Faroe Islands: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Ever wondered what the Faroe Islands, a hidden gem in the North Atlantic, have to offer? This group of 18 islands is full of surprises. They boast unique experiences that will amaze you with their stunning landscapes. From historic sites to outdoor fun, this Nordic paradise is packed with things to see and do.

Let's dive into the top 11 best things to do in the Faroe Islands. We'll show you the hidden spots that make this place truly special.

Key Takeaways

• The Faroe Islands are a remote North Atlantic archipelago with 18 craggy islands
• Explore the historic Tinganes area in the capital Tórshavn, home to government offices and top restaurants
• Witness the rugged coastline, fjords, and breathtaking natural scenery throughout the islands
• Visit the National Gallery of the Faroe Islands to admire the works of renowned Faroese artists
• Marvel at the stunning Múlafossur Waterfall, perched on the edge of the North Atlantic Ocean

Explore the Historic Tinganes in Tórshavn

In the heart of Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands, lies the historic Tinganes district. It's a window into the country's Viking past. The red government buildings and small black houses in Reyni district show the island's rich culture.

Walking through the charming streets of historic Tórshavn is a must for visitors. This area dates back to Viking times. It's where you'll find some of the best Faroese restaurants, like Barbara Fish House, Áarstova, and Katrina Christiansen. They serve delicious dishes made from local ingredients.

The Tinganes area is important because it's where the annual parliament assembly, the Ting, has met since the 9th century. Now, the historic buildings are the seat of the Faroese government. They show the island's deep political history.

Exploring historic Tórshavn lets you soak in the charming vibe and the beautiful fjords and mountains views. This lively and beautiful town is perfect for those wanting to dive into the Faroe Islands' unique culture and history.

"Wandering through the charming grass-roofed houses and cozy streets of historic Tórshavn is a must-do activity for any visitor."

Admire the Rugged Coastline and Fjords

The Faroe Islands sit between Norway, Iceland, and Scotland. They offer stunning views, Faroese fjords, and scenic villages on cliffs. These islands are small and close to the ocean. This makes them ideal for Faroe Islands hiking to see the beautiful fjords and gorges.

Saksun fjord is a must-see for its beauty. It's a narrow waterway surrounded by high cliffs. The village of Saksun has only 14 people, offering a peaceful experience in nature.

Hiking here lets you see different landscapes, like waterfalls and mountains. Popular trails include the Gongutúrur/Hvithamar trail and the Lake Leitisvatn – Trælanípa trail. The Gongutúrur/Hvithamar trail is about an hour round trip. The Lake Leitisvatn – Trælanípa trail takes 2 hours and costs 200 DKK per person.

"The Faroe Islands are a true haven for nature lovers, with their dramatic Faroe Islands coastline, cascading waterfalls, and captivating fjords that never fail to leave a lasting impression."

Looking for stunning views, peaceful hikes, or a chance to explore the North Atlantic's wonders? The Faroe Islands are perfect for adventurous travelers.

Visit the National Gallery of the Faroe Islands

Art lovers should not miss the National Gallery of the Faroe Islands in Gundadalur. It's a place where you can see the best of Faroese art. You'll get to see how the country's art reflects its stunning nature and culture.

The gallery is famous for the works of Samal Joensen-Mikines, considered the top Faroese painter. His art shows the beauty of the Faroe Islands and the strength of its people. You'll also see the uplifting art of Hansina Iversen, the deep thoughts in Sigrun Gunnarsdóttir's art, and the lively pop art of Edvard Fuglø.

Walking through the gallery, you'll see how diverse and deep Faroese art is. You'll find everything from big seascapes to small, personal art. Each piece shows a different view of the islands' beauty, culture, and creative spirit.

"The National Gallery of the Faroe Islands is a true celebration of the islands' artistic brilliance, showcasing the remarkable talent and vision of its most renowned painters."

Visiting the National Gallery is a great choice for art fans or anyone wanting to dive into the Faroe Islands' culture. You'll be moved, amazed, and taken away by the incredible art. Each piece shows the lasting impact of art in this special place.

Marvel at Múlafossur Waterfall

Get ready to be amazed by Múlafossur Waterfall, a stunning sight in the Faroe Islands. This waterfall falls dramatically from a high cliff into the North Atlantic Ocean. It's a sight you won't forget.

In the village of Gásadalur, Múlafossur Waterfall shows off the Faroe Islands' wild beauty. The waterfall's strong flow, surrounded by mountains and cliffs, is mesmerizing. The sound and sight of the water hitting the sea will stay with you.

Exploring the Gásadalur Village

To see Múlafossur Waterfall, head to Gásadalur village, 80 meters above sea level. Once isolated, now connected by a modern road, it's easier to get there. This change has made it simpler for visitors to visit.

Gásadalur is charming, with houses topped with grass and stunning mountains and coastline. It's the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of Múlafossur Waterfall, which drops about 80 meters into the sea.

"Witnessing the powerful flow of water plunging into the sea is a breathtaking experience, with the tiny village of Gásadalur providing a stunning backdrop to this natural wonder."

Whether you're hiking, taking photos, or just enjoying the view, visiting Múlafossur Waterfall is a must. It's a key highlight of the Faroe Islands, showing off their natural beauty and power.

Relax at Vágsbotnur Marina

The Vágsbotnur Marina is a peaceful spot along the Tórshavn waterfront. It was once a fishing harbor but now it's a lively place. Here, you can enjoy local food and amazing views in the refurbished warehouses.

Walking through the marina, you'll see Faroese fishermen selling their catch. The ocean breeze and the sound of waves make it a calming place. It's perfect for taking a break and enjoying life in the Faroe Islands.

Relax in a cozy café or restaurant and have a meal or drink while watching the boats. The Vágsbotnur Marina shows the Faroese way of life. It blends the sea and land, showing off the island's fishing history and lively food scene.

"Sitting at the Vágsbotnur Marina, sipping a warm cup of coffee and watching the local fishermen unload their catch, is a truly authentic and peaceful experience that captures the essence of the Faroese lifestyle."

If you're looking for a quiet spot or want to enjoy local tastes, the Vágsbotnur Marina is a top spot in Tórshavn. It offers unforgettable sights, sounds, and flavors of the Faroe Islands.

Hike to Lake Sørvágsvatn

Lake Sørvágsvatn in the Faroe Islands is a sight to behold. It's a freshwater lake that looks like it's floating above the sea. Hiking to the Trælanípan viewpoint gives you an amazing view of this illusion. You can also take a kayaking tour to see the lake up close.

Exploring the Sørvágsvatn Lake Trail

The hike to the Sørvágsvatn viewpoint is a favorite among visitors. It takes about an hour to get there and back. At the Trælanípan cliff, you're 142 meters above the North Atlantic Ocean. From here, Lake Sørvágsvatn looks like it's floating above the sea.

Kayaking on the lake is a special way to see it. As you paddle, you'll see the beautiful Faroese mountains and the lake meeting the ocean at Bøsdalafossur waterfall.

Whether you hike or kayak, Sørvágsvatn Lake is a must-see in the Faroe Islands. Its optical illusion and beautiful views will leave a lasting impression.

Explore Klaksvík, the Fishing Hub

Klaksvík is on Borðoy Island and is the second-largest town in the Faroe Islands. It's the heart of the fishing industry here. Walking through the town shows you the importance of fishing to the economy and culture.

Don't miss Fríða Kaffihús, a cozy café in Klaksvík. It's perfect for enjoying local flavors and feeling the town's lively vibe. Enjoy a hot coffee, try Faroese pastries, and look at the harbor and mountains.

Klaksvík's maritime heritage and close community are truly striking. It's a place where culture, nature, and fresh seafood come together. Klaksvík is a key spot in the Faroe Islands you can't miss.

Faroe Islands: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

For a top-notch dining experience, book a table at KOKS, a two Michelin-starred spot in the Faroe Islands. It's famous for its Nordic cuisine made with local ingredients in a beautiful setting. Eating at KOKS is a special treat that lets guests enjoy the best of Faroese culinary artistry.

KOKS sits in Leynavatn, a scenic spot in the Faroe Islands. The menu highlights the islands' natural gifts, with dishes made from land and sea. Guests get a tasting menu that brings out the unique tastes and methods of Nordic gastronomy.

"At KOKS, we aim to offer a dining experience that honors the Faroese lifestyle and the amazing produce around us. Our guests will go on a journey through the Faroe Islands, where each dish has its own story."

- Poul Andrias Ziska, Head Chef at KOKS

The place's secluded spot and cozy atmosphere make dining there exclusive and engaging. With only a few seats, getting a table at KOKS is a big deal, making it a top spot for Faroe Islands fine dining lovers.

If you love food or just want a special dining experience, KOKS is a must in the Faroe Islands. This two Michelin-starred restaurant opens up the world of Faroese cuisine and the stunning nature around it.

Join a Boat Tour

Exploring the Faroe Islands by boat is a great way to see their stunning beauty. You'll see amazing sights like the Drangarnir sea-stacks and the Vestmanna Sea Cliffs. Experienced captains share stories about the landmarks, history, and nature, making the trip unforgettable.

The Faroe Islands are made up of 18 islands in the North Atlantic. The coastline and fjords are best seen from the water. Boat tours let you get close to the Faroese nature experiences. You'll see the islands' geological wonders from a new angle.

"The boat tour was the highlight of my trip to the Faroe Islands. Seeing the Drangarnir sea-stacks and the Vestmanna Sea Cliffs from the water was truly awe-inspiring. The guides were knowledgeable and passionate, making the experience even more engaging and memorable."

Boat tours are perfect for sightseeing, wildlife watching, or just enjoying the calm waters. There are many tour options, from short trips to full-day adventures. You can choose what you like best.

If you're going to the Faroe Islands, don't forget to take a boat tour. It's a memorable way to see the natural beauty of this special place.

Taste Fresh Sourdough Bread

No trip to the Faroe Islands is complete without trying the warm, fresh sourdough bread and pastries from Breyðvirkið in Tórshavn. This bakery is run by two young women and is known for its quality organic products. They show the islands' love for handmade baking.

Breyðvirkið makes their own flour and gets grains from local farmers. They focus on regenerative farming and help the local economy. Their sourdough includes adaptogens, mushrooms, and more to make it healthier and tastier.

The owner, Aimee, thinks a healthy gut is key to feeling good. She adds things like hibiscus and elderberry to her Faroese sourdough bread and Faroese pastries to help fight off illness during the pandemic.

Aimee says don't be scared to try new things with sourdough. She adds a bit of adaptogens like chaga and mushroom powder to her dough. She changes how much she uses based on the season and what she wants to achieve.

Going to Breyðvirkið and eating their Faroese sourdough bread and Faroese pastries is a great way to enjoy the local Faroese bakery scene. It lets you taste the unique flavors of the Faroe Islands.

Discover the Village of Viðareiði

The village of Viðareiði is on the northernmost tip of the Faroe Islands. It shows you the remote and untouched parts of this archipelago. When you get there, make sure to bring your camera for the stunning sights.

Majestic Mountain Vistas

The village is surrounded by the tall Malinsfjall mountain, which is 750 meters high. Near it, the Villingadalsfjall mountain is even taller, at 841 meters. These mountains make the village look amazing and invite you to explore the trails and enjoy the views.

Coastal Charm

The village church is a beautiful spot by the coast. It shows off traditional architecture in the wild Faroese landscape. Walking through the streets, you'll see old houses and feel the calm of this remote place.

Viðareiði has about 350 people and is the northernmost village in the Faroe Islands. It lets visitors experience the untouched beauty and culture of the island. You can hike, enjoy the coast, or just relax in this peaceful place. Viðareiði is a top spot for those who love exploring the Faroe Islands' hidden gems.

"Exploring Viðareiði, the northernmost village in the Faroe Islands, is a truly unforgettable experience. The stunning mountain vistas and captivating coastline create a sense of awe and wonder that lingers long after your visit."

Conclusion

The Faroe Islands are a treasure trove of unique experiences. You'll find historic sites, stunning natural beauty, and world-class food and adventures. By exploring the top 11 things to do, you dive into the islands' raw beauty, rich culture, and warm welcome.

Looking for breathtaking landscapes, cultural experiences, or delicious food? The Faroe Islands have it all. Visit Tórshavn, the lively capital, and see the Múlafossur Waterfall. Don't miss the charming Viðareiði fishing village. With at least 4-5 days to spend, you can fully experience the rugged beauty and wonders of the Faroe Islands.

So, start planning your trip to this Nordic gem. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Faroe Islands. Enjoy hiking, boat tours, fresh local food, and historic sites. This place will leave a lasting impression and make you want to come back again and again.