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s dive into this remote and captivating destination together, step by step.

Where are the Faroe Islands located?

The Faroe Islands are nestled in the North Atlantic Ocean, situated approximately halfway between Iceland and Norway. Geographically, they are located about 320 kilometers (200 miles) northwest of Scotland. This remote and rugged destination, often described as a hidden gem of the North Atlantic, is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. Comprising 18 main islands and several smaller islets, the Faroe Islands offer a breathtaking landscape of dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and pristine fjords. Its unique location, characterized by the cool North Atlantic waters and the influence of the Gulf Stream, results in a mild maritime climate, making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventures. The Faroe Islands, with their distinctive location and captivating scenery, beckon explorers and nature enthusiasts to discover their remote charm and extraordinary landscapes, truly living up to the dream of an off-the-beaten-path travel destination.

Faroe Islands: how to get there?

Getting to the Faroe Islands is more convenient than ever, thanks to the new direct routes offered by Atlantic Airways, the national airline of the Faroe Islands. This company has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1987. Originally founded as a helicopter company, it quickly expanded to include fixed-wing aircraft, becoming a pivotal player in connecting these remote islands to the world.

If you’re traveling from Europe , you’re in for a real treat. Atlantic Airways has recently launched a direct route from Paris ( France ) to the Faroe Islands, making the journey smoother and more accessible than ever before.

This direct flight from Paris to Vágar Airport significantly cuts down travel time, allowing you to dive right into the Faroese experience. But that’s not all – Atlantic Airways also offers direct routes from other major European cities, including Copenhagen (Denmark), Reykjavik (Iceland) and Edinburgh (Scotland). With a well-connected network and these direct routes, reaching this remote paradise in the North Atlantic has never been easier. So wherever you’re flying from, Atlantic Airways has you covered, ensuring a convenient and comfortable journey to the Faroe Islands.

Travelers coming from North America or other international destinations may consider flying into one of these major European cities. So, whether you’re flying from Paris, Copenhagen, Reykjavik, or Edinburgh, Atlantic Airways, with its strong history and commitment to exceptional service, has you covered, ensuring a convenient and comfortable journey to the Faroe Islands.

Book your flight here!

If you prefer sea travel, you can explore the possibility of taking a ferry from Iceland, which offers a scenic maritime adventure with breathtaking views of the Faroese landscape. Regardless of your choice, these options ensure that your adventure to the Faroe Islands is not only accessible but also a memorable part of your overall travel experience.

Faroe Islands: travel tips

• Language: Faroese is the official language, but most Faroese people also speak Danish and often English. English is commonly used in the tourism industry.
• Weather Preparedness: Be ready for unpredictable weather. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy, waterproof footwear. Regardless of the season, rain is always a possibility.
• Transportation: Public transportation is limited, so consider renting a car to explore the islands independently. Roads are well-maintained but can be narrow and winding, so drive with caution. Rent a car here.
• Respect the Environment: The Faroe Islands’ natural beauty is pristine. Respect the environment by staying on marked paths, not disturbing wildlife, and properly disposing of your waste.
• Camping: Wild camping is not allowed, but campsites are available for a fee.
• Alcohol: The Faroe Islands have strict alcohol regulations. You can only buy alcohol at government-operated stores, and it can be quite expensive. Consider purchasing alcohol at duty-free shops in the airport upon arrival.
• Safety: The Faroe Islands are considered very safe. However, be cautious when hiking, as the terrain can be challenging and the weather unpredictable.
• Cultural Etiquette: While the Faroe Islands are fairly relaxed, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Greet locals with a smile and a nod when passing on the street.
• Internet and Mobile Coverage: Internet and mobile coverage are generally good, but be aware that in very remote areas, you may experience limited connectivity.
• Photography: The Faroe Islands offer countless photo opportunities. However, always ask for permission before taking pictures of local residents, and respect any restricted areas or “no photography” signs. Drone photography is allowed in the Faroe Islands and offers unparalleled perspectives of the dramatic landscapes. While it’s a fantastic way to capture the rugged beauty, there are strict regulations. Ensure you familiarize yourself with the specific rules and limitations, including no-fly zones and privacy considerations.

Faroe Islands Currency

In the Faroe Islands, the official currency is the Danish Krone (DKK), and in addition to the DKK, the Faroese Króna (FKR) is also in circulation. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases and in more remote areas where card facilities might be limited. You’ll find ATMs available in towns and larger villages, and both Danish Krone (DKK) and Faroese Króna (FKR) are widely accepted, making it convenient for travelers as you can use either currency for your transactions in most places across the Faroe Islands. Keep in mind that the Faroe Islands are part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and the currency used here includes both DKK and FKR, with the exchange rate being 1 DKK = 1 FKR.

Faroe Islands Weather

Understanding the Faroe Islands’ ever-changing weather is not just practical; it’s essential for planning a successful trip to this enchanting archipelago. The Faroe Islands’ climate is characterized by its maritime influences and dramatic seasonal shifts, each offering a unique atmosphere and set of experiences for travelers. In this section, I’ll take you on a journey through the seasons, delving into what you can expect in terms of weather and how it can impact your travel plans. From the vibrant awakening of spring to the tranquility of winter’s solitude, I’ll provide you with the insights you need to choose the perfect time to explore the Faroe Islands and pack accordingly. So, let’s dive into the ever-shifting skies and discover the captivating weather patterns that shape this remote and breathtaking destination.

Spring in the Faroe Islands

Spring in the Faroe Islands, which typically spans from March to May, is a season of awakening. The islands burst into life as the winter frost recedes, and nature reclaims its vibrancy. While temperatures remain on the cool side, ranging from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), the Faroes come alive with colorful flora and lush green landscapes. It’s an excellent time for birdwatching, with countless seabirds returning to their nesting grounds. Be prepared for frequent rain showers and ever-changing weather, so packing layers and waterproof gear is essential.

Summer in the Faroe Islands

Summer in the Faroe Islands, from June to August, is the most popular time to visit. With temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), this is the warmest season, and the days are long, often with nearly 24 hours of daylight. It’s an ideal time for hiking, wildlife exploration, and outdoor activities. The landscapes are at their most picturesque, with vibrant green valleys, wildflowers in bloom, and abundant birdlife. But don’t forget your raincoat, as the islands are still subject to frequent rainfall, even in summer.

Autumn in the Faroe Islands

Autumn, from September to November, ushers in a season of dramatic landscapes and fewer tourists. The temperatures start to drop, ranging from 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F). This season offers a unique blend of fading summer colors and the emergence of stunning fall foliage. It’s an excellent time for photography, as the changing light and weather patterns create captivating scenes. Be prepared for more unpredictable weather and shorter days as the Faroe Islands transition into winter.

Winter in the Faroe Islands

Winter in the Faroe Islands, from December to February, is a time of stark beauty and tranquility. Daylight hours are limited, with only a few hours of dim sunlight each day, and temperatures range from 3°C to 7°C (37°F to 45°F). While it’s the coldest and darkest season, it has its own charm. It’s the best time to witness the Northern Lights, and if you’re a fan of cozy atmospheres and solitude, this is the season for you. Be ready for wet and windy weather, as winter storms can be quite powerful.

Understanding the distinct characteristics of each season in the Faroe Islands is vital for planning the timing of your trip and packing appropriate clothing and gear. Whether you’re seeking the vibrant life of summer or the serene solitude of winter, the Faroes offer unique experiences throughout the year.

Faroe Islands Map: how to travel within the country

Navigating the Faroe Islands is an adventure in itself, offering diverse modes of transport for exploration. Renting a car is a popular choice, providing flexibility to traverse the islands at your own pace, taking in the scenic routes and stopping at various viewpoints. Ferries play a crucial role in connecting some of the more remote islands, offering a picturesque maritime journey between these stunning landscapes. During the high season, helicopter services further enhance accessibility, providing a unique and efficient way to hop between islands, granting awe-inspiring aerial views of the archipelago. Each mode of travel in the Faroe Islands contributes to the overall experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the unique beauty and varied landscapes of this remote destination.

Driving in the Faroe Islands offers an excellent way to explore the breathtaking landscapes, but it comes with its own set of considerations. The network of roads includes some incredible engineering feats like underwater tunnels, connecting various islands. Tolls are applicable for these tunnels, usually ranging from 100 to 250 DKK (Danish Krone) depending on the tunnel and vehicle size. As for road conditions, the Faroes’ serpentine routes can be narrow and winding, so drivers should exercise caution, especially in unpredictable weather.

Wildlife, such as sheep and birds, freely roam, so keeping an eye out for them is crucial to prevent accidents. Speed limits are typically around 50-60 km/h in towns and 80 km/h on rural roads. Renting a car from a reliable company can enhance your travel experience, providing well-maintained vehicles and local expertise. Rent your car here!

Ferries in the Faroe Islands form a vital link between several islands, facilitating exploration and travel. Routes typically connect Torshavn, the capital, with outlying islands like Nólsoy, Hestur, Koltur, and Sandoy. The pricing and schedules for these ferries can vary depending on the season, so it’s advisable to check the official website of the Strandfaraskip Landsins (SSL), the national ferry company, for up-to-date information. Generally, tickets for foot passengers are reasonably priced, while costs for bringing vehicles aboard differ based on size and destination. Schedules are usually accommodating, providing multiple daily trips, especially during the high season, but it’s recommended to plan ahead, considering that weather conditions can occasionally impact the ferry services. The SSL website typically provides comprehensive details on schedules, ticket prices, and any additional information necessary for a smooth ferry experience across the Faroe Islands.

Helicopter rides

Helicopter services in the Faroe Islands offer an exceptional and scenic mode of travel, particularly during the high season. Operated by Atlantic Airways, the helicopter routes typically function from May to August, catering to both locals and tourists. These services connect the islands of Torshavn, Vágar, Mykines, and other smaller isles. Prices for helicopter rides can vary based on the specific route and the season, with costs typically higher during the peak summer months. It’s recommended to book these flights in advance due to their popularity, and also to account for potential weather-related disruptions, as the Faroe Islands’ climate can influence flight schedules. These helicopter journeys not only provide a quick and efficient way to access more remote or smaller islands but also offer breathtaking aerial views of the rugged landscapes, making the travel experience an adventure in itself. For updated information on schedules, prices, and routes, it’s advisable to check the Atlantic Airways website or contact their customer service for any additional details necessary for planning helicopter rides within the Faroe Islands.

Faroe Islands: high season vs low season

The Faroe Islands experience distinct high and low seasons, each offering unique experiences for visitors. The high season typically spans from May to August, drawing in travelers eager to explore the islands during the milder, more accommodating weather. These months see longer days, making it perfect for outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the stunning landscapes. As for the low season, which begins in September and lasts through April, it introduces a different ambiance. With the changing weather, shorter days, and often inclement conditions, it’s a time when the islands adopt a quieter rhythm. Notably, from October 1st, many tourist facilities, including restaurants and some accommodations, start to wind down or even close for the season. While this might limit certain amenities, the low season offers the opportunity for a more serene and authentic experience, often appreciated by those seeking solitude and a closer connection with the Faroes’ raw beauty.

Where to stay in the Faroe Islands?

Strategic accommodation in the Faroe Islands often centers around Tórshavn, the capital, due to its central location and range of amenities. This puts visitors within reach of most of the archipelago’s attractions. The city offers various hotel options, from boutique stays to larger chains, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Some noteworthy hotels offering a comfortable and convenient base for exploration in Tórshavn include:

• Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands
• Hotel Føroyar
• Havgrim Seaside Hotel 1948
• Hotel Brandan
• Hotel Hafnia

For those seeking a more remote experience, options extend to the outer islands, offering a chance to immerse in the untouched landscapes and smaller communities. These remote stays might include guesthouses or smaller hotels in areas like Klaksvík, Gjógv, or even Mykines.

Staying with locals via platforms like Airbnb also provides an intimate experience, allowing visitors to embrace the local way of life, gain insider tips, and savor the unique Faroese hospitality in homes scattered across the islands.

One of my favorites is a farm located in Æðuvík . It is owned by Harriet, a female farmer who also sell her pictures. She takes gorgeous photographs of her animals and is currently really invested into saving the Faroese horses breed (there are only 89 left in the world at the time of writing)

Where to eat and drink in the Faroe Islands?

Here’s a list of some exceptional dining spots that offer a taste of the local flavors and global cuisines:

• Koks: Located in Kirkjubøur, this two Michelin stars restaurant is renowned for its innovative take on traditional Faroese dishes, providing an exquisite dining experience.
• Áarstova: Situated in Tórshavn, Áarstova serves up authentic Faroese cuisine, specializing in dishes like skerpikjøt (wind-dried mutton) and ræst kjøt (fermented mutton).
• Ræst: Another Michelin restaurant. Situated in Tórshavn, Ræst offers a unique dining experience where traditional Faroese ingredients are fermented and transformed into delectable dishes.
• Barbara Fish House: Located in Tórshavn, Barbara Fish House offers a casual and cozy atmosphere, with a focus on locally sourced and beautifully crafted seafood delicacies.
• Katrina Christiansen: In Tórshavn, Katrina Christiansen’s restaurant presents a fusion of local ingredients in tapas style dishes.
• Suppugarðurin : Found in Tórshavn, Suppugarðurin is a Japanese restaurant known for its authentic and meticulously prepared dishes, offering a taste of Japan in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

The best way to really experience a culture is to integrate with the locals. And in the Faroes, you can dine in the homes of Faroese people. This is called “ Heimablídni “, which translates directly as “home hospitality”. You can enjoy authentic and intimate dining experiences in people’s homes all across the islands. Find the list of places that offers Heimablídni here .

If you are craving a typical nordic cinnamon bun, or any pastry, check out Breyðvirkið Bakery. Located in Tórshavn, Breyðvirkið Bakery is known for its delightful array of baked goods, offering a variety of freshly made bread and pastries, adding a touch of local flavors to Tórshavn’s culinary scene.

The Faroe Islands also offer a range of spots to unwind and enjoy a drink. Here’s a list of places where you can savor your favorite beverage while soaking in the local ambiance:

• Sirkus Bar – Located in Tórshavn, this trendy bar offers a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of drinks, often hosting live music and events.
• Mikkeller Tórshavn – A craft beer bar situated in Tórshavn, offering an array of unique and flavorful beers, perfect for beer enthusiasts.
• Paname Café: In Tórshavn, Paname Café offers a cozy ambiance and a range of delicious pastries and light meals, providing a taste of French-inspired cuisine in the heart of the Faroe Islands.
• Fríða Kaffihús: Situated in Klaksvík, Fríða Kaffihús offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, known for its delightful selection of coffee and light bites, creating a charming spot for a relaxing break in Klaksvík.
• Kaffihúsið Tórshavn – A cozy café in Tórshavn serving various beverages, including coffee, tea, and a selection of wines and spirits.

Faroe Islands: Best things to do

The Faroe Islands offer a myriad of experiences for every traveler. From hiking the scenic trails that reveal breathtaking vistas to exploring charming villages steeped in history, there’s something for everyone. Nature enthusiasts can revel in birdwatching along the stunning cliffs, while photographers can capture the ethereal landscapes at every turn. Whether it’s savoring traditional Faroese cuisine, delving into the local culture, or embarking on exhilarating outdoor adventures, the Faroes promise an unforgettable journey. For a deeper dive into the best activities this captivating destination has to offer check out my dedicated blog post on the best things to do in the Faroe Islands .

You may also enjoy:

The 15 best things to do in the ….

Wild camping is actualy not allowed in the Faroe Islands. Tourist are generally expected to stay at camp sites. It is though possible to get permission from the farmers to set up a tent on their land, but that option is restricted due to sheeps and other farming considerations and is often not an option.

Thanks for letting me know. I’ve corrected the article 🙂

Great article about the lovely Faroe Islands, with loads of helpful information. I just have one correction regarding camping, it is NOT allowed to do wild camping, camping is exclusively allowed at camping sites. If you want to do wild camping, you need to contact the landowner in the area you want to camp and ask for permission, since all the land in the outfield is privately owned, and primarily for sheep to graze on. 🙂

Thank you for letting me know. I’ve corrected it!

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Faroe Islands travel guide

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written by Ros Walford

updated 27.04.2023

Way out in the cool North Atlantic Ocean, there’s a cluster of craggy islands inhabited primarily by sheep and puffins. The Faroe Islands are Scandinavia’s ultimate off-the-beaten-track destination. Here’s our guide to what to expect on your first trip to this remote archipelago.

What and where are the Faroe Islands?

Why are the faroe islands worth visiting, what to see in the faroe islands, what outdoor activities can i do, what is the capital city of the faroe islands, what is the music scene like in the faroe islands, what should i eat, how do i get around, what is the weather like, planning your trip to the faroe islands, where should i stay.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for travelling the world.

Contrary to popular misconception, the Faroe Islands are not near the Antarctic nor are they somewhere in Portugal . In fact, this cluster of eighteen islands is situated roughly midway between Iceland , Norway and the northern tip of Scotland .

Each one has an extraordinary landscape of sharp cliffs, sweeping glaciated valleys, narrow fjords and pointed basalt peaks that were formed when volcanic rock thrust up from the deep North Atlantic Ocean.

Since the sixth century, the Faroe Islands have been inhabited variously by Irish monks, Viking settlers and an awful lot of sheep. Today, they are home to 49,000 people. The Faroe Islands is a self-governing nation – part of the Kingdom of Denmark – with its own parliament, flag and language, a booming fishing industry.

Discover the Faroe Islands © Leos Mastnik/Shutterstock

If you love outdoor adventure in rugged landscapes, invigorating sea air and cosy harbour villages, then you’ll love the Faroe Islands. Whether exploring the islands by car, foot, boat or bicycle, the excellent infrastructure makes it easy to get around. It’s an incredibly welcoming place with a gentle pace of life and an interesting mix of modern innovations based on ancient traditions.

See the puffins

Seeing thousands of puffins and other sea birds nesting in high cliffs is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the Faroes. So whether or not you are an enthusiastic birdwatcher, a boat trip to Vestmanna, or to the western island of Mykines – a “paradise of birds” – is an unforgettable experience.

Take a road trip

Driving in the Faroe Islands is a highlight in itself, as beautifully tarmacked roads sweep around the fjords and sounds, where houses with fluffy grass roofs blend into a vibrant green landscape and every scene is a stunner.

A short drive from Vagar airport and you can see two of the most dramatic views in the archipelago: the island of Tindhólmur, a rock that juts out of the ocean like a jagged shard of glass, and Gásadalur waterfall where icy water gushes from a sea cliff.

Puffins on Mykines, Faroe islands @ Shutterstock

Discover Saksun

Saksun is one of the prettiest spots on Streymoy, the largest island. It’s a small settlement beside a steep-sided inlet, while over on Esturoy to the east, winding roads take you up into the mountainous north and up to the highest peak, Slættaratindur (882m). Not far from here, you can see two rock stacks, known as Risin og Kellingin (the giant and the witch) and the picturesque village of Gjógv, named after a gorge.

Visit one of the smaller islands

Visiting one of the smaller islands, such as the remarkable Stóra Dímun , is as remote as it gets. This 2-sq-km inaccessible island is inhabited by seven people who live in a farmhouse perched on a plateau surrounded by vertical sea cliffs.

The only access is via a helicopter service that delivers supplies three times a week. Tourists can come here on boat trips or stay on the island for a few days in summer when the schoolhouse doubles as a self-catering apartment.

It’s possible to do almost any outdoor activity here, from horseriding, trail-running and climbing to sea kayaking , sailing and fly-fishing for wild salmon.

If you’ve got thighs of steel, you’ll enjoy cycling the quiet mountain roads. But those who prefer a gentler pace would be better off hiking.

There are many options for day walks: climb to the top of Slættaratindur for stunning views over the archipelago; take the postman’s path up over the steep ridge from Bøur to Gásadalur waterfall (which once was the only way to reach Gásadalur village before a tunnel was built). Alternatively, you can hike from Tórshavn to Kirkjubøur to see the oldest church in the Faroe Islands.

The beautiful landscapes of the Faroe Islands © Alexander Erdbeer/Shutterstock

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Tórshavn, one of the world's smallest capital cities, is characterized by narrow streets surrounding the harbour. The Tinganes peninsula extends into the bay, hosting government buildings that are housed in modest wooden structures, occupying the historic grounds of one of the world's oldest parliamentary meeting places.

As far back as the ninth century, the Vikings held a general assembly here (called a “Thing”), and evidence of their meetings can still be seen carved on the rocks. It’s still an informal place, where you might say “hej” (“hi”) to a government minister as they wander past in the lanes of the neighbouring district of tiny, grass-roofed houses.

Artistic and creative industries are flourishing here. The capital city may be small but it has its share of galleries, including the National Gallery. On the outskirts of town, Nordic House hosts Faroese and Nordic art exhibitions, concerts, theatre and dance.

There are upmarket craft and design shops including designer knitwear from Guðrun & Guðrun (creators of the desirable sweater worn by detective Sarah Lund in the Danish crime drama The Killing ), an excellent design cooperative called Öström, and colourful glass creations at Mikkalina Glas.

The harbour in Torshavn, capital of the Faroe Islands © Ros Walford

Tutl is the only music shop and record label in the Faroe Islands. Outdoor festivals are an important feature in summer, and key dates in the diary include G! Festival , during which thousands of people descend on the tiny village of Gøta to enjoy rock music and hot tubs on the beach.

At Hoyma , also held in Gøta, festival-goers revive the old tradition of going from house to house to enjoy acoustic concerts inside residents’ living rooms.

One of the loveliest dining experiences is Heimablídni , the Faroese tradition of “home hospitality”, in which guests pay for a meal cooked and served at the home of their hosts.

You’re likely to be able to try some of the local favourites, such as fresh fish or fermented meat (which is nicer than it sounds – it’s usually a tender leg of lamb that’s been left to hang in the salty sea air, in a process similar to curing).

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It’s not all rustic cuisine, though. There are some sophisticated fine-dining restaurants in Tórshavn. Aarstova is famous for its slow-cooked Faroese lamb, while Barbara is a superb fish restaurant in a turf-topped building.

Faroe Islands are known for their rustic cuisine and more © photolike/Shutterstock

Fifteen years ago, the only way to get between the islands was via ferry. Now, two sub-sea tunnels link the main islands and a network of smaller tunnels connect valleys and villages that were once isolated from the world.

The smaller tunnels can take some getting used to, as one lane serves traffic coming in both directions. Fortunately, the Public Roads' Office has made a useful video that explains all you need to know about driving in the Faroe Islands.

The subsidised (and very good value) helicopter service, operated by Atlantic Airways , runs between the smaller islands. It’s an exhilarating way of getting around, but helicopters only fly every other day and you can’t book a return, so plan carefully. Otherwise, buses and ferries are slower-paced alternatives.

Mykines lighthouse, Faroe Island © Smelov/Shutterstock

If you are planning a trip to the Faroe Islands, it is important to be prepared for cool, wet, and windy weather conditions. The climate is heavily influenced by the surrounding ocean currents and prevailing winds. In general, the temperature rarely rises above 15°C (59°F) even in the spring and summer , and can drop down to around 5°C (41°F) in winter. It rains frequently throughout the year.

Our local experts can plan wonderful trips for you to the Faroe Islands. Simply get in touch when you would like to travel. We will then create a personalized itinerary, which you can amend until you are totally happy with every detail of the booking. All of our planned itineraries can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Vidoy, Faroe Island © Shutterstock

Accommodation options on the Faroe Islands include hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and campsites, with many offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Here are some of our picks:

• Best for sea views: Mølin Guesthouse
• For an elegant stay: Hotel Brandan
• For a stay in central Thorshavn: 62N City Center
• For a four-star stay: Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands

Or browse other accommodation in the Faroe Islands

Ready to start planning your trip? Don't miss our Rough Guides Guidebooks for more travel tips and inspiration.

We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image © MikeDrago.cz/Shutterstock

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Faroe Islands Itinerary Suggestions for 3-9 Days (+Map & Practical Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 23, 2024

The Faroe Islands is a place of rugged landscapes, harsh weather, and unspoiled natural beauty. Europe’s best-kept secret, little known and unexplored, waiting to be discovered by those who know how to appreciate it.

We learned that the literal translation of the Faroe Islands actually means the Sheep Islands . This alone was enough to convince us to visit these remote islands with countless shades of green, millions of birds, and indeed, more sheep than people….

Do you also want to visit the Faroe Islands, but are not sure where to start? In this post, I’m sharing our complete Faroe Islands self-drive itinerary for 9 days . It covers all the most beautiful places that you shouldn’t miss in the Faroe Islands, as well as some less-visited locations and incredible hidden gems.

In addition, I’m also sharing the best Faroe Island itinerary suggestions for 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 days . You can find those at the bottom of the article.

If you love the outdoors, adventure, and quiet places where time seems to have stood still, then you probably know how increasingly difficult and challenging it is to still find a travel destination that ticks all these boxes. Faroe Islands is such a place, and it’s closer and easier to visit than I always thought it was.

How much time do you need for the Faroe Islands?

While you can see the main highlights of the Faroe Islands in 4-7 days, staying a few days longer makes for a more relaxing trip and gives you an opportunity to visit remote islands and also do some hiking. As a minimum, I suggest you spend 4-5 full days in the Faroe Islands.

Many people travel to the Faroe Islands for just a few days, but we wanted to explore the main islands to the fullest, and so we spent 9 full days in the Faroe Islands 11 including travel days.

TIP: If you are visiting the Faroe Islands for the first time and are not sure where to start, you can also opt for organized tour packages . They include daily tours to the best places in the Faroe Islands and you can just stay in Torshavn during the whole trip.

The most popular option is this 6-day tour package that covers all the main highlights of the Faroe Islands. All you have to do is book your Torshavn accommodation and a tour package, and they’ll pick you up for a different tour every morning.

Another great option is this new all-in 8-day package that, in addition to all tours, also includes Torshavn accommodation, airport transfers, and more.

How to use this Faroe Islands itinerary

You can use our Faroe Islands travel itinerary for inspiration and make sure to also check our suggestions for any trip. But keep in mind that you’ll have to make your own trip itinerary as a lot depends on available accommodations and also on the ferry timetables .

To help you plan your trip, we included a handy MAP for searching all available hotels and Airbnbs for your travel dates . You can find it at the bottom of this article.

For more practical information , please check our first-timer’s guide to visiting the Faroe Islands .

I also created a map indicating all the places mentioned in this post. It should help you get a better idea of where everything is and plan your own Faroe Islands travel itinerary. See below.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

TIP: The Faroe Islands are a paradise for hikers and some of the most beautiful places can only be reached on foot, so pack your hiking gear and explore. Here you can read more about 5 spectacular hikes that you shouldn’t miss in the Faroe Islands .

If you click on the hike icons indicated in the map above, you’ll see a number by each hike. Those numbers correspond to the numbering used in the ‘Hiking in the Faroe Islands’ brochure issued by Visit Faroe Islands. You’ll be able to find this hiking brochure at all tourism information points and some hotels on the Faroe Islands.

Day 1: Streymoy Island: Saksun, Tjornuvik, Vestmanna

Streymoy Island is the largest of the 18 Faroe Islands, home to the capital city of Torshavn and to almost half the population of the Faroe Islands. But don’t worry, even here it’s quite easy to escape the people and get a good feel of what the Faroe Islands are all about.

Oyggjarvegur Scenic Road

The scenic road Oyggjarvegur , over the mountains above Torshavn, is a road you must drive at least once. Green mountains, spectacular vistas, fjord valleys under your feet, countless waterfalls… The scenery here is truly beautiful and you can call yourself lucky if you can experience it without mist.

It’s very likely that you’ll run into some sheep, but also wild geese. Faroese geese are extraordinary birds – they live here the whole year round and are extremely well adapted to the harsh environment.

We saw so many geese that, at first, we thought they belonged to someone. But no, these birds are wild and roam freely all over the islands. Since they have no natural predators, they aren’t very shy, so you are bound to run into some geese during your trip.

The tiny village of Saksun is considered one of the nicest places in the Faroe Islands, and a must in any Faroe Islands itinerary. Saksun is situated at the end of the valley overlooking a magnificent bay that is surrounded by steep mountains. It looks like a natural shelter from the ocean, yet the wind is very strong here and it’s the coldest place we have been to in the Faroe Islands. Even in summer, don’t forget your gloves and a hat!

Saksun is best known for its little church overlooking the bay and picture-perfect turf houses of a 200-year-old farm Duvugardar, which is now a museum. It’s such a peaceful sleepy little village and the time seems to have stood still here.

TIP: If you want to have this place all to yourselves, best come here first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon. The museum opens around 2 PM and that is also the time when the tour buses arrive.

One of the popular hikes of the Faroe Islands, Saksun – Tjornuvik hike starts by the waterfall just behind the turf houses. However, it’s a long hike that involves a serious climb and will take at least 2-3 hours one way, so if you are planning to do it, start early and count the whole day for just this area.

Alternatively, make a shorter walk along the Western side of the river (you can read all about this hike in our Faroe hiking guide – hike no. 5 ) and drive to Tjornuvik by car.

Practical information: Saksun has some minimal facilities – a bathroom, a cafe that is open for a few hours in the afternoon, and a kiosk selling some small snacks (it’s located at the first parking area, not by the church where all the tourists come – go figure).

Fossa Waterfall

On the way to Tjornuvik, just before Haldarsvik, you will pass the highest waterfall of the Faroe Islands, Fossa . The 140m waterfall tumbles down over two levels and looks very impressive in the pictures.

However, in reality, it’s so close to the road that you can’t truly appreciate its beauty unless you own a drone. Anyway, it’s just a short stop that doesn’t require any effort, so don’t miss it.

The waterfall is even more impressive if you come here when it rains. Actually, it’s amazing to see how much and how quickly the waterfalls change when it starts to rain in the Faroe Islands.

Tjørnuvík

The road to Tjornuvik is extremely narrow, but it’s really scenic, so you don’t want to drive fast here anyway.

The moment you turn the last corner, the picturesque little village appears in front of you – it’s a sight to behold!

There are many places in the Faroe Islands where you feel like you’ve reached the end of the world, Tjornuvik is one of them.

Tjornuvik is a somewhat bigger village than Saksun, and we were glad to see that there were more locals here than tourists (according to Wikipedia, there were 64 people living here 15 years ago, no idea how many people live there today).

The village has a beautiful beach that is supposedly a paradise for surfers. We didn’t see any surfers here but loved the peaceful beach overlooking two beautiful rocks along the coast of the nearby Eysturoy island.

The rocks are known as Risin and Kellingin , a giant and a witch. According to a local legend, they tried to drag the Faroe Islands to their home in Iceland, but the job appeared more demanding than they anticipated. While these night creatures were working hard, the sun came up and turned them to stone.

Practical information: Tjornuvik village itself is quaint and picturesque, but there is no tourist infrastructure here at all. The only restaurant in town has been permanently closed a week before our visit. Looking for a place to hide from the rain, we followed a sign for coffee and waffles and ended up in front of yet another closed door. The neighbors told us that the owner’s granddaughter was getting married that day.

The reason I mention this is so that you know what to expect when traveling around in the Faroe Islands. Adjust your expectations, travel well prepared, and you’ll have a wonderful time.

But if you forget to pack a picnic thinking that you’ll find something in these quaint little villages, keep in mind that the nearest cafe might be an hour’s drive away.

Vestmanna Bird Cliffs

Vestmanna bird cliffs is the most popular day trip on the Faroe Islands and takes you to the steep rocky coastline where thousands of birds nest in season. If the sea is calm, this is a great tour, and a possibility to see puffins.

Vestmanna boat trip only runs in high season, April to September, and usually just 2 or 3 times a day. In summer months, the boats are usually full, but even in the shoulder season, this is one of the most popular excursions that quickly sells out. So if you want to see the bird cliffs of Vestmanna, you have to book the boat in advance .

For the rest, there isn’t that much to do in Vestmanna, unless visit the Saga Museum, buy some souvenirs at the visitors center, or meet some of the cutest sheep of the Faroes…

Accommodation: Stay in Torshavn for the first 4 nights of this itinerary. We stayed at Hotel Føroyar , one of the best hotels on the Faroe Islands at the moment. Here you can find our complete updated guide to the Faroe Islands hotels .

Day 2: Streymoy Island: RIB62 Tour to Hestur Island, Kirkjubøur, Torshavn

Our second day on the Faroe islands was the proof that you shouldn’t let the weather influence your travel plans. It was pouring the whole morning and we were reluctant to even leave our hotel.

While it kept raining pretty much the whole time in Torshavn, the weather was very different in other places. One moment we were driving in complete mist, and then just a mile further down the road we would find open blue skies and sunshine…

We’ve been to many places where the weather is known to be unpredictable, but we have never experienced such instant fluctuations as in the Faroe Islands.

Before the trip, I often asked myself what to do in the Faroe Islands when it rains . My best advice to you is to pack a good rain jacket and just do what you have planned. Alternatively, just drive till you find better weather; it can be surprisingly close by. Or visit the city – you’ll have it all to yourself.

RIB62 Tour to Hestur Island

One of the absolute highlights of our time in the Faroe Islands was a RIB62 speedboat tour to see the bird cliffs of Hestur island . I can’t compare the Vestmanna boat trip to the RIB62 speedboat tour, because we only did one. But at least at first view, the two tours seem to be quite similar in terms of what you get to see (even though the location is different).

There are several reasons why we chose the RIB62 tour. First, our kids love speedboat tours and none of us ever got seasick on them (as opposed to bigger boats). Second, a speedboat is small and can access areas inaccessible to bigger boats. And third, we just prefer the less touristy options and more off-the-beaten-path alternatives that are just as good or maybe even better than the most popular options chosen by big groups.

The tour lasts just 1,5 hours, so don’t miss it, even if you don’t have that much time in the Faroes. It’s a unique opportunity to visit the spectacular cliffs along the Hestur coastline, see puffins (in season), and admire some of the most unique landscapes you’ll ever see.

Kirkjubøur

Kirkjubøur , just a short drive or a 2-hr hike from Torshavn, is one of the oldest settlements of the Faroe Islands, dating from the Middle Ages. Kirkjubøur was the bishop’s residence for centuries and you can still see the ruins of the old cathedral, Muren, which was one of the finest churches of the Nordic countries back in the 14th-15th centuries.

What still stands is St Olav’s Church, built in 1111, and the King’s farmhouse (the oldest inhabited house in Europe); both can be visited. The church is actually still in use and has services on the first Sunday of the month.

Apart from admiring picturesque Faroes turf houses, you can also make a short walk along the coastline. Even in the rain, it’s a very enjoyable short visit.

Tórshavn

End your day in Torshavn , the capital city of the Faroe Islands. Not to be missed is the oldest part of town called Reyn with narrow passages and a few turf houses. Don’t expect much of it though – it’s really just a few houses. The main landmark of Torshavn is the historic Tinganes area – one of the world’s oldest courts dating from the 9th century.

The Torshavn city center is rather small and compact, so you don’t need a lot of time to see it all. Other places of interest include the Skansin area by the harbor and the Torshavn Cathedral . It might not look like much from the outside, but you really have to see its wooden interior!

One of the liveliest locations in town is the little Vagsbotnur harbor with quaint colorful buildings and several cafes, pubs, and restaurants. This is probably the best place in the whole of the Faroe Islands for food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere. A great way to end your day.

Day 3: Nolsoy Island

Nolsoy Island , just off the coast from Streymoy Island, can be reached by ferry from Torshavn. The ferry ride takes just 20 minutes, but ferries run just a few times a day, so keep that in mind when planning your itinerary.

The island has just one tiny village, so you don’t need a car to visit Nolsoy. Leave the car at the hotel, or, if it’s too far to walk to the ferry, at the free car parking lot behind the ferry and bus terminals. The other car parking areas near the harbor have strict time limits, which you’ll probably not be able to adhere to when visiting Nolsoy.

If the weather is extraordinarily beautiful, you can hike all the way to Nolsoy Lighthouse. It’s a 5-6 hour walk (13-14 km total), so keep the ferry schedule in mind if you decide to go all the way to the end. Alternatively, do just the first part of the hike – the climb is steep, but the views are really nice.

Nolsoy village itself is really picturesque, but apart from a short stroll between the colorful houses, there is not that much to do here for day visitors.

There is a tiny visitor center on Nolsoy Island. They can arrange a guided tour of the village, or some coffee and waffles. For guided tours, it’s best to call them in advance.

TIP: If you take an early ferry back to Torshavn, you could opt to do a horse riding tour close to town . You have to book it in advance, as people in the Faroe Islands don’t seem to like last-minute bookings, even if the tours aren’t full.

Day 4: Viðoy and Borðoy Islands

Time to explore the Northern islands of the Faroes! The furthest island that you can easily reach by car is Vidoy, about 1,5 hrs drive from Torshavn.

You could do it as a day trip, but I recommend staying in Klaksvik for one night and visiting Kalsoy Island the next day as well.

Viðoy Island – Villingardalsfjall/ Enniberg Hike

Villingardalsfjall hike on Viðoy island is probably the most spectacular hike of the Faroe Islands. From the trail, you have phenomenal views over all the Northern islands such as Fugloy, Svinoy, Bordoy, Kunoy, and Kalsoy. Not to be missed!

Practical information: This hike will take you a good part of the day (more information in our Faroe hiking guide – hike no.1 ), so make sure to pack a picnic.

Borðoy Island – Muli and Klaksvik

There is just one road going through Bordoy island and if you drive all the way to the end of it, you reach a tiny village called Muli. The road is really scenic, so it’s a nice little detour.

Muli village itself is not more than a few houses dating from the early 19th century. The sign at the village says that it has been abandoned in 1992, so I guess the people that we met there were using them as vacation houses.

You can make a few very short walks here. One of them leads to the gorge, the other one to a sheepfold along the coast, where you have a nice view over the coastline.

Klaksvik, the fishing capital of the Faroes, is the biggest town of the Northern islands. In addition to its famous brewery, it also has all the facilities that you may need, including shops, restaurants, and also a few accommodations. It’s the best place to stay for exploring the Northern Islands.

Accommodation: Stay in Klaksvik for 1 night. Accommodation here is very limited. We stayed at Eysturland Lodge .

Day 5: Kalsoy Island

Kalsoy Island is not connected to the other islands and the best way to get there is by taking a car ferry from Klaksvik. Keep in mind that the ferry is tiny (it can squeeze 17 small cars at best). Furthermore, it only runs a few times a day.

In high season you really have to arrive at least an hour in advance (that’s why it’s best to stay in Klaksvik and not drive from Torshavn). We arrived about 50 minutes in advance and were the 16th car in the queue and so you can imagine our relief when we could board. The next ferry was 6 hours later…

Update: Recently, I saw that it was possible to prebook a spot on the ferry in advance. So be sure to check the official website of Faroe Islands ferries and if it’s possible, definitely book in advance!

Kallur Lighthouse

The main reason to come to Kalsoy Island is the spectacular scenery on the island’s most northerly point, Kallurin.

It requires some hiking to get to Kallur Lighthouse , but apart from the fact that it’s muddy and slippery, it’s not a very demanding hike (more info in our best hikes of the Faroe guide – hike no.2 ). The views here are rewarding and well worth all the effort that it takes to get here.

Good to know: There is now a fee that you’ll have to pay in order to hike to the lighthouse. More and more landowners in the Faroe Islands are now charging tourists for hiking through their land.

Mikladalur – Kópakonan

One more highlight you shouldn’t miss on Kalsoy island is the statue of a Seal Woman (Kópakonan) in Mikladalur village. The coastline here is stunning too.

My advice is not to linger on the island longer than necessary and get back to the harbor well in time for the ferry. It was so busy on the day we visited that despite arriving more than an hour before the ferry, we ended up waiting for the next one. Hours wasted sitting in the car… Luckily, we had some snacks and our e-readers.

TIP: Probably a better way to visit Kalsoy would be to leave your car in Klaksvik, take a ferry as a foot passenger, and then a small local bus that seems to follow the schedule of the boat. From what I understand, this bus drives all the way to Trollanes where the hike to Kallur Lighthouse starts. I’m not sure what happens if there are no places on this minivan, and I don’t know if it makes any other stops, like Mikladalur. But it’s definitely worth inquiring about this option at the visitor’s center.

Depending on how much time you have on this day, you might be able to drive some of the scenic roads described in the itinerary on the next day. We spent so much time waiting for the ferry that we ran out of time and therefore drove straight to our accommodation in Gjogv.

Accommodation: You could either stay in Klaksvik one more night or drive to your next destination. We stayed in Gjaargardur Guesthouse in Gjogv – one of my favorite accommodations of this trip.

Day 6: Eysturoy Island: Gjogv, Slættaratindur, Oyndarfjørður, Elduvik

Gjogv is one of the places you shouldn’t miss in the Faroe Islands. It’s such a quaint little village in a beautiful setting.

There are hiking trails available here. As a minimum take a very short walk to and a bit around the gorge, it’s such wonderful scenery. In season, you’ll see puffins here, but they are usually quite far away.

TIP: If you’re in Gjogv around lunchtime, try some pancakes at the Gjaargaardur Guesthouse.

If you drive to Eiði from Gjogv, you’ll pass some of the highest roads of the Faroes. No wonder that this area is often covered in clouds, and it was also the case when we visited. If the weather is nice, you can hike to the top of Slættaratindur , the highest mountain of the Faroe Islands.

Eiði village itself isn’t really that interesting from a tourist point of view. We thought we might be able to see the beautiful rock formations Risin and Kellingin that are just off the coast near Eidi, but you can’t really get close to them or even see them from the village. They are best visible from Tjornuvik on Streymoy Island.

The nicest places on Eysturoy island, we found, are the roads leading to Gjogv, Elduvik, and Oyndarfjordur , so I suggest you drive them all. These scenic drives are not about the destination, but rather about the roads themselves. One exception – Elduvik village is actually quite scenic and worth a short visit.

In the afternoon we drove back to Torshavn where we took a ferry to Suduroy island (see the schedule here ). It’s a big car ferry and we were told that it’s never full. But just in case… we arrived well in advance, parked the car in line at the ferry terminal, and went for a short walk in the city.

Accommodation: We stayed 2 nights on Suduroy island . The accommodation we stayed at is not available at the moment and other options are extremely limited. So you’d have to see if there’s anything available on the private rental market if you plan to visit this island…

Day 7: Suðuroy Island

One of the best things to do on Suduroy Island is Hvannhagi hike near Tvøroyri. It’s a rather long hike, but one that gives you a true feeling of remoteness. The landscape around Hvannhagi is so special!

Don’t miss Akraberg Lighthouse , the southernmost point of the Faroe Islands. Just be careful here – the whole area is surrounded by steep cliffs with a sheer drop to the ocean deep below.

The area around Hvalba and also around Sandvik is really nice to see too.

One of the hidden gems of the Faroe Islands can be found near Sandvík. It’s a tiny nameless wooden bridge over a nameless gorge with incredible views. It’s not easy to find, but if you do – it’s definitely worth it!

Drive the bumpy road Heiðavegur in Sandvik all the way to the end. There is a fence on this road, but the locals told us that it’s ok to drive through it (don’t forget to close it, otherwise the sheep might run away). At the very end of the road, you can leave the car and climb the hill following white poles with a rope, then turn right where the poles end. Continue towards the ocean for 10-15min and you’ll find the little bridge.

TIP: The western coastline near Sandvik is the best place to be at sunset. Follow the Heiðavegur road as described above, but instead of driving all the way to the end, stop where the road is closest to the ocean. From there you can walk just a few steps for the most amazing views.

Alternative suggestion: Visit Sandvik and this beautiful sunset spot the evening when you arrive in Suduroy (day 6 of this itinerary). Stay just one night on Suduroy and head back to Torshavn in the evening. Don’t forget to check the ferry timetable. This will give you more time to explore Vagar island the next day.

Day 8: Vagar Island: Trælanípa Hike, Gasadalur, Mulafossur, Trøllkonufingur, The Nix

In the morning we took a ferry back to Torshavn and drove straight to Vagar island . We left this island for the very end of our trip, because it’s close to the airport. Also, there is a toll for driving the tunnel between Vagar and Streymoy, so it’s best not to drive through it too many times if not necessary.

Trælanípa Hike

The hike from Miðvágur to Bøsdalafossur waterfall and Trælanípa mountain is one of the most beautiful and by far the most popular hike in the Faroe Islands. You can read all about it in our Faroe hiking guide, hike no.3 .

TIP: It’s best to come here late in the afternoon if you can – the light for photography is best at sunset and there will be fewer people.

Good to know: There is now a 200 DKK hiking fee that you have to pay (cash) in order to access this area.

Trøllkonufingur

Trøllkonufingur – the Troll woman’s finger – is a big rock along the coast of Vagar island near Sandavágur. There is a sign to a viewpoint, so you can’t really miss it. It’s also well visible from the road at the trailhead of Trælanípa hike.

Gásadalur and Múlafossur

Gasadalur is a tiny village, just like many others on the Faroe Islands, stuck between the mountains on one side and steep cliffs and the ocean on the other. In the past you could only get there by boat, on foot, or by helicopter; now there is a tunnel connecting Gasadalur to the rest of Vagar island.

The main reason to visit is to see the beautiful waterfall Mulafossur , probably the most photographed waterfall of the Faroe Islands. Don’t miss it – the coastline here will take your breath away!

The Nix in Sørvágsvatn or Leitisvatn

On the way to the airport, you’ll notice an interesting piece of art – a horse in the middle of the lake Sørvágsvatn/ Leitisvatn. It’s called Nix and is a mythical water creature that wants to lure people into its underwater world.

There are several stories and legends surrounding Nix and locals could tell you more about it. But the statue is just next to the main road and worth a short stop anyway.

Accommodation: We stayed on Vagar island for the last two nights. It’s close to the airport and also the best location for a day trip to Mykines . There is just one hotel on this island and a few private accommodations. See the accommodation map here .

Day 9: Mykines Island

We left the very best for last. Mykines island is one of the most beautiful places of the Faroe Islands and it really should be included in any Faroe Islands itinerary.

We had really bad luck with the weather and visited Mykines in the pouring rain. Nevertheless, it’s one of the most unique and beautiful places I have ever been to. I can’t even imagine what it would look like on a sunny day with blue skies… I’d go all the way back to the Faroe Islands just to explore Mykines in good weather.

As if green hills, charming turf houses, and spectacular scenery are not enough, there is one more reason to visit Mykines Island. Puffins . Mykines is home to thousands and thousands of puffins that come to nest on the island every summer. It must be the best place to see puffins in the world!

One of the nicest things to do is hike Mykinesholmur all the way to Mykines lighthouse. This hike brings you past the puffin colony and has incredible views all the way. Unfortunately, a big part of the hike was closed when we visited (due to the weather and dangerous conditions), but even then it was worth it.

Keep in mind that Mykines is an extremely popular place to visit in the Faroe Islands, and Mykines ferry is also the only one of all official ferries that you can (and have to) book in advance. Nowadays, there is also a shuttle boat to Mykines , which makes it so much easier to visit!

TIP: The easiest way to get to Mykines without having to worry about practicalities is by booking a guided tour to Mykines . Most tours include the ferry, hiking fee, a local guide, and a packed lunch. Just note that some tours start from Sørvágur harbor, but some tours include transportation from Torshavn as well.

There aren’t many accommodations on the island, but it is possible to stay there if you really want to. In that case, inquire at Visit Faroe Islands for more information.

Most people come to Mykines for the day. The ferry schedule is such that it gives you about 5 hours on the island, which is enough if the weather is nice and much too long if it rains.

TIP: You can find more practical information for your visit to Mykines in our Faroe hiking guide – hike no.4 .

Faroe Islands Itinerary Suggestions

Below you can find some suggested Faroe Islands itineraries for shorter trips, from 3 days up to a week. Read on!

3 Days in the Faroe Islands

• Day 1: Torshavn, Kirkjubour, Saksun, and Tjornuvik.
• Day 2: Boat tour to Vestmanna or Hestur island and Trælanípa hike on Vagar island OR Kalsoy island and Gjogv.
• Day 3: Mykines island. Visit Mulafossur waterfall in the evening.

4 Days in the Faroe Islands

• Day 1: Torshavn, Kirkjubour, Saksun and Tjornuvik.
• Day 2: Kalsoy Island and Gjogv.
• Day 3: Boat tour to Vestmanna or Hestur island and Trælanípa hike on Vagar island.
• Day 4: Mykines island. Visit Mulafossur waterfall in the evening.

Faroe Islands 5 Days Itinerary

• Day 2: Northern islands. Villingardalsfjall hike on Vidoy. Klaksvik.
• Day 3: Kalsoy island and scenic roads on Eysturoy island.
• Day 4: Gjogv, boat tour to Vestmanna or Hestur island and Trælanípa hike on Vagar island.
• Day 5: Mykines island. Visit Mulafossur waterfall in the evening.

TIP: If you have 4-7 days in the Faroe Islands and don’t want to worry about planning the best itinerary, driving, or ferry schedules, consider a multi-day tours package . All you have to do is book a hotel in Torshavn and the local guides will pick you up every morning and drop you off back at your hotel every evening. It’s the most relaxing way to see the best of the Faroe Islands for those who rather take it easy and let someone else do the planning.

6 Days in the Faroe Islands

• Day 2: Nolsoy Island. Maybe horse riding in Torshavn.
• Day 3: Northern islands. Villingardalsfjall hike on Vidoy. Klaksvik.
• Day 4: Kalsoy Island and scenic roads on Eysturoy Island.
• Day 5: Gjogv, boat tour to Vestmanna or Hestur island and Trælanípa hike on Vagar island.
• Day 6: Mykines island. Visit Mulafossur Waterfall in the evening.

TIP: If you have at least 6 days in the Faroe Islands and don’t want to worry about planning the best itinerary for your trip, consider this 6-day small group Faroe Islands tour package . They pick you up from your hotel in Torshavn every day and take you to a different part of the Faroe Islands each day. It’s a great way to see the best of the Faroe Islands without planning or worries.

One Week in the Faroe Islands

• Day 3: Day trip to one of the other islands, e.g. Suduroy if the ferry schedule allows it.
• Day 4: Northern islands. Villingardalsfjall hike on Vidoy. Klaksvik.
• Day 5: Kalsoy Island and scenic roads on Eysturoy Island.
• Day 6: Gjogv, boat tour to Vestmanna or Hestur island, and Trælanípa hike on Vagar island.
• Day 7: Mykines island. Visit Mulafossur Waterfall in the evening.

Compare Hotels & Short-Term Rentals in the Faroe Islands

Using the map below, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in the Faroe Islands . You can zoom in and out for various islands.

Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay. Check it out!

So, this is our Faroe Islands itinerary and suggestions for a shorter vacation. I realize that planning a self-drive trip to the Faroe Islands can look really overwhelming at first, so if you have any questions, please also check our practical guide to the Faroe Islands .

If you still don’t find an answer, don’t hesitate to leave a reply below and I’ll try to help.

READ ALSO: Faroe Islands Hotels & Tips for Where to Stay

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Saturday 20th of May 2023

Hi there! Just passing through to thank you for all the content! Just finished my trip to the Faroe and your posts helped a lot :)

Monday 22nd of May 2023

Glad to hear that, Leticia. Happy travels!

Thursday 29th of September 2022

Thanks for the detailed info! From what you wrote, Sundory Island seems to have more scenic landscape and beautiful view than Nolsoy Island. But on your 6 day itinerary it doesn't have Sundory Island but Nolsoy Island. I am a little confused. We are more into wild landscape than colorful house. Would you please advise? Thanks.

Second, those ferries would run even in raining days and bad weather?

Saturday 1st of October 2022

Hi Camille, Suðuroy island is indeed very beautiful. However, if you look at the map, you'll quickly realize that it's much trickier to get there than e.g. to Nolsoy island which is just next to Torshavn. Depending on the boat schedule, you may need to plan 2 days for Suðuroy and also spend a night there. If you can get a very early ferry there and a late one to get back, it could be done in a day too - it all depends on the ferries and on what you want to see/do. Also, there is not that much accommodation available and if you don't bring your car with you, it's tricky to get around and actually see much. So it requires more planning and more time. And that's the main reason why I wouldn't recommend it if you have less than a week in the Faroe Islands. As for the ferries, it depends on the ferry and on the weather. The biggest ferries usually have no problem unless it's some exceptionally bad storm, whereas smaller ones (like the one to Mykines) could get canceled if the seas are very rough. But definitely not just because of some rain. Hope this helps.

Monday 25th of April 2022

Hi Jurga, your blog on Faroe islands is so detailed and comprehenisve with all the site maps of various places of interest. I don't think I need to read any other Faroe islands guides after seeing your blog. Every thing I need to know can be found right here. By the way, I'll be making the trip with the wife this August, the same time you were there I think. We are a retired couple in our sixties (me 67 and the wife 62) so we don't plan on doing too many hikes. Right now, I don't have any question for you just yet as I'm still going through the blog and will re-read some more time. We plan to spend 5-6 days at Faroe islands but could extend if necessary. Our intenerary will be based on your writing. Thank you very much for the information.

Tuesday 26th of April 2022

Thanks for your kind feedback, Kittiwat. Good luck with the planning and have a great time in the Faroe Islands!

Joanna Mendoza

Thursday 24th of March 2022

Hi!I'm so glad to have come across your blog! I wanted to ask how we go from Torshavn to Nolsoy?This is our itinerary for June and would like to know if this is okay. 1- arrival, Kirkjubour 2- Mykines Day trip 3- Nolsoy Day trip 4- Saksun, Tjornuvik, Gjogv

Thank you. Joanna

Hi Joanna, yes, sure, your itinerary looks good. For Nolsoy, you just take a ferry from Torshavn harbor. It's very simple to get to Nolsoy - you get the ticket on the spot, and it takes just about 30min. Just keep an eye on the ferry schedule so that you don't have to wait too long. You don't need a car on that island; lots of walking. Have a great trip!

MOHAMED AL RASBI

Sunday 7th of November 2021

What a wonderful information you've given us about the island. My wife & I are arranging a 3 nights trip to the island in May.

Is it necessary for us to hire a local guide to visit Mykines island? or we can do it by ourselves? book the ferry and go to Mykines? Where did you get your automobile rented? is a sedan accessible on the island, or do I need to hire a 4x4 car?

I'm so happy that I found your blog :)

Monday 8th of November 2021

Hi Mohamed, yes, you can visit Mykines Island on your own - but you HAVE to book the boat in advance. May might be just a bit too early for Mykines - it really depends on when exactly you go and how the weather is. For the car, check this website that usually has the best deals (we always book our cars through them, but for the Faroe Islands, they don't always have a lot available (depends on the season when you travel too)). You may also find some more info on this website. In the past, they showed all the available suppliers, but I don't see it anymore - no idea why. If both these sites don't show any rental cars, just google it and see what comes up. A lot has changed in the last years, so maybe some smaller companies went out of business - no idea. And no, you don't need a 4x4, a regular car is ok, and ideally not too big because many roads are really narrow. Hope this helps.

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Adventurous 6 Day Summit Hiking of Faroe Islands

Classic 7 Hour Northern Isles Tour

Guided 2.5 Hour Dunnesdrangar Hike

The Photography tour | Eysturoy highlights

Outstanding 7 Hour “See It All” Faroe Islands Tour

Thrilling 1.5 Hour Cave Boat Tour to Hestur Island

From Tórshavn: Kallur Lighthouse on Kalsoy Island

Adventurous 8 Hour Sports Fishing Tour

What a day! I had an amazing day and made unforgettable memories on this tour - we were a small group - got a lot of explanations - personal stories of the guide Elsa and historical and economic information - from now and then. The lunch spot was really lovely - food was great. Big recommendation.

We all really enjoyed this adventure! Very well organised, friendly crew and great commentary in English. Even though the temperature was dipping as we took the 16.30 tour, the suits kept us nice and warm. The boat actually goes through the arch so gives a different perspective than just passing by. Would definitely recommend this tour. Thanks!

This tour is phenomenal. Elsa takes you to see all the main photogenic spots on the island. If your time in the Faroes is limited, this is the one tour to choose. Small group setting, guide is full of information and surprises, and you get to see a TON— from small villages to stunning waterfalls to unique vistas. Highly recommended.

Wow what a tour. I loved it completely. The Nature, the scenic spots, the kind guide with great local knowledge, the extra surprises, the waterfalls, the local cities, the outback, the wheather, the 3 other tourguest, practical smaller bus, the wild sheeps on the roads, taste of local food, small walks combined with other short stops and driving, easy booking. I could not have asked for more. What a memory for a life time. Thank you for showing me your beautyfull countryside. And please continue to take good care of your country. Br Kira

Es war eine sehr sehr schöne und beeindruckende Tour! Es hat alles gepasst! Das Wetter war fantastisch, der Guide( Eigentümer) war hervorragend. Hat uns einiges über die Inseln und die Menschen erzählt. Und dann der Lieblingsplatz von Guide ist absolut fantastisch und sehenswert. Es ist jetzt auch mein Lieblingsspot auf den Faröers, obwohl es hier ja Einiges gibt. Absolut zu empfehlen. Sechs von fünf Sternen von mir!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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Faroe Islands Itinerary & DIY Travel Guide: 5 Days (More or Less)

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Growing up in the islands of Batanes in the Philippines, I am no stranger to natural terrains and formations that can easily take anyone’s breath away. In fact, I’m quite hard to please when it comes to such things; but of course, this does NOT mean that I do not appreciate nor acknowledge the beautiful sights that I see in my travels — because I do! However… in order for me to be in utter awe and wonder, the landscapes must be far incredible. (Faroe Islands Itinerary)

To date, there have only been a few places that have made me feel this way and on top of that list would have to be the far-flung yet stunning Faroe Islands.

Right from the moment that I landed there, I felt as if I was sucked into a grand fairy tale — everywhere I looked, there would be something that will draw my breath in awe, as I constantly question myself if I was still on Earth.

Yes, it was that majestic and surreal.

It might still be an understatement to say that the Faroe Islands are a natural masterpiece; but either way, it is my hope that you will see the outstanding beauty of this place in the flesh!

With that said, I bet you have this now on your travel bucket list and it would be my pleasure to help make your travel planning easier. So, with this post, I give you the ultimate travel guide for the Faroe Islands — complete with info, tips, resources, things to do, and an itinerary that you’re free to customize depending on the length of your stay or the style of traveling that you will do.

Table of Contents

Faroe Islands Facts

Before we go on, let me give you some quick and basic facts about the Faroe Islands…

• TRIVIA : One of the inhabited islands, Koltur, has only one resident! …Or two, because I keep seeing conflicting info online; but some of the locals said that there’s only one left there. Maybe they were talking about 1 family which are these 2 residents. .
• TRIVIA : The Faroese language is said to be one of the North Germanic languages and it is closely related to Icelandic and the now extinct Old Norse Language. Anyhow, English is widely spoken especially by the younger ones. .
• The sheep are taking over. The nation’s symbol is the ram, and rightly so because the Faroe Islands are  packed with 70,000 sheep!!! Remember how there are about 50,000 people living here? Without a doubt… they’re outnumbered! And as a tourist, you’ll certainly find sheep as your typical surrounding companion — much like I have.

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» Best Time to Visit the Faroe Islands

The weather here can be quite unpredictable. It’s common to somewhat experience all 4 seasons in just one day! But yes, generally, sunny days here are rare because the islands are mostly windy, cloudy, and chilly.

For starters, expect cool summers (with an average temperature of 13°C) and mild winters (with an average temperature of 3°C). I went here in the summer around the end of June and the days can have long hours of sunlight with the sun setting after 11PM or even later. The longest day will be on June 21 spanning at almost 20 hours. As for winter, it can be as short as 5 hours — imagine that!

With all that said, it’s best to visit the archipelago around June to September to enjoy the green scenery. Don’t forget to pack your jacket

• WINTER: Dec to Feb
• SPRING: March to May
• SUMMER: June to Aug
• AUTUMN: Sept to Nov

» Getting in to the Faroe Islands

By air.  There are currently 2 airlines that fly to the Faroe Islands. First is Atlantic Airways which has 2 flights per day from Copenhagen, Billund, Aalborg, Bergen, and Reykjavik. Flights cannot be booked through travel websites so you’ll have to book directly on Atlantic Airways website  here . The other one is Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) which just started having daily flights to the Faroes.

By sea.   Smyril Line’s ferry,  M/S Norröna, sails to the Faroe Islands from Hirtshals in the north of Denmark and from Seyðisfjørður in Iceland. It doesn’t sail as frequently though so make sure to check its website for the scheduled departures.

» Where to Stay (Faroe Islands Accommodations)

The central city of Tórshavn is where you will find most of the accommodations and it’s a strategic place to base yourself for all your adventures around the islands. Of course, it can get cheaper if you get places outside of  Torshavn, but for the best capital picks, they would be the following:

Luxury :  Hotel Foroyar Mid-Range:  Hotel Hafnia  or  AirBnB Budget :  Kristjanshavn  or  AirBnB

» How to Get Around the Faroe Islands

By car.  Driving your own car is highly recommended (to make the most of your time) and you can arrange a rental online before your arrival on the islands. Rest assured, you can rent a car (from small cars to SUVs) on-the-spot when you land at the airport since there are stalls there by Sixt, AVIS, HERTZ, and Unicar. Once you start driving around the Faroe Islands, be mindful of the driving conditions and rules because for instance, there are one-way tunnels in the islands and you have to make way for incoming vehicles (you can find all the details here ).

By bus.  The main inter-town bus they have is called Bygdaleiðir and they’re easy to spot since they’re big and in the color of dark blue. To see the complete timetable of the buses, go  here . It helps to note, however, that public transportation is expensive in the Faroe Islands, so it’s best to buy a travel multiple-ride card beforehand with Strandfaraskip Landsins (the mother company of Bygdaleiðir) at the airport or at the main bus terminal in Torshavn. This travel card already covers busses and ferries around the islands except for Mykines Island and can cost 500 DKK ($70~ / Php 3,500~) for 4-days or 700 DKK ($100 / Php 4,900~) for 7 days.

By ferry or by helicopter. Since this place is made up of islands, some are not connected by roads so you’ll sometimes need to hop on a ferry. The schedules for this can be found on Strandfaraskip Landsins.   If a helicopter ride seemingly sounds expensive to you, don’t worry! Here in the islands, the service is subsidized by the government so it’s quite cheap and it is serviced by Atlantic Airways (see the timetable  here , and remember, booking in advance is mandatory). With these affordable helicopter rides, I say take advantage of them — especially if you haven’t experienced riding a helicopter before, this could be quite a fun experience.

By bike .  Some districts like the capital, Tórshavn, can be explored on the city or sports bikes. You can rent these from Visit Tórshavn which is located in Steinatún in the city center. The cost for a day can start at DKK 150~. To book, just send an e-mail to [email protected] or call (+298) 302425.

» Packing Guide

If you’re coming around May to September to the Faroe Islands, you should pack for chilly weather so your bare essentials should be a sweater, a raincoat, and a set of good comfortable (hiking) shoes. If you’re like me who can get cold quite fast, go and pack a warm hat or even some gloves just in case!

Of course, if you visit around winter or the colder months, your clothing essentials will be different.  The same goes for when you’re coming here mainly to camp or hike.

» Visa for the Faroe Islands

Even if the Faroe Islands are connected to the Danish immigration policies, as I’ve already mentioned above, there are some different factors to take note of. So…

• If you come from a Nordic country:   showing off your document of identification with a photo is enough to enter the islands.
• If you come from an EU (European Union) or Schengen country: if you’re an EU citizen, you may enter with just your ID card with a photo. However, EU residents are not part of the entry scheme because you must be a citizen (so for instance, it follows that if you have a Danish residence permit, you still need a visa to the Faroes). If you have a Schengen visa or Danish visa, it is NOT applicable for entry to the Faroe Islands — you still need to apply for a separate visa that is specific to the islands (the requirements will be similar to obtaining a Danish visit visa ).
• If you are of any other nationality:   naturally, you need to apply for a Faroe Islands visa (remember: NOT a Schengen visa) at the Danish embassy in your country of residence — unless your nationality is exempted from getting a Danish visa then you can enter the Faroe Islands.

» Faroe Islands Currency

Króna (kr) is the currency of the Faroe Islands and it is issued by the central bank of Denmark. It’s not a separate currency but a local issue of banknotes denominated in the Danish krone.

• How to best exchange your currency? Either exchange it at a bank or at a money exchanger in your home country or in the city center. Better yet, just withdraw from an ATM with your debit/credit card — however, you must do one big withdrawal to minimize fees with your bank. Speaking of cards, a lot of the establishments accept credit cards but it’s always advisable to have cash on hand because a lot of smaller shops do not accept international credit cards.

» Cost of Travel in the Faroe Islands

To give you an idea for your Faroe Islands itinerary, you should expect to travel in the islands with an average daily cost of about USD $60~ per person on a budget, or at least $150~ if you want to experience more comfort in activities, tours, hotels, and more. (Values below show low budget to medium budget ranges).

• Hotels: $25 to $65 USD / day
• Food: $17 to $40 USD / day
• Fun: $10 to $30 USD / day
• Transport: At least $10 for local transportation

» Local Tour Operators

In case you don’t like to DIY your trip and you want to have someone take care of everything for you, I suggest that you book through local operators in order to help support the Faroese economy. Some of them are as follows:

» Helpful Norwegian Phrases

The official language of the Faroe Islands is Faroese which is a Germanic language that descended from Old Norse. Since they are within the Kingdom of Denmark, the locals also speak Danish. Rest assured, most of the people can speak English (sometimes even German and Norwegian). All in all, it doesn’t hurt to learn a few of the local phrases.

• RELATED READ: Best translation apps for travel

Hello : Halló  (hahloh) Thank you: Takk fyri  (Takk fi-reh)  or Takk ( Takk) Yes : Ja  (Ya) No : Nei  (Ney) Goodbye : Farvæl  (Far-vyel)

I’m sorry : Orsakið meg  (Or-sha-kee mey) Excuse me (getting attention):  Orsaka  (Or-sha-ka) Excuse me (begging pardon): Umskylda  (Um-shil-da) How much does that cost?:  Hvat kostar tað?  (Kvat kost-ar tay?) Is there someone here who speaks English?: Dugir nakar her eingilskt?  (Du-cheer nak-ar her ain-gilsk?) Help!: Hjálp!  (Yolp!) Cheers!: Skál!  (Is-kol!)

Faroe Islands Itinerary

NOTE: The following section is in a tabbed format; so, in order to see the next day’s contents, just click the headings below.

Explore parts of Vágar and Streymoy Islands

After you land and pick up your rental car at the airport, I highly advise that you don’t go straight to Tórshavn yet (which is likely where your accommodation will be) because there are some nearby spots around the airport that are worth looking into!

You might be thinking, “ I can visit those later! ” — sure you can, but the thing is… they’re quite far and to save time, I think it’s best that you visit them ASAP while you’re in the vicinity because they can be quite far from everything else. Otherwise, you can visit them on your last day on your way to the airport, depending on your scheduled flight back.

◘◘ Visit Sørvágsvatn Lake

If you want to see one of nature’s mind-blowing  ‘optical illusions ‘, make sure that you drop by Lake Sørvágsvatn (also called Leitisvatn) as a part of your Faroe Islands itinerary.

It is the largest lake in the Faroe Islands and it has been dubbed the “ lake over the ocean ” — this is because if you go up a certain angle, it will appear as though the lake is floating directly above the ocean! The lake is just 40 meters above sea level with a magnificent waterfall at the end of it that’s called Bøsdalafossur.

To get here, set your GPS and near the location or by the church in Miðvágur, you will find signs to “Trælanípa/Bøsdalafossur”. Follow these signs until you find a parking spot. You will then find a gate and you must start walking from here to the south towards the ocean by following the gravel path. The hike takes about an hour (one way) and in order to get to the spot that shows the iconic ‘illusion’, you must go to the southern tip (not on the southwest end of the lake).

You will know if you’re in the right place when you see 3 small sticks sticking up or if you see a steep hill. ( Doesn’t matter if you end up at the wrong vantage point because every angle is stunning here! But if you really want some more specific instructions, go to this page and scroll to pages 36 to 37. )

◘◘ Drive to Gasadalur to see Mulafossur Waterfall

This is yet another iconic landscape in the Faroe Islands which is just an 18-min ride away from Vagar Airport. As you will see from the photo above, the Mulafossur Waterfall is a grand sight! It is nestled within this small village of Gasadalur and there are 2 ways to see it: with minimal effort and with some effort.

What do I mean by this?  You can see this glorious spot by car as you do some short walking from the main road; or if you’re a dedicated hiker, you can do a hiking trail that the villagers used to take before the car tunnel was built.

TRIVIA : Gasadalur used to be one of the most isolated places in the islands. Residents had to hike through 700-meter mountains just to get in and out of the village! After the car tunnel was built, access to the town got a lot better, but to date, the residents here still number at only 18!

Since I didn’t have much time (and a bit tired from my flight), I opted to just drop by here with my car as I enjoyed the waterfall and do a bit of strolling in the village itself. If you want some more detailed tips for this place, like how to find the trail that leads to this vantage point and how to do the longer hiking trail itself, check out my guide found here:  Gasadalur & its Mulafossur Waterfall

◘◘ Check in to your hotel

The central city of Tórshavn is where you will find most of the island’s accommodations and it’s a strategic place to base yourself for all your adventures around the islands. But of course, it can get cheaper if you get places outside of  Torshavn, but for the best capital picks, they would be the following:

Luxury :  Hotel Foroyar Mid-Range:   Hotel Hafnia  or  AirBnB Budget :  Kristjanshavn  or  AirBnB

I stayed over at a guesthouse with a local though and unfortunately, it’s not really a place you can book — but I wish it was because the house was in the traditional style and it was so cozy with a great view of the sea and a river!

◘◘ Explore the village of Saksun

Like a natural amphitheater, Saksun is a splendid remote hillside village that is known for its serene atmosphere. The place where it lies now used to be a deep inlet in the sea (fjord) and during low tide, you can walk along the lagoon’s sandy shore which is found at the foot of the village.

Whilst here for your Faroe Islands itinerary, as one of your things to do, make sure you check out the village’s church and Dúvugarðar, a farm that houses 300 ewes — which also functions as a museum.

◘◘ S ee Fossá waterfall

This is the largest waterfall in the Faroe Islands at a height of 140 meters. Located near the village of Haldarsvík, this waterfall has two cascades that fall down to the sea.

If I may share a tip, it’s best to come here after some heavy rainfall because that’s when it becomes even more spectacular!

TRIVIA: Fossá in Faroese means “river with waterfalls”

◘◘ Dine at Barbara

As the night falls, you can choose from an array of restaurants that speckle the city of Tórshavn; but if I may suggest, go and dine at Barbara Fish House ! It has a great menu that consists of Faroese seafood dishes; plus, the place itself is quite charming given that it is built into the rocks.

Discover Kalsoy and Gjógv

Rev up your car,  wear good shoes, pack up some food, and sail to the nearby island of Kalsoy for your Faroe Islands itinerary!

You can spend a whole day here exploring its various sights. If you still have time by the end of the day, you can drop by the charming village of Gjógv.

◘◘ Take the ferry to Kalsoy

Kalsoy is like a flute-shaped island due to its thin shape. You can reach it by ferry along with your car by driving from Tórshavn to the port of Klaksvík (this is a 1-hour drive).

It’s best to catch the first or earliest ferry to Kalsoy’s Syðradalur port so that you’ll have enough time to explore the island. To check the timetables, see  this page   (take note of the departure times as well so you can time when you will have to drive back to the port).

Note: it’s not possible to book in advance so you have to pay on the spot (DKK 160 for one vehicle), and if you’re coming with your car, make sure you arrive there 15 minutes before departure.

Once on the island, there’s no need for maps because there is but just one highway with lots of tunnels — make sure that you watch out for sheep because they can come up anywhere and block the road, seemingly seeking some sort of showdown.

First up on your list for this day of your Faroe Islands itinerary, I recommend that you go straight to the north to Trøllanes not only to see the surroundings of the village but to also hike up the mountains to see Kallur lighthouse because the view here is superb. I actually had a hard time finding the trail that leads to this place because there are no signs that lead me to it. Thankfully, my companion and I saw a tour group by the road who were headed to the lighthouse and they gladly invited us to join them.

Basically, somewhere on the road before the village, you will find a small red gate along the fence. This is closed but you can open it — most of the gates on the island are closed not for people, but for sheep.

Once inside, you just have to climb up the hill in the north direction until you see the white Kallur lighthouse . With this in mind: make sure to wear good and comfortable hiking shoes! Rest assured, the climb up isn’t that hard but it can get a bit steep.

On the way back, make sure that you stop by the village of  Mikladalur  to visit  Kópakonan , or the “Seal Woman”, which embodies one of the popular folktales in the islands. Made of bronze and stainless steel, it stands above a rock near a waterfall with a great backdrop of the mountains and the sea. The legend that surrounds this is quite sad and dark though and you can read all about it here.

TIP: Pack your own lunch and snacks because I had a hard time looking for a restaurant in Kalsoy. There was a canteen in Mikladalur but it only served snacks.

◘◘ Visit Gjógv

Just an hour away from Tórshavn, this is the northernmost village on Eysturoy island.

Nominated by the Nordic Council for the Nature & Environmental Award in 2014, this well-preserved town is nestled by mountains on all sides and filled with traditional houses that are made of timber and turf roofs. For those who are fond of hiking, there are also several trails for you to do here!

What’s one thing that you absolutely must NOT miss? it would be the natural harbor that they have which is a picturesque gorge.

◘◘ Dine at Aarstova

Once you’re back in the capital, have some more classical Faroese dishes — but this time around, try some fine dining at  Aarstova !

All About Mountains

The way I see it, the Faroe Islands is a hiker’s dream paradise! In fact, almost all of the best landscapes can be seen via hiking.

But for those who don’t have the stamina for such things (like me) , don’t fret because there are hiking trails that are at an easy level.

Though of course, if you could push yourself — by all means, do so! I have done a difficult hike up the mountain of  Villingardalsfjall , and I was so glad that I pushed myself to do it even if my legs were about to give way. After all, the view that I saw up high was one of the most jaw-dropping landscapes that I’ve ever seen in my life!

» READ: Hiking Trails in the Faroe Islands

Anyhow, if you think you can’t really do any moderate to high-level hikes during your Faroe Islands itinerary, you can spend this day visiting the villages of Saksun or Gjógv if you haven’t managed to do so in the past few days. You can even revisit the past spots I’ve mentioned if the weather became a lot more favorable for this day.

◘◘ Go up Slættaratindur

(Hiking difficulty: medium) Towering at 880 meters, Slættaratindur, or “flat summit” is the highest mountain in the Faroe Islands so it’s an absolute must-see!

According to Guinness World Records, this is the world’s longest sight line because due to the light bending effects of the atmosphere, the largest glacier in Iceland called Vatnajökull can be seen from here on a clear day (aside from the fact that you can have awesome views over the whole Faroese archipelago).

For complete hiking instructions, go to this page and scroll to page 22 to 23.

◘◘ Conquer Mt. Villingardalsfjall

This is the hike that I was talking about — as a non-hiker, this has been one of the most difficult hikes of my life but also one of the most rewarding (together with Norway’s Trolltunga ) !

The whole hike to the top takes 3 to 4 hours with a distance of 6 kilometers yet at a steep height of 841 meters. I can talk on and on about this place, but I think it’s best that you read my blog post below to read more about my experience as well as to see the other views you will witness from its summit:

RELATED READ: Hiking Faroe Islands’ Stunning Mountain of Villingardalsfjall

◘◘ Go on top of Sornfelli Mountain

Good news: this does NOT involve hiking so it’s a great addition to your Faroe Islands itinerary.

The top of this mountain plateau near Hotel Føroyar can be reached by car and reaching its amazing viewpoint will only take you a 30-meter walk.

A Mykines Kind of Day

Mykines island is a favorite in the Faroe Islands!

For your Faroe Islands itinerary, you’ll need a whole day for this mostly because the transportation to the island usually only happens in the morning and the ride back in the afternoon. Regrettably, when I visited here, the weather wasn’t good. In fact, once we arrived at the island, we were stranded in a small cafe together with other tourists as we waited for the heavy rain and strong winds to pass.

It still ended up as a great day though because we met a lot of interesting individuals — one of which was a well-known harp player from Ireland who was on tour at that time and who gladly played songs for everyone. Still and the same, before leaving the island, my companion and I braved the rain so that we could at least glimpse at the cute puffins that live on the cliffs!

Anyhow, it’s my wish that you get a good day so that you can see the great sights below.

◘◘ Explore Mykines

There are 2 ways to reach Mykines for your Faroe Islands itinerary: by boat or by helicopter .

Remember how I said that helicopters are subsidized by the government of the Faroe Islands? With that in mind, I highly suggest that you take a one-way helicopter trip to this island by booking in advance! I say one way because Atlantic Airways’ helicopters mainly service a round trip route to Mykines in the mornings only from Vagar Airport — so unless you want to spend a night here or two, then feel free to book that round trip ticket.

To see the complete timetable, see this page.  For the boat or ferry, timetable can be found here .

Once you’re on the island, you can hike from the old turf-roofed-filled village to the lighthouse which is at the western end of the islet of Mykineshólmur.

If it’s summertime, make sure to visit some clifftops to see an endless sea of cute puffins nestled in the burrows. After all, this is called the “paradise of birds” so take advantage of this fact and do some birdwatching while you’re there!

As you wait for your ferry back to Torshavn, take your time exploring the small village. One important thing to take note of though is that if you take a helicopter to the island from Vagar Airport, the ferry will land somewhere else and it’s at the port of Sørvágur — so if you parked your car at the airport, you have to do a 20-minute walk back, or you can take the 300 bus . (Details here ).

TIP: Much like Kalsoy, it’s advisable to pack your own lunch and snacks. There’s a small cafe in the middle of the village but it mostly serves light food. NOTE:  Just recently, a new policy has been set that tourists have to pay DKK 100 to travel to the Mykineshólmur lighthouse for maintenance of the birdlife and nature on the island. This fee includes a certified guide to ensure that everyone sticks to the path and not disturb any of the local fauna. For more information, you can contact the Visit Mykines office.

◘◘ See Kirkjubøur

Assuming that it’s summer, by the time that you come back to the main island, it will still be light outside so if you could, make a stopover at  Kirkjubøur .

One notable attraction that you must see here is the huge black building at the center of the village that is called Kirkjubøargarður. It’s arguably the oldest inhabited wooden house in the world with over 17 generations of the same family that’s living there (there are sections that are turned into a museum). It even once housed the episcopal residence and seminary of the Diocese of the Faroe Islands.

You could also visit the old churches that they have such as Magnus Cathedral and Saint Olav. And if you go by the shore, you will see two old stone houses.

Before capping the night, while you’re already in the area…

◘◘ Have dinner at KOKS

I highly recommend this restaurant since I have dined here myself!

What’s special about KOKS ? Well, it has been awarded the best restaurant in the Nordic countries in 2015 by the Nordic Prize; plus, it is also the first and the only Michelin star restaurant in the islands.

As a stop on your Faroe Islands itinerary, you’ll love how this restaurant only uses local ingredients, plus it is in a private house that has been turned into a guest room. It also has an open kitchen where you can watch the chef and his assistants cook (but there is a bigger kitchen in the back).

Dining here is obviously not cheap, but if you have the money to spare, I urge you to give it a try. I’ve dined all over the world and this is one of the best places I’ve eaten in. Besides, they surely know how to do pairings!

Basically, dinner here is a tasting menu and you can choose to pick your own drinks or choose their wine pairing or juice pairing set — YES! You read that right, juice pairing!

This might sound boring to you but their juice pairings were simply phenomenal. I never thought that fresh juices can be mixed in such ways that would perfectly complement a dish.

Aaaah… simply put: I hope you get to try it to experience a truly gastronomical feast.

Explore the rest of Tórshavn

We’re now on the last day of your Faroe Islands itinerary and I think it’s time to fully explore and enjoy the main capital of Tórshavn.

Let yourself get lost in the city’s small streets; if not, you can take your pick from the array of activities below as some of your things to do in Faroe Islands…

◘◘ See Tinganes and the center of town

Tinganes is an area where you can see a beautiful clutter of red wooden houses.

These are one of the oldest parliamentary meeting places in the world that once functioned as meeting places for Vikings. Today, it houses the office of the prime minister. You will rather find the Faroese parliament — the Løgting (‘Law assembly’) — a few streets down.

What’s great about this area too is that there are enough signs and plaques to explain the history of the place.

◘◘ Shop for souvenirs at Öström

Go over to the waterfront and you will this store that’s housed in an old factory building. They sell products made on the islands such as traditional clothes, wool sweaters, postcards, posters, and other design products.

For sure, it’s worth looking into during your Faroe islands itinerary!

◘◘ Try horseriding

You can experience a magnificent horseriding experience in and around Tórshavn and you can do it with the tour provider, Berg Hestar , who uses Icelandic horses.

The experiences vary in difficulty and price range but take note that it’s only allowed for 7 years and older. To protect the horses, there’s also a weight limit of 95 kilos. To book your spot(s), check their website here.

◘◘ Sail with RIB62 to Hestur

This experience will grant you a unique perspective on the Faroe Islands as you sail by the most remote and breathtaking sights that the islands have to offer — one of which is to circle around the nearby island of Hestur .

RIB62 tailors tours upon request every day of the week so feel free to contact them for inquiries. (Departure for this boat tour is from Gamlarætt which is 15 minutes away from Tórshavn).

Wondering where to dine in the Faroe Islands or the local dishes that you must absolutely try? . Check out this blog post to find out: Top Faroe Islands Restaurants .

Booking Essentials

TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)! . However, take note that a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!

The Best Tours in the Faroe Islands?

Come and check out this list of the top things to do in the Faroe Islands which features the best activities and tours!

It’s clear to see with this Faroe Islands itinerary that the area has an untouched beauty that’s worthy to be seen and explored! I guarantee you that it is the kind of place that will fit your fancy, NO matter the kind of traveler that you may be.

Besides, it’s a destination that a lot of travelers have NOT heard of yet, so why not be one of the “forerunners” who will sing its praises? In that way, the Faroe Islands could soon be known by more people, thereby paving the way for its popularity — which they so rightly deserve!

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This is a great itinerary with all of the island’s highlights. I’d love to come back to tackle Slættaratindur – the weather was terrible when we wanted to ascend it, so we skipped it.

If you plan an coming back, I can really recommend the hike to the abandoned village of Skarð on Kunoy. It’s such a unique place and feels even more remote than most places on the Faroe Islands.

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Vælkomin til

Føroyar, travel to the faroe islands.

Situated in the North Atlantic Ocean and only two hours by plane from mainland Europe the 18 mountainous islands of the Faroe Islands offer a variety of experiences of nature – from dramatic landscapes meeting the wild ocean to the peacefulness of the mountains. After a day exploring the islands enjoy the amazing gastronomy that some of the capital restaurants offer.

Take a look at the following pictures to see some of the amazing things you'll find on your trip to the Faroe Islands. Exciting!

Our travel proposals

Fly&Drive

We design your Fly&Drive package to the Faroe Islands, including a car rental for the whole stay,  accomodation in the best places and a PDF with places to visit and all the information you need for your adventure.

9.990  DKK

Guided tours

Discover the amazing Faroe Islands with our experienced local guides .

We offer regular departures in small groups  of maximum 8 people for a very personal service.

June & July 2024

20.550  DKK

Photography tour

The Faroe Islands are a paradise for any photographer, both beginners and professional.

Join one of our photography tours and enjoy our landscapes with a local professional photographer .

Joaquín

Product manager & Travel agent

Guðríð

Local guide

Our travellers say

Dream came true!

I had 7-day guided tour in Faroe Islands. It was very very organized and planned. I almost saw all things I want to see. The tour was flexible as well when the weather condition is not ideal, so there was no disappointment. The guide was also amazing, knowing all aspects and very experienced and friendly. It worths the money :) Will definitely choose this company again if going back!

Jundi (Denmark)

SEE MORE ON TRIPADVISOR. CLICK HERE. 

Flights to the faroe islands

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A Traveler’s Guide to Tórshavn, the Capital of the Faroe Islands

S ituated midway between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean, the Faroe Islands beckon to adventure-seekers looking for a less populated place to explore. Comprised of 18 islands connected with a series of sea tunnels, bridges and ferries, this far-flung archipelago filled with Nordic history reveals awe-inspiring vistas at every turn.

Although the Faroe Islands are under the Kingdom of Denmark, the country remains quite independent. Located on the islands of Streymoy, the capital city of Tórshavn  is the cultural heart of the Faroe Islands . Tórshavn is home to approximately 20,000 of the country’s 54,000 residents, making it one of the world’s smallest capital cities.

Free-roaming sheep cover the Faroe Islands landscape and you’ll even find some of these wooly residents in Tórshavn. In addition to the loveable sheep, here are some of the must-see sites in the capital city.

Walk through the History of Tórshavn in Tinganes

Despite being one of the world’s smallest capital cities, Tórshavn – which is Danish for Thor’s Harbor – has functioned as a government seat since 850 AD when the Norse established their government there. In the heart of old town Tórshavn, the Tinganes peninsula was chosen as the location for the Old Norse parliament. Tinganes developed into a major trade center and as Tórshavn grew up around it, the city became the parliament for all of the Faroe Islands.

Today, the charming old town displays the charms of yesteryear with narrow winding streets flanked by small red-painted wooden houses with turf roofs and traditional stone bases. Tinganes still serves in a government capacity as home to the office of the prime minister of the Faroe Islands.

A stroll through Tinganes is a walk through time surrounded by those uber-charming grass roofs. Several of these historic homes now serve as guest houses so it is possible to base yourself in history when visiting Tórshavn!

Visit the Tórshavn Cathedral

The second oldest existing church of the Faroe Islands, Tórshavn Cathedral sits at the edge of Tinganes. Painted white with a slate roof, this picturesque church dates back to 1788. Since 1990 it has served as the seat of the bishop of the Faroes earning it the title of cathedral. An interesting feature, the church’s bell originated from the ship ‘Norske Löve’ (Norwegian Lion), which went down in Lambavík on New Year’s Eve, 1707. The bell tower features a golden spire.

Explore Thor’s Harbor and Fort Skansin

A highlight of Tórshavn’s city centre, the harbor teams with activity. From charming sailboats to cargo ships and fishing boats to car ferries delivering tourists and residents to other Faroese islands including Nólsoy and Sandvoy, there’s always something happening here. Day tours to other islands depart from here as well.

Overlooking the harbor, the Skansin Lighthouse stands within historic Fort Skansin . Built in the 16th Century, the fortress now serves as a monument and recreational area. A short walk up the grassy hill to the Skansin Lighthouse is worth the effort for the stunning views of the surrounding waters of the North Atlantic Ocean and nearby Nólsoy Island.

Experience Faroese Art at Listasavn Føroya

The National Gallery of the Faroe Islands  –   Listasavn Føroya in Faroese – is a must-see while visiting Tórshavn. Housed in a striking building with a multi-gabled roof and surrounded by landscaped gardens and lovely city park, the gallery exhibits a sizable collection of modern art along with expressionism and abstract pieces.

Celebrate Centuries of Nordic Culture at The Nordic House

The Nordic House  exudes the history and folklore of Scandinavia even in its architecture. Boasting an award-winning design, the Nordic House features a 21,000-square-foot turf roof and includes a rolling serpentine form evoking ancient stories of fairies and elves known for making their homes in hillside caves beneath the earth.

Exhibits within the Nordic House bring to life the culture and history of the Faroe Islands and the Nordic people with a focus on how the two are connected.

Take a Deep Dive into Faroese History at the National Museum of the Faroe Islands

As far-flung as the Faroe Islands seem, it’s hard to imagine arriving there long before they were discovered. The hearty souls who experienced this first hand. The exhibits at the National Museum of the Faroe Islands  take you back to prerecorded history and the roots of the Faroese, into the Viking era and continuing through the formation of the Faroe Islands through the Middle Ages. Additional exhibits delve into the importance of the fishing industry, Faroese customs and into the modern era.

Getting to Tórshavn

Located on Vágar Island, Vágar Airport serves as the Faroe Islands’ only commercial airport. Atlantic Airways and Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) fly into Vágar Airport from Paris (France), Reykjavik (Iceland), Edinburgh (Scotland), Oslo (Norway), and Bergen (Norway). Atlantic Airways recently added a direct flight from Stewart International Airport in New York’s Hudson Valley.

Vágar Airport is well connected by taxis and bus service into Tórshavn. Route 300 on the public bus picks up passengers at the airport and drops them off at the Tórshavn harbor near the city centre. A taxi can be booked at a fixed rate of $35 USD. If you plan to explore beyond Tórshavn during your stay in the Faroe Islands, a rental car provides more flexibility. There are several companies to choose from. We chose a local company, RentYourCar.fo  and were very pleased with the rate and customer service. However you choose to get to Tórshavn, enjoy the ride because you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping vistas along the way.

It’s also possible to take a ferry to the Faroe Islands. Smyril Line’s ferry, M/S Norröna, sails to the Faroe Islands from Hirtshals in the north of Denmark and from Seyðisfjørður in Iceland. Frequency of departures varies according to season.

Read More: When’s the Best Time of Year to Visit the Faroe Islands?

Where to Stay

Depending on your travel style, Tórshavn offers several lodging options. For those who prefer to stay in a full-service hotel, Hotel Føroyar  presents the true essence of the Faroe Islands. Tucked into a valley overlooking Tórshavn, the panoramic views from this 4-star property captivate guests. An easy walk into the city center via a secret path down the hill adds to the authenticity of the experience.

Hotel Føroyar features 200 rooms and suites, two restaurants and a spa under its grass roof that blends into the serenity of the surrounding countryside. Guests of the hotel benefit from day trip packages to top attractions including a guided tour to Mykines to see the adorable puffins.

For our visit, we chose to book a guesthouse through AirBnB to have a full kitchen and access to a laundry room. On the ground floor of a residence, our guesthouse is known as The Green Pearl and sits in a lovely neighborhood within easy walking distance of the city centre and the harbor. As a bonus, sheep graze in the park just outside of the residence and a mama sheep and her baby came to visit through our bedroom window every morning. Absolutely magical!

Journey to Europe's Best-Kept Secret

Hiking the faroe islands.

From $5,295

Moderate to Strenuous

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

The incredibly isolated Faroe Islands, halfway between Scotland and Iceland, are a breathtaking archipelago of soaring sea cliffs, cozy harbor villages, and famously shaggy sheep. We'll hike airy ridge trails above narrow fjords, along sea cliffs, above the ethereal hanging lake of Sørvágsvatn, and to Vidoy for incredible panoramas over the five northernmost Faroese islands. As we explore, we'll be welcomed into homes, watch traditional Faroese dancing (derived from medieval ring dances), and enjoy a round of beers at the islands' oldest brewery. The seafood here is hook-to-table fresh, and we'll savor meals in the company of knitters, chefs, and artists as we experience the genuine culture of the Faroes.

Arrive: Sørvágur, Faroe Islands

Depart: Sørvágur, Faroe Islands

• Discover the Faroes' stunning coastal hikes and rich seafaring heritage
• Sample Faroese cuisine, including superb fresh-caught fish
• Sip beer at the oldest brewery on the islands
• Meet artisans, dine with local families
• Enjoy welcoming hotels and guesthouses—some hikes start right from the front door!

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

$600 due at time of reservation 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge! 61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

• Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
• Accommodations in hotels and guesthouses
• All meals included except 1 dinner as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• A glass of wine or beer with dinner
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Hotel Vágar

Sørvágur, Faroe Islands, Denmark

Days 1-2 (2 nights)

Gjáargarður Guesthouse

Gjógv, Faroe Islands, Denmark

Days 3-5 (3 nights)

Hotel Hafnia

Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, Denmark

Days 6-7 (2 nights)

Alternate Accomodation: Hotel Brandan

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Angela Gillespie

What the Trip is Like

• 1,000-1,200 feet gain/loss
• Day 6: 4.5 miles, 4 hours, and 1,700 feet gain/loss

Client Testimonials

"A fantastic hiking/cultural experience in a uniquely beautiful island group!"

Altamonte Springs, FL

"Skye's skill in identifying places and people ensured a wonderful balance of hiking, cultural experiences, and time in the homes of Faroese people. We had access to very unique places and met people who added their personal perspectives to life in the Faroes."

W Montrose, Ontario

"I've wanted to hike in the Faroe Islands for more than 20 years and was glad that Wilderness offered the trip. There was spectacular scenery, great accommodations, and a guide who cared about our experiences—in towns, beautiful churches, and the arts. We had two gatherings in private homes and the Faroese were so welcoming. I would highly recommend the trip to anyone."

Fort Myers, FL

"The hiking was excellent, but I really enjoyed the home visits also. It was a unique way to experience local culture."

Emporia, KS

"This trip was wonderful. The islands are stunning, with incredibly dramatic scenery and weather. The birds, especially the puffins and oystercatchers, were amazing. The hikes were lovely, not too strenuous and appropriate for the group traveling."

Saratoga Springs, NY

"One of the best trips I've been on. The Faroes are magnificent to behold, the hiking was fabulous, and the views were jaw dropping stupendous."

Larkspur, CA

"Loved the home visits with locals for tea, post-hike snacks, lunch and dinner. Unique experiences!"

Earlham, IA

"I enjoyed this trip so much that I almost cried when it was over. With our leader, there was NEVER a dull moment."

Vancouver, BC

"A well-designed itinerary with a wonderful mix of hiking and cultural experiences. The cultural interactions with local residents were one of the high points of the trip. The hikes were very scenic, historic, and enjoyable."

Seattle, WA

"This trip was a wonderful introduction to the beauty of the Faroe Islands and the culture and history of the Faroese. The people we met generously offered us their hospitality, culture, history, and personal stories."

"This trip exceeded my expectations—and I had fairly high expectations. Our guide and the itinerary design were excellent."

Sioux Falls, SD

"This was such a fabulous trip in such a beautiful country. I loved the exercise and I loved so many of the cultural events—visiting the artist, the brewery, the old farmhouses, the churches, Oliver's boat trip. It was just great."

Baltimore, MD

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Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!