It’s hard to believe that a country with majestic landscapes like the Faroe Islands can be reached from mainland Europe in just a few hours. Thanks to modern transportation, the 18-island archipelago can be explored by more intrepid travelers than ever before. Whether you fly there from one of its neighbors or cruise the North Atlantic, planning a Faroe Islands road trip puts you on a crash course to adventure.
Despite its remote location, the Faroe Islands have reliable infrastructure that help you move around the country with ease. Between navigable roadways and its small size, the Faroe Islands create an unforgettable road trip. That’s exactly how we decided to explore the Faroe Islands when we ventured there in October.
You never have to drive far since most attractions are close by, and it makes for an incredible vacation. We did lots of hikes, saw the northern lights, slept near charming villages, and want to use our experience to help you plan an exciting Faroe Islands itinerary. Below, we’ve packed an 8-day itinerary with our favorite places in the Faroe Islands and provided 3 and 5-day alternatives if you’re short on time.
Where are the faroe islands?
Between Iceland and Norway you will find 18 little islands popping up in the North Atlantic Ocean, the islands have the most unique shapes and sea cliffs. The Faroe Islands are part of Denmark but have their own government. The islands are connected with tunnels, bridges and some of them are only accessible by helicopter. Check out my guide: Helicopter Flights in the Faroe Islands to learn everything you need to know about this unique way of transport.
Video: Faroe islands itinerary inspiration
How many days do you need in Faroe Islands?
How many days you need on the Faroe Islands really depends on what you want to do, but I would suggest a minimum of 4 days and 7 days when you want to do some hiking or boat/helicopter trips. If you don’t know what to do or where to get in the Faroe Islands no worries, you can also book one of the tour packages from Guide to Faroe Islands.
The most popular package is the Classic 6 day summer package of the best attractions in the Faroe Islands, for more information click here. So if you are looking for a stress free option and want to get the most out of your time, check out the packages.
How to get around the Faroe Islands?
The easiest and most common way to move around the Faroe Islands is by renting a vehicle and driving at your own pace. Most islands are connected by a dependable roadway system that consists of bridges, tunnels, and other engineering feats. By renting a car, you’ll have more flexibility when planning your Faroe Islands road trip. There are lots of car rental agencies on the Faroe Islands, and you can arrange the vehicle in advance or upon arrival.
If renting a car isn’t within your budget, public transport in the Faroe Islands is a reliable option. You can ride the bus between bigger cities and smaller villages, and multi-day Travel Cards save you extra money. Not only are Travel Cards usable on buses, but ferries are also included. The cards give you unlimited travel on buses and ferries for upwards of seven days (except Mykines).
For budget travelers, you can also get around by renting a bike when you’re visiting one of the bigger cities. Although you must travel at a slower pace (and pedal up some mountains), the quality infrastructure helps you reach most of the islands. Plus, the low amounts of traffic make it easier to navigate the roads while traveling on two wheels.
It’s also possible, and surprisingly affordable, to ride a helicopter to your next destination. In the Faroe Islands, helicopters are subsidized by the government and the price is reasonable compared to other countries. The only downside is you can’t do round trips since helicopter rides are meant for the locals and transporting goods. Just make sure to book a place to stay at the island you fly to if you arrange a helicopter ride.
How much does it cost to rent a car in the Faroe Islands?
As you maybe already know the Faroe Islands is not a cheap destination, so renting a car is also not cheap! I don’t have a specific car rental company I would recommend, instead I always use Rentalcars.com to compare and find the best price on your rental. To give you an indication you have to think about prices like:
| Economy Car Rental | €95/day |
| Intermediate Car Rental | €125/day |
| Minivan Car Rental | €125/day |
| Intermediate SUV Car Rental | €150/day |
Must Read: How to get Amazingly Affordable Helicopter Flights in the Faroe Islands
Gas stations Faroe Islands Map
Don’t worry about not having enough gas, as on the islands the distance between most gas stations is approx 15 kilometres. So if you are like me and always freaking out when the sign puts up, no worries at all. Below you will find a map you can open in Google to find the nearest gas station on one the the Faroe Islands.
Toll roads in the Faroe Islands
If you drive within your home country, you’re probably familiar with the concept of toll roads. Be prepared to encounter a couple of toll roads when driving around the Faroe Islands.
Part of the Faroe Islands roadway system includes two sub-sea tunnels and they both charge tolls of DKK 100 (around €13) round trip. One tunnel connects the Vágar Airport to the capital Tórshavn, and the other connects Klaksvík to Eysturoy. Most Faroe Islands itineraries, including ours, will take you there and the toll fees must be paid.
Don’t worry about paying the toll fare when you go through the tunnel. Instead, you’ll pay them at one of several petrol stations or online. You must pay the bill within three days of driving through the tunnel or else the car rental company will receive it.
Things to know about driving in the Faroe Islands
In the Faroe Islands, the rules of the road generally follow those of mainland Europe, though there are some differences. Here’s what you need to know:
- Speed limit: 50kmph in built-up/urban areas and 80kmph on main roads. You might not see many speed limit signs, just keep your eyes open for the signs that indicate urban areas. While this might seem slow, the sheep, fog, and windy road conditions mean you’ll seldom get a chance to go faster!
- Headlights: Must be on at all times, day and night, and especially in tunnels.
- Don’t drink and drive: The maximum blood alcohol limit is 0.5%, so don’t do it!
- Seatbelts: Must be worn by all passengers.
- Age: The minimum age of a driver is 18 years old.
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Road Conditions
While the Faroe Islands are famed for their harsh climate and rough but beautiful terrains, the roads are actually really well maintained. Smooth tarmac is common and the vast majority of routes are well signed. This makes driving in the Faroe Islands pretty easy.
You’ll often find yourself on one-track roads, though passing places are plentiful. Occasionally, you’ll come across some older roads that are gravel rather than smooth tarmac, though these are normally only in small villages. There are a number of twisty roads that wind up hills and mountains. Take them slow, as they’re wonderful!
Should you fear the Faroe Islands Tunnels?
A number of tunnels make it easier than ever to traverse the mountain ranges, and there are even two that run underneath the sea connecting the islands. For the most part, Faroe Island tunnels are pretty modern, well-lit, and with two lanes. However, there are a few older tunnels that are unlit with just 1-lane to be aware of.
Honestly, driving through these Faroese tunnels can be pretty scary if you’re not used to them. Though if you know what to expect, they’re not that bad. Having said that, they’re the number one spot for accidents and scrapes among tourists, so beware! The northern islands of Bordoy, Kalsoy, and Vidoy are notorious for these old tunnels, but follow these rules and you’ll be okay.
- Keep your lights on at all times, but don’t use full beams if you see a vehicle approaching.
- Reduce your speed when you enter and take it easy — the walls and ceiling aren’t smooth, and the width can vary throughout the tunnel.
- Look out for the signs at the entrance of the tunnel to see who has right of way. The black vehicle has right of way and the red one must give way. Normally, if the passing places are on your right, you’ll have to give way.
- You’ll find regular passing places every 100 meters or so. If you’re required to give way, hold tight in the passing place until all oncoming vehicles have passed. Then, take care as you pull out, keeping an eye on the walls. Each passing place is numbered, counting down until you reach the end of the tunnel.
- If you end up in the nightmare situation of meeting a truck in a narrow tunnel, it’s your responsibility to give way regardless of what the sign says. Don’t freak out, the trucks take extra care in the tunnels as well!
Sheep own the roads
One thing you’ve probably heard about the Faroe Islands is that sheep massively outnumber people. Anyone who has done a Faroe Islands road trip can testify! They’re everywhere, and an unspoken rule of the road is that they have priority. In some areas they’re very bold and will wander the roads, while in others, they can easily be spooked. As such, always drive slowly past them, and be patient — spend the time checking out the scenery! If in the unfortunate event you do hit a sheep with your car, you’re required by law to contact the police.
Beware of parking restrictions
Driving in the Faroe Islands also mean that you have to park your car every now and then. Parking is pretty restricted in most of the larger towns, such as Tórshavn, Klaksvík, and Runavík. You’ll need a parking disc in some areas, which must be displayed in the bottom right-hand corner of your windshield. Check with your rental company to see whether a parking disc is included and opt for one if you anticipate street parking at all. However, there are also paid car-parks, and most accommodation comes with free parking, giving you a great opportunity to stretch your legs and explore your surroundings on foot.
Camping the Faroe islands
Wild camping is illegal in the Faroe Islands as all land is private property, click here to get an overview of all the campsites in the Faroe Islands. P.s. make sure you have a really wind residence tent with you.
How much does the Faroe Islands cost?
I would say the prices in the Faroe Islands is like Scandinavia, so it’s expensive! However you know there are always ways to keep the costs as low as possible, to give you and idea here some examples.
Pricing examples
| Accommodation per person for a hostel bed | $30/night |
| Accommodation per person for a simple hotel | $80/night |
| Restaurant meals | $10 – 30 |
| Single bus ticket | $2.5 – 5.0 |
| Average price tours | $ 25 – 250 |
| Beer in a bar | $5 – 10 |
| Car rental | $45/per day |
8-Day Faroe Islands road trip
Day 1 – Explore Tórshavn
Driving Time (from Vágar Airport) – 45 mins
Driving Distance (from Vágar Airport) – 46 km
*Alternatively, you can arrive directly to Tórshavn by ferry*
Tórshavn is the capital of the Faroe Islands and the place we recommend starting your road trip. Located on Streymoy Island, the quaint city of around 20,000 residents oozes Faroese charm the moment you arrive. Its colorful old town, Tinganes, features turf-roof houses and cobblestone walkways.
You’ll see lots of boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and historic sites when wandering through town. Check out the Tórshavn Cathedral and the Nordic House to learn more about Faroese culture and the local history. Close to the port, the Skansin fortress dates to the 16th century to ward off pirates, and you’ll find artillery from WWII.
Before resting for the night, make the short trek to the Svartafoss Waterfall that cascades against moss-covered rocks. You’ll find plenty of cozy accommodations near town, especially on AirBNB, that are close to nature paths and within walking distance of the city center.
Day 2 – Drive to Klaksvík & Visit Kallur Lighthouse
Driving Time – 1hr 10 mins
Driving Distance – 74 km
Klaksvík is the second-largest town in the Faroe Islands located on the northern island of Borðoy. Surrounded by rising mountain peaks, it’s among the most picturesque towns anywhere in the archipelago. A short hike to the Klakkur summit gives you an exhilarating view overlooking the town and the nearby mountains.
The hike to Klakkur takes roughly 30-40 minutes from the parking lot but bring a jacket due to the fierce wind at the top. In the distance, you’ll see Kalsoy and Kunoy Islands against the shimmering fjords below. Don’t be surprised to spot sheep or birds on your way to the summit.
Since you’re already in Klaksvík, this is the perfect chance to catch the ferry to Kalsoy Island to begin the hike to Kallur Lighthouse. If you visit the Faroe Islands during the summer, it’d be wise to make this your first activity of the day. The lines to catch the ferry can be ridiculously long, and it’s imperative to arrive early.
Once you leave the ferry, drive just past the village of Trøllanes to begin the hike to the lighthouse. This Faroe Islands hike was our favorite when we visited in October, and the dramatic views from the cliffside take your breath away. Lush, green fields surround the lighthouse, and the cliffs drop precipitously into the Atlantic below.
The hike only takes around 1.5-2 hours but does require nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Unless your trip is during winter, you’ll have plenty of daylight to wander around Klaksvík. You’ll often find entire apartments that are pretty cheap to rent in town on AirBNB, so you save money for other activities on your Faroe Islands itinerary.
Must Read: Your Guide to the Kallur Lighthouse Hike – Kalsoy, Faroe Islands
Day 3 – Head to Gjógv
Driving Time – 45 mins
Driving Distance – 44 km
Drive to the tip of Eysturoy to reach the beautiful village of Gjógv and its natural harbor. The town gets its name from the 200 ft gorge, and residents have thrived for centuries by fishing. Turf-roofed cottages adorn the landscape above the gorge, but many buildings are empty due to the dwindling population of less than 50.
Gjógv rests on a small inlet, and the surrounding mountain peaks give you a day’s worth of hiking trails. The harbor itself is among the most beautiful sights in the Faroe Islands and a testament to the locals’ productive use of the rugged terrain. When you explore the harbor’s natural scenery, you’ll notice a ramp used to haul boats to escape rough surf conditions. Don’t miss the Gjógv incline railway that transports vessels from the gorge to the boathouses in the village.
It’s easy to unleash your adventurer’s spirit while staying in Gjógv, and there are several dramatic viewpoints to check out. Venture over the hills towards the Ambadalur Valley for sensational views along the rugged coastline. This hike will take you towards Búgvin, the highest sea stack in the Faroe Islands at 188 meters. The initial climb from the village is steep, but the pathway gives you glimpses of various seabirds on the cliffside.
If you head east from Gjógv, you’ll reach the Tyril and Middagsfjall mountain peaks. Whichever summit you wish to climb, the reward is an incredible vantage of Funningsfjørður. After a full day of wandering Gjógv and its nearby scenery, you can rest either at a comfy accommodation or the nearby campground.
Day 4 – Hike to Slættaratindur
Driving Time – 10 mins
Driving Distance – 7 km
Spending the night in Gjógv gives you an ideal position to climb Slættaratindur, the highest peak in the Faroe Islands. The mountain stands at 880 meters and ranks among the most exhilarating hikes in the country. We attempted to summit the mountain during our trip in October, but the weather wouldn’t cooperate with us. The path became extremely icy, and we didn’t want to risk a life-threatening fall from the mountain.
With ideal weather conditions, the hike is suitable for most individuals and easy for seasoned trekkers. Eiðisskarð, the mountain pass between Eiði and Funningur, marks the beginning of the trail. As you make the ascent, you begin to see the mountains dotting the Faroese landscape. Just make sure to watch out for the stones that create a hectic scramble to the flat summit.
The views from Slættaratindur let you admire the whole country from above, and you might even see Iceland in the distance on a sunny day. If you’re planning your Faroe Islands itinerary during the summer, you might be able to join a cherished local tradition. The locals hike Slættaratindur on June 21st, the longest day of the year, to watch the sunset and sunrise only a couple of hours later.
The 3.6-mile loop trail should take around 2.5-3 hours to complete, but it’s understandable to take longer to soak up the views. This is the only activity we scheduled for the day, and you can take your time enjoying the magnificent views from the roof of the Faroe Islands. Since Gjógv is a short drive from Slættaratindur, you can stay at the previous night’s accommodation before continuing your Faroe Islands road trip.
More hikes: 5 most incredible hikes of the Faroe Islands
Day 5 – Vestmanna Sea Cliffs Boat Trip
Driving Time – 1 hr
Driving Distance – 65 km
The Vestmanna Sea Cliffs offer some of the most dramatic vistas anywhere in the Faroe Islands. Towering cliffs more than 600 meters high soar above you while you sail through sparkling grottos between the rocks. The remote location of the cliffs gives thousands of seabirds the perfect spot to nest after traveling across the Atlantic.
A Vestmanna boat tour provides the best vantage of the majestic cliffs, bird colonies, and sea caves. Your vessel departs from the town of Vestmanna, and the ocean vistas here are spectacular. Before your tour departs, visit the Saga Museum that delves into the entire history of the Faroese people living on the archipelago.
The ride to the sea cliffs is a harrowing journey that takes you between narrow passages and beside sharp rock walls. Fierce waves crash against the rocky faces, and you’ll see birds hovering above the cliffside. The bird species you’ll find include puffins, guillemots, plovers, sparrows, and razorbills.
Your trip takes roughly two hours, and the weather can be extremely unpredictable. The wind is often brutal, and the temperature can be miserable at any time of year. After returning from your voyage, you can spend the night at the nearby Vestmanna campground.
Day 6 – Hike to Lake Sørvágsvatn
Driving Time – 30 mins
Driving Distance – 31 km
Prepare for your mind to be blown once again when hiking to this awe-inspiring lake on the island of Vágar. Less than a 10-minute drive from the airport, Lake Sørvágsvatn is the largest lake in the Faroe Islands. However, it’s earned global fame due to the mind-blowing optical illusion that fools onlookers.
The trailhead starts near the town of Miðvágur, and you’ll hike towards the Trælanípa sea cliffs. Once you reach the coastal viewpoint, it appears that the lake hangs above the ocean. However, that’s just your mind playing tricks on you, and the immense cliffs make the lake appear higher than it is.
The path runs along the lake’s shoreline, and you’ll find the Bøsdalafossur waterfall gushing into the ocean. It should only take around 2-2.5 hours to complete the 4.3-mile loop, but it’s one of the easier hikes on our Faroe Islands itinerary. Just make sure to wear waterproof hiking boots since the trail is often wet and muddy.
Take your time snapping incredible photos since the Giljanes campground is only a 5-minute drive from the lake.
More about Sørvagsvatn: Your Guide to the Sørvágsvatn Hike – Vágar, Faroe Islands
Day 7 – Sail to Mykines
Driving Time – 10 mins
Driving Distance – 10 km
The island of Mykines is the ultimate puffin watching experience in the Faroe Islands. For this activity, you’ll have to leave the car near the village of Sørvágur. If hanging around the puffins is high on your bucket list, the summer is your only option. Just make sure to pay attention to the weather forecasts since it’s common for all transport to the island to get canceled.
You can reach Mykines by boat or helicopter, and it’s imperative to book your ticket well in advance. Many tourists visit the island to see the puffins during summer, and tickets often sell out. We recommend riding the boat since you’ll sail past the Tindhómlur and Drangarnir islets for more glimpses of the rich birdlife.
The boat’s name is Jósup, and the vessel sails to Mykines every day from May 1st to August 31st. You can book tickets here, but always watch the forecast to ensure the weather cooperates. To hike around the remote landscapes of Mykines, you’ll have to pay a hiking fee.
Once you step foot on the island, you’ll be speechless from its dramatic coastline, turf-roofed houses, craggy cliffs, beautiful lighthouse, and a puffin-watching bonanza. For the total package, consider booking a Mykines tour with a local to learn about the island’s captivating history.
Expect the Mykines trip to be an all-day affair, and we advise returning to your Giljanes campsite. There’s a Mykines campground, but it would be risky due to the chance of being stuck on the island due to inclement weather.
Day 8 – Visit Gasadalur & Depart
Driving Time – 25 mins
Driving Distance – 19 km
For the last day of this Faroe Islands itinerary, you’ll stay on Vágar to visit the picturesque village of Gasadalur. The tallest peaks on the island engulf the town, and you’ll get a few more glimpses of Mykines from afar. Colorful houses rest a short walk from the cliffside and offer sensational ocean vistas.
Driving to the village is unique since it includes a passage through a tunnel that provided the first roadway connection to other parts of the country. The remote location has preserved Gasadalur’s charming appeal, and it’s the perfect place to end your trip.
While you’re in Gasadalur, don’t miss the enchanting Múlafossur waterfall that tumbles off the rocky cliff. The panoramic views of the waterfall are stunning, and the Árnafjall mountain towers above the village. Some of the best images from the Faroe Islands to complete your road trip.
If you’re leaving from the airport, Gasadalur is the perfect last stop since it’s on the same island. To catch a ferry from the Tórshavn port, you’ll have to drive nearly an hour to catch your ride.
Also Read: 7 adrenaline kicking adventures in the Faroe Islands
Faroe islands 3 day itinerary
Day 1 – Explore Tórshavn
Day 2 – Drive to Klaksvík & Visit Kallur Lighthouse
Day 3 – Visit Gasadalur & Depart
Faroe islands 5 day itinerary
Day 1 – Explore Tórshavn
Day 2 – Drive to Klaksvík & Visit Kallur Lighthouse
Day 3 – Hike to Slættaratindur
Day 4 – Vestmanna Sea Cliffs Boat Trip
Day 5 – Visit Gasadalur & Depart
How to get to the Faroe Islands?
Despite its location in the North Atlantic Ocean, the Faroe Islands are easily accessible by land or sea from several European countries. Atlantic Airways and Scandinavian Airlines are the two airline companies that offer flights to the Faroe Islands. You can catch direct flights from places such as Bergen (Norway), Reykjavik (Iceland), and Edinburgh (Scotland).
If you prefer a boat tour to the Faroe Islands, then sailing across the North Atlantic is an adventurous way to reach the archipelago. You can ride a ferry to the Faroe Islands from either Denmark or Iceland. Smyril Line offers regular ferry service to the Faroe Islands and the slow journey lets you experience the thrill of cruising in the wild waters of the Atlantic Ocean. For more information about Smyril Line, click here.
Check out: 15 Must Known Reasons to Visit the Faroe Islands
What is the best time of year to visit the Faroe Islands?
The best time to plan your Faroe Islands road trip will depend on the specific activities you wish to do. Do you wish to hike? How about the northern lights? Maybe you’re trying to find the best month to do both? The weather and sunlight will vary drastically throughout the year, and you should plan your road trip accordingly.
If your main objective is to have tons of sunlight for recreational activities, summer is the ideal time for you. The longer days of sunlight are more suitable for hiking, kayaking, bird watching, and other outdoor fun. For our October Faroe Islands road trip, we didn’t have as much sunlight, but we witnessed the mesmerizing northern lights.
Unless the northern lights are a must-see for your Faroe Islands road trip, the summer (June-August) is the best time to visit. You’ll have more hours to explore the archipelago’s rugged landscapes and will spot more wildlife than closer to winter.
| Min °C | Max °C | Rain mm | |
| January | 1 | 5 | 165 |
| February | 1 | 5 | 119 |
| March | 1 | 5 | 144 |
| April | 2 | 7 | 98 |
| May | 4 | 9 | 75 |
| June | 7 | 11 | 72 |
| July | 8 | 12 | 86 |
| August | 8 | 12 | 93 |
| September | 7 | 11 | 153 |
| October | 5 | 9 | 187 |
| November | 2 | 6 | 158 |
| December | 1 | 5 | 171 |
Read more: Best time to visit the Faroe Islands
Faroe islands tour package
If you prefer a well organised trip, you can book a package tour from 2 to 2 weeks on this website. Guide to Faroe Islands is amazing and unique because it’s all managed by local people, so really the guides are incredible. I met the owner of the company and people with a passion so big as he has is so nice to see. The love for the culture, nature and all other activities is what really makes your trip.
FAQ faroe islands travel itinerary
Do they speak English in the Faroe Islands?
The national language is Faroese and the seconds language is Danish. Yes people on the Faroe Islands also speak English, I was surprised how many people spoke English during my visit.
What currency does Faroe Islands use?
Danish Krone and Faroese Krona.
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Thanks for checking out our 8-day Faroe Islands itinerary. Hopefully, this has provided the information you need to plan an unforgettable vacation to one of Europe’s incredible and underrated travel destinations. If you have travel experiences from the Faroe Islands, or if you have a question, please leave a comment below.
Don’t forget to check out the Faroe Islands Travel Guide for other ideas when you visit the Faroe Islands and other spectacular locations around the world. For more travel tips and inspiration, check out more of my travel tips.
