Solo Travel in the Faroe Islands

Type of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Hiking GatG, Nature GatG, Myths & Legends GatG

Things To Do in The Faroe Islands

They have been dubbed the world’s favourite unspoiled island destination by National Geographic Traveler, and the New York Times thinks they “maybe the most curious place left on Earth” but what’s their appeal to solo travellers?

Well, if you’re looking for traditional, modest living with more greenery than you could ever imagine, sheer cliff walls and twice as many sheep as inhabitants then the remoteness of the Faroe Islands will definitely appeal.

These 18 mysterious islands are situated between Norway, Iceland and Scotland in the North Atlantic. Due to their geographical spot the weather can be very changeable marking the best time to visit these islands during the tourist season; between May to September.

The Faroe Islands are part of the Kingdom of Denmark and are made up of 18 islands with 16 of them inhabited. Wooden houses dot the green pastures and many of them are hard to spot with grass roofs that you may be lucky enough to see a local mowing.

The islanders are however not Danish and this is the worse insult you could say to a Faroese. They have their own identity and their own traditions such as old folk tales and the Faroese chain dance.

The locals live off the sea and the islands are one of the last places where whaling still takes place. Although extremely controversial, this tradition has stayed symbolic within their culture and is under much pressure to be stopped. Read more here…

The Reflection of Nordepi

Tórshavn

Torshavn is the capital of the Faroe Islands. It is one of the smallest capitals in the world and is the city where the action is. You’ll often find rowers in the harbour or people in the cafes drinking the rhubarb beer or Rinkusteinur; a beer brewed with volcanic rocks.

This is where you’ll find the Historical and Natural Museum (although not actually in the city center), and SMS: the largest shopping centre on the islands. Other things to do in Tórshavn are to see the 200 year old cathedral, and dine on some traditional Faroese food at one of the Faroe Islands restaurants.  Áarstova is one of the best Torshavn restaurants and is acclaimed for its fine dining. 

Tinganes

Within the capital is Tinganes, a tiny peninsula which was the original site of the Viking parliament. There’s not that much to see here except the harbour, colourful buildings and quaint shops but it is the hub of the Faroes.

The waterfall at Saksun

Vagar 

Travel to the Faroe Islands by plane and the first port of call is Vagar, an island with the largest lakes in the Faroes. There are a few sights to see on Vagar but bear in mind that the attractions are modest and traditional and represent the island’s culture. Take a classic tour of Vágar to maximise your experience on Vágar Island.

Mykines Faroe Islands

Mykines Island is a seabirds paradise with hundreds of puffins, gannets and other species who flock here during the summer. Enjoy some Faroe Islands hiking to the islet Mykines hólmur known as Puffin Island to see the rich birdlife on the beautiful island they choose to call home. Nearby is the Múlafossur waterfall that cascades off the island. You can also walk to Gásadalur from here and see this small picturesque village and enjoy its views.

Kalsoy

The islands are steeped in legends and ask any local about the “seal woman” of Kalsoy Faroe Islands, a finger-shaped island nicknamed “the flute” and they’ll tell you that a seal woman was captured here and forced to marry a farmer’s son. She then later found her seal skin and returned to the sea!

The traditional grass roofs

Faroe Islands Culture

For a trip back in time to former Faroe Islands living, visit Roykstovan for the world’s oldest (continually) inhabited house, home to seventeen generations of Faroese sheep farmers or Duvugardar for the Saksun Folk Museum, a house turned museum with the rooms preserved as they've been for centuries in a pretty location.

Vestmanna

You can trace the Viking’s footsteps at the Saga museum at Vestmanna but prepare for some gory historic scenes. The ‘friendly occupation’ by the British in World War II is documented at the museum in Miovagur. The Faroese are proud of their traditions but a visit to the smithy at Trollanes is only for those who enjoy watching a nail being created.

The Faroe Islands have more than 260 species of birds and the Vestmanna bird cliffs are a Faroe Islands must see and the place to spot puffins, gulls and other species. Even if you’re not a bird lover, the boat takes you through colourful caverns (weather depending) and if you’re lucky enough you may even spot a seal! From the boat you get a glimpse of an old ghost town which was abandoned after WW2.

Gjogv

Gjogv

The natural harbour at Gjogv in the Dalsa Valley is definitely worth seeing. Its tall moss-covered cliffs are breathtaking and you can choose to hike to the top or just stare out to sea. A stream runs through the village and there’s a quaint church with a gift of silver from the British government but you may have to get the key from the village to enter it.

Gjogv is part of the ‘Golden Circle‘ along with the villages of Saksun, and Tjornuvik. These are some of the most frequented spots in the Faroe Islands and are home to the islands' largest waterfall, the Fossá Waterfall, with stunning views. You can also find a black sand beach in Saksun. 

Cape Enniberg

Beyond the village is Europe’s second highest vertical sea cliff where the land ends at Cape Enniberg standing 882 meters sheer. This is a place for serious hiking but if you prefer somewhere on the lower ground then the Kallur lighthouse hike is less challenging. Some of the walking trails on the Faroe Islands hikes are very rustic so expect to be walking amongst sheep or the Huldufólk, another Faroese myth of the hidden people who live within the giant boulders.

Kirkjubour

For those more into the spiritual side of travelling, Kirkjubour is the spiritual heart of the Faroes and on a clear day you can see across to the islands of Hestur and Koltur. The remains of St Magnus Cathedral is a great place to contemplate the meaning of life.

Nolsoy

For the adventurous and those who aren’t afraid of cold water, you can choose from dry suit swimming, sea kayaking or jump aboard a historic schooner for some sea fishing. If you prefer to be on land, try rappelling, zip wiring or just ride a Faroese or Icelandic horse across the fells. You can take a boat ride and go back in time to Nolsoy, one of the islands only accessible by boat with a very quiet existence.

Other Places to Visit in the Faroe Islands

One of the region’s highlights is the ‘hanging lake’ of Lake Sørvágsvatn, an optical illusion that looks as though it sits above the ocean, whereas its only 90 feet above sea level. Flowing from the lake is the Bøsdalafossur Waterfall on the west coast, that is 30 metres high.

For festival GatGs, visit the Faroe Islands in the summer and you can join the locals at the music festival in Klaksvik, one of the things to do in Klaksvik for music lovers. See G Festival for more details.

The Faroe Islands even starred in a James Bond film! For a country that is known for remote tourism, you may want to get here quick, before the movie goers arrive. If you’re looking for a sunbathing holiday then this isn’t really the place to come. Travel to the Faroe Islands to learn about traditions, don your walking boots and windproof jacket and just explore…

Faroe Islands Travel Tips

If you’re outside the EU you can take advantage of the tax free shopping on your holidays to Faroe Islands, and get 15% back when you leave the Faroe Islands.

The pilot whale season is between July – August so look at avoiding if you don’t want to see any whales harmed.

The weather is very changeable so ensure you take a fleece and a rain jacket on your Faroe Islands holiday. Check the weather if you’re going to hike as the mist can soon come in. Take a mobile phone, compass and a map to be on the safe side. Check here for the best hikes Faroe Islands.

Where To Stay in the Faroe Islands

If you are unsure where to stay Faroe Islands, you’ll find a few hotels in the Faroe Islands with the majority in the capital, as well as an apartment in Miovagur. Camping is an option for accommodation Faroe Islands but you may prefer to stay in a local guesthouse or Faroe Islands b&b for a more personal touch. To find a Faroe Island hostel is also a challenge as there aren't many on the island. 

To meet locals consider Airbnb Faroe Islands, which connects you to unique travel experiences and isn’t just limited to staying in a local’s spare room. If Faroe Islands hotels are out of your price range, you could try Couchsurfing instead. 

All of the Faroe Islands accommodation below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with a Solo Female Friendly endorsement. For all other accommodation and hotels in Faroe Islands click the link below. 

• To book, check prices or availability for all accommodation in the Faroe Islands

Gjogy – Gjaargardur Guesthouse

Surrounded by nature on Eysturoy, the second biggest islands in the Faroe Islands, the Gjaargardur Guesthouse is an ideal choice for those solos searching for somewhere beautiful to hike. The guesthouse is eco-friendly and offers a cosy stay. The rooms are clean, the staff are helpful and breakfast is served in a room with a lovely view. There is also free parking. 

You can also enjoy a typical Faroese dinner at the guesthouse too (for an additional cost). Rooms come with heating, WiFi, and private bathrooms. Choose from a standard double or twin room, or upgrade for a mountain view.

• Prices from £112 per night for a standard twin room
• To book, check prices or availability for Gjaargardur Guesthouse

Sandavagur – Giljanes Hostel 

Guljanes Hostel appears to be the only Faroe Islands hostel (at time of writing). Situated in Sandavagur, this sociable hostel is an ideal place to stay if you are planning to visit Trollkonufingur, Sorvagsvatn, and Mulafossur. Because it is such a popular place to stay you’re guaranteed to meet others especially in the common area.

The accommodation is great value for money and can also arrange your airport transfer. Choose from a bed in a 6-bed mixed dormitory room, a 4-bed female-only dorm, or a small double room with a shared bathroom. You may even find yourself sleeping in the renovated bus!

• Prices start from £24 for a bed in a 6-bed dorm room
• To book, check prices or availability for Giljanes Hostel

Torshavn – Hotel Foroyar

If you are looking for a four star hotel in Torshavn, Hotel Foroyar is a friendly hotel in the capital offering great views over the harbour. In traditional Faroese style with a grass roof, this hotel has all the quiet time you need for a relaxing holiday.

The hotel is located in an ideal spot for a nature walk with a panoramic view of the fjord, but be prepared to hike back uphill if you venture into town. The rooms are super quiet and comfy and are named ‘Clinton Room,’ and ‘Prime Minister Room.’ You get an excellent breakfast included too.

• Prices start from £130 for an annex room
• To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Foroyar

Torshavn – Hotel Hafnia

Another of the four star hotels in Torshavn, Hotel Hafnia is close to the town centre and shops and restaurants. If you prefer to dine in the hotel they offer international cuisine as well as local dishes. It’s an ideal place to stay if you are travelling to or from the airport as an airport shuttle stops right outside.

Plus it has a sauna, and a roof terrace with amazing views of the city and harbour. Choose from a single room, double room or comfort or superior room. All come with a private bathroom and breakfast included.

• Prices from £95 per night for a single room
• To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Hafnia

Faroe Islands Tours

As the island draws a quieter type of traveller you wont find tour companies such as G Adventures or Intrepid Travel travelling to Faroe Islands. If you hire a car it is easy to do your own Faroe Island tour around the island, then just hop on a boat tour to explore more of the islands.

Here is our list of recommended Faroe Islands tour companies for package tours and also day tours for women visiting Faroe Islands. 

• GreenGate Incoming – If you are looking for a Faroe Islands tour package with a sustainable company, GreenGate Incoming arranges tours such as the Classic Circle, winter wonders, and cultural food travel, with a Faroe Islands guide. If you are planning on driving in the Faroe Islands, they also offer an 8 day Faroe Islands road trip where you self-drive yourself around, seeing the Faroe Islands attractions on the way. 
• Tora Tourist Traffic – Offers day tours to the Northern Islands, as well as guided tours and ferry trips to Sandoy so you can be a Faroe Islands tourist. 
• Puffin.fo – Arranges day tours to the famous Vestmanna Cliffs Faroe Islands. They combine this trip with Mykines for a full day tour with a local guide. 
• Nordlysid – Experience the Faroe Islands by sea on a sailing trip.
• Guide To Faroe Islands – Organises vacation packages to the Faroe Islands.

Travel in the Faroe Islands

Driving yourself around the Faroe Islands is the easiest way to get around, but is it still possible to explore the Faroe Islands without a car. Getting between the islands has been made incredibly easy with bridges and tunnels connecting the majority of the islands. Local bus services are good and free buses operate in Torshavn (with WiFi) click here for Faroe Islands bus map.

There are different ways of getting around but ferries will take you to the more remote islands only accessible by helicopter or ferry, click here for Faroe Islands ferry schedule & helicopters. To reach Kalsoy, take the ferry Kalsoy from Klaksvik. The journey only takes 20 minutes. 

Travel all over the islands by bus and boat with a 4 or 7 day travel card which is available from the airport. 

Getting Around Faroe Islands by Car

If you do choose to hire a car, you'll be driving through the Faroe Islands tunnels. These sub-sea tunnels have a road toll which you can pay at a service station.

For car rental for the Faroe Islands we recommend pre-booking car hire with Avis so you can collect your car when you arrive at the airport.

Faroe Islands Itinerary

Three days is plenty to indulge in Faroe Islands tourism and see the main islands but you may want to stay longer to experience the real outdoors and laid back lifestyle. If you are planning a Faroe Islands vacation and are unsure of what to do in Faroe Islands for a week, below is a Faroe Islands suggested itinerary. For a 3 day itinerary Faroe Islands stay in Vagar and Torshavn.

• Vagar island (2 nights), Bøur, Miðvágur to visit the museum,
• Tórshavn (2 nights),
• Walk to Kirkjubøur then overnight in Gjógv (1 night),
• Klaksvík for a ferry to Kalsoy island, Kollur for the lighthouse,
• Back to Torshavn (1 night),
• Boat ride to the island of Nólsoy, then boat trip to Vestmanna to see the bird cliffs,
• Return to Torshavn (1 night).

Faroe Islands Airport

If you are wondering how to get to the Faroe Islands, the best way is to fly. All flights to the Faroe Islands fly into Vagar airport. Atlantic Airways is the Faroese national airline.

Vagar – An airport shuttle runs from hotels in Torshavn at 0630 and 1300 each day and takes 55 minutes to the airport. The Vagar Airport bus costs approx €12. If you are leaving early you can pre-book an airport taxi the night before. Hire a rental car from the airport or if you’re feeling really flush take a helicopter to one of the other islands. Contact Atlantic Airways for details.

Travelling Onwards (check visas before you travel)

To Iceland – If you are planning on travelling from Iceland to the Faroe Islands there is a car ferry to the Faroe Islands from Seyoisfjordur which departs twice a week and takes 16 hours. Check Smyril Line for timetables.

To Denmark – Only accessible by plane.
To England – Only accessible by plane.

Where can I go from here?

• Denmark 2 hrs 15 mins
• London 2 hrs 15 mins

Facts About the Faroe Islands

• Can I drink the water? Yes.
• Is tipping expected? It is becoming more widespread but only if you feel it is good service.
• Fixed price or barter? Fixed price.
• Any ATMs? In the capital yes.
• Which side of the road do they drive? Right.
• Good for vegetarians? The main dishes are lamb and seafood so there are a lack of vegetarian restaurants. You can buy vegetables in supermarkets which is an option for creating your own meals.
• Any seven wonders of the world? No.

Map of The Faroe Islands