Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Faroe Islands: 20+ Essential Tips for First-Timers

Faroe islands
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So, you've heard whispers of a magical archipelago shrouded in mist, where sheep outnumber people and waterfalls cascade into the sea? 

Welcome to the Faroe Islands! 

With its dramatic landscapes, charming villages, and untamed beauty, it's no wonder this archipelago is quickly becoming a travel hotspot. 

But wait no more, first-time visitor! This guide will equip you with everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable Faroese adventure.

Where are the Faroe islands

The Faroe islands are located in the North Atlantic, somewhere between Iceland and Norway, just north of Scotland. It's a group of 18 islands, some are inhabited but some aren't.

With a population of about 55,000 people, the Faroes actually have more sheep than people!

Getting to the Faroe islands

Until a few years ago the easiest way to get to the Faroes was with a 2-hour flight from Copenhagen or from Reykavik (Iceland). But more and more flights are constantly being added and now you can find flights from Paris (a codeshare between Atlantic Airways and Air France), New York and more.
Faroe islands map

Accommodation in the Faroe islands

Almost half of the population of the islands lives in the capital, Torshavn, one of only 2 cities (the other being Klaksvik). Other places are small towns and lovely villages, with not so many sleeping options… So if you're thinking of a trip, you need to plan in advance.

Best time to visit

Although located quite north, the weather here is actually not so cold. This is due to the southern Gulf stream which keeps temperatures mild, with winter average of only ~3 degrees Celsius (37F).
The high season is between June and August, while if you choose to visit on shoulder season, May/September, take into account more foggy, rainy days. Such days can still appear in the high season, but you know… it's all about chances and stuff. Weather can change quickly so dress in layers!
Fog is very common on the islands. In fact it is so common that it has a major role in the local language and there are more than 30 words to describe it!

Where to stay

The first question you need to answer is if you prefer to have a "star trip", spending all nights at the same place or a rolling trip where you move around every 1-2 nights. Obviously there are pros and cons for each and there's no one right answer. 
Decision can vary depending on your group, what you want to see and more. For a star trip I'd recommend staying in Torshavn which has a central location and in about 1.5-2 hours of driving you can reach most areas of the islands.
 

Getting around the Faroes

The major islands are connected with bridges and a series of subsea tunnels! The Faroes islands are actually known for their tunnel network and they are constantly adding more tunnels, making getting around much easier.
If you'd like to reach some of the more remote islands you'll need to get on a ferry which can take anywhere from 20 minutes to 2 hours (depending on the destination island).

In order to get the most of your trip, the best way is to rent a car. Driving is very easy! The roads are well maintained and there isn't too much traffic. Other than that, regular roads are stunning and the buttercup roads (i.e scenic drives) are jaw-dropping. Look for the buttercup symbol.

Tunnels

Like I mentioned earlier, there are quite a few tunnels, mostly sub-sea tunnels connecting islands, but not only. Some tunnels have a lane for each direction while the more remote tunnels are quite narrow. You need to drive slowly and carefully.

Sheep

There aren't many road accidents but the ones that do happen are mostly related to hitting sheep, that roam freely on the islands. So pay extra attention, especially if you're travelling in May-June which is the time for newborn lambs.

Gjogv faroe islands

Buttercup routes

The nicest roads on the Faroes are called "Buttercup roads", these are like "scenic drives" (although all roads on the islands are beautiful). These roads are stunning! The roads are labeled with a small yellow buttercup image on maps and road signs in reality. The northern area next to Gjogv (the image above) have numerous such roads surrounding them. 
Faroe islands - buttercup routes
Buttercup route

Best places to see in the Faroe islands

The Faroes are a real haven for nature lovers! What I found the most stunning is the fact that they are very green, but there are no trees, so it creates quite a unique landscape! This fact is added on top of the islands' topography of rock layers and the existence of many fjords.
It's hard to choose just a few spots, but after visiting several times, these are my must see, some of which I return every time. Mulafossur waterfall, the Kallur lighthouse on Kalsoy island where a James Bond movie was filmed, Gjogv and Saksun. The last 2 are villages so be sure to respect the local residents' privacy.

Check out my post about the Gems of the Faroe islands.

Want a hassle-free Faroe Islands experience? Book a guided tour. Enjoy the convenience of daily departures from Tórshavn, exploring different highlights each day with a knowledgeable local guide.

saksun faroe islands
Saksun
faroe islands
Kirkjubøur

Hiking

With beautiful scenery all around you, a good way to enjoy some of Faroes features is through hiking. As of 2024, some hikes require a 200DKK fee (about ~30USD). The most popular hikes include Sørvágsvatn lake, the Kallur lighthouse, Cape Enniberg

Another popular destination would be the island of Mykines especially if you're into bird watching and want to see those cute puffins nesting. In order to get there, you need to get on a 45 minute ferry and get a tour guide.


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Hiking Faroe islands
Kallur lighthouse
Kallur lighthouse
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