The Faroe Islands offer excellent infrastructure, making it easy to explore the archipelago by car. The main islands are connected by bridges, tunnels, and subsea tunnels, while the smaller outer islands can be reached by ferry or helicopter. Because distances between villages are short and the roads are well maintained, you can experience a great deal of the Faroe Islands from behind the wheel. In summer, nearly 24 hours of daylight give you even more time to take it all in. With this 8-day self-drive tour, you’ll discover many of the highlights the islands have to offer.
Arrival and Exploration of Vágar
Upon arrival at Vágar Airport, your rental car will be ready and waiting for you. Your first night will be spent at Hotel Vágar, conveniently located just 200 meters from the airport. The hotel offers breakfast, and there are several great dining options around the island where you can enjoy a quality dinner.
After settling in, we recommend a scenic drive to the villages of Bøur and Gásadalur. From here, you’ll be treated to extraordinary views of Tindhólmur, Dranganir, and the island of Mykines—some of the most iconic sights in the Faroe Islands.
Scenic Drive to Eysturoy
Today your adventure continues to Eysturoy Island. You’ll first pass through the subsea tunnel to Streymoy and drive north. Before heading to Eysturoy, we recommend a detour to Vestmanna, where you can join the very popular boat tour beneath the dramatic bird cliffs—an unforgettable experience of towering rock formations and untouched nature. Vestmanna is also a great place to enjoy a nice lunch before continuing your journey.
As you drive north, we suggest stopping in the picturesque villages of Saksun, Tjørnuvík, and Gjógv.
The next two nights staying in Gjógv or Runavík.
Hidden Gems of Eysturoy
Continue exploring the island of Eysturoy, which is home to many hidden gems. We recommend visiting the villages of Oyndarfjørður and Elduvík.
Oyndarfjørður is a classic Faroese village, sheltered by surrounding mountains yet offering beautiful views towards Kalsoy. The area is excellent for hiking, but its most unique attraction lies in the sea: the Rinkusteinar, or “rocking stones.” These two huge boulders sit just beyond the shore and gently rock back and forth with the movement of the tide. Why they move remains a mystery, but according to legend, a sorceress from Oyndarfjørður cast a spell on two pirate ships, turning them into stones doomed to rock forever at the water’s edge. Just before entering the village, look for the path marked “Rinkusteinar”—the stones are located near the inlet where locals keep their boats.
Elduvík is a small and charming village by the ocean, nestled at the end of a long green valley and surrounded by steep mountains. With only a handful of inhabitants and humble houses, it offers peaceful scenery and a perfect place to let your eyes and soul rest.
Discover the Northern Islands
Today you’ll explore the northern islands, a cluster of six small islands: Borðoy, Kunoy, Kalsoy, Viðoy, Svínoy, and Fugloy.
If you’re interested in churches, we recommend a stop at Christianskirkjan in Klaksvík—often considered the most beautiful church in the Faroe Islands.
From there, a drive to Viðareiði, the northernmost village in the country, is highly recommended. The dramatic mountains and surrounding scenery are breathtaking. For an even more impressive view, take a walk uphill from the village, where you can overlook all the northern islands.
It is also worth taking the ferry to Kalsoy and visiting the village of Mikladalur, famous for the legend of the Seal Woman. Here you can see the striking statue dedicated to her. Driving through Kalsoy itself is an adventure, as the narrow island is connected by five tunnels.
If you enjoy hiking, we suggest the beautiful hike to Kallur Lighthouse—a stunning and iconic viewpoint. Please note that this hike must be done with a guide.
Overnight in Klaksvík.
Journey to Tórshavn
The tour continues south to Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands. You can choose the scenic route through Eysturoy and Streymoy, or take the new subsea tunnel from Toftir to Tórshavn—the only subsea tunnel in the world featuring a roundabout. Please note that the tunnel is a toll road and requires a fee.
Upon arrival in Tórshavn, you’ll check in at a hotel of your choice for the next three nights. We recommend spending the rest of the day strolling through the charming streets of the city and enjoying a delicious dinner at one of its renowned restaurants.
Exploring Tórshavn and Beyond
Tórshavn, the capital, has plenty to offer, and we suggest spending the day soaking up its charm. Wander through the old part of town, Úti á Reyni, and visit the historic Tinganes, home of the Faroese parliament. Explore the wool and craft shops, and relax in one of the city’s cozy cafés.
In the afternoon, we recommend a scenic drive to the historic village of Kirkjubøur, just 20 minutes from Tórshavn. Known as the old cultural center of the Faroe Islands, Kirkjubøur is home to several remarkable landmarks: the roughly 900-year-old Røykstovan, and Ólav's Church dating back to AD 1111, named after King Olav the Holy. This is the oldest church in the Faroe Islands and is still in use today.
For a taste of island life, consider extending your drive to Sandoy, a peaceful island known for its charming villages and sandy beaches. The island offers a slower pace and beautiful coastal scenery, making it a perfect complement to your day in Tórshavn.
Your Final Day in the Faroe Islands
On your last day, we suggest taking the time to do anything you feel you might have missed. There are a variety of tours and activities available, including sightseeing trips, horseback riding, boat tours, fishing excursions, and guided hikes. Let us know your interests, and we’ll be happy to help arrange the perfect experience to make your final day unforgettable.
Departure
Your self-drive adventure comes to an end as you prepare to head home. Before your departure, you will return your rental car at Vágar Airport. We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring the Faroe Islands and creating unforgettable memories across these 18 stunning islands in the North Atlantic.
We are ready for you whenever you plan to book your trip. You can have a look at the hotels, you can choose from below, or book straight away here.
Book nowsend a special request ›*Renters liability DKK 7.000,- per damage – which can be reduced to DKK 0,- when making an additional insurance (SCDW) at DKK 395,- per rental day.
