Things to do in the Faroe Islands

Wondering what to do in the Faroe Islands? We get it — from the outside, 18 small islands in the middle of the North Atlantic might not scream “action-packed holiday.” But once you get here, you’ll quickly realise there’s no shortage of things to do. 

Whether you're after an adrenaline rush or a peaceful cultural experience, here is the gateway to plenty of cool activities that showcase the heart of the Faroe Islands. Picture jaw-dropping hikes, outdoor painting in the wild, cold water surfing, bird watching, fun cultural festivals, and boat tours through stunning fjords—there's something for every explorer.

Hiking - the ultimate way to experience the islands

If there is one thing you absolutely must do in the Faroe Islands, it's hiking. With over 300 kilometres of marked trails winding across the islands, there's a route for every level - from gentle coastal walks to the ascent of Slættaratindur (882 metres, the highest peak), the lake-above-the-ocean trail at Sørvágsvatn, and the clifftop walk to the Kallur lighthouse on Kalsoy. The beauty of hiking here is that even a short, unmarked detour can lead to a viewpoint that takes your breath away.

Weather changes fast, so dress in layers and check conditions before heading out. Some trails cross private farmland or require a local guide — which we genuinely recommend, not just for safety but for the stories and insider knowledge they bring.
 

At sea - explore the coastline from the water

The Faroe Islands are, at heart, a maritime place. The ocean is never far away, and some of the most memorable things to do here involve getting out on - or into - the water.

Boat tours

Boat tours are one of the most popular activities in the Faroe Islands — and for good reason. Sailing beneath the towering sea cliffs of Vestmanna or along the western coast of Súðuroy gives you a perspective of the landscape that is impossible to get on land. In summer (May–August), cliff tours bring you close to thousands of nesting seabirds, including puffins, guillemots and fulmars. Several operators run regular tours, and private charters are available for smaller groups.

Kayaking

For a quieter, more intimate encounter with the coastline, kayaking is hard to beat. Paddle through sea stacks, into caves and along dramatic cliff faces with only the sound of the ocean and seabirds for company. Guided kayak tours operate from several locations, including Leynar on Streymoy’s west coast. Keep in mind that Faroe Islands kayaking is very weather-dependent — your operator will advise on conditions.

Fishing

Fishing has been at the heart of Faroese life for centuries, and you can experience it firsthand. Join a guided fishing tour to try deep-sea angling for cod, haddock and pollock, or cast a line from the shore in one of the many fjords. Some operators combine fishing with sightseeing, giving you the best of both worlds.

Adventure sports - for the thrill-seekers

The Faroe Islands are increasingly becoming known as a destination for adventure sports, and the raw, rugged terrain makes for some truly unforgettable experiences.

Surfing

Yes, you can surf in the Faroe Islands. The beach at Tjørnuvík, nestled beneath dramatic sea stacks, has become a favourite among cold-water surfers from around the world. The Atlantic swells are consistent, the water is cold (wetsuits are essential), and the setting is unlike any surf break you’ve ever seen. Lessons and board hire are available locally.

Cycling

The winding roads that connect the islands are a dream for cyclists — challenging climbs rewarded with breathtaking descents and views that stretch to the horizon. Several cycling routes are well-documented, and you can explore everything from the dramatic pass between Eiði and Funningsfjord to gentler rides along the coast. E-bikes are increasingly available for those who want the views without quite so much effort.

Rappelling and more

Rappelling down the sheer cliffs, hang-gliding over the valleys, and horse riding through the green hills — the options keep expanding as more local adventure operators set up. The islands’ unpredictable weather and rugged terrain make local expertise essential, so we always recommend booking with a local guide.

The towering cliffs that had been a constant moody, muted backdrop now glowed a hundred greens.

Sebastian Modak, Lonely Planet, 2022

Cold water swimming and dipping - the Faroese way

Cold water swimming has become one of the most talked-about things to do in the Faroe Islands. The tradition of dipping into the icy North Atlantic is deeply rooted here, and it’s as much about community as it is about the adrenaline rush. Several coastal spots have ladders and easy access points, and the floating sauna experience Saunadypp offers the perfect combination of heat and cold.

A quick dip of 10–30 seconds is enough for beginners — your body gets the full rush of endorphins without overdoing it. Stay close to the ladder, never go alone, and embrace the post-dip euphoria with everyone around you. It’s one of those experiences that sounds a little mad until you’ve tried it.

How to plan your activities in the Faroe Islands

With so many things to do in the Faroe Islands, a little planning goes a long way. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit:

How many days?

We recommend 5–7 days to experience a good range of activities across several islands. If you only have 3–4 days, focus on one or two areas and go deep rather than trying to see everything.

Best time for activities?

Summer (June–August) offers the longest days, the best weather for hiking and water activities. Spring and autumn are quieter and atmospheric. Winter brings northern lights and a raw, dramatic landscape — but outdoor activities are more limited.

Book ahead

Popular experiences like guided hikes to restricted areas and boat tours fill up in summer. We recommend booking as early as possible.

Frequently asked questions about things to do in the Faroe Islands

What are the best things to do in the Faroe Islands?

The best things to do in the Faroe Islands include hiking to Sørvágsvatn (the lake above the ocean), taking a boat tour along the Vestmanna sea cliffs, experiencing heimabliðni home dining, watching puffins on Mykines, and exploring the charming capital Tórshavn. Adventure seekers can also try surfing at Tjørnuvík, kayaking along the coast or cold water dipping

How many days do you need for the Faroe Islands?

Most visitors spend 3 to 7 days in the Faroe Islands. Three to four days are enough to experience the main highlights, while five to seven days allow you to explore multiple islands, enjoy a variety of activities and experience the local culture at a relaxed pace. If you’re keen on hiking, consider adding extra days.

What activities can you do in the Faroe Islands in winter?

Winter in the Faroe Islands offers northern lights viewing, dramatic storm watching, cultural experiences, museum visits and cosy café hopping. Some guided hikes operate year-round, and the local food scene is at its best with hearty traditional dishes. While water-based activities are more limited, the winter landscape has a raw, moody beauty that many visitors find even more captivating than summer.

Do you need a guide for activities in the Faroe Islands?

For many hiking trails and all adventure sports, we strongly recommend using a local guide. Some popular trails — including the hike to Mykines and certain cliff paths — require a guide by regulation. Beyond safety, local guides share stories, history and insider knowledge that genuinely transform the experience. For boat tours, kayaking and fishing, you’ll always be with an experienced local operator.