Things To Do
in Húsavík
Húsavík is a small coastal village in the Faroe Islands known for its dramatic Atlantic scenery and rugged, windswept charm. Its harbor is lined with colorful houses and working boats, creating a quintessential Nordic seascape. The town embodies a maritime-to-mountain lifestyle where sea spray, fog, and fresh air shape daily life.
Visitors come for pristine landscapes, seafood feasts, and intimate encounters with Faroese culture in a tranquil setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure with a visit to the iconic Húsavík Whale Museum, where you can learn about the diverse marine life found in the surrounding waters. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming village, soaking in the picturesque views of the harbor and the surrounding mountains. Don’t forget to enjoy a traditional Icelandic breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh bread and delicious skyr.
Embark on a thrilling whale-watching tour in a traditional wooden boat, giving you the chance to see majestic humpbacks and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. The guide will share fascinating insights about the local ecosystem and the various species you might encounter. After your boat adventure, enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while watching the waves lap against the shore.
As the sun sets, head to the top of a nearby hill for breathtaking views of the coastline and a chance to capture stunning photographs. Later, indulge in a delightful dinner featuring locally-sourced ingredients, particularly focusing on the fresh catch of the day. End your evening with a relaxing walk along the beach, under the soft glow of the moonlight reflecting off the water.
Set out early for Ásbyrgi Canyon, a stunning horseshoe-shaped depression nestled within the Vatnajökull National Park. The journey will take you through scenic landscapes, providing ample opportunities for breathtaking views along the way. Once you arrive, take a moment to appreciate the sheer cliffs and the lush vegetation that thrives in this unique environment.
Spend your afternoon exploring the various hiking trails in Ásbyrgi, which offer something for all skill levels and promise incredible views of the canyon. Be sure to visit the tranquil pond at the base of the cliffs, where you can enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature's beauty. If you’re lucky, you might spot some local wildlife, such as reindeer or eagles soaring overhead.
Return to Húsavík and unwind after a day of adventure with dinner at a cozy local eatery. Reflect on your day’s experiences while tasting traditional Faroese dishes, enhanced by the welcoming ambiance of the restaurant. For a nightcap, visit a local pub where you can mingle with locals and other travelers, sharing stories and tips about your adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two (mid-range) | $40-70 |
| 🚗Rental car per day | $60-100 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-220 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and pristine nature
- Fresh seafood and strong local hospitality
- Compact town center with easy exploration
- Higher costs compared to mainland destinations
- Weather can be unpredictable and windswept any time of year
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vinaliga" - Please
- "Já" - Yes
- "Nei" - No
- "Hvør nógv kostar tað?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Húsavík
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful houses lining a working harbor with boats and reflections on calm mornings or after rain.
Dramatic sea cliffs with waves crashing below; ideal for wide landscape shots and safekeeping of waves.
A vantage point along the coast offering panoramas of rock formations and the open Atlantic, especially at sunset.
Clear winter skies can reveal the northern lights over dark water and illuminated boats—great for long-exposure shots.
Food in Húsavík
Húsavík Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thinly sliced, air- or wind-dried mutton served with bread or potatoes; a traditional Faroese delicacy.
Must-Try!
Fermented mutton with a strong aroma; available in select eateries and markets and best experienced with local guidance.
Cod, haddock, or salmon prepared simply to showcase the day's catch, often featuring regional salt and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
informal stalls by the harbor offering grilled fish, warm soups, and local breads to-go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctually respectful, speak softly in residential areas, and ask before taking photos of people.
Stay on marked trails, keep dogs under control, and pack out what you bring in; wind and weather can change quickly.
Acknowledge local customs and small-town pace; friendly conversations and a modest, patient approach go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Húsavík
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; Danish krone (DKK) is common, and cash is useful in smaller shops or markets. Mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours (near midnight sun in some parts) with mild, can-be-windy weather. Ideal for hikes, boat trips, and outdoor photography.
Cooling temperatures and stronger winds; storm systems can roll in quickly. Excellent for dramatic seascapes and migrating birds.
Short daylight and frequent rain or snow; dramatic seascapes and potential northern lights, but plan for rough seas and colder conditions.
Rising temperatures and bird migrations; landscapes begin to bloom and hiking trails become more accessible.
Húsavík at Night
Hiking in Húsavík
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike along rugged cliffs with sweeping ocean views and opportunities to observe seabirds.
A moderate coastal route that passes by small coves, rocky outcrops, and vantage points over the sea.
Airports
How to reach Húsavík by plane.
The main international gateway to the Faroe Islands; located on Vágar Island, with car rental and taxi services available. From Vágar, Húsavík is a scenic drive or bus ride away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Small, close-knit communities with strong ties to fishing and farming traditions.
Hikers, birdwatchers, and travelers drawn to the dramatic landscapes and wildlife.
A number of people stay seasonally for work or study, contributing to a cosmopolitan yet intimate feel.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport played locally and enjoyed by visitors during matches or casual games.
Common in community centers; occasional local tournaments and youth programs.
Kayaking and coastal sailing opportunities exist for adventure-minded travelers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Húsavík.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in larger town eateries and some harbor cafés; look for salads, roasted vegetables, dairy, and egg dishes. When in doubt, ask for vegetable-forward plates or sides to assemble a meal.