Those who have visited it, call it a city that does not exist anywhere else. Some call it the cloudiest capital in Europe. Her name is based on the god of thunder and lightning, Thor in Norse mythology. The locals are fond of fishing and hiking in the incredible nature. Tórshavn was first heard of in 825 in the Viking Age and has now developed into a commercial and administrative center in the Faroe Islands. Its colorful houses, its atmosphere, its beautiful sights and the wonderful sea will seduce you and you will fall in love with it on your first visit.
Currency: Faroese Króna
Calling Code: +298
Nearest airports from city center: Vagar Airport (46km)
TOP – 10 SIGHTSEEING
*** THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF THE FAROE ISLANDS (9 Gundadalsvegur, Tórshavn 100)
Opened in 1989, it is the country’s main museum to enjoy the art of the Faroe Islands. The collection is over 2,500 exhibits (paintings, sculptures, textiles, etc).
*** TORSHAVN CATHEDRAL (265H+V85, Bryggjubakki, Tórshavn)
It dates from 1788 and is the second oldest church in the Faroe Islands. According to the locals, the bell was acquired in 1708.
*** FAROE ISLANDS NATIONAL MUSEUM (6 Brekkutún, Hoyvík 188)
It is worth visiting the museum, where you will see the natural and cultural history of the Faroe Islands, from the Viking Age and the Middle Ages to the present day. Some exhibits include rocks, minerals, plants, animals, and artifacts from agriculture and shipping.
*** OLD TOWN
Tour the Reyn and Undir Ryggi areas and see small wooden houses that were once the homes of the working class. Go to Pætursarstova which dates back to the mid-17th century and was the home of linguist Jens Christian Svabo.
*** TINGANES PENINSULA
It is one of the most photographed spots in the capital. The narrow rocky promontory and thatched houses are adorable. Since the Viking Age, Tinganes has been the site of the old Faroese parliament.
*** THE NORDIC HOUSE (14 Norðari Ringvegur, Tórshavn 100)
It is a special building that has a turf roof and is a cultural institution to advertise the culture of the country and of Scandinavia in general.
*** SAINT MARY’S CHURCH (4 Mariugøta, Tórshavn 100)
It was consecrated in 1987 and is a “masterpiece”. See the broken glass artwork as you enter the church and the altar which is an interpretation of Jesus showing his wounds. Enjoy the architecture of the church.
*** VESTURKIRKJAN (2648+X8M, Landavegur, Tórshavn 100)
It was consecrated in 1975 and has the shape of a sailing ship! It is an architectural “wonder” that will delight you when you visit.
*** SVARTAFOSS WATERFALL (26G9+FP2, Tórshavn)
It got its name from the black stone wall and for this reason it is called “Black Waterfall”. Browse the trails and be impressed with the scenery.
*** CHURCH OF HOYVIK (26HH+VXM, Karlamagnusarbreyt, Hoyvík 188)
Built in 2017, it is one of the most picturesque churches in the Faroe Islands. You should definitely visit it.
ΤΗINGS TO DO
*** Skansin military fortress is worth a visit.
*** If you have time visit the open air museum Hoyvíksgarður.
*** We would recommend you visit the Saga Museum.
*** Vesturkirkjan is a church that will charm you with its warmth and architecture.
FOOD AND DRINK
The cuisine of the Faroe Islands is unique, having restaurants with Michelin stars. Fish hang from the eaves and absorb the saltiness of the air. Fish and seafood are among the most favorite dishes of locals and visitors. Many foods are combined with porridge. It is worth trying the fermented meat, lamb, root vegetables, potatoes, turnips and rhubarb. Local chefs use wild seaweed with herbs and truffle for seasoning and cause an “explosion” of culinary sensations in the dishes you will try. One of the traditional dishes is Fulmar, which is a seabird! Finally, one of the most famous local dishes is whale meat, and skerpikjøt, blubber and garnatálg are also must-try foods. Accompany your food with beer or wine. The traditional drink of the country is Aquavit.
WHERE TO STAY
You will find hotels and apartments both in the city center and at a distance of 3km from the centre.
FUN AND SHOPPING
*** SMS is a commercial department store that is one of the main choices of the locals.
*** Tutl Music Shop is a great place to shop for your favorite artists.
*** Foroya Sjosavn is an aquarium that will impress young and old alike.
*** A nice activity that the locals also like is Horsebackriding.
*** Rent a bike and wander through the magical landscapes of the capital.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The most beautiful way to get around the city is on foot, by bike or by bus.
CITIES NEAR TORSHAVN
Major cities close to Torshavn are Streymoy (14km), Runavik (17km), Hvalvik (35km), Fuglafjordur (36km), Klaksvik (41km), Vagar (46km).
