8 Things to Do in Faroe Islands for a Memorable Trip

Faroe Islands Bucket List: 8 Things to Do and See

At first, the Faroe Islands seems like a hidden corner of the North Atlantic that time forgot. But the moment you land between the stone-grey sea cliffs and rolling emerald hills, it feels like you've entered into another realm.

This place rewards curiosity. It rewards slow travel. It rewards looking up from your phone and soaking in raw Nordic nature.

Below we've listed 8 unforgettable things to do that will make you fall in love with this wild little archipelago.

BTW in case you don't know, here's how you can get to the Faroe Islands. With that out of the way, let's get down to business!

1. Visit the waterfall village of Gásadalur.

Have you ever seen a waterfall that seems to tumble right into the sea? If not, you've landed at the right place. The famous Múlafossur Waterfall drops straight into the Atlantic, and it also gives the village a magical, almost movie-like vibe. We are not exaggerating when we say it might just leave you staring in awe for a full ten minutes (or longer, :))

The village itself is tiny, with only a few houses, grazing sheep, and quiet pathways. You’ll also find the grass-roofed houses contrasting perfectly with the backdrop of hills, and the mix of salty sea air and fresh greenery is truly a nature's wonder. When you're there, take a moment to simply stand at the cliff edge and watch waves crash against the rocks below, too.

Pro Tip: Plan your visit in calm weather if possible, as the waterfall is beautiful on stormy days, but strong winds are a real thing here.

2. Hike to lake Sørvágsvatn.

Lake Sørvágsvatn is a mind-bending sight. From the right viewpoint, it looks like the lake floats high above the ocean, and we’re not exaggerating when we say it can make your jaw drop. Imagine a lake that seems to hover above the sea. This is it.

The trail to the viewpoint is manageable but still rewarding. You’ll pass rolling hills, grassy slopes, and cliff edges with breathtaking panoramas at every turn. Stop along the way to marvel at the mountains, ocean, and sky around you; it will seem as if the scenery is changing with every step. Make sure your camera is ready, though sometimes just standing in silence is the best way to absorb it.

It's also worth noting that the lake looks stunningly beautiful even during inclement weather. In fact, each season paints a different picture, from sparkling ice in winter to vibrant green hills in summer. The clouds and shifting light lend an extra element of drama and theatrics to the journey. By the time you reach the viewpoint, it is impossible not to pause and take it all in and let the scale of this island landscape sink in.

3. Explore the colorful streets of Tórshavn.

Tórshavn is small, but it packs a lot of character and charm. Walking through Tinganes, the old district, you’ll see red wooden buildings and turf‑roof houses lining the harbor. The mix of colors, textures and salty ocean air makes the whole place becomes alive and welcoming.

If you need a coffee break or a cozy stop, cafés like Paname Café or Brell Café are great choices. Paname Café sits near the main shopping area and serves up homemade pastries, coffee and a mellow vibe, perfect after a morning stroll. Brell Café wins hearts for its warm, relaxed atmosphere and good coffee, ideal if you want to watch the city wake up slowly.

Tórshavn also has interesting landmarks worth a wander. You can visit the historic Tórshavn Cathedral (also known as Havnar Kirkja) with its simple but striking architecture. Just around the harbor sits Skansin Fortress, overlooking the port and offering nice views over the water and nearby islands.

Stroll around the harbor‑front with fishing boats and colourful warehouses converts into this easy kind of charm. Whenever you fancy, drop by a curbside, sip a coffee, peek into a boutique selling Faroese knitwear, or just watch the tide shift under the light.

The best part about Tórshavn is that it buzzes with life without ever feeling crowded. You might end up walking longer than planned just soaking it all in. And don't worry, between historic sites, cozy cafés, changing tides, and friendly locals, this capital suits slow wanderers and curious souls alike.

4. Go puffin watching On Mykines.

Mykines is the ultimate island for puffin lovers. These little birds hop, flap, and stare with those comical orange beaks that make you grin instantly. They look ridiculously adorable, man!

The island also hosts gannets and fulmars, so it's a true birdwatcher’s paradise. The ferry or helicopter ride itself is part of the adventure, with waves crashing below and rugged cliffs rising cinematically all around. Don’t forget your binoculars, as you’ll want a closer look at these cute locals in action.

That said, if you're not a hardcore bird fan, the raw scenery, deep-blue ocean, and expressive skies make this detour absolutely worth the effort. The sheer wildness of the island is awe-striking. We bet you’ll remember every single detail of it months after the trip.

5. Experience Saksun Valley and its lagoon.

Saksun is quiet, serene, and impossibly scenic. The valley slopes inward to a tidal lagoon, surrounded by cliffs and a handful of grass-roof houses.

Is it similar to stepping back in time? Damn straight, it is.

Walking along the lagoon, you’ll notice the shifting sands and reflections of the cliffs in the water. It’s also a photographer’s dream without even trying. You can pause, breathe, and connected to the Faroese landscape in a way that words can hardly capture. The soft sound of water lapping at the shore and the occasional bleating of sheep create a soundtrack you won’t find anywhere else. Even a short stroll here makes you realize how untouched and peaceful this part of the world truly is.

Plan your visit around low tide for a different perspective. The changing light during the day makes the valley display an entirely new world at every hour.

6. Take on the Kallur Lighthouse hike.

The Kallur Lighthouse hike on Kalsoy Island is iconic for a reason. The ridgeline is the backbone of the island, and the lighthouse holds its post at the cliffside like a sentinel. Have you ever felt the wind push you sideways while making your legs tingle with excitement? That’s part of the experience here.

The views stretch endlessly over the ocean and cliffs. You’ll also spot tiny villages and scattered sheep grazing far below. The hike is doable, but good boots are a must because the terrain can get slippery and muddy.

Once you reach the lighthouse, you’ll understand why so many travel photos come from this spot. Honestly, the view is worth every step, and it’s one of those climbs you’ll be bragging about later.

7. Celebrate community and culture at Ólavsøka.

Ólavsøka is the Faroe Islands’ biggest annual event, held every July to kick off the summer parliamentary session. It’s a mix of sports competitions, boat races, traditional games, and community gatherings. If you can picture an entire town buzzing with excitement and honoring centuries of tradition at the same time, that’s Ólavsøka in a nutshell.

Locals and visitors flood Tórshavn to watch rowing contests, children’s games, and cultural exhibitions. The atmosphere is lively, colorful, and full of local pride. You’ll also notice how everyone—from toddlers to elders—seems to have a role, whether cheering from the sidelines or showing off their skills. It’s impossible not to get swept up in the energy, too.

Being at Ólavsøka immerses you in everyday Faroese life, traditions, and community spirit in a way no scenic viewpoint or photograph can capture. The smells of local food stalls, the rhythmic cheers, and the sound of boats gliding across the water all combine into a sensory experience you won’t forget. To put it simply, it’s one of those moments where you move through the town as if you've lived here forever, even if just for a day.

8. Enjoy Faroese cuisine and cozy Nordic dining.

Food in the Faroe Islands is honest and deeply tied to the land and sea. You can sample fresh Atlantic cod, herring, and salmon straight from the icy waters. Lamb is a staple, often served as skerpikjøt (wind-dried mutton) or roasted to perfection. Brave eaters can try ræst fish, a traditional fermented fish, or even grind whale, part of a centuries-old local tradition.

Other specialties include Faroese pancakes filled with jam or cream, lamb heart and liver dishes, hearty root vegetable stews, seaweed salads, and fermented lamb sausage. Who knew that such simple, rustic ingredients could deliver such bold, unforgettable flavors? Isn’t it wild that a tiny island chain can produce food this adventurous and unique?

Small restaurants and cafés serve meals with care, often in intimate, candlelit settings. You’ll also observe the locals’ pride in their ingredients; it’s that palpable. Don’t hurry though. Sit, savor, and let each dish tell a story about the islands themselves.

And yes, it’s not just about the taste. The Nordic dining experience is warming in more ways than one. You’ll walk out feeling full and strangely connected to this rugged, remote place.

Final Thoughts

The Faroe Islands are not a place you rush. You meet them in quiet moments, when the wind pauses and the landscape almost breathes with you. What’s more, these moments stay vivid in your mind with surprising persistence.

Sure, Italy offers dolce vita strolls and Croatia gives you sunlit Adriatic views, but they also have tourists bumping shoulders every two steps. The Faroe Islands, on the other hand, take slow to a different level because the solitude nudges you to stop, breathe, and really pay attention.

If windswept hills, atmospheric skies, far-reaching horizon, and a total lack of pretentiousness are your thing, this place might ruin all future vacations for you. Not kidding!

Author Bio

Hana writes travel journals and destination guides for people who love nature, scenic routes, and peaceful escapes. She focuses on approachable itineraries and real-world tips.