Faroe Islands
THE QUICK VERDICT
Updated April 2026
Choose Faroe Islands if you want a North Atlantic outpost — basalt cliffs, grass-roof villages, sub-sea tunnel roundabouts, puffins on Mykines, and weather that changes every 20 minutes.
- Best for
- Sørvágsvatn cliff-illusion lake, Mykines puffins, Saksun turf-roof hamlet, Gásadalur waterfall, KOKS dinner
- Best months
- Jun–Sep
- Budget anchor
- $230/day mid-range
- Worth a look
- Atlantic Airways now runs direct from Edinburgh and Copenhagen — no Iceland or Denmark connection required
18 volcanic islands in the North Atlantic between Iceland and Norway — basalt cliffs falling sheer into the sea, grass-roofed villages, and sheep that outnumber humans 2:1 (the name literally means "Sheep Islands"). Sub-sea tunnels with roundabouts in the middle of the ocean connect the main islands. Sørvágsvatn lake-over-ocean optical illusion at Trælanípan, Múlafossur waterfall plunging off the cliff at Gásadalur, the grass-roof village of Saksun, and puffin colonies on Mykines (Jun-Aug). Self-governing within the Kingdom of Denmark — but NOT in Schengen.
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Tours & Experiences
Bookable tours, activities, and day trips in Faroe Islands
Where to Stay
Compare hotels and rentals in Faroe Islands
📍 Points of Interest
At a Glance
- Pop.
- 54K (across 18 islands)
- Timezone
- Faroe
- Dial
- +298
- Emergency
- 112
The name Faroe Islands means "Sheep Islands" in Old Norse — and the sheep outnumber the entire human population of ~54,000 by a ratio of roughly 2:1
The Faroes are self-governing within the Kingdom of Denmark, with their own language (Faroese), currency (Faroese króna, pegged 1:1 to the Danish krone), parliament, and even their own national football team
Sørvágsvatn lake appears to float dramatically above the ocean from one angle — a famous optical illusion caused by cliffs that hide the lake's true shore from the viewpoint at Trælanípan
Tórshavn, the capital, is one of the smallest capital cities in the world by population, with around 22,000 residents, yet has a thriving restaurant scene and a colourful old quarter called Tinganes
18 volcanic islands are connected by sub-sea tunnels — some with fully functioning roundabouts under the North Atlantic Ocean — and by ferry and helicopter services to the outer islands
Despite sitting at the same latitude as Stavanger, Norway, the Faroes never freeze in winter (3-5°C) thanks to the Gulf Stream, and rarely exceed 13°C in summer — but winds and horizontal rain are the real constants
Top Sights
Sørvágsvatn / Trælanípan — Lake Over the Ocean
🌿The most iconic hike in the Faroes leads to a clifftop viewpoint where Sørvágsvatn lake appears to hang suspended above the sea far below. A 5 km return trail from Sørvágur, the illusion is created by basalt cliffs that conceal the lake's true edge. Absolutely breathtaking on a clear day.
Múlafossur Waterfall, Gásadalur
🌿The postcard image of the Faroe Islands — a slender waterfall tumbling directly off a cliff edge into the ocean alongside the tiny village of Gásadalur. Accessible since 2004 via a mountain tunnel. Best viewed from the hillside above the village or from a boat.
Saksun — Grass-Roof Village
🗼One of the most photogenic villages in the North Atlantic, with turf-roofed farmhouses clustered around a tidal lagoon that becomes an emerald lake at low tide. The church dating to 1858 and the surrounding mountain amphitheatre complete an unforgettable scene.
Mykines — Puffin Island
🌿A remote outer island accessible by ferry or helicopter, where Atlantic puffins nest in the cliff grass within arm's reach of the walking trail from June to August. The hike to the Mykines lighthouse crosses a dramatic suspension bridge over a sea stack. Numbers are limited — book the ferry well in advance.
Tindhólmur & Drangarnir Sea Stacks Hike
🌿One of the most dramatic hikes in Europe — a permit-required trail along the cliffs above Vágar overlooking the pointed spires of Tindhólmur island and the arch of Drangarnir sea stack rising from the Atlantic. The route crosses private farmland and permits must be arranged in advance.
Kallur Lighthouse, Kalsoy
📌A rewarding out-and-back hike on the slender island of Kalsoy, reached by a short ferry crossing from Klaksvík. The trail climbs to a clifftop lighthouse with views over the jagged northern tip of the island and across to the surrounding archipelago. The ferry schedule dictates timing — plan carefully.
Tórshavn Tinganes Old Quarter
📌The old peninsula at the heart of Tórshavn is a cluster of medieval red-painted warehouses with black turf roofs, connected by narrow cobbled lanes overlooking the harbour. This is where the Faroese parliament, the Løgting, originally met. An intimate and historic contrast to the dramatic open landscape outside the capital.
Off the Beaten Path
Gjógv — The Gorge Village
A small village on the northern tip of Eysturoy where a natural gorge in the cliff face serves as a natural harbour for fishing boats. Surrounding peaks, a nearby waterfall, and the colourful village are all within a short walk of the car park.
Most tourists drive past the sign — those who stop find one of the most dramatic village settings in the entire archipelago, with almost no other visitors even in peak season.
Kirkjubøur — Viking Farm Settlement
The oldest continuously inhabited farmhouse in the world is believed to be here — the Roykstovan, still occupied by the same family for over 900 years. Alongside it stand the ruins of Magnus Cathedral (13th century) and the medieval St Olav's Church.
A 20-minute drive from Tórshavn, Kirkjubøur is the medieval heart of the Faroes and one of the most historically layered sites in the North Atlantic — yet many visitors never leave the capital.
Eiðisvatn Lake Loop, Eiðis
A spectacular ridge walk above the village of Eiðis on Eysturoy, tracing a narrow path between two lakes — Eiðisvatn and the sea far below — with panoramic views across multiple islands on a clear day.
Less famous than the Trælanípan trail but arguably more dramatic, this hike rewards those willing to drive slightly further north and tackle steeper terrain.
Vestmanna Sea Cliffs Boat Tour
A guided boat tour through sea caves and beneath towering bird-colony basalt cliffs on the west coast of Streymoy. Thousands of guillemots, kittiwakes, and razorbills nest on the ledges. The boats thread through narrow cave entrances.
The cliffs at Vestmanna rival anything in Iceland or Norway but see a fraction of the visitors. Seabird colonies at close range from a small open boat is one of the most exhilarating wildlife experiences in Europe.
KOKS Restaurant (or its successors)
The Faroes produced one of the world's most acclaimed restaurants with KOKS, which earned and retained two Michelin stars with a hyper-local tasting menu built on fermented lamb, dried fish, seaweed, and foraged herbs. Follow current Faroese fine dining — the tradition continues.
The Faroese culinary scene is one of the most surprising in the world for such a small, remote nation. A meal here — whether at KOKS or the new generation of restaurants following in its wake — is unlike anything else.
Climate & Best Time to Go
The Faroe Islands have a hyper-oceanic climate — remarkably mild for their latitude but relentlessly wet, windy, and foggy. The cliché "four seasons in one day" was practically invented here. Summer highs rarely exceed 13°C, winter lows rarely drop below 3°C. Rain, drizzle, and sideways wind are not exceptional events — they are the baseline. June and July bring near-"white nights" with 19-20 hours of usable light but rarely clear skies. Pack waterproofs and windproofs regardless of season.
Spring
March - May39-50°F
4-10°C
Snowcapped peaks persist into April on the higher islands. Days lengthen rapidly and the grass turns vivid green by late May. Wind and rain remain constant but occasional clear spells reveal the landscape at its most dramatic.
Summer
June - August48-55°F
9-13°C
The warmest and lightest season, with long evenings stretching near midnight in June. Puffins are on Mykines June through August. Fog is frequent and wind is constant — but green hillsides and accessible ferries make this the best season to visit.
Autumn
September - November43-52°F
6-11°C
Days shorten fast and autumn storms build from October. Heather and dying bracken turn the hillsides amber and rust. Hiking is still possible in September. By November, gales frequently cancel ferry services.
Winter
December - February37-43°F
3-6°C
Mild but extremely stormy, dark, and wet. Only about 5-6 hours of grey light per day in December. The islands are atmospheric and devoid of tourists, but weather can strand you on outer islands for days. Northern lights are occasionally visible on rare clear nights.
Best Time to Visit
May through September offers the best combination of long daylight hours, accessible ferry services, and the best odds of clear weather — though "best odds" still means preparing for rain and wind. June to August is peak puffin season on Mykines and brings near-continuous daylight in June. July and August are busiest. May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices with very similar conditions.
Spring (April - May)
Crowds: Low to moderateRapidly lengthening days, vivid green hillsides emerging from winter, and fewer tourists. April can still see snowcapped peaks. May is excellent — ferries operating, puffins arriving, and the landscape at its greenest before summer visitors arrive.
Pros
- + Very few tourists
- + Lower accommodation prices
- + Long evenings by late May
- + Dramatic snow-on-green landscape
Cons
- − Ferry schedules not yet at full frequency
- − Some mountain trails still wet and slippery
- − Puffins arrive late May on Mykines — not guaranteed early April
Summer (June - August)
Crowds: High in July-AugustThe peak season, with near-midnight light in June, puffins on Mykines, all ferries operating, and the warmest temperatures of the year (still only 11-13°C). The most popular and most expensive period. Book accommodation and Mykines ferry months in advance.
Pros
- + Longest days (nearly 20 hours of usable light in June)
- + Puffins on Mykines June-August
- + All ferry and helicopter routes running
- + Warmest and least stormy conditions
Cons
- − Accommodation books out months in advance
- − Mykines ferry requires booking weeks ahead
- − Highest prices of the year
- − Fog still frequent despite being "summer"
Autumn (September - October)
Crowds: Low to moderate in September, very low by OctoberPuffins depart by late August but the landscape turns amber and rust. September is still excellent with manageable crowds and lower prices. By October, gales are frequent and outer island ferry services become less reliable.
Pros
- + Lower prices
- + Fewer tourists
- + Dramatic autumn colours on the hillsides
- + September still very hikeable
Cons
- − Puffins gone after August
- − Outer island ferries less reliable
- − Days shortening rapidly
- − Storm risk increasing from October
Winter (November - March)
Crowds: Very lowDark, stormy, and remote — the Faroes in winter are not for the faint-hearted but offer dramatic authenticity. Occasional northern lights on clear nights. Ólavsøka festival is in summer; winter is for those who genuinely want to experience island isolation.
Pros
- + Cheapest time of year
- + Completely authentic local experience
- + Occasional northern lights
- + No tourist crowds at any sight
Cons
- − Only 5-6 hours of grey daylight in December
- − Frequent storm cancellations of ferries and flights
- − Many guesthouses and some restaurants closed
- − Outdoor hiking severely limited by wind and wet
🎉 Festivals & Events
Ólavsøka (Faroese National Day)
July 28-29The most important event in the Faroese calendar, celebrating the feast day of Saint Olaf and marking the opening of the Løgting parliament. Tórshavn fills with parades, traditional Faroese chain dancing, rowing races in the harbour, and a huge street party. Book accommodation months in advance.
G! Festival
JulyAn internationally acclaimed outdoor music festival held in the small village of Syðrugøta on Eysturoy, with a dramatic clifftop setting over the sea. Past performers have included major international acts. A uniquely Faroese combination of world-class music and extraordinary landscape.
Summartónar (Summer Sounds)
June - JulyA classical and contemporary chamber music festival held in churches and historic buildings across the islands, celebrating Faroese culture and music in some of the archipelago's most beautiful spaces.
Safety Breakdown
Very Safe
out of 100
The Faroe Islands are one of the safest destinations in the world for tourists. Crime is essentially negligible. The real hazard is the environment — cliff edges with no guardrails, sudden fog, high winds, and cold North Atlantic seas. Respect the weather and the landscape, and you will be fine.
Things to Know
- •Weather can shift from clear to zero-visibility fog within minutes — always carry full waterproofs and an extra layer even on sunny starts
- •Hiking permits are required for certain trails that cross private farmland, including the Tindhólmur / Drangarnir route — check visitfaroeislands.com and arrange permits before arriving at the trailhead
- •Livestock have absolute right of way on all roads and paths — slow or stop for sheep, never honk
- •Driving through fog in mountain tunnels and on single-track cliff roads requires patience — pull into passing places and never rush
- •Ferry and helicopter services to outer islands (Mykines, Kalsoy) can be cancelled with little notice due to wind and sea conditions — build flexible days into your itinerary
- •Stand well back from cliff edges — there are no safety fences at most viewpoints and wind gusts at cliff tops can be sudden and powerful
Natural Hazards
Emergency Numbers
All Emergencies (Faroe Islands)
112
Police
114
Coast Guard
112
Costs & Currency
Where the money goes
USD per dayBackpacker = hostel dorm + street food + public transit. Mid-range = 3-star hotel + neighbourhood restaurants + transit cards. Luxury = 4/5-star + fine dining + taxis. How we calibrate these numbers →
Quick cost estimate
Customize per category →Estimates based on regional averages. Flight prices vary by season and airline.
budget
$85-120
Hostel dorm, self-catering from supermarket, rental car shared among group, free hiking
mid-range
$180-280
Guesthouse or B&B, restaurant dinners, solo rental car, ferry day trips
luxury
$400+
Boutique hotel or private cottage, fine dining (KOKS-level), guided tours, helicopter flights
Typical Costs
| Item | Local | USD |
|---|---|---|
| AccommodationHostel dorm bed | DKK 250-450 | $36-65 |
| AccommodationGuesthouse or B&B (double) | DKK 900-1,500 | $130-215 |
| AccommodationBoutique hotel or private cottage | DKK 1,800-3,500 | $260-505 |
| FoodSupermarket self-catering (dinner) | DKK 60-100 | $9-14 |
| FoodLunch at cafe or bakery | DKK 90-150 | $13-22 |
| FoodDinner at a restaurant | DKK 200-400 | $29-58 |
| FoodFine dining tasting menu | DKK 1,200-2,000 | $175-290 |
| TransportRental car (per day, basic) | DKK 500-900 | $72-130 |
| TransportSub-sea tunnel toll (per crossing) | DKK 75-100 | $11-14 |
| TransportMykines ferry (return) | DKK 100-200 | $14-29 |
| TransportHelicopter to outer island (one way) | DKK 145-360 | $21-52 |
| AttractionsTrælanípan / Sørvágsvatn hiking permit | DKK 200-300 | $29-43 |
| AttractionsVestmanna sea cliffs boat tour | DKK 400-500 | $58-72 |
| AttractionsAirport bus (Vágar to Tórshavn) | DKK 90 | $13 |
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- •Shop at the Bonus supermarket (yellow logo) or SMS centre in Tórshavn for affordable self-catering — groceries are pricey but a fridge at your accommodation saves significantly on meals
- •Share a rental car across a group — solo driving is the single biggest daily expense
- •Book Atlantic Airways flights to Copenhagen 6-8 weeks in advance for significantly lower fares
- •Use the subsidised helicopter (DKK 145-360) instead of hiring a private boat charter to reach outer islands
- •Camp at official campsites in summer — wild camping with landowner permission is possible and campsites charge DKK 100-150/night
- •Hike without a guide — most of the famous trails (Saksun, Gjógv, Kallur Lighthouse) are well-marked and free to walk
- •Picnic at viewpoints — the scenery is the main attraction and a packed lunch from a supermarket eaten overlooking the Atlantic is genuinely one of the Faroes' great pleasures
- •Travel in May or September for slightly lower accommodation prices while keeping good daylight and weather odds
Faroese króna (pegged 1:1 to Danish krone)
Code: DKK / FOK
The Faroese króna (FOK) is pegged exactly 1:1 to the Danish krone (DKK) and both currencies circulate freely throughout the islands. Danish krone banknotes and coins are accepted everywhere. Important: Faroese banknotes are not legal tender outside the Faroe Islands — exchange any Faroese notes back to Danish krone before departing, as they cannot be used or exchanged abroad. ATMs are widely available in Tórshavn and at Vágar airport. Card payment is accepted almost everywhere, including small villages and ferry ticket offices.
Payment Methods
Card payment is universally accepted across the Faroe Islands — even on ferries, in small villages, and at trailhead parking machines. Carry a small amount of cash for the very occasional market stall or rural cafe that may prefer it. Contactless payments work in virtually all shops and restaurants.
Tipping Guide
Tipping is not expected or culturally ingrained in the Faroes. Prices are set to include full service. A small tip (rounding up or leaving 5-10%) for exceptional service will be warmly received but is never obligatory.
No tipping expected. Round up to the nearest krone if you wish.
A tip of DKK 50-100 per person for a guide or boat tour operator is a kind gesture and appreciated given the low visitor volumes.
Taxis are metered and tipping is not expected. Rounding up is a courtesy but not required.
No tipping culture for hotel staff. Leave the room tidy — Faroese hospitality is genuine and not transactional.
How to Get There
✈️ Airports
Vágar Airport(FAE)
45 km west of Tórshavn on Vágar islandAirport bus (340 Express) runs to Tórshavn in ~1 hr for DKK 90. Taxis are expensive at DKK 500-700. Rental car desks are at the airport — collecting a car here is the most efficient option. The airport is on Vágar island, connected to Streymoy (Tórshavn) via a sub-sea tunnel with a DKK 95 toll.
✈️ Search flights to FAE🚌 Bus Terminals
Smyril Line Ferry — Tórshavn Harbour
The Smyril Line operates a weekly car ferry service from Hirtshals, Denmark to Tórshavn, with a stop at Seyðisfjörður, Iceland on some sailings. The crossing from Hirtshals takes approximately 36 hours to reach Tórshavn. A popular option for travellers combining the Faroes with Iceland. Cabins, restaurants, and vehicle transport available. Departure schedules are seasonal — check smyrilline.com for current timetables.
Getting Around
A rental car is effectively essential for exploring the Faroe Islands beyond Tórshavn. The main islands are connected by an impressive network of sub-sea tunnels (some with roundabouts beneath the ocean), toll roads, and bridges. Ferries and a subsidised helicopter service reach the outer islands. Public buses exist but schedules are infrequent outside the capital.
Rental Car
DKK 500-900/day (~$72-130) including insuranceThe best and most practical way to see the Faroes. All major islands connected to Streymoy are accessible by road, bridge, or sub-sea tunnel. Tunnels between islands charge a toll of DKK 75-100. Drive on the right. Roads are well-maintained but many are single-track with passing places in mountain sections.
Best for: Exploring all main islands independently, reaching remote villages and trailheads
Strandfaraskip Landsins (National Ferries)
DKK 100-200 per crossing depending on routeThe Faroese national ferry company operates services between islands not connected by tunnel, including Mykines, Suðuroy, and seasonal routes to outer islands. Schedules are weather-dependent and advance booking is essential for Mykines in summer.
Best for: Reaching Mykines (puffins), Suðuroy (south island), and outer islands
Atlantic Airways Helicopter
DKK 145-360 (~$21-52) one way depending on routeA heavily government-subsidised helicopter service connects Tórshavn with the outer islands of Mykines, Froðba (Suðuroy), and Klaksvík. Fares are remarkably cheap for the experience. Book well in advance as capacity is tiny.
Best for: Reaching outer islands in bad weather when ferries are cancelled; a unique experience in itself
Strandfaraskip Bus Network
DKK 25-80 per legA combined bus and ferry network covers the main islands with infrequent schedules. Usable for budget travellers with time to spare, but most hikes and viewpoints are not reachable by bus without long walks from the nearest stop.
Best for: Budget travel between main towns; combined bus-ferry day passes available
Walking (Tórshavn)
FreeTórshavn itself is compact and easily walkable — the Tinganes old quarter, the harbour, the main shopping street Niels Finsens gøta, and the SMS mall are all within 15 minutes of each other.
Best for: Exploring the capital, the harbour area, and the old town
Walkability
Tórshavn is fully walkable within its compact city centre. Outside the capital, a car is necessary — villages are often kilometres apart on single-track roads and trailheads have no public transport access.
Travel Connections
Reykjavík, Iceland
Iceland's capital is the Faroes' closest major neighbour and shares a similar volcanic, wind-lashed character. Northern lights, geysers, the Golden Circle, and the Blue Lagoon await. The Smyril Line ferry route connects both islands in a combined voyage.
Copenhagen, Denmark
The Danish capital is the Faroes' main gateway to the world, with Atlantic Airways operating multiple daily direct flights. World-class restaurants, Nyhavn harbour, Tivoli Gardens, and exceptional design make Copenhagen an ideal add-on before or after the islands.
Bergen, Norway
Norway's gateway to the fjords shares a rugged North Atlantic personality with the Faroes. The Bryggen Wharf UNESCO site, Fløibanen funicular, and proximity to Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord make Bergen an outstanding companion destination for lovers of dramatic Nordic scenery.
Edinburgh, Scotland
The closest major city in the British Isles, Edinburgh offers a striking medieval Old Town, Edinburgh Castle, and a vibrant whisky and food scene. Atlantic Airways operates seasonal direct flights, making Scotland an easy extension — or an alternative entry point — for a Faroes trip.
Entry Requirements
The Faroe Islands are NOT part of the European Union or the Schengen Area, despite being within the Kingdom of Denmark. This is one of the most important and frequently overlooked facts for travellers: a Schengen visa does not give you entry to the Faroes, and time spent in the Faroes does not count against your Schengen 90-day allowance. Most Western nationalities receive visa-free entry for up to 90 days under a separate Faroese agreement. Always verify entry requirements specifically for the Faroe Islands even if you have already arranged your Denmark or EU travel.
Entry Requirements by Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | Visa-free | 90 days | Visa-free entry for up to 90 days. The Faroes have a separate immigration arrangement from Denmark — a Schengen visa is not required or valid. |
| UK Citizens | Visa-free | 90 days | Visa-free. Post-Brexit, UK citizens still enter the Faroes without a visa as the Faroes operate their own immigration rules independent of the EU. |
| EU Citizens | Visa-free | 90 days | EU citizens are generally visa-free, but note that the Faroes are outside the EU. Entry is under a separate Nordic / bilateral arrangement, not Schengen rights. |
| Australian Citizens | Visa-free | 90 days | Visa-free for up to 90 days under the Faroese visa regime. Check the Faroese government website for current confirmation. |
| Indian Citizens | Yes | 90 days | A separate Faroese visa is required — not a Schengen visa. Apply through the Danish embassy in your country, which handles Faroese visa matters, well in advance. |
| Chinese Citizens | Yes | 90 days | A Faroese entry visa is required and must be applied for separately from any Schengen visa. Contact the Danish embassy handling Faroese affairs in your country. |
Visa-Free Entry
Tips
- •The Faroes are NOT in Schengen — do not assume your Schengen visa covers entry here
- •Time spent in the Faroes does NOT count against your Schengen 90-day allowance — useful for long Europe trips
- •You will pass through Danish immigration if flying via Copenhagen — the Faroes leg is a domestic-style connection within the Kingdom of Denmark, but Faroese immigration is technically separate
- •Carry a valid passport with at least 6 months validity — EU ID cards are accepted for some nationalities but a passport is safest
- •If arriving by Smyril Line ferry from Denmark, bring your passport as formalities may be completed aboard
Shopping
Shopping in the Faroe Islands is limited in scale but high in quality. There are no large tourist souvenir markets — instead, a handful of excellent craft and design shops in Tórshavn offer genuinely distinctive Faroese goods. Prices reflect the islands' cost of living, which is equivalent to Norway. Haggling is not part of the culture.
Niels Finsens gøta, Tórshavn
main shopping streetThe main pedestrian street in Tórshavn lined with independent shops, bakeries, and the occasional clothing boutique. A 10-minute walk from the Tinganes old quarter.
Known for: Independent Faroese clothing, knitwear, local design, books on Faroese culture and nature
SMS Shopping Centre, Tórshavn
shopping mallThe largest shopping centre in the Faroes, a short walk from the harbour. Houses supermarkets, a pharmacy, clothing chains, and a food court.
Known for: Everyday essentials, Faroese food products, local beer from Föroya Bjór
Guðrun & Guðrun Flagship Store, Tórshavn
luxury knitwear boutiqueThe world-renowned Faroese knitwear label — famous after their Sarah Lund sweater from the Danish crime drama The Killing — has its flagship store in Tórshavn. Each piece is hand-knitted by Faroese women using local wool.
Known for: Handknitted Faroese wool sweaters, scarves, and accessories. Expensive but the real article.
🎁 Unique Souvenirs to Look For
- •Guðrun & Guðrun wool sweaters — the Sarah Lund "Killing" sweater made Faroese knitwear internationally famous
- •Faroese knitwear from local artisans — traditional Nordic patterns in local undyed wool
- •Skerpikjøt — wind-dried fermented mutton, a uniquely Faroese delicacy wrapped for travel
- •Ræst lamb or dried fish — traditional Faroese preserved foods to bring home
- •Sheep horn jewellery and carved objects from local artisans
- •Föroya Bjór local beer — the Faroese brewery produces distinctive ales available at the SMS mall and local shops
- •Mykines puffin field guides and Faroese nature photography books
Language & Phrases
Faroese is an North Germanic language descended from Old Norse and closely related to Icelandic and older forms of Norwegian. It uses a Latin alphabet with several additional characters (ð, ø, æ, á, í, ó, ú, ý). Danish is the second official language. English is widely and confidently spoken by almost everyone under 50 — you will rarely need Faroese to communicate. That said, a few words are warmly appreciated by locals who are proud of their small, remarkable language.
| English | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Hallo | HAH-loh |
| Good morning | Góðan morgun | GOH-dan MOR-gun |
| Good evening | Góða kvøldið | GOH-da KVURL-id |
| Thank you | Takk | tahk |
| Thank you very much | Mange takk | MAHN-geh tahk |
| Please | Vinarliga | VEE-nar-liga |
| Yes / No | Ja / Nei | yah / nay |
| Excuse me / Sorry | Orsaka meg | OR-saka may |
| How much does this cost? | Hvussu nógv kostar hetta? | HVOO-soo nohv KOS-tar HEH-ta? |
| Where is...? | Hvar er...? | hvar ehr...? |
| Beautiful / Wonderful | Fræðiligt | FRAY-di-likt |
| Cheers! (toast) | Skál! | skowl! |
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