Guides

FAMILY-FRIENDLY |
THE COMPLETE GUIDE

The Faroe Islands are an unexpectedly family-friendly gem. The slow pace of life and the safeness of the islands are ideal ingredients for a fun, relaxing family adventure. Instead of an actual theme park made of concrete, the islands function as a natural theme park with beautiful outdoor locations spread all across the eighteen islands. Easy hikes, ferry rides from one island to another, indoor swimming pools, and outdoor play areas are all popular activities for families of all ages to enjoy.

Now what can you do as a family visiting the Faroe Islands? Where to stay, eat and how to prepare? Kids can explore scenic hiking trails, witness adorable puffins, and enjoy the simplicity of life in charming villages. The close-knit community and peaceful atmosphere make the Faroe Islands a delightful destination. 

Read Also: Getting to the Faroe Islands

FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

Options are abundant for kids to enjoy the islands, especially the non-typical kid's activities, as long as you get creative. The activities will be more or less the same all year round, depending on the weather, of course (hikes, boat, and fishing trips enjoy a long season from March to November).

Here are a few ideas to inspire you when visiting the Faroe Islands - Find your inner artist with outdoor painting lessons, fishing trips, and jewellery classes, rent a bike and have a blast. Take a nice stroll in Tórshavn to Viðarlundin Park and see the cute duck pond. Afterwards, head down to the playground “Grasagarður” – a big and newly created playground for kids of all ages.  

ACTIVITIES IN CASE OF RAIN: 

  • Attend the smallest cinema you've ever seen
  • Go explore the vast selection of museums, the National Art Gallery have a children's drawing section, a lovely Art café with lunch options and fun visual art installations for the whole family
  • Take up pottery painting
  • Go swimming in one of the various pools around the islands
  • See our cosy aquarium in Tórshavn, they have a fun game available for curious little ones
  • The local theatre often has kids-shows
  • See one of the regional centres for the latest children-related events happening
  • Go ice cream hunting in our many gas stations (the sprinkles are so yummy).
Read Also: Fishing & Angling

 

 

Harriet recommends

Our top 5 playgrounds in The Faroe Islands

As a family of four with two active little girls, we enjoy exploring our country, especially playgrounds around the islands. Through the years, I dare to say we have visited playgrounds in almost every village around the Faroes, and here I will share with you some of our favourites:

  1. Our top playground is in Søldafjørður, a very simple and mostly "homemade" playground put together by the people in the village. Still, this is our kids' top choice whenever they choose a playground—it is a bit hidden between the trees in Søldafjørður, but the colourful fence facing the road will help you find it. Extra info: this playground even has a bathroom.
  2. The playground in Hvannasund is a solid second place, with its tall and dramatic tower slide and many other fun activities—it also doesn't hurt that the scenery is stunning. 
  3. This summer, we discovered a playground in Sørvágur, right by the soccer field—the small stage area will help you find it. This playground also has a wide variety of different slides and activities for children of all ages, which definitely puts it on our list. It is well hidden between the houses, giving it good shelter from the wind in case of bad weather. 
  4. Also, on Vágar island, the school in Giljanes has a fantastic and dramatic playground. The playground has views of small islands in the back, the beautiful church, and even the occasional aeroplane on its way to land at Vágar airport. The big go-around and hammocks are our kids' favourite features. 
  5. In solid fifth place is the playground in the small village of Rituvík. Honestly, it's our go-to playground because it's so close to home. This one has everything your kids will need. The only downside is that it isn't completely done yet, with the soccer field still needing to be replaced. 

Others that you might want to visit while you are driving around with the kids are the playgrounds in Skálvavík (Sandoy), Bøur (Vágar), Hoyvík and Viðareiði for some great views while the kids are playing. 

Pálshøll

The only 50m swimming pool in the Faroe Islands where you will also find a children's pool, fitness centre and wellness area

Suðuroy

Nordic House - Norðurlandahúsið

The Nordic House in the Faroe Islands is a cultural centre that showcases Faroese and Nordic culture

Tórshavn

Listasavn Føroya

The National Gallery of the Faroe Islands

Tórshavn

Berg Hestar (Horseriding)

Berg Hestar offer great horse riding tours in and around the capital, Tórshavn. The tours vary is difficulty and price range, and are only allowed for those who are seven years and older

Tórshavn

Fishing with Blástein

The captain has been fishing with tourists since 2004, offering unforgettable sea angling experiences in the Faroe Islands.

Streymoy

Vestmanna Bird Cliffs

The magnificent boat trips to the Vestmannabjørgini (Vestmanna bird cliffs) and caves are a popular excursion in the Faroe Islands

Streymoy

Indoor swimming pool and welness area

Equipped with water slides, waterfalls, a sauna, wellness and a café

Norðoyggjar

Býarbókasavnið

The public library in Tórshavn, is a vibrant cultural hub that serves as a valuable resource for both residents and visitors.

Tórshavn

Rent A Bike & Outdoor

Bike rental and guide tours.

Tórshavn

The National Museum

Get a very introductive presentation of the history and culture of the Faroe Islands in this very informative National History Museum

Tórshavn

Skansin (The fort)

The fort served as a British Royal Navy headquarters during the Second World War

Tórshavn

Hvannasund playground

with a tall and dramatic tower slide and many other fun activities

Norðoyggjar

KRIA STUDIO

Jewelry and Pottery Workshop in the centre of Tórshavn

Tórshavn
Boat.fo fishong trip

Boat.fo

boat.fo arrange authentic boat tours for small groups and families, who enjoy active travel.

Streymoy

Faroese sheep farm in Selatrað

Welcome to our Faroese sheep farm- experience in Selatrað - a 20-minute drive from Tórshavn!

Eysturoy

Viðareiði playground

It's probably the most scenic playground on the islands!

Norðoyggjar

FAMILY-FRIENDLY DINING

There are a lot of kid-friendly dining options to choose from when visiting the islands. Generally, when roaming the islands you will almost always find a cosy café or quick dining option in any village. You can visit a modern burger joint, HAPS, with a kid's playroom, cartoons and a PlayStation, making it ideal for small children. Other great mentions for family meals are: Katrina Christiansen (family dinners in a charming and old 3-story traditional home), Café Paname has great coffee and lunch with many boardgames, Café Kaspar (serves bagels and has kid's games), Bitin (new Nordic sandwiches and healthy kids menus), Systrar, a lovely organic lunch place in the majestic Nordic House and great place to explore for the whole family. 

Café MorMor

Nice coffee and cakes on grandma's plates in the old town of Tvøroyri

Suðuroy

Systrar (The Nordic House)

Enjoy delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes at the lovely café located in the Nordic House

Tórshavn

Café á Mølini

An atmospheric break in the charming café in an old grocery store and post-office building by the harbour

Sandoy

Paname Café

Homemade food, sandwiches, tapas plates, coffee, cakes, beer, wine and a cozy atmosphere

Tórshavn

The farm á Stórheygnum

Welcome to ‘Heimablídni’ and guided tours on our farm in Svínoy

Norðoyggjar

Haps Burger & Steaks

HAPS serves gourmet burgers, steaks, snacks and milkshakes.

Tórshavn

Heima á Fitjum

Welcome to Heima á Fitjum - our humble home by the ocean.

Streymoy

Kafe List

Café in the National Gallery of the Faroe Islands

Streymoy
Read Also: What to pack

FAMILY-FRIENDLY SIGHTSEEING SPOTS

There are a vast option of places to see, and villages to explore. A good idea is to explore the islands by car or bus (perhaps even bike if you are feeling active). Here are some fun day trips to plan. Drive to Tjørnuvík up North, and on the way see the lovely waterfall Fossá. Here you can run on the beach, have waffles at the local café and even take surfing lessons.
Visit Sandoy and Skopun to try pedal boats. 
Explore the island of Kalsoy, where you can see the James Bond burial, the Seal Woman and visit a café at the edge of the world. Drive to Gjógv, where you can go birdwatching, have a small hike and even enjoy homemade pedal boats. Visit the south island, Suðuroy, by ferry, which has a lot to offer, everything from hikes to lighthouses, playgrounds, museums, and cosy cafés. Take a day trip with the ferry out to Nólsoy. 

Take a dip in the various beaches in Tórshavn, Tjørnuvík, Leynar or Gøta. Enjoy our annual summer concerts around the various islands, go on a Peter Pan adventure by boat and go horseback riding or kayaking. Eat with the locals, on the “Supper Club” initiative. Most importantly stay longer and travel slower. Rent a car and explore. Eat locally and use a local guide. You will witness the most spectacular views and sights. Only you (and perhaps the weather) set the limits.

OUR TOP TIPS WHEN TRAVELLING WITH YOUR FAMILY

  • You can safely only bring your credit card, as all establishments will accept this as payment
  • Most people on the islands understand and speak English fluently as well as Danish and other Nordic languages
  • How to get around the city - metro, trains, trams, buses, taxis? Are any of them pram-friendly? 
    The best way to get around the city is either by car or bus, the buses are free in the capital and a great way to explore the city. Most islands are connected by undersea tunnels so you can get almost anywhere within an hour by car. Regional busses, ferries and taxis (they also carry a child seat) are also very timely and regular.  
  • What to bring with you home? Visit the local charity shops and smaller kiosks to make unique finds, several will have homemade knits and even pottery. The local bookshop in downtown Tórshavn has toys, Faroese artefacts, souvenirs, books and fun prints. The many knit shops will have a stunning selection of homemade woollen pieces. Some cafés will also sell tasty Faroese teas, jams and cookies. Also check out our creative galleries, as the islands are filled with cool artists, where you can buy art and prints. 
  • What to pack? Make sure you pack multi-functional clothes where you can expect sun, wind and rain on the same day. The temperature is very mild all year round and it is just good sense to include good shoes and outerwear.
  •  Stay longer and enjoy slow travel. The islands are packed with many fantastic local activities all year round, so don’t hesitate to ask your local guide for relevant events.

Kunoy Village and Viðarlundin

From the vibrant red church in the centre of town to the lush countryside that sprawls toward the mountains, Kunoy is a place best enjoyed on foot

Norðoyggjar

Gøtusandur

Eysturoy

Vatnsdalsvatn Lake

Vatnsdalsvatn is the 3rd largest lake on Vágar.

Vágar

The Yarn-Bombed Rock

Bindisteinurin is inspired by a local legend about the 'Troll Woman's cave'

Sandoy

Postkassin-Mailbox

One of the world's largest mailboxes. A fun and exciting attraction for children and adults that are up for a little fun

Sandoy
Á Reyni, Tórshavn

Old Town in Tórshavn (á Reyni)

a small neighbourhood of black-tarred wooden houses with white-framed windows

Tórshavn

Ergidalur

Ergidalur by Vatnsnes is a historic site, where Celtics and Vikings had residence back in the days

Suðuroy

Gjógv

an abundance of charm and appeal

Eysturoy
Sandur, Sandoy

Mølheyggjar

The only sand dunes in the Faroe Islands

Sandoy

Nólsoy

Nólsoy is a small island, just 10 square km, located a few km east of the capital city Tórshavn

Streymoy

Tjørnuvík

Tjørnuvík is among the oldest villages in the Faroe Islands

Streymoy

Fitjarnar (Kikarin)

a beautiful location with a veiw on both Risin&kellingin and Slættaratindur

Eysturoy

Svartifossur

Waterfall in the stream "Hoydalsá"

Tórshavn

Sandágerð

The beach in Tórshavn

Tórshavn

Bøur Playground

Playground in the picturesque village of Bøur

Vágar

Rannvátoft in Fagridalur

Fagridalur where Rannvá lived

Sandoy

FAMILY-FRIENDLY STAYS

There are several kid-friendly hotels in the capital area and the larger villages. Moreover, there are also several tremendous and charming B&Bs and cabin rentals scattered around the islands, where you get a true sense of local living and nature. Most hotels will accommodate baby cribs, family-friendly SPAs or outdoor hot tubs, mini kitchens and other amenities for children. As the Faroe Islands are very family-oriented, so most places will automatically be very kids-inclusive. 

Also with a superior infrastructure (we have many tunnels), super-fast 5G and modern facilities, any road trip here will be enjoyable and comfortable for the whole family. 

Gjáargarður Guesthouse

Located in the beautiful, scenic village of Gjógv, the charming Gjáargarður Guesthouse is the perfect authentic stay

Eysturoy
Hanusarstova in Elduvik.

Hanusarstova

We invite you to experience unique B&B-style home and farm tours on the beautiful village of Æðuvík

Eysturoy

Hotel Føroyar

4-star hotel and conference venue with breath-taking views

Tórshavn

Camping Tórshavn

Camping in the capital

Tórshavn

Camping Vestmanna

Large camping area in Vestmanna

Streymoy

Heima í Stovu - boutique hotel

Heima í Stovu is a family run boutique hotel and 'heimablídni' in Hvalba

Suðuroy
Múlafossur Cottages

Múlafossur Cottages

Múlafossur Cottages are located by the world-renown waterfall in the village Gásadalur on the Faroe Islands. We promise a truly magical and secluded place, with sights of sheep, birds and highland c

Vágar

Mølin Guesthouse

The guesthouse is beautifully situated by a pebble-covered-beach and has ten modern rooms

Sandoy

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT?

We love to say that The Faroe Islands should be experienced all year round. The general hiking/outdoor season starts around March/April until October, with summer being an obvious peak season. But consider this destination a great city break from the heated temperatures and stressful daily routines with so much to offer. Winter is also truly a magical time as well with Christmas markets and an abundance of merry events, workshops, concerts etc. 

Check out our Monthly Guides filled with inspiration, ideas and general helpful facts about what to do throughout the year. 

Related articles to Family-Friendly | The Complete Guide

24-hour guide: The Capital

Coolcation

Monthly Guides to the Faroe Islands

The annual Ólavsøku celebration in Tórshavn. A national holiday.

72-hour guide

Regional Guides

Winter Wonder Faroes

Northern Lights Guide

Autumn with Kids
Arrow pointing to the right, to the next link in the breadcrumb
See & Do
Arrow pointing to the right, to the next link in the breadcrumb
Guides
Family-Friendly | The Complete Guide