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The old farmhouse of Kirkjubøargarður on Faroe Islands.

Things to do in  Faroe Islands

Out of this world

Eighteen rugged islands make up an enchanting archipelago scattered across the swells of the North Atlantic Ocean. With their emerald-green cliffs, dramatic fjords, and craggy coastlines dotted with colorful thatched-roof homes, the Faroe Islands appear to have been lifted out of a storybook. But while the Nordic nation evokes wonder, it also has a down-to-earth character and a rich tradition of hospitality. Whether you want to go sailing on the tempestuous seas, get up close to puffins, or soak up the otherworldly views, you’ll find plenty of things to do on the Faroe Islands.

All about Faroe Islands

Local Currency
Danish Krone (DKK)
When to visit

The best time to visit the Faroe Islands is typically during the summer (June to August). The summer season promises long daylight hours and the mildest weather, though it seldom gets hot. Spring is a good alternative, especially for nature lovers who can enjoy blooming wildflowers and the arrival of nesting seabirds. (Plus, there are fewer tourists.) Whenever you visit, bear in mind that the Faroe Islands are known as the “land of maybe” due to their ever-changing, unpredictable weather.

Getting around

While the islands are fairly well-serviced by buses and ferries, having your own wheels allows far more flexibility. Driving around the Faroe Islands is an attraction in itself, as you can watch the changing landscapes unfold, island-hop via undersea tunnels, and stop for photos as often as you wish (and you will want to often). Alternatively, book a guided tour to take you where you want to go; tours have the added benefit of providing context you’d otherwise miss.

Traveler tips

Directly translating to “home hospitality,” heimablídni is a kind of underground restaurant experience and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in authentic Faroese culture and hospitality. These intimate dining experiences are offered in locals’ homes all across the islands, providing opportunities to taste traditional homemade Faroese food while learning about local life and culture. You can find hosts online or through the tourism office.

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People Also Ask
Q:What is the best time to visit the Faroe Islands?
A:

The best time to visit the Faroe Islands is typically during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is milder, the days are longer, and there are many cultural events and festivals such as Ólavsøka (the National Day) on July 29 and the music-filled G! Festival in mid-July.

Q:How do I get to the Faroe Islands?
A:

You can get to the Faroe Islands by flying into Vágar Airport, which is serviced by direct flights from European cities such as Reykjavik, Copenhagen, Edinburgh, and Oslo. If you have strong sea legs and time to spare, you can also get there by ferry from Denmark or Iceland.

Q:Do I need a visa to visit the Faroe Islands?
A:

Whether or not you need a visa to visit the Faroe Islands depends on your nationality. However, as the Faroe Islands’ visa requirements are the same as for Denmark, citizens of the European Union, the Schengen Area, and several other countries (including the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada) can visit visa-free.

Q:What language is spoken in the Faroe Islands?
A:

Faroese is the official language spoken in the Faroe Islands. As it is an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, Danish is also widely spoken. English-speaking travelers are unlikely to have any problems as most Faroese people, especially those under 60, speak and understand English very well.

Q:What are the top attractions in the Faroe Islands?
A:

Some of the top attractions in the Faroe Islands include the capital city of Tórshavn, home to charming grass-roofed houses and the world’s longest-running parliament; the majestic waterfall of Múlafossur in the village of Gásadalur; Lake Sørvgásvatn, which is perched above the ocean; and Mykines island for puffin watching.

Q:Are the Faroe Islands expensive to visit?
A:

Yes, the Faroe Islands are relatively expensive to visit. Due to their remote location, flights and food—much of which is imported—are pricey. Nevertheless, it is possible to stick to your budget by staying in self-catering accommodation and planning your driving routes carefully to avoid paying multiple tunnel tolls or using public transportation.