Let’s be straight. If you expect the climate in the Faroe Islands to include 30 degrees of sun every day, sweat constantly dripping from your forehead, and a duvet-less sleep, you have been slightly misinformed. Not to say this isn’t possible (we once recorded 26 degrees!). It’s just not quite the norm.

What surprises many, however, is the relative mildness of the Faroese seasons. One of the things that makes the Faroe Islands so special is the weather. And there’s certainly a lot of it in the middle of the North Atlantic! If one word can neatly sum up conditions at 62 degrees north, it’s changeable. Visitors to the Faroes, who come from countries where the weather is altogether more stable and predictable, are often surprised by how quickly conditions can change in the islands.

“If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes!”

The Faroe Islands weather is mild, oceanic and constantly changing throughout the year. Shaped by its location in the North Atlantic, the climate brings cool summers, relatively mild winters and a refreshing sense of unpredictability. Wind, drifting mist and shifting skies are not interruptions here — they are part of what makes the Faroe Islands climate so dramatic, atmospheric and unforgettable.

FOUR SEASONS IN ONE DAY

Faroe Islands Climate

The Faroe Islands have a subpolar oceanic climate. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, temperatures remain relatively mild throughout the year despite the northern latitude.

Average conditions:

• Summer (June–August): 10–13°C (50–55°F)
• Winter (December–February): 3–7°C (37–45°F)
• Snow is possible but rarely long-lasting at sea level
• Wind is common year-round
• Weather can vary significantly between islands

The faroese climate is not defined by extremes, but by variation, light and atmosphere.

Weather by season

Spring (April–May)

• Increasing daylight
• 5–9°C
• Unstable but improving conditions
• Puffins begin returning, marking the start of the birdwatching season
• Ideal for photography

Summer (June–August)

• 10–13°C
• Long daylight hours
• Best hiking conditions
• Still windy and occasional fog
• Peak tourism season

Autumn (September–October)

• 7–11°C
• Dramatic skies
• Increasing rainfall
• Excellent for landscape photography

Winter (November–March)

• 3–7°C
• Short daylight hours
• Atlantic storms possible
• Snow occasionally
• Perfect for experiencing raw North Atlantic weather

To learn more, read our article on the best time to visit the Faroe Islands.

SUMMER ON FILM

WINTER ON FILM

Stay weatherwise

Forecasting the weather in the Faroe Islands is no easy job as sun, rain, wind and cloud cover frequently vary from island to island and, more locally, can even be different from one side of a hill or valley to another. Don’t be surprised, then, when you’re driving around the islands to enter a tunnel in thick fog, only to emerge a few minutes later, on the other side, blinking into bright sunshine. In fact, it’s the quality of the light in the northern sky – angular, sharp and clear – thanks to the admirable lack of pollution, that has helped make the Faroes a favourite destination for artists. 

What to pack when travelling to the Faroe Islands

Naturally, in terms of clothing, it pays to come fully prepared for all kinds of weather. If you’re planning a hiking tour, sturdy, waterproof boots and hiking trousers are a must. Even if the only walking you intend to do is around town, it’s a good idea to bring a waterproof jacket with you – and a thick jumper, hat and gloves (even in summer) can also be a good idea. If you take a boat trip, for example, the wind can be cold out at sea and you’ll be glad of the extra layers. 

Frequently asked questions about weather in the Faroe Islands

What is the weather like in the Faroe Islands?

The Faroe Islands weather is mild, windy and highly changeable. Due to its North Atlantic location, conditions can shift quickly between sunshine, mist and light rain. Summers are cool and winters are relatively mild.

Does it rain a lot in the Faroe Islands?

Rain showers are frequent but usually short-lived. It rarely rains heavily all day, and changing skies are typical in the Faroe Islands climate.

What is the warmest month in the Faroe Islands?

July is generally the warmest month. Average summer temperatures range from 10–13°C (50–55°F).

Is winter very cold in the Faroe Islands?

Winters are cool but not extreme. Temperatures typically stay between 3–7°C (37–45°F), with occasional snow.

When is the best time to visit the Faroe Islands for good weather?

Summer (June–August) offers the most stable weather and longest daylight hours, making it the most popular season to visit.