Skansin Fortress: A Historic Guardian of Tórshavn
Explore Skansin Fortress in Tórshavn: a historic landmark with panoramic views, WWII relics, and a charming lighthouse. Open year-round and free!
Skansin, a historic fortress and lighthouse in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the islands' military past. Built in 1580 to defend against pirate raids, it served as a British Royal Navy headquarters during World War II. Explore cannons, reconstructed buildings, and enjoy the scenic beauty.
A brief summary to Skansin
- 0 Yviri við Strond, Tórshavn, FO
- +298302010
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit Skansin in the evening for gentler weather and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Combine your visit to Skansin with a walk through the Tinganes peninsula and Tórshavn city center.
- Wear layers, as it can be windy on the elevated fortress.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Tórshavn city center, walk towards the harbor. Follow the waterfront along Yviri við Strond. Skansin is located on the hill overlooking the harbor, approximately a 15-minute walk from the bus terminal. The path to the top is paved, making it accessible. There is no admission fee.
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Public Transport
Take Bus 2 towards Skansin. Get off at the bus stop near the harbor (Farstodin). From there, it is a short walk to the fortress on the hill. A single bus fare is approximately 30 DKK. Skansin is open all day and is free to enter.
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Taxi
Take a taxi from the Tórshavn ferry terminal or city center directly to Skansin. The taxi ride is short, and the fare will vary. Confirm the price with the driver beforehand. Expect to pay around 100 DKK for a short trip within Tórshavn. Skansin is open all day and free to enter.
Discover more about Skansin
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Flag of the Faroe
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Explore the Flag of the Faroe in Tórshavn, a striking memorial symbolizing the rich heritage and cultural identity of the Faroe Islands.
The Government of the Faroe Islands
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Discover the political heart of the Faroe Islands at The Government of the Faroe Islands in Tórshavn, a blend of modernity and tradition.
Tinganes
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Explore the historic Tinganes in Tórshavn, a picturesque street with colorful wooden houses and a rich heritage in the heart of the Faroe Islands.
Visit Faroe Islands
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Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of the Faroe Islands, a hidden gem in the North Atlantic perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Panoramic view
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Breathtaking panoramic views of Tórshavn and the Faroe Islands landscape, perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Viking Sundial
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Explore the Viking Sundial in Tórshavn's historic Tinganes, a testament to the Faroe Islands' rich Viking heritage and ancient timekeeping methods.
Old Faroese parliament buildings. Tinganes.
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Explore the Old Faroese Parliament Buildings at Tinganes and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Tórshavn in the beautiful Faroe Islands.
Amtmansgarðurin
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Explore the tranquil beauty of Amtmansgarðurin in Tórshavn, where lush gardens and vibrant flowers create a serene retreat in the heart of the Faroe Islands.
Tórshavn Sea Adventures
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Experience the Faroe Islands from the sea with Tórshavn Sea Adventures: fishing trips, sightseeing, and unforgettable moments await!
Maður við torvleypi og neytakona
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A Faroese monument in Tórshavn that honors peat harvesting and dairy farming, reflecting the islands' cultural heritage and the labor of its people.
Tórshavn Cathedral
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Explore Tórshavn Cathedral, a historic gem in the heart of the Faroe Islands, featuring stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
Trappan
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Experience Trappan in Tórshavn - a delightful stairway park offering stunning views and a serene escape in the heart of the Faroe Islands.
Nólsoyar Páll
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Explore Nólsoyar Páll, a stunning sculpture in Tórshavn that embodies the rich cultural heritage of the Faroe Islands.
Vaglið
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Experience the vibrant heart of Tórshavn at Vaglið, a central square steeped in history and Faroese culture.
Kongaminnið
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Commemorating a royal visit and a moment in Faroese history, Kongaminnið offers stunning views of Tórshavn.
Perlutúnið
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Experience Faroese culture at Perlutúnið in Tórshavn, a vibrant hub for concerts, workshops, and community events on Tórsgøta.
Reinsaríið
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Experience the Faroe Islands' vibrant arts scene at Reinsaríið, Tórshavn's premier concert hall for local and international music.
Veðrur
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Discover Veðrur, a captivating sculpture in Tórshavn, embodying Faroese artistry and offering a picturesque setting for memorable travels.
Müllers Pakkhús
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Explore Müllers Pakkhús in Tórshavn, a historical landmark that unveils the maritime heritage and architectural beauty of the Faroe Islands.
Essential places to dine
Angus Steakhouse
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Experience the best steaks in Tórshavn at Angus Steakhouse - where quality meets local flavor.
Pylsuvognurin á Keiini
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Discover authentic Faroese cuisine at Pylsuvognurin á Keiini in Tórshavn - a true taste of the Faroe Islands.
Seven
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Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Seven in Tórshavn - where every dish tells a story.
Áarstova
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Experience authentic Faroese cuisine at Áarstova in Tórshavn—where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Breyðvirkið
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Experience the heart of Faroese baking at Breyðvirkið, Tórshavn's beloved bakery known for its artisanal breads and delectable pastries.
Gunnva
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Discover the essence of Faroese fashion at Gunnva, a charming clothing store in Tórshavn, offering unique local designs and warm hospitality.
Events
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Discover unique women's fashion in Tórshavn, showcasing local style and contemporary trends at Events, the heart of Faroese clothing.
Touché
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Discover unique fashion pieces and local designs at Touché, the premier clothing store in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands.
Endurnýtsluhandilin á Bryggjubakka - Reyði Krossur
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Explore a quaint thrift store in Tórshavn, offering a curated selection of second-hand books and DVDs for charity and unique finds.
H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil
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Explore H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil in Tórshavn for a unique blend of books, toys, and souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Faroe Islands.
Madam Gaardbo
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Explore the charming Madam Gaardbo, a women's clothing store in Tórshavn, showcasing stylish apparel and local craftsmanship.
Ravna.fo
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Discover the best outdoor gear and footwear at Ravna.fo, your ultimate destination for adventure in the Faroe Islands.
Glimmur
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Explore the unique charm of Glimmur Gift Shop in Tórshavn, where local craftsmanship meets unforgettable souvenirs.
Skóhornið
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Discover Skóhornið, Tórshavn's charming shoe store offering stylish and comfortable footwear for every occasion in the heart of the Faroe Islands.
Føroya Heimavirkisfelag
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Essabarr
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Barbara Fish House
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Experience the finest seafood dining in Tórshavn at Barbara Fish House, where the ocean's freshest flavors meet local culinary artistry.
ROKS
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Experience the vibrant flavors of the Faroe Islands at ROKS, where local ingredients meet culinary artistry in Tórshavn.
Mikkeller Tórshavn
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Explore a unique selection of craft beers at Mikkeller Tórshavn, where the vibrant atmosphere meets the rich flavors of the Faroe Islands.
Ástaklokkan
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Discover the charm of Ástaklokkan in Tórshavn, where delightful breakfasts and lunches await in a beautifully restored historic setting.
