Things To Do
in Tórshavn
Nestled amongst rolling hills and a picturesque harbor, this vibrant capital city serves as the cultural and economic heart of the Faroe Islands. Its charming Old Town, Tinganes, is a maze of narrow lanes and historic wooden homes covered in turf roofs, reflecting the community's deep connection to its Viking heritage.
Despite its small size, Tórshavn boasts a lively arts scene, sophisticated dining, and a welcoming atmosphere that draws visitors into the unique blend of traditional and modern Faroese life.
- "Takk fyri" - Thank you
- "Gott kvøld" - Good evening
- "Vælkomin" - Welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming old town, Tinganes, where you can explore the picturesque red wooden houses. Enjoy a coffee at a local café while soaking in the views of the harbor.
Take a walk to the National Museum of the Faroe Islands to learn about the rich history and culture of the archipelago. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant offering traditional Faroese dishes.
Stroll along the waterfront as the sun sets, capturing stunning photos of the landscape. Finish the day with dinner at a cozy restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood delicacies.
Embark on a hike to the nearby Kirkjubøur, known for its historical significance and beautiful landscapes. Make sure to bring your camera for the breathtaking views.
Visit the historic site of Roykstovan, the oldest still-inhabited wooden house in the world. Enjoy a packed lunch with scenic views before heading back to Tórshavn.
Return to Tórshavn and enjoy an evening meal at a local eatery famous for its local lamb dishes. Spend your evening relaxing in a café or exploring the quaint streets of the capital.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and landscapes
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Unique wildlife and biodiversity
- Compact city that is easy to navigate
- Vibrant arts and music scene
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing
- Limited access to shopping and entertainment options
- High cost of living and goods
- Harsh weather conditions, especially in winter
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Remoteness and isolation from mainland Europe
- Public transportation can be less frequent
- Potential language barriers for non-Danish speakers
Best Activities in Tórshavn
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hike to the highest mountain in the Faroe Islands, Slættaratindur, which offers breathtaking views and a challenging trek for outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore the stunning fjords around Tórshavn by kayak, providing a unique perspective of the rugged coastline and marine life.
Take a boat tour to the Vestmanna Cliffs to witness an abundance of seabirds, including puffins and guillemots, in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a relaxing day of fishing in Lake Leynar, which is known for its trout population and beautiful surroundings.
Visit Vágar Island to see iconic sites such as Lake Sørvágsvatn, which appears to be hanging over the ocean, and hike to the stunning Múlagljúfur Canyon.
Ride through the scenic landscapes around Tórshavn, with various cycling paths that offer fresh air and beautiful views of the city and sea.
Catch some waves at Sandavágur Beach, known for its surf-friendly conditions and vibrant surfing community.
Take a short ferry ride to Nólsoy and enjoy camping in a tranquil setting, surrounded by stunning cliffs and natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tórshavn with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tórshavn
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque harbor with colorful houses and boats, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding landscapes.
An old fort with a lighthouse providing breathtaking views over Tórshavn and the surrounding ocean, perfect for photos.
A cultural center with unique architecture and beautiful surroundings, ideal for capturing striking photographs.
A lovely park featuring beautiful flowers and pathways with views of the town and the sea, great for leisurely photography.
Explore the old town with its charming wooden houses, narrow streets, and coastal views that make for a perfect backdrop.
Just a short trip away, these islands provide dramatic cliffs and sweeping views of the surrounding landscapes.
A scenic woodland park offering tranquil surroundings and beautiful views over the city and the fjords.
Visit the brewery for unique photo opportunities and scenic views of the surrounding area while enjoying local beer.
Food in Tórshavn
Tórshavn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish of pilot whale meat and blubber, typically enjoyed during festive occasions. It can be found at local restaurants such as Barbara Fish House and Etika.
Must-Try!
This is a classic Faroese dish made from fermented mutton, offering a unique and intense flavor. Visitors can savor it at the Etika restaurant in Tórshavn.
Air-dried, fermented lamb meat that is a beloved part of Faroese cuisine. It can be sampled at the well-known restaurant Áarstova.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This annual event showcases the best of Faroese food and provides a great opportunity to sample local delicacies and street food from various vendors.
A popular food truck in Tórshavn offering delicious street food, including Faroese-style hot dogs and fish and chips.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Tórshavn, it is customary to greet them with a friendly 'halló' and a firm handshake. Always address people by their first names unless invited to use a more casual form.
In Tórshavn, the dress code is generally casual but neat. Locals appreciate a good sense of style, so wearing clean and well-fitted clothing is advisable, especially when dining out or attending social gatherings.
Faroe Islanders have a strong connection to their natural surroundings. It is important to respect the landscape, wildlife, and local customs related to nature. Always follow local guidelines when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tórshavn
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tórshavn, like in the rest of the Faroe Islands, tipping is not a common practice. Service staff generally receive a fair wage, and as such, tips are not expected. However, if a visitor receives exceptional service in a restaurant or from a taxi driver, leaving a small tip as a token of appreciation is welcomed but not obligatory.
Payment in Tórshavn is typically made using credit or debit cards, which are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. Cash can also be used, but it is less common. The local currency is the Faroese króna (DKK), and most businesses provide the option for electronic payments, making transactions convenient for both locals and tourists.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Tórshavn (March to May) offers mild weather, blooming flowers, and vibrant landscapes. It's a great time for outdoor activities and experiencing local spring festivals. Average temperatures range from 4°C to 10°C.
Summer (June to August) is the warmest season, with average temperatures between 10°C and 15°C. It's the peak tourist season, perfect for enjoying the stunning landscapes, hiking, and cultural events. The days are long, with nearly 24 hours of daylight.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. Expect average temperatures to drop to between 5°C and 12°C. It's a quieter time to visit, ideal for those who enjoy scenic photography and fewer crowds.
Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C. Snow is possible, creating a picturesque setting. This season is best for visitors interested in experiencing the calm, cozy atmosphere and local winter traditions.
Tórshavn at Night
Hiking in Tórshavn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest mountain in the Faroe Islands, Slættaratindur offers stunning panoramic views. The hike is moderately challenging and takes about 2-4 hours.
A lesser-known hiking spot with beautiful landscapes featuring rugged cliffs and serene coastal views. The hike is relatively easy and lasts around 2 hours.
This hike gives access to Sornfelli, a mountain with an elevation of 800 meters. The trail provides breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords, and the round trip takes about 3-5 hours.
Located near the village of Múlagljúkur, this trail features dramatic cliffs and unique geological formations. It offers an easy to moderate hike that takes about 2-3 hours.
A coastal trail near Tórshavn offering stunning views of the sea and cliffs, perfect for a relaxing hike. The trail can be completed in about 1-2 hours.
Aiports
How to reach Tórshavn by plane.
The main international airport serving the Faroe Islands, located near the village of Sørvágur on Vágar Island.
Iceland's main international airport, located approximately 1,400 km from Tórshavn.
The largest airport in Scandinavia, located about 1,800 km from Tórshavn, providing additional international connections.
An international airport located in Norway, approximately 700 km from Tórshavn.
An international airport located in Norway, about 785 km from Tórshavn.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous population of the Faroe Islands, primarily of Norse and Celtic descent.
Individuals from various countries who have moved to Tórshavn for work opportunities, including those in the fishing and tourism sectors.
A significant number of residents originate from Denmark due to historical ties and administrative connections.
The demographic segment comprising school-age children and teenagers, representing a crucial part of the community.
Older adults who may have retired or have lived in Tórshavn for much of their lives, contributing to the cultural heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Tórshavn, with several clubs participating in the Faroe Islands Premier League. The city is home to the famous club B36 Tórshavn.
Handball enjoys a significant following in Tórshavn, with both men's and women's teams competing in national leagues.
Swimming is a popular recreational activity, with facilities available for both competitive swimming and casual enjoyment.
Athletics is practiced by many, with opportunities for track and field events available through local clubs and schools.
Rugby is growing in popularity in Tórshavn, with local teams participating in regional competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tórshavn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Faroese cuisine traditionally revolves around meat and fish, many restaurants in Tórshavn now cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering creative plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find a selection of gluten-free dishes at several restaurants and cafes in Tórshavn, ensuring an inclusive dining experience.