Things To Do
in Tórshavn
Tórshavn is the capital of the Faroe Islands, perched on Streymoy with a sheltered harbor and a mosaic of colorful wooden houses. Its historic Tinganes quarter with turf-roofed rooftops anchors the town’s Viking-age atmosphere, while a lively harbor and modern cafes give it a contemporary pulse. The city is compact and highly walkable, offering museums, cafés, and seafood-focused dining, all set against rugged coastal scenery.
From here, easy day trips to nearby islands and sea cliffs make it a natural base for exploring the Faroes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands, and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to soak in the local atmosphere by strolling through the colorful streets and observing the traditional grass-roofed houses. Enjoy a welcoming breakfast at a local café to fuel your adventures ahead.
Explore the historical sites of Tórshavn, starting with the old town known as Tinganes, where the old wooden buildings house the government of the islands. Visit the National Museum to learn about the rich Viking history and indigenous culture. Take a leisurely walk along the harbor to take in stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
Dine at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Faroese dishes featuring fresh seafood or lamb. After dinner, walk along the waterfront as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the fjords. End your day with a visit to a cozy pub to experience Faroese hospitality and maybe enjoy some live music.
Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before joining a guided tour to the nearby island of Nólsoy. The ferry ride provides stunning views of rugged landscapes and seas. Once on Nólsoy, hike to the lighthouse to get panoramic views of Tórshavn and the surrounding areas.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on Nólsoy with local delicacies before exploring the charming village dotted with picturesque houses. Spend some time relaxing by the beach or engaging in bird watching, as the island hosts a variety of seabirds. Head back to Tórshavn in the late afternoon and relax.
As evening falls, enjoy a dinner at one of Tórshavn's renowned seafood restaurants. Savor dishes made with freshly caught fish while appreciating the views of the bay. Wind down your evening with a stroll through the streets of Tórshavn, absorbing the lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🥪Lunch at mid-range cafe | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $4-7 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $60-120 |
| 🏨One-night mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and compact, walkable town
- Fresh seafood and strong lamb cuisine with heritage flavor
- Higher costs and limited late-night nightlife
- Weather can be unpredictable and travel is somewhat seasonal
- "Góðan dagin" - Good day
- "Takk fyri" - Thank you
- "Vælkomin" - Welcome
- "Vinaliga" - Please
- "Hjálp" - Help
Places to Visit in Tórshavn
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic red and black wooden houses along the quay make a vivid, postcard-perfect backdrop at many times of day.
Historic fortifications with sweeping views of the harbor and the surrounding islets; great for sunrise or golden hour shots.
A mix of church architecture and fishing boats forms a classic Faroese scene, especially at dusk.
Modern cultural architecture set against the sea; good for architectural photography and minimalism.
Colorful boats, reflections on the water, and the backdrop of the surrounding hills create dramatic evening photos.
Food in Tórshavn
Tórshavn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Wind-dried mutton served thinly sliced, a traditional delicacy commonly found in Faroese eateries offering heritage menus.
Must-Try!
Fermented or dried meat with robust flavor; available in restaurants that focus on traditional fare.
Dried cod, often prepared with potatoes, onions, and herbs; a staple in historic Faroese cooking.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Harbor market offering fresh catch, fish cakes, and light seafood snacks; great for a quick taste of the day’s flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite conversation, quiet tones in public spaces, and respect for personal space are valued. Faroese people are friendly but reserved at first.
A handshake is common when meeting; address locals with courtesy and avoid overly loud or public displays of affection in formal settings.
Respect for nature and clean beaches, follow posted signs, and be mindful of private property on hikes.
Safety
Tipping in Tórshavn
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; tipping is optional and modest for good service in restaurants and bars.
Card payments are widely accepted; cash is increasingly less common in some venues, but still usable in markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with vibrant light; temperatures typically cool to mild (around 12-15°C/54-59°F); excellent for outdoor activities and island hopping.
Changing weather with more wind and rain; stunning coastal skies and migrating seabirds; layers recommended.
Short daylight hours and potential storms; temperatures near freezing but rarely extreme; plan indoor activities and weatherproof layers.
Rising daylight and unfolding landscapes; wet and windy at times; great for hiking as trails become more accessible.
Tórshavn at Night
Hiking in Tórshavn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike combining coastal cliffs and lighthouse views accessible by ferry from Tórshavn.
Clifftop trails and viewpoints around the Vestmanna sea cliffs, often paired with boat excursions.
Airports
How to reach Tórshavn by plane.
The main international gateway to the Faroe Islands, located on the island of Vágar. Accessible by road through tunnels and bridges from Tórshavn; frequent domestic flights connect to other islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnicity with strong ties to local culture and language.
Smaller communities that contribute to a cosmopolitan feel while maintaining local customs.
Tourists and temporary workers who support the island’s economy during peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Highly followed with local clubs such as the historic HB and B36 teams; matches draw local support and community interest.
A popular indoor sport with regular league play and community clubs.
Fishing, sea kayaking, and coastal navigation are common outdoor pastimes in and around the harbor.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tórshavn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist, especially in larger venues. Look for fresh salads, root vegetables, potatoes, and dairy; inform staff in advance if you avoid meat or fish.