Húsavík, Faroe Islands Travel Guide

Discover Húsavík in the Faroe Islands, a tranquil village with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and exciting outdoor activities.

Húsavík is a quaint village nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Faroe Islands. Known for its untouched natural beauty, this destination offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Húsavík is surrounded by rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and the endless expanse of the North Atlantic Ocean, making it a paradise for nature lovers. The village is small but rich in culture and history. It is home to traditional Faroese architecture, with colorful houses dotting the landscape. The local community is warm and welcoming, offering a chance to experience authentic Faroese hospitality. Visitors can explore the local church, which stands as a testament to the village's long-standing traditions. Húsavík is also a gateway to many outdoor activities. Hiking trails abound, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the stunning scenery. Bird watching is another popular activity, with the area being home to numerous species of seabirds. For those interested in marine life, boat tours offer the opportunity to see whales and other sea creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Húsavík has something to offer everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Húsavík.

Bring warm clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable and chilly.
Local currency is the Faroese króna; ensure you have some cash as not all places accept credit cards.
Visit during the summer months for the best weather and extended daylight hours.
Try local Faroese dishes in the village eateries for an authentic culinary experience.
Book boat tours in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to secure a spot.

Explore Húsavík: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Húsavík

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Norðoya Fornminnissavn

Discover the captivating history of the Faroe Islands' Northern Isles at Norðoya Fornminnissavn in Klaksvík. Explore artifacts & cultural heritage.

5.0

Ásmundarstakkur trailhead

Hike to dramatic sea stacks and cross thrilling cliff bridges from this remote trailhead on Suðuroy Island in the Faroe Islands.

Best landmarks in Húsavík

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Kirkjubømúrurin

Discover the charm of Kirkjubøur, the historic village in the Faroe Islands, where ancient ruins meet breathtaking coastal landscapes.

4.5

Gjógv Natural Harbour

Explore Gjógv Natural Harbour, a breathtaking destination in the Faroe Islands, where stunning landscapes meet rich history and vibrant culture.

4.8

The Nordic House

Discover The Nordic House in Tórshavn, a cultural center celebrating the art and heritage of the Faroe Islands amidst breathtaking Nordic architecture.

4.4

Fossá

Discover the breathtaking Fossá waterfall in the Faroe Islands, a stunning natural attraction that captures the essence of the archipelago's beauty.

4.6

Best restaurants in Húsavík

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Angus Steakhouse

Experience exceptional dining at Angus Steakhouse in Tórshavn, where high-quality steaks meet unparalleled Faroese hospitality.

4.1

Áarstova

Experience authentic Faroese cuisine at Áarstova, where local flavors meet stunning views in Tórshavn.

4.5

Barbara Fish House

Experience authentic Faroese seafood at Barbara Fish House in Tórshavn - where every dish tells a story of local traditions.

4.3

Rose's Restaurant & Catering

Discover exquisite Faroese cuisine at Rose's Restaurant & Catering in Ljósá—where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

4.5

Best bars in Húsavík

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Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover the heart of Irish hospitality at Irish Pub Torshavn, where local flavors meet traditional Irish charm in the stunning Faroe Islands.

4.1

Sirkus Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Sirkus Bar, Tórshavn's favorite spot for cocktails, live music, and socializing in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Mikkeller Tórshavn

Discover Mikkeller Tórshavn: A Cozy Bar in the Heart of the Faroe Islands Offering Craft Beers and Light Bites for an Unforgettable Experience.

4.6

OY Brewing

Discover OY Brewing in Tórshavn, where craft beer meets delicious bar food in a cozy and inviting brewpub atmosphere.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Húsavík

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Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover the heart of Irish culture at Irish Pub Torshavn, where great food, drinks, and live music create unforgettable memories.

4.1

Sirkus Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tórshavn at Sirkus Bar, where cocktails, music, and good vibes come together for an unforgettable evening.

4.3

Glitnir

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Glitnir, Tórshavn's premier bar, offering a delightful mix of local brews, cocktails, and great company.

4.3

Blábar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tórshavn at Blábar, where jazz and blues meet Faroese culture in a cozy bar atmosphere.

4.5

Best shops in Húsavík

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H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil

Explore H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil in Tórshavn, where books, toys, and unique Faroese souvenirs await you in a charming gift shop.

4.6

Bónus

Discover the local flavors and essentials at Bónus, the supermarket of choice in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands.

4.4

Guðrun & Guðrun

Explore Guðrun & Guðrun in Tórshavn for sustainable fashion that embodies Faroese culture and craftsmanship.

4.5

Vøruhúsið

Explore Vøruhúsið for exquisite furniture and home essentials, showcasing Faroese craftsmanship in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.5

Explore Húsavík on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Húsavík, mapped for you.

Húsavík Essentials

Húsavík is located on the island of Sandoy in the Faroe Islands. To reach Húsavík, you can fly into Vágar Airport, the only international airport in the Faroe Islands. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Sandoy's Skopun Airport or opt for a ferry service from Tórshavn to Sandoy. The ferry ride takes approximately 1 hour. Once on Sandoy, Húsavík is accessible by car or local bus services.
Within Húsavík, transportation options include walking, cycling, and local bus services. The town is small and many attractions are within walking distance. For exploring the wider region of Sandoy, renting a car is a convenient option. Taxis are also available but may be limited, so it's advisable to book in advance.
The official currency in the Faroe Islands is the Faroese króna (DKK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Húsavík, including in restaurants, shops, and hotels. However, it is recommended to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in the town for cash withdrawals.
Húsavík is generally very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, and the local community is welcoming and friendly. Standard safety precautions should still be observed, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and not leaving valuables unattended in public places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to emergency services, including police, fire department, and medical services. Húsavík has a local medical clinic, and more comprehensive medical facilities are available in Tórshavn. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and wear waterproof clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable. Avoid overly casual attire in finer dining establishments. Religion: Do respect local religious customs, including being quiet and respectful in churches. Public Transport: Do be punctual, as buses run on strict schedules. Don't play loud music or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hæ' (hello) or 'góðan dag' (good day). A firm handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Faroese dishes and delicacies. Don't refuse offers of food or drink, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Húsavík like a local, visit the local fish market where fresh catches of the day are sold. Engage with locals at the community center, where you can learn about traditional Faroese knitting and crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to participate in local festivals and events, which offer a deep insight into the culture and traditions of the Faroe Islands. For a unique experience, take a guided boat tour to explore the stunning coastal landscapes and birdlife around Húsavík.

When is the best time to visit Húsavík?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Húsavík

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Húsavík. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHalló
  [HAH-loh]
- GoodbyeFarvæl
  [FAHR-vayl]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNei
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVærsgo
  [VAIR-sko]
- Thank youTakk fyri
  [tahk FEER-ee]
- Excuse me/SorryFyrirgev
  [FEER-ir-gev]
- How are you?Hvussu hevur tú tað?
  [HVOOS-soo HEH-vur toh tah?]
- Fine. And you?Gott. Og tú?
  [goht. oh toh?]
- Do you speak English?Talar tú enskt?
  [TAH-lahr toh ENSKT?]
- I don't understandEg skilji ikki
  [ay skil-yi IK-ki]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEg vil síggja matseðilin, takk
  [ay vil SEE-yah maht-SAY-dil-in, tahk]
- I don't eat meatEg eti ikki kjøt
  [ay EH-tee IK-ki chyut]
- Cheers!Skál!
  [skowl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseEg vil gjalda, takk
  [ay vil YAL-da, tahk]
- Help!Hjálp!
  [HYAULP]
- Go away!Far burtur!
  [FAHR BOOR-toor]
- Call the Police!Róður til lógmann
  [ROH-thoor til LOHG-mahn]
- Call a doctor!Róður eftir læknari
  [ROH-thoor EF-teer LAYK-nah-ree]
- I'm lostEg er týstur
  [ay air TEES-toor]
- I'm illEg er sjúkur
  [ay air SHOO-koor]
- I'd like to buy...Eg vil keypa...
  [ay vil KEH-pa]
- I'm just lookingEg leita bara
  [ay LAY-tah BA-ra]
- How much is it?Hvat kostar tað?
  [kvat KOS-tahr tah?]
- That's too expensiveTað er ov dyrt
  [tahr air ohv deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kanstu sætta prísin?
  [KAN-stoo SAI-tah PRIS-in]
- What time is it?Hvat er klukkan?
  [kvat air KLOO-kan]
- It's one o'clockTað er eitt
  [tah air ayht]
- Half past (10)Hálvgilt (10)
  [HOWL-vyilt (10)]
- MorningMorgun
  [MORE-gun]
- AfternoonSíðdegi
  [SEETH-deh-yi]
- EveningKvøld
  [KWULD]
- YesterdayÍgår
  [EE-gowr]
- TodayÍ dag
  [EE dah]
- TomorrowÍ morgin
  [EE MOR-gin]
- 1Ein
  [ayn]
- 2Tvey
  [tvay]
- 3Tríggir
  [TREEG-eer]
- 4Fýra
  [FEER-ah]
- 5Fimm
  [feem]
- 6Seks
  [seks]
- 7Seyður
  [SAY-thoor]
- 8Átta
  [OWT-tah]
- 9Ni
  [nee]
- 10Tíggju
  [TEE-dyoo]
- Where's a/the...?Har er ein/tey...?
  [har air ayn/tay...?]
- What's the address?Hvat er adressan?
  [kvat air ah-DRES-san]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kanstu vísa meg (á korti)?
  [KAN-stoo VEE-sa may (ow KOR-tee)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Hvussu seint kemur næsti (buss)?
  [HVOO-soo sainht KEH-moor NIGH-stee (boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Eitt miða (til ....)
  [ayt MEE-dah (til ....)]

History of Húsavík

Húsavík, located on the Faroe Islands, has a rich history of early settlements dating back to the Viking Age. The first settlers arrived around the 9th century, drawn by the fertile fishing grounds and the natural harbor. Archaeological evidence suggests that these early inhabitants were primarily engaged in fishing, farming, and trading.
During the medieval period, Húsavík grew as a small but significant community. The village was part of the broader Norse culture that dominated the North Atlantic. This era saw the construction of wooden stave churches and the establishment of local governance structures. The village also played a role in the regional trade networks, with goods such as dried fish, wool, and whale products being exchanged.
In the 14th and 15th centuries, the Faroe Islands, including Húsavík, came under the influence of the Hanseatic League. The League's dominance in Northern European trade brought economic opportunities and challenges. Húsavík's harbor became a key point for the export of fish, which was a highly valued commodity in the Hanseatic markets. This period also saw an influx of foreign merchants and a blend of cultural influences.
The Faroe Islands, including Húsavík, were part of the Danish-Norwegian union from the late 14th century until the early 19th century. This union brought administrative changes and introduced Lutheranism as the dominant religion. The shift from Catholicism to Protestantism had a profound impact on the cultural and religious practices in Húsavík. The village's church records from this period provide valuable insights into the community's life and transformations.
The 19th century was a period of significant transformation for Húsavík. The advent of modern fishing techniques and the establishment of fish processing facilities revolutionized the local economy. The village expanded, with new buildings and infrastructure supporting the growing population. Improved transportation links, including steamships, connected Húsavík more closely with the rest of the Faroe Islands and beyond.
World War II had a profound impact on Húsavík, as it did on the entire Faroe Islands. The islands were occupied by British forces to prevent a German invasion, which brought about changes in the local economy and daily life. After the war, Húsavík, like other Faroese communities, benefited from post-war reconstruction efforts. The village saw improvements in infrastructure, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities.
Today, Húsavík is a vibrant community that balances its rich historical heritage with modern developments. Tourism has become an important part of the local economy, with visitors drawn to its picturesque landscapes, traditional Faroese architecture, and historical sites. The village continues to celebrate its maritime heritage through festivals and cultural events, ensuring that the legacy of Húsavík's past remains an integral part of its present.