Faroe Islands – Travel Guide
The Faroe Islands are a growing tourist destination, offering a intriguing blend of natural beauty, historical heritage, and fascinating culture. Discover its picturesque landscapes and unique heritage, steeped in Norse and Scottish traditions. Sink into the tranquil, clear waters of the surrounding seas and experience the untouched beauty of the islands. Most visitors taste the delicious dishes, incorporating local ingredients with regional flavors. The Faroe Islands are a hidden gem, beckoning exploration and discovery. Sink in and discover the wonders of this enchanting destination.
All about Faroe Islands
Faroe Islands FAQ
What is Faroe Islands known for?
With rugged cliffs, picturesque villages, and pristine landscapes, the islands offer a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore dramatic fjords, stunning waterfalls, and charming coastal villages. The Faroe Islands are also renowned for their abundant birdlife, including puffins and gannets. The traditional Faroese culture, deeply rooted in Norse traditions, is celebrated through music, dance, and ancient sagas. The islands’ cuisine, influenced by the surrounding seas, features delicacies like fermented lamb and dried fish. The Faroe Islands provide a tranquil escape into a world of striking landscapes and authentic Nordic charm.
What are the best places to visit in Faroe Islands?
The Faroe Islands, an enchanting archipelago in the North Atlantic, offers stunning places to visit. One of the must-see destinations is Torshavn, the capital city, with its picturesque harbor, quaint streets, and iconic turf-roofed houses. The charming village of Saksun captivates visitors with its idyllic setting nestled between mountains and a tranquil lagoon. The dramatic cliffs of Vestmanna, soaring over the sea, are a breathtaking sight best explored by boat. The village of Gjogv entices with its charming houses, natural harbor, and stunning views. For nature enthusiasts, the cascading waterfall of Mulafossur, tumbling into the ocean near the village of Gasadalur, is an awe-inspiring sight. These remarkable destinations offer a glimpse into the raw beauty of the Faroe Islands.
How many days should I spend in Faroe Islands?
We recommend 7-10 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel, and activities. We suggest a minimum of 3 nights in larger cities.
What is the best way to get around Faroe Islands?
Public Transportation: The Faroe Islands have an extensive bus network that connects most inhabited areas. Buses are a cost-effective option, but schedules can be limited, especially on weekends and in remote areas.
Car Rental: Renting a car offers the most flexibility and convenience to explore the islands at your own pace. Car rental services are available at the Vagar Airport and in Torshavn.
What is the currency of Faroe Islands?
The currency used in the Faroe Islands is the Danish Krone (DKK). As the Faroe Islands are an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, they use the same currency. It’s important to note that credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, and ATMs are available in larger towns and cities. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially when traveling to remote areas or smaller establishments that may not accept cards.
Do people speak English in Faroe Islands
English is widely spoken and understood in the Faroe Islands, particularly among younger generations and those working in the tourism industry. As part of the Danish educational system, English is taught in schools, and many Faroese people have a good command of the language. In popular tourist areas and establishments, such as hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions, it is common to find staff who can communicate effectively in English.
Best time to visit Faroe Islands
Surrounded by the North Atlantic Ocean with undulating mountains, narrow fjords and wild coastlines, the Faroe Islands feel like a world away from everywhere. As a matter of fact, when it comes to seasons, the islands offer a unique experience depending on the time of year that you visit.
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The best time to visit weather-wise is in the summer (June – August) when the conditions are drier and sunnier, although it’s never guaranteed in the Faroes! The days are longer which is great for exploring the great outdoors, and you’ll benefit from all the main tourist attractions being open (many places close during the winter). You’ll also be able to explore some of the more remote islands which aren’t always accessible during the winter season.
Weather: Thanks to the archipelago’s remote location, it’s fair to say the weather gets pretty wild. The Faroe Islands lie in a maritime subarctic climate zone with short, mild summers and cool, wet winters. Summer days see an average high of only 55°F and just under 20 hours of daylight in June around the summer solstice. Average winter temperatures range from the low 30’s to mid 40s F and the daylight can be as little as five hours on the shortest day of the year. The weather is reliably unpredictable throughout the year.
Spring – March – May
Spring is a great time to go to enjoy longer days, wildflowers, and fewer tourists. It starts getting slightly warmer in March, but only by a few degrees. It still feels cold with average highs in the mid to high 40’s F. Weather wise you could expect anything from snow to hail to sunshine, especially at the beginning of the season. The days start getting longer at the end of March which is great for exploring, but it’s still quite wet so make sure you pack waterproof gear. That said, the rain does wonders for the islands’ flora and you’ll see plenty of beautiful wildflowers adding bright pops of color to the landscapes. Migrant birds begin to return along the coast towards the end of spring.Events & Festivals:
Á grynnuni:
Also known as the Seafood Festival of Vágsbotnur, it takes place every May. This family festival is one of the most traditional festivals of the Faroe Islands and it revolves around seafood. A perfect occasion to savor the rich cuisine of the islands, and especially the most delicious recipes of the marine world.
Boat Festivals:
Also during the month of May, different Festivals of the Sea take place, with boat competitions in the archipelago. The most famous are Vestmanna and Toftir. The boat race of Klaksvík also has a special reputation, which takes place during the Norðoyastevna Festival.
Summer: June – August
Summer is the driest season in the Faroe Islands, however, it’s still considered fairly cool and wet compared to many other European countries in the summer. It never gets too hot – average highs are around the mid 50’s F (the highest temperature on record is 71°F in Torshavn), but sunny spells occur throughout the day. Daylight is up to 22 hours in June and July. Every year over 125,000 puffins flock to Mykines to breed and nest in cozy clifftop burrows. Many locals and tourists alike go to visit the puffins in Mykines, just keep in mind the tours book up fast, so be sure to plan accordingly. Summer is typically the best time to hike the coast, kayak the fjords, and visit the charming villages dotted around the islands.
Hotels and rental cars are in short supply during the summer, so booking early is essential if you plan to visit during this time of year.Events & Festivals:
Culture Nights:
June is the best month to enjoy the most popular festivals of the Faroe Islands in terms of music and culture. Starting on June 1st in Tórshavn, with the Culture Night, and continuing with the Blues Festival of Sorvagur from June 7th to 9th.
Voxbotn:
June brings the 12-hour pop music festival, Voxbotn, right in the heart of the capital of the Faroe Islands. It is celebrated on the last weekend of June, with views of the marina. The concerts take place along the pier and in and around the square, Vágsbotn. The backdrop of the yachts and boats bobbing in the harbor and the old multicolored warehouses that line the harbor is a perfect postcard to enjoy one of the best festivals of the Faroe Islands.
G! Festival:
This musical festival is undoubtedly one of the events in the Faroe Islands which attracts the most tourists. It is celebrated from July 12th to 14th and it is the perfect time to enjoy the best local and international music. It takes place in the beautiful town of Gota.
Summer Festival:
Another fantastic music festival, this time in Klaksvik. The Summer Festival is the most popular festival of the Faroe Islands. This festival, held in August, is known for its pop style aimed at an audience of all ages. The best international artists come together on this particular stage for three days, to fill the streets of the city with music.
Ólavsoka:
On July 29th the islanders celebrate what has become their most emblematic festivity: their national holiday. Translated literally, the name of the party means wakefulness, as it commemorates the death in 1030 at the Battle of Stiklestad of St Olaf, who was King of Norway between 1015 and 1028.
The festival presents many outstanding cultural aspects, such as traditional Faroese dance and song ballads, concerts, and art exhibitions. Chain dancing is for everyone; it is usually held in Sjónleikarhúsið, which is a theatre in Tórshavn. Another of the protagonists of the festival is the national sport of the Faroe Islands, rowing, becoming one of the highlights of the national holiday for the Faroese.
Fall: September – November
In September, the weather begins to shift and the days start getting shorter. Daytime highs hover around 50°F but often feel even cooler with the winds and more frequent rainfall. Some attractions start to close down in late September, but it’s usually easier to book accommodations as there are fewer tourists. You might be able to see the northern lights towards the end of the fall, but if this is something you want to experience you are better off visiting in the winter months.
Winter: December – February
Winter is a great time to visit if you want to see the northern lights, this is also the time with the least amount of tourists and when accommodations are inexpensive. This is also when the weather is ever-changing. The snow-topped mountains, thrashing waves and gray skies make the scenery even more dramatic, and it’s the best time of year to watch the northern lights as daylight is a mere five hours in December and around the Solstice. Snow generally falls from December through March, with February being the snowiest month. The snow-top mountains and turf-roofed houses dusted with snow make for a very beautiful backdrop. Many of the tourist attractions and restaurants close down this time of year so keep this in mind if you have specific activities you’d like to do.
Tipping in Faroe Islands
The questions “when?” and “how much?” can leave some travelers confused, as the practice varies. This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter. Hopefully using these “tips” will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis.
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Tipping in Faroe Islands
Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use the Faroese Króna?
There are two currencies of equal value in the Faroe Islands: the Faroese króna and the Danish krone. There may be a few places in the major towns that accept foreign currency, but this is more likely the exception than the rule, and, unsurprisingly, the exchange rate is rarely favorable.
Most places on the mainland accept credit cards, including the more remote islands. Therefore we do not recommend that you bring cash as it can be quite difficult to exchange it. If you plan on having cash at hand, it is best to use the official bank ATM machines around the country to ensure you have the correct currency.
Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?
Service charges are always included in all stated prices, so you are not obliged to tip in the Faroe Islands. Tipping for outstanding service is a matter of choice, but is not expected.
Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?
Tipping in hotels is not customary; the services are included in your bill. However, you are welcome to leave a small tip for your maid or bellman, they would be appreciative but do not expect it, and the same would be true for other services around the hotel.
Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?
Tipping cab drivers is unusual and never expected in the Faroe Islands. The price of the ride will cover any service charge. However, if the taxi driver was particularly helpful you can round up or let the taxi driver keep the change.
Tour Guides: Is a tip required?
Tipping tour guides is not expected in Faroe Islands. However, if you had an exceptional experience and felt you wanted to express your appreciation to your tour guide, you can tip him or her as little or as much as you desire. Any tip amount would be appreciated.
Final Thoughts:
Remember it is perfectly okay to abstain, especially if you are not happy with the service provided. Unlike in the US, waiters, tour guides, hotel staff, etc. are paid a decent wage, and tipping is not the standard practice. Service is built into the system and service charges are already included in the prices.
Top cities in Faroe Islands
What to expect while traveling
