Reaching the Faroe Islands feels like the start of an adventure in itself. Tucked away in the North Atlantic between Iceland and Scotland, these remote islands are surprisingly well connected by both air and sea. Whether you’re flying in or arriving by ferry, here’s everything you need to know to plan your journey smoothly.
Where Are the Faroe Islands Located?
How to Get to the Faroe Islands by Air
Airlines & Flight Routes
How to Get to the Faroe Islands by Ferry
Entry Requirements & Practical Information
Getting From the Airport to Tórshavn
Travel Tips Before You Go
Frequently Asked Questions
The Faroe Islands are an autonomous region of the Kingdom of Denmark, located in the North Atlantic Ocean roughly halfway between Iceland and Scotland. Despite their remote setting, the islands are only about a two-hour flight from most major cities in Northern Europe.
The main and only airport is Vágar Airport (FAE), situated on Vágar Island — around 45 minutes by car or bus from the capital, Tórshavn.
Flying is the fastest and easiest way to reach the Faroe Islands. Daily flights connect the islands to several major cities across Scandinavia and Europe.
Most visitors arrive at Vágar Airport, the country’s only airport. It is small, efficient, and beautifully located among cliffs and fjords.
Atlantic Airways – the national airline of the Faroe Islands – operates regular year-round routes to and from:
Copenhagen, Denmark (daily flights year-round)
Reykjavík, Iceland
Bergen, Norway
Billund, Denmark
In summer, additional routes often include:
Edinburgh, Scotland
Paris, France
Barcelona, Spain
Oslo, Norway
Another airline, SAS, also offers seasonal flights between Copenhagen and the Faroe Islands.
For those who prefer to travel by sea, the Smyril Line ferry “Norröna” connects the Faroe Islands with Denmark and Iceland.
The ferry departs from Hirtshals (Denmark) year-round, sailing to Tórshavn and onward to Seyðisfjörður (Iceland). The journey from Denmark takes around 36 hours, and cabins are available onboard.
Traveling by ferry is a scenic option and ideal if you plan to bring your own car, motorcycle, or campervan to explore the islands at your own pace.
Visa and Passport: The Faroe Islands are part of the Danish Realm but not part of the EU or Schengen Area. Nordic citizens can travel freely. EU/EEA citizens can enter without a visa for short stays. Other nationalities should check Danish visa rules.
Currency: The official currency is the Faroese króna (DKK), pegged to the Danish krone.
Language: Faroese and Danish are official languages; English is widely spoken.
Plug type: European standard (Type C and F), 230 V.
After arriving at Vágar Airport, you have several ways to reach the capital:
By Car: Car rentals are available directly at the airport. The drive to Tórshavn takes about 45 minutes, passing through the Vágatunnilin undersea tunnel that connects Vágar and Streymoy islands.
By Bus: The public bus route 300 runs between Vágar Airport and Tórshavn several times a day. Tickets can be purchased onboard or via the official SSL website.
By Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport, though more expensive than the bus. Advance booking is recommended.
Book early in summer: Flights and ferries can sell out quickly between June and August.
Check the weather: Conditions can change fast, and flights or ferries may be delayed due to fog or wind.
Pack smart: Even in summer, temperatures are mild — layers and waterproof clothing are essential.
Plan connections: If you’re flying onward to Iceland or Denmark, allow time for possible weather-related delays.
Consider travel insurance: Strongly recommended due to variable weather and remote locations.
Yes. Direct flights operate from Copenhagen, Bergen, Reykjavík, and several other European cities.
Yes. Smyril Line sails year-round between Hirtshals (Denmark) and Tórshavn.
Most European travelers do not need a visa. Check Danish visa rules if you’re uncertain.
From Copenhagen, it takes about 2 hours; from Iceland, around 1 hour and 30 mins.
