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If you’re thinking about a trip to Iceland this year, I implore you to consider the Faroe Islands. This tiny archipelago between Iceland and Norway is one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever visited, and one of the least crowded. Eighteen islands, about 50,000 people, and landscapes that look like they were designed by someone who thought Iceland was too subtle.

Here’s everything you need to plan your trip.

Quick Facts

Location	North Atlantic, between Iceland and Norway (autonomous territory of Denmark)
Getting There	Fly via Copenhagen (Atlantic Airways) or Reykjavík. Seasonal flights from Edinburgh.
Best Time to Visit	June–August for the longest days and mildest weather (still bring layers)
Currency	Danish Krone (DKK). Cards accepted almost everywhere.
Language	Faroese and Danish. English widely spoken.
Trip Length	5–7 days recommended

Where to Stay

The Faroe Islands are small enough that you can base yourself in one spot and day-trip to most islands, but I’d recommend splitting your stay between Tórshavn (the capital) and a more remote village for the full experience.

Havgrím Seaside Hotel — Right on the water in Tórshavn. Clean, modern Scandinavian design with incredible harbor views. My top pick for a home base.

Hotel Brandan — A solid mid-range option in central Tórshavn. Walking distance to restaurants and the old town.

Airbnb — If you want the village experience, there are beautiful rentals in places like Gjógv and Bour.

What to See

Lake Sørvágsvatn (Leitisvatn) — The famous “lake above the ocean” optical illusion. The hike is moderate and the payoff is unreal. You’ll need to book a guided walk as the trail is on private land.

Kirkjubøur — The cultural heart of the Faroes. Visit the ruins of the Magnus Cathedral (started in the 1300s, never finished) and the Kirkjubøargarður, one of the oldest inhabited wooden houses in the world. The grass-roofed farmhouses here are straight out of a storybook.

Puffin Safari — If you’re visiting between May and August, book a boat tour to see the puffin colonies on Mykines. These little birds are ridiculously photogenic and the island itself is spectacular.

Saksun — A tiny village tucked into a natural amphitheater of mountains with a tidal lagoon. It’s the kind of place where you just stand there and stare. Bring waterproof shoes.

Where to Eat

The Faroese food scene is genuinely world-class and deeply tied to the landscape. This is New Nordic cuisine at its most authentic.

KOKS — The Faroes’ Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s a splurge, but the tasting menu featuring fermented, dried, and foraged ingredients is an experience you won’t forget. Book well in advance.

ROKS — Run by former KOKS chefs, more casual but equally creative. Their approach to Faroese ingredients is inventive and the atmosphere is warm.

Ræst — Named for the traditional Faroese fermentation technique. The ræst lamb is a must-try if you’re open to bold flavors.

Suppugarðurin — Cozy soup spot in Tórshavn. Perfect for a rainy afternoon (which is most afternoons). Their fish soup is legendary.

Katrina Christiansen — A beloved local bakery. Go for the pastries and coffee. It’s nothing fancy, just genuinely good.

The Verdict

The Faroe Islands are one of those places that feel like a secret even though they’re not. The landscapes are genuinely humbling, the food is world-class, and the pace of life makes you question every rushed vacation you’ve ever taken. If you’re drawn to dramatic scenery, incredible hiking, and food that tastes like the place it comes from — this is absolutely worth the detour.

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Planning your own Faroe Islands trip? Check out my full Itineraries page for a day-by-day guide, or browse more Worth the Detour destinations.