The Faroe Islands left me completely speechless. One minute I was hiking along emerald cliffs at Sørvágsvatn Lake, watching waves crash hundreds of feet below, and the next I was surrounded by puffins waddling around like they owned the place. Even the drive to Gjógv village had me pulling over every five minutes because the scenery was just that wild.
The things to do in the Faroe Islands are unlike anything else in Europe, trust me. After chasing waterfalls that flow upwards in the wind at Múlafossur and watching the sunset paint those grass roofed houses in golden light, I get why photographers are obsessed with this place. Here are my favorite spots that showcase exactly why these islands belong on your bucket list.
Best Things to Do in the Faroe Islands
Looking for the coolest things to do in the Faroe Islands? Visit Klaksvík, explore the breathtaking village of Gásadalur, admire the scenic beauty of Saksun, wander through the charming capital Tórshavn, and take a trip to the stunning island of Mykines. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or adventure, here are the top attractions to visit in the Faroe Islands.
1. Klaksvík
Klaksvík is where dramatic fjords meet small-town charm, and it’s one of those places that instantly feels like a local favorite. Located on Borðoy Island, it’s the second-largest town in the Faroe Islands, but it feels intimate, with colorful homes tucked between steep mountain walls. Start your visit with a hike—Hálsur Trail gives you killer views of Kalsoy and nearby islands. If you’re lucky with the weather, the surrounding peaks look almost surreal.
On my last visit, I hopped on a boat tour to Kalsoy and got a front-row seat to the wild coastline. For something slower-paced, check out Klaksvíkar Kirkja, the modern-style church that blends perfectly with the rugged backdrop. Fishing is a big part of local life, and you can even try it yourself with a guided excursion. Whether you’re outdoorsy or just love quiet places with a view, Klaksvík is a solid intro to the islands’ north.
2. Gásadalur
Tiny but unforgettable, Gásadalur is tucked into the western edge of Vágar Island and feels completely untouched by time. Just getting here used to require a mountain hike—now there’s a tunnel, but it still feels like a hidden world. The star of the show is Múlafossur Waterfall, which plunges off a cliff straight into the sea with the kind of drama you’d expect in a movie scene.
I showed up here right before sunset, and it was surreal—gold light, ocean mist, and puffins swooping overhead. The village itself has under 20 residents, but the peace and views are next level. Hike the trail from Bøur for insane photo ops, or just hang by the cliffs and watch the Atlantic crash below. Whether you’re into landscape photography or slow travel, Gásadalur hits all the right notes without trying too hard.
3. Saksun
Saksun is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time—no filters needed. Located on Streymoy Island, this tiny village is known for its turf-roofed houses, dramatic cliffs, and the dreamy tidal lagoon that changes shape with the ocean. When the tide is out, you can actually walk across the seabed. Wild, right?
I wandered into the Dúvugarðar farm museum, and suddenly I was learning about Faroese life from centuries ago, surrounded by sheep and stone walls. Even the silence here feels special. You won’t find shops or restaurants—just raw beauty, traditional homes, and the kind of calm that resets your brain. Saksun is lowkey one of the most unique spots in the Faroe Islands, especially if you’re into solitude, history, or just a seriously good walk.
4. Tórshavn
Don’t let its size fool you—Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands, packs more culture and character than cities twice its size. It’s where Viking history, design-forward cafes, and sea views all meet on a strollable grid. Start your day in Tinganes, the old town, where red timber buildings with grass roofs line narrow alleys. It feels like a movie set, but it’s real—and still the seat of government.
Last time I was here, I had fermented lamb at Áarstova, followed by Faroese beer at a tiny pub that filled up fast. The city also hosts the Nordic House, a sleek cultural center where you might catch anything from poetry to indie concerts. Whether you’re after museums, food, or shopping, Tórshavn gives you a taste of everything modern while staying close to its roots. It’s the perfect base between hikes and ferry trips.
5. Mykines
If you’re chasing puffins, head to Mykines—this island is their kingdom. It’s the westernmost point in the Faroe Islands and feels like another planet. The hike to the Mykines Lighthouse is the big draw, and while the wind might test your balance, the payoff is unreal. Cliffs drop into the ocean, puffins nest in the grass, and you’ll be stopping every few minutes to snap a photo.
I took the ferry over in the morning and ended up staying until the last boat out. There’s something about the quiet here—just wind, waves, and birds. The trail cuts across narrow ridges, and every angle looks like a desktop wallpaper. If you want nature at its rawest, Mykines is it. Just pack layers and wear real hiking boots. This island doesn’t do casual strolls—but it rewards every bit of effort.
6. Eiði
Eiði might not be as hyped as other Faroese towns, but don’t skip it—it’s got a quiet power. Located on Eysturoy, this fishing village is known for the Risin og Kellingin sea stacks, two towering rock formations tied to a local legend. You can hike to a nearby viewpoint for a solid look at them, especially dramatic when the waves are rough.
I ended up here on a whim during a road trip and was blown away by how peaceful it felt. There’s an old stone church, Viking-era ruins, and views that stretch all the way out to the North Atlantic. It’s also a great base for fishing or hiking if you want something less crowded than the main tourist routes. For a mix of myth, nature, and Faroese village life, Eiði delivers without trying to impress.
7. Sandoy
Sandoy is underrated and that’s exactly why you should go. It’s one of the few places in the Faroe Islands with sandy beaches, and the slower pace here makes it ideal for a laid-back day. The ferry ride from Gamlaraett only takes about 30 minutes, but you’ll feel miles away from the usual tourist trail.
I spent an afternoon kayaking along the coast, then ended the day eating lunch in the village of Sandur, watching the waves roll in. You’ll find old legends tied to this island, especially stories about trolls and hidden people, which locals love to share. There’s even a small art museum showcasing Faroese artists. If you’re looking for a chill day packed with culture, local stories, and quiet nature, Sandoy is one of the best-kept secrets in the archipelago.
8. Kalsoy
Nicknamed “The Flute” because of its narrow shape and long tunnels, Kalsoy is a dramatic slice of the Faroe Islands that rewards anyone willing to make the trip. After a short ferry ride from Klaksvík, you’ll drive through dark, one-lane tunnels before arriving in Mikladalur, home to the famous Seal Woman statue—one of the most haunting pieces of local folklore.
What stuck with me most was the hike to Kallur Lighthouse. It’s not long, but the cliffside trail and insane views made it one of my favorite moments in the Faroes. Fog rolled in fast when I went, and suddenly I was walking through clouds. It felt like a dream. If you want epic landscapes and an island full of mystery and mood, Kalsoy is 100% worth the detour. Just double-check ferry schedules—it’s easy to lose track of time out there.
9. Vágar
Vágar is packed with some of the Faroe Islands’ most iconic spots—and it’s incredibly easy to explore. The showstopper is Lake Leitisvatn, where a short but steep hike gives you the optical illusion of a lake floating high above the sea. It’s wild in photos but even better in person. Trust me, the wind will try to knock you over, so hang on tight.
I also made the short drive to Bøur and Gásadalur, stopping every few minutes to take in those coastal views. Even if you’ve seen a hundred photos of Múlafossur Waterfall, standing there as it spills into the Atlantic feels surreal. If you only have time for one island and want variety—cliffs, hikes, waterfalls, and wide-open views—Vágar is your move. It’s also home to the airport, so it’s the perfect place to start or end your trip.
10. Suðuroy
Suðuroy feels like the rebel of the Faroe Islands—wilder, less visited, and full of character. Getting there takes a two-hour ferry from Tórshavn, but once you step off, it’s worth every minute. This southern island has dramatic cliffs, windswept hikes, and villages that feel frozen in time.
I joined a local chain dance in Tvøroyri one night and it was the best cultural moment of my trip—everyone knew the steps except me, but no one cared. During the day, I hiked to Beinisvørð, where the views were so intense I had to sit down and take it in. If you want the Faroe Islands without the crowds, Suðuroy hits that sweet spot between raw nature and deep-rooted tradition. Just make sure to check the ferry schedule—you won’t want to miss your ride back.
11. Fugloy
Fugloy is about as remote as it gets in the Faroes. This tiny island sits at the northeastern edge of the archipelago, and getting there involves either a helicopter ride or a slow ferry. But that isolation? It’s part of the magic. When I visited, I didn’t see another tourist all day.
The main draw here is the birdlife. Puffins, guillemots, and razorbills nest along the cliffs, and the hiking trails bring you right to their turf. There’s also a lighthouse on the eastern tip that feels like the edge of the world. For anyone into photography, this place is a dream. Just bring snacks—there aren’t many shops, and everything runs on island time. Fugloy isn’t about checking off sights—it’s about disappearing into nature and realizing you’re somewhere truly rare.
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12. Nólsoy
Nólsoy sits just a short ferry ride from Tórshavn, but it has a totally different energy. With no cars and only one real road, life moves slower here. It’s the kind of place where locals wave to you just because you showed up—and that’s not something you get everywhere.
I came over for a day trip and ended up staying for a concert at a tiny pub. Live music, Faroese beer, and a crowd that felt like family. Earlier, I hiked to the Nólsoy Lighthouse, which takes a couple of hours each way. The trail rolls over hills, past sheep and sea views, and the lighthouse itself is striking against the open sky. Whether you’re up for a relaxed day or a full-on hike, Nólsoy delivers big island charm in a small package.
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