The Faroe Islands offer unparalleled landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and a culture steeped in tradition. With only around 50,000 inhabitants spread across 18 islands, accommodation options are limited but varied, ranging from modern hotels and self-catering apartments to budget hostels and rural guesthouses. Planning your stay in advance is essential to get the best value, access, and convenience.
Lodging Options in the Faroe Islands
Travelers to the Faroe Islands have a variety of lodging options depending on budget, preferred comfort, and proximity to major towns.
Hotels: The Faroe Islands have roughly 25–28 recognized hotels, with the highest concentration in Tórshavn, the capital city on the island of Streymoy. Hotels also exist in other key towns such as Klaksvík, Sandavágur, and near Vágar Airport. Most hotels are mid-range 3–4 star, though a few offer luxury accommodations for higher budgets. Hotels in Tórshavn offer amenities such as en-suite rooms, Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, and easy access to local restaurants, museums, and ferry connections. Hotels outside Tórshavn tend to be smaller, family-run establishments offering simpler accommodations, but often with closer access to natural attractions and rural scenery.
Guesthouses and Bed & Breakfasts: Smaller guesthouses and B&Bs are scattered across the islands, including villages on Vágar, Eysturoy, and Sandoy. Many feature self-catering facilities such as kitchens or kitchenettes, which are ideal for travelers wishing to cook their own meals and save on dining costs. Guesthouses often provide a more personalized, local experience than hotels, and can be excellent options for couples or small groups seeking quiet surroundings.
Self-Catering Apartments and Airbnb-style Rentals: These accommodations have become increasingly popular, particularly in Tórshavn and larger towns. They provide flexibility for travelers staying multiple nights or with larger groups, offering kitchens, living spaces, and sometimes laundry facilities. Prices generally range from $90 to $170 per night, making them competitive with mid-range hotels while providing more privacy and autonomy.
Hostels and Budget Guesthouses: For backpackers and budget-conscious travelers, dormitory-style rooms or private rooms in hostels and budget guesthouses are available. Costs typically range from $25–$60 per night. Hostels exist in Tórshavn, Klaksvík, and other towns with higher tourist traffic. Availability in rural areas is limited, so planning ahead is recommended.
Camping: Adventure travelers can camp in designated sites, with fees around $13–$30 per night. Facilities are minimal, and the weather can be highly variable, so this is best for those with experience and proper gear. Wild camping outside designated areas is generally discouraged or prohibited to protect the fragile landscape.
Lodging Costs in US Dollars
Accommodation costs are higher than many continental European destinations due to the islands’ remoteness and limited lodging supply.
- Hotels: 2-star properties average $150 per night; 3-star hotels $195 per night; 4-star hotels $205 per night; luxury or boutique hotels can reach $480 per night during peak summer months.
- Guesthouses / B&Bs: Typically $90–$170 per night depending on location, facilities, and season.
- Airbnb-style / Self-Catering: $90–$170 per night; long-term stays may provide discounts.
- Hostels / Budget Guesthouses: $25–$60 per night for shared dorms or basic private rooms.
- Camping: $13–$30 per night.
Prices vary seasonally. Summer (May–August) is peak season, with the highest rates due to demand and longer daylight hours. Shoulder seasons (April, September–October) often see moderate prices, while winter (November–March) can offer the lowest rates, though services are reduced and daylight hours are limited.
Hotel Supply and Where to Stay
Most lodging is concentrated in Tórshavn, which offers the highest number of hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb-style rentals. Tórshavn is ideal for first-time visitors, those wanting amenities and connectivity, and travelers using the city as a base for day trips across multiple islands. Outside Tórshavn, other towns with hotel and guesthouse options include:
- Klaksvík (Eysturoy) — second-largest town, convenient for exploring northern islands.
- Sandavágur & Sørvágur (Vágar) — near Vágar Airport; ideal for early arrivals or late departures.
- Rural villages — guesthouses and self-catering apartments provide remote, scenic stays, often close to hiking trails, bird-watching spots, and fjords.
With approximately 545 hotel rooms island-wide, and a combination of guesthouses and apartments filling the remaining capacity, accommodation can become scarce during peak summer months, especially in popular towns and islands connected by ferry or tunnel.
Transportation: Getting to and From Your Lodging
Most travelers arrive via Vágar Airport (FAE). From the airport, there are multiple options to reach your accommodation:
Car Rental: The most flexible option. Several international and local rental agencies operate at the airport. Driving gives you access to remote areas, and allows for island-hopping via tunnels and ferries. The drive from Vágar Airport to Tórshavn takes approximately 45 minutes via the undersea tunnel connecting Vágar and Streymoy. Renting a car is essential if staying in rural villages or planning to explore multiple islands in a short period.
Taxi Services: Taxis are available at Vágar Airport and in Tórshavn, though they can be expensive due to the small population and long distances. A taxi from Vágar Airport to Tórshavn is roughly $90–$110.
Airport Shuttle / Bus: A public bus connects Vágar Airport to Sørvágur and Tórshavn. The bus fare to Tórshavn is about $10–$15. Buses run several times a day, with higher frequency during peak tourist season. Within Tórshavn, buses are free and provide convenient access to the city center, hotels, and ferry terminals.
Ferries and Inter-Island Transport: Many islands are connected by car ferries, which operate on regular schedules. If you plan to stay on an island without a bridge or tunnel connection, check ferry schedules in advance. Some lodgings may provide pickup from ferry terminals.
Public Transportation Tips: Buses and ferries may not operate late at night or in severe weather. Always confirm schedules ahead of time, particularly if traveling to remote villages. In peak season, public transport is reliable, but for full flexibility, a rental car is recommended.
Seasonality and Planning Tips
- Summer (May–August): Best weather, long daylight hours (up to 19 hours in June), and full services. Book accommodations 3–6 months in advance.
- Shoulder seasons (April, September–October): Moderate prices, fewer tourists, but shorter days and occasional weather disruptions.
- Winter (November–March): Lowest prices, fewest tourists. Ideal for travelers seeking solitude or photography opportunities, but prepare for wind, rain, and limited daylight.
Booking early is crucial for all seasons due to limited supply, particularly in Tórshavn and near the airport. Consider self-catering apartments to save money on dining, especially in remote areas.
Conclusion
Accommodations in the Faroe Islands are varied but limited. Tórshavn is the hub for hotels and guesthouses, while Vágar and other towns provide alternatives for early arrivals or rural experiences. Costs are generally higher than continental Europe, with summer rates peaking and winter providing the best deals. For flexibility and convenience, renting a car is highly recommended, though public buses and ferries provide options for travelers without vehicles. Planning ahead for lodging, transport, and seasonality ensures a smoother, more enjoyable experience while exploring the archipelago’s dramatic landscapes and unique culture.