Planning a trip to the Faroe Islands can feel overwhelming when you’re trying to decide where to base yourself. The archipelago offers six distinct areas, each with its own character and advantages for different types of travelers.
I’ve explored each region to help you choose the perfect location for your stay. From the bustling capital city of the Faroe Islands – Tórshavn to the remote beauty of Suðuroy, this guide breaks down exactly what each area offers and why it might be right for your trip.
Best Faroe Islands Hotels: 🏠
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands
- 🏨 4-Star: Cosy house in the heart of Tórshavn (Á Reyni)
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Hafnia
- 💸 Cheap: Mølin Guesthouse
- 🏢 Apartment: Brekkustova - Modern, cosy and spacious apartment
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Apartment in Tórshavn
- 🏩 For Couples: Vágur, Home with a View
Quick Guide to the Faroe Islands Best Areas to Stay: 📋
- 🏙️ For City Access & Nightlife: Tórshavn
- 🥾 For Hiking & Nature: Vágar
- 🏘️ For Local Village Life: Klaksvík
1. Tórshavn – Best Place to Stay on the Faroe Islands for City Access, Dining & Nightlife
Getting around. Tórshavn is honestly the smartest place to stay if you’re new to the Faroe Islands. Everything you need is right here – buses, ferries, and tons of different places to sleep. I always tell people to start here because you won’t feel lost or confused.
Food everywhere. The eating scene here is really great for such a small place. You’ll find everything from traditional sheep dishes to pizza places. I spent hours wandering around the old town area called Tinganes, and there’s always somewhere new to grab a bite or decent coffee.
Going out at night. Don’t expect crazy nightlife, but Tórshavn has the best bars on the islands. The Nordic House cultural center often has live music, and places like Café Natur stay open late. I met some really cool locals at the Irish pub Paddy GoEasy.
Activity | Price (DKK) | Price (USD/EUR) |
---|---|---|
Dinner at Áarstova | 400-600 | $60-90 / €55-85 |
Coffee at Paname Café | 45-65 | $7-10 / €6-9 |
Beer at Sirkus Føroyar | 65-85 | $10-13 / €9-12 |
Getting to other places. The main bus station is right in the city center on Niels Finsens gøta street. From here, you can catch buses to Gásadalur (for the famous Múlafossur waterfall), Kirkjubøur village, or the airport on Vágar island. The Smyril Line ferry terminal is also walking distance.
Money-saving tips:
- Stay near Tinganes for free walking tours
- Many guesthouses include breakfast with local rye bread
- The city library has free internet if you need to work
Weather reality. The harbor blocks a lot of wind, which is huge here. During my winter visit, I could actually walk around comfortably while other parts of the islands were getting hit by storms. The grass-roof houses in the old town (Tinganes) look amazing when it’s foggy.
Best Hotels to Stay in Torshavn
Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Hafnia – This elegant historic hotel features comfortable rooms with modern amenities and offers easy access to the harbor area just a 5-minute walk away.
- Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands – This modern international hotel offers spacious rooms with contemporary design and premium facilities including a fitness center and restaurant.
- Hotel Djurhuus – This boutique hotel features stylish rooms with Nordic design elements and provides excellent service with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Hotel Føroyar – This comfortable mid-range hotel offers good value with clean rooms and basic amenities, situated within walking distance of main attractions.
- Tórsgøta Guesthouse - In The Heart Of Tórshavn – This cozy guesthouse provides affordable accommodations with a personal touch and is perfectly positioned for exploring the old town on foot.
- Hotel Tórshavn – This traditional hotel offers comfortable rooms at reasonable prices and includes breakfast, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Best Hostels
- Apartment in Tórshavn. – This self-catering apartment provides excellent value for money with a full kitchen and spacious living area, perfect for longer stays.
- 62N Guesthouse - City Center – This budget-friendly guesthouse offers simple but clean rooms and is located just minutes from the main shopping and dining areas.
- Á Tromini Guesthouse – These affordable apartments feature basic amenities and offer incredible ocean views, making them perfect for travelers seeking both savings and scenery.
2. Vagar – Where to Stay in the Faroe Islands for Hiking & Nature
The hiking paradise. Vágar island is where I always send people who want to see the most famous sights in the Faroe Islands. This place has Múlafossur waterfall, Kallur lighthouse, and Lake Sørvágsvatn (the one that looks like it’s floating above the ocean). The hiking trails here are some of the best I’ve walked anywhere.
Airport convenience. The only airport in the Faroe Islands is right here on Vágar, which makes your arrival super easy. I love how you can literally start hiking within 30 minutes of landing. The village of Sørvágur is just 10 minutes from the airport, and that’s where most people stay.
Weather challenges. This island gets hit hard by Atlantic storms, so the weather changes fast. During my visits, I’ve seen sunshine turn into heavy rain in minutes. The western cliffs face the open ocean, which means strong winds are normal here.
Best hiking spots on Vágar:
- Gásadalur village (45-minute walk to Múlafossur waterfall)
- Trælanípa cliff (dramatic 142-meter drop)
- Bøsdalafossur waterfall (easy 20-minute walk)
- Tindhólmur islet viewing points
Getting around the island. Bus line 100 connects all the main villages, but it only runs a few times per day. I always recommend renting a car if you stay here because the distances between hiking spots can be long. The tunnel to Gásadalur opened recently, making that famous waterfall much easier to reach.
Local food scene. Vágar has fewer restaurants than Tórshavn, but the quality is really good. Restaurant Fiskastykkið in Sørvágur serves amazing fish dishes, and the small café in Gásadalur village has homemade cake that locals love.
Village | Distance from Airport | Main Attractions |
---|---|---|
Sørvágur | 8 km | Bøsdalafossur waterfall, local museum |
Gásadalur | 12 km | Múlafossur waterfall, grass-roof houses |
Bøur | 15 km | Tindhólmur views, traditional village |
Miðvágur | 6 km | Lake Sørvágsvatn trailhead |
3. Klaksvík – Best Place to Stay in Faroe Islands for Local Village Life
Real Faroese culture. Klaksvík is the second-biggest town but feels completely different from Tórshavn. People here live a more traditional lifestyle, and I noticed how locals still fish for their dinner and know each other by name. The atmosphere is super relaxed and authentic.
Northern island access. This town is your gateway to the northern islands like Kalsoy and Kunoy. The ferry to Kalsoy (where Kallur lighthouse is) leaves right from Klaksvík harbor. I spent a whole day island-hopping from here, and it was incredible.
Festival headquarters. Klaksvík hosts the best cultural events in the Faroe Islands. The Summarfestivalur music festival happens here every summer, and the Ólavsøka celebrations in July are amazing. I’ve never seen so many people in traditional Faroese clothes dancing and singing.
Shopping and services. The town has a big SMS shopping center where you can buy outdoor gear, groceries, and local wool products. Sjónleikarhúsið, the local theater, puts on plays in Faroese language. There’s also a swimming complex called Klaksvíkar Svimjihøll.
Transportation connections:
- Ferry to Kalsoy island (30 minutes, multiple daily trips)
- Bus to Tórshavn (1 hour, every 2 hours)
- Helicopter service to smaller islands
- Regular bus to Borðoy and Viðoy islands
Food and local life. The fish market by the harbor sells the freshest catch daily. I love eating at Hamborgara Grillin for casual burgers or Fríða Kaffihús for coffee and pastries. The locals gather at these places, so you’ll hear plenty of Faroese conversation.
Activity | Best Time | What to Expect |
---|---|---|
Kalsoy day trip | Morning ferry | Kallur lighthouse hike, 3-4 hours |
Local fishing | Early morning | Join boats from harbor |
Museum visit | Any time | Nordic House cultural center |
Shopping | Weekdays | SMS center, local crafts |
Best Hotels in Klaksvík
- Brekkustova - Modern, cosy and spacious apartment – This modern apartment offers spacious accommodations with contemporary amenities and is perfect for families or groups seeking comfort in the heart of Klaksvík.
- BRAND NEW FLAT IN CENTRAL KLAKSVÍK – This brand new apartment features modern furnishings and is centrally located, providing easy access to local attractions and the ferry terminal for northern island trips.
- Cozy cottage – This charming cottage offers a traditional Faroese experience with comfortable accommodations and a cozy atmosphere, ideal for travelers wanting an authentic local stay.
4. Suðuroy – Where to Stay in Faroe Islands for Scenic Remote Escape
The forgotten island. Suðuroy feels like stepping back in time. This southern island is the most remote place you can stay in the Faroe Islands, and I love how quiet everything is here. The landscape is completely different – more dramatic cliffs and wilder nature than anywhere else.
Stunning coastal views. The cliffs at Beinisvørð are the highest in the Faroe Islands at 470 meters. I spent hours just sitting there watching puffins and feeling tiny next to the massive rock formations. The village of Sumba at the southern tip has some of the most beautiful grass-roof houses I’ve ever seen.
Limited transport. Getting here requires planning because the helicopter is the main connection. Flights from Tórshavn take 20 minutes and cost around 800 DKK. There’s also a ferry, but it only runs twice a week and takes 2 hours. I recommend booking transport well ahead.
Village exploration. Each village has its own character. Tvøroyri is the main town with shops and services, while Fámjin has an interesting church and peaceful atmosphere. Porkeri village has a beautiful location by the water, and Vágur offers great hiking starting points.
Remote hiking opportunities:
- Beinisvørð cliff walk (2-3 hours, moderate difficulty)
- Sumba to Akraberg lighthouse (1 hour, easy)
- Hvannhagi mountain trail (4 hours, challenging)
- Coastal path between villages (various lengths)
Local traditions. The people here still live very traditionally. I watched locals hunt pilot whales (grindadráp) and share the meat with the whole community. The language sounds different too – the southern dialect is unique. Many families have lived here for generations.
Village | Population | Main Features |
---|---|---|
Tvøroyri | 1,800 | Main town, shops, services |
Vágur | 1,400 | Harbor, hiking trails |
Sumba | 250 | Traditional houses, southern point |
Fámjin | 100 | Historic church, quiet atmosphere |
5. Eysturoy – Where to Stay in Faroe Islands for Road Trips and Central Location
Perfect road trip base. Eysturoy is right in the middle of everything, making it perfect for exploring multiple islands by car. The sub-sea tunnel connections mean you can reach Streymoy, Vágar, and Borðoy easily. I always recommend this island for people who want to see everything without changing locations.
Diverse landscapes. This island has everything from gentle valleys to dramatic peaks. The village of Gjógv has a natural harbor carved into the rocks that looks unreal. Funningur village sits in a valley that feels like Switzerland, and Eiði offers incredible views of the giant sea stacks called Risin og Kellingin.
Hiking variety. The trails here suit everyone from beginners to experts. Slættaratindur is the highest peak in the Faroe Islands at 880 meters, and the hike takes about 2 hours. The ridge walk from Eiði to Gjógv is one of my favorites – it takes all day but the views are incredible.
Traditional village life. Many villages here feel untouched by tourism. I love staying in Funningur because it’s so peaceful, and the locals are super friendly. Elduvík village has only 23 people, but they have a great community spirit and beautiful old wooden church.
Transportation advantages:
- Tunnel connections to 4 different islands
- Regular bus services to all major villages
- Central location for day trips
- Easy access to Tórshavn (45 minutes by car)
Cultural experiences. The village of Norðragøta has an interesting maritime museum, and Syðrugøta has the famous Ólavsøka rowing competition. I watched the traditional Faroese chain dance in several villages here, and it was amazing to see this old tradition still alive.
Village | Special Feature | Distance from Tórshavn |
---|---|---|
Gjógv | Natural rock harbor | 55 km |
Eiði | Sea stack views | 50 km |
Funningur | Peaceful valley | 45 km |
Elduvík | Tiny community | 40 km |
Best Hotels in Eysturoy
Luxury Hotels in Eysturoy
- Serenity by the Sea / 3-BR House / Sea View – This spacious 3-bedroom house offers tranquil seaside living with panoramic ocean views, ideal for families or groups seeking peace and comfort.
- New flat with hot tub - No1 – This modern apartment features a relaxing hot tub and stunning views between mountains and sea, perfect for unwinding after a day of island exploration.
Mid-Range Hotels in Eysturoy
- Experience unique Faroe Islands holiday home by the sea with great views, fully equipped kitchen and reliable Wi-Fi – This fully equipped holiday home combines seaside location with modern conveniences including reliable Wi-Fi, making it perfect for remote workers or digital nomads.
- Authentic Cabin - Unique location - In nature - 2BR – This authentic cabin offers a unique nature experience with 2 bedrooms and is perfectly positioned for exploring Eysturoy’s hiking trails and scenic landscapes.
Budget Hotels in Eysturoy
- The Old Store – This charming converted store provides a historic atmosphere with modern amenities, offering guests a glimpse into traditional Faroese architecture and culture.
- Gøtugjógv Log House – This traditional log house offers cozy accommodations near the famous Gjógv natural harbor, providing easy access to some of Eysturoy’s most photographed locations.
6. Sandoy – Where to Stay in Faroe Islands for Rural Experience
Untouched island life. Sandoy is the most peaceful place I’ve stayed in the Faroe Islands. Only about 1,400 people live on the whole island, and it feels like a different world. The pace of life here is super slow, and I love how you can walk for hours without seeing another person.
Beach paradise. This island has the best beaches in the Faroe Islands, which isn’t saying much, but they’re still beautiful. Sandur village has a long sandy beach where locals collect driftwood and kids play football. The water is freezing, but the views are incredible.
Bird watching heaven. The southern part of the island is amazing for bird watching. I saw thousands of puffins, arctic terns, and other seabirds. The cliffs near Dalur village are where most birds nest, and you can get really close without disturbing them.
Traditional farming. Many families here still farm sheep and grow potatoes in the traditional way. I watched locals dry fish on wooden racks and collect peat for heating. The village of Skálavík has been abandoned since the 1960s, but you can still explore the old houses.
Getting around Sandoy:
- Ferry from Gamlarætt (45 minutes, several daily)
- Limited bus service between villages
- Best explored on foot or by bicycle
- Car rental available in Sandur village
Village character. Each village has its own personality. Sandur is the main town with shops and services. Húsavík has a beautiful old church and peaceful atmosphere. Skopun is where the ferry arrives, and it has great views across to Streymoy island.
Village | Population | Main Attractions |
---|---|---|
Sandur | 600 | Beach, main services |
Húsavík | 400 | Historic church, harbor |
Skopun | 300 | Ferry terminal, views |
Dalur | 50 | Bird watching, cliffs |
Best Hotels in Sandoy
- Luxury cottage in amazing surroundings – This premium cottage offers luxurious accommodations surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, perfect for travelers seeking comfort and tranquility away from the crowds.
- Luxury Cottage in Serene Nature – This traditional summer house provides an authentic Faroese experience with cozy accommodations and easy access to Sandur’s beautiful beach and local attractions.
- Vacation home scenic nature Sandoy beach – This scenic vacation home offers direct access to the beach and spectacular nature views, making it ideal for families or couples wanting a peaceful island retreat.
FAQ about Visiting the Faroe Islands
What’s the best time to visit Faroe Islands?
The best time to visit the Faroe Islands is during summer months from June to August when weather is mildest and days are longest. However, visiting in December offers a chance to see the Northern Lights and experience authentic winter culture with fewer crowds.
How to get to the Faroe Islands easily?
You can get to the Faroe Islands by flying into Vágar Airport, which connects to Copenhagen, Reykjavik, and other European cities. The Atlantic Airways and SAS operate regular flights, making it one of the best places to access these remote islands.
Should I stay on Vágar for airport convenience?
Staying on Vágar makes perfect sense if you want easy airport access and immediate hiking opportunities. The island puts you close to famous attractions like Múlafossur waterfall and gives you a head start on exploring the islands.
What’s included in summer packages for Faroe Islands?
Summer packages of the Faroe Islands typically include flights, hotels in the Faroe Islands, and guided tours to top attractions. Many packages also offer car rentals for self-drive tours of Faroe Islands, letting you explore all 18 islands at your own pace.
Are self-drive tours of Faroe Islands recommended?
Self-drive tours of Faroe Islands give you complete freedom to explore remote villages and hidden gems across the archipelago. I always recommend renting a car because public transport is limited, and driving lets you reach one of the best places for hiking and sightseeing.
Which northern islands should I include in itinerary?
The northern islands like Kalsoy, Kunoy, and Viðoy offer incredible hiking and authentic village experiences away from crowds. You can easily access these from Klaksvík by ferry, making them essential stops for any comprehensive Faroe Islands itinerary.
What Faroe Islands accommodation options are available?
Faroe Islands accommodation ranges from luxury hotels in the Faroe Islands to cozy guesthouses and traditional grass-roof cottages. Finding a place to stay is easier in Tórshavn and Vágar, while smaller islands offer more authentic local experiences.
Does Hilton Garden Inn operate in Faroe Islands?
Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands doesn’t exist, but you’ll find excellent local hotels that offer similar comfort and amenities. The best hotels in the Faroe Islands are often family-run properties that provide authentic experiences and local knowledge.
What tours in Faroe Islands are worth booking?
Tours in the Faroe Islands cover everything from boat trips to Mykines for puffin watching to cultural experiences in traditional villages. I recommend booking helicopter tours to explore remote areas and guided hikes to safely navigate challenging terrain around the islands.
Can I travel around the Faroe Islands in December?
Travel in the Faroe Islands during December is absolutely possible, though weather can be unpredictable with shorter daylight hours. Winter offers unique experiences like Northern Lights viewing and cozy indoor cultural events, making it one of the best times for authentic local experiences.