Seven days on the Faroe Islands
Self-drive programme
Infrastructure
The Faroe Islands boast an impressive infrastructure, with most main islands connected by paved roads, bridges, and tunnels, including four underwater tunnels. In total, 90.8% of Faroese people are connected via the road network.
Day 1 - Village visits on Streymoy and Eysturoy
Start the day by visiting Saksun, about a 45-minute drive from Tórshavn. Saksun is set in scenic surroundings at the end of a former fjord. Visit the church and Dúvugarðar, a preserved 17th-century farmhouse now serving as a museum. Next, drive to Tjørnuvík, a cosy village surrounded by high mountains, offering a fantastic view of the sea stacks Risin and Kellingin. Remember to stop at the Fossá waterfall on your way back from Saksun. Then continue to Gjógv, where you can take a stroll and visit Gjáargarður Guesthouse for a light lunch or coffee break. After Gjógv, drive to Funningur and then on to Elduvík before returning to Tórshavn.
Day 2 - Mykines
Take the ferry from Sørvágur to Mykines, a journey of about 30 minutes. Book tickets well in advance. Mykines is known for its rich birdlife and scenic hikes. In summer, the island becomes a popular holiday destination with many visitors. For ferry reservations, visit mykines.fo.
Day 3 - The northern isles
Drive from Tórshavn to Klaksvík, either 75.3 km via the main road or 41.4 km through the Eysturoyartunnilin. Klaksvík is the second largest town in the Faroe Islands, offering hiking, culture, and shopping. We recommend a hike to the mountain Klakkur for a magnificent view. From Klaksvík, you can also visit Kunoy and Viðareiði, two beautiful villages. Take the car ferry to Kalsoy and see the famous statue of the seal woman in Mikladalur. For ferry schedules and reservations, visit ssl.fo.
Day 4 - Gásadalur, Trælanípan, and Vestmanna Cliffs
Drive to Gásadalur on the island of Vágar and see the famous Múlafossur waterfall. Continue to Trælanípan near Sørvágsvatn, where you can enjoy views of the southern islands and the Bøsdalafossur waterfall. The hike starts in Miðvágur, and there is a hiking fee, see more at tralanipan.fo. On the way back, you can visit Kvívík and the restored Viking Age excavations. The highlight of the day is a boat trip to the Vestmanna Cliffs, where you can experience the Faroe Islands' dramatic nature and birdlife. Book your place at puffin.fo.
Day 5 - Suðuroy
Take the morning ferry from Tórshavn to Tvøroyri, a journey of about two hours. Drive to Akraberg and see the lighthouse from 1909. Visit Eggjarnar near Vágur and the Ruth Smith Art Museum. A hike to Hvannhagi near Tvøroyri is also recommended. Enjoy a light lunch or a cup of coffee at Café Mormor in Tvøroyri. For ferry schedules and reservations, visit ssl.fo.
Day 6 - Exploring Tórshavn
Spend one or two days exploring Tórshavn, the world's smallest capital with much to offer. Visit the National Gallery of the Faroe Islands, which houses the best of Faroese art. The Nordic House is a cultural centre with concerts and exhibitions. Take a walk in the old town of á Reyni and Tinganes, where the government is located. Visit Skansin, a historic fortress from 1580. Shop in the city's small boutiques like Guðrun & Guðrun and Ullvøruhúsið, or visit the cafés Umami and Kaffihúsið by the harbour or Panamé at the old bookshop in the centre. Try Tórshavn's restaurants, offering world-class gastronomy. Experience Heimablídni for something truly unique, where you share traditional meals with local hosts.
Day 7 - Sandoy
Sandoy, the fourth largest of the Faroe Islands, opened a new chapter in its history when the underwater Sandoyartunnilin tunnel replaced the ferry route in December 2023. Now, this natural gem awaits discovery by more adventurous travellers. The island lives up to its name "Sand Island" with its rare sandy beaches and distinctive dunes at the village of Sandur - a rarity in the Faroes. The softly rolling landscape is markedly different from the Faroe Islands' otherwise dramatic mountains, creating perfect conditions for both light and longer hikes through the varied terrain.
In the cozy villages, you'll find several exciting museums that bring the island's rich cultural heritage to life. Visit the art museum and the village museum in Sandur, where local traditions and crafts are presented in authentic settings. Each village on the island has its own story to share and a unique atmosphere to offer. Take a break from nature experiences and enjoy Faroese specialties at local cafés like Café Retro in Sandur, which offers a cozy ambiance and good food, or Café Mølin in Skálavík, serving light meals and freshly baked cakes in charming surroundings. Here, locals and visitors meet over a cup of coffee and homemade pastries, enjoying the view over the rolling landscape.
