The Faroe Islands are 18 dramatic islands between Scotland and Iceland: sheer sea cliffs, waterfalls that fall straight into the ocean, grass-roofed villages and puffins by the thousand in summer. Tunnels and bridges link most islands, so it is easy to explore in a week.
This guide covers where to go, when, and how to get there. For our hand-picked trips, see our Faroe Islands holidays page.
The quick answer
- Go between June and August for long days and puffins.
- Base yourself in Tórshavn or on Vágar.
- Don’t miss Sørvágsvatn, Múlafossur and Gjógv.
- Take the boat or helicopter to Mykines for puffins.
- Fly direct from Edinburgh in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Where to go
| Island | Best for | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Vágar & Mykines | Views, puffins | Sørvágsvatn, Múlafossur, Mykines puffins |
| Streymoy & Tórshavn | Food, culture | Tinganes, Saksun, Kirkjubøur, Vestmanna cliffs |
| Eysturoy | Hiking | Gjógv, Slættaratindur, Funningur |
| Northern isles | Adventure | Klaksvík, Kalsoy’s Kallur lighthouse |
With a car you can see most of the islands from one or two bases. Some walks cross private land and charge a small fee, and the weather decides much of the plan — leave flexibility in your days.
Things to do
- Mykines — puffin colonies from May to August, by ferry or helicopter.
- Sørvágsvatn — the ‘floating lake’ walk above the sea cliffs.
- Gjógv — a village with a natural sea-gorge harbour.
- Vestmanna sea cliffs — by boat beneath bird-filled cliffs.
- Tórshavn — Tinganes’s turf-roofed old quarter and excellent restaurants.
- Kallur lighthouse — the classic Kalsoy viewpoint.
When to go
June to August is the best time, with long days, the mildest weather and puffins on Mykines. May and September are quieter. Weather changes quickly in every season, so pack waterproofs and layers.
Getting there and entry
Seasonal direct flights from Edinburgh take about 1 hour 15 minutes, with year-round connections via Copenhagen; some North Atlantic cruises also call at Tórshavn. The Faroe Islands are part of the Kingdom of Denmark but not in the EU, and UK passport holders don’t need a visa. The islands are covered by the FCDO advice for Denmark. Check the FCDO travel advice for Denmark before you go.
Money and local costs
The Faroese króna is equal in value to the Danish krone, which is also accepted, and cards are used almost everywhere. Some popular walks charge a small hiking fee, paid locally.
Food and drink
Faroese cooking is having a moment: lamb, fresh fish, langoustines and fermented specialities, served in Tórshavn’s creative restaurants or at a home dinner (heimablídni) with a local family.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the Faroe Islands?
June to August, for long days, the mildest weather and puffins on Mykines.
How do I get there from the UK?
Seasonal direct flights from Edinburgh take about 1 hour 15 minutes, or connect via Copenhagen.
Do I need to pay to go hiking?
Some popular walks cross private farmland and charge a small fee, paid locally.
Can I see puffins?
Yes, on Mykines from about May to August, weather permitting.
Do I need a visa?
No, UK passport holders don’t need a visa for a holiday.
Planning a Faroe Islands holiday?
Tell us whether you want to self-drive or walk with a guide, and we will plan the route.
