Mykines, Faroe Islands Travel Guide

Discover Mykines in the Faroe Islands: A secluded paradise offering stunning landscapes, rich birdlife, and serene hiking trails for an unforgettable adventure.

Mykines, the westernmost island of the Faroe Islands, is a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers. Known for its dramatic landscapes, it offers breathtaking views of steep cliffs, rolling hills, and the vast Atlantic Ocean. The island is home to a rich variety of bird species, including the famous puffins that nest here during the summer months. To get to Mykines, you can take a ferry or a helicopter from the main island of Vágar. Once on the island, you will find yourself in a quiet, serene environment where time seems to stand still. The village of Mykines, with its charming turf-roofed houses, is the only settlement on the island. It offers a glimpse into the traditional Faroese way of life. Exploring Mykines is an adventure in itself. The island is crisscrossed with hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and hidden coves. One of the most popular hikes is the trail to Mykineshólmur, a small islet connected to Mykines by a narrow footbridge. Here, you can visit the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding sea and cliffs. Remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes and be prepared for sudden changes in weather. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Mykines offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Its untouched beauty and tranquility make it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Book your ferry or helicopter ride in advance, especially during the summer months, as they can fill up quickly.
Pack warm and waterproof clothing. The weather can be unpredictable, and it can get quite windy and cold.
Bring your own food and water. There are limited facilities on the island, and it is best to come prepared.
Respect the wildlife, especially during the nesting season. Keep a safe distance from the birds and their nests.
Carry cash. Credit card facilities might not be available everywhere on the island.

Destinations in Mykines

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Mykines Island

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

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Mykines

Top-rated picks

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Vestmanna

Explore Vestmanna: Faroe Islands' historic village with dramatic sea cliffs, Viking roots, birdlife & outdoor adventures. Boat tours a must!

Best landmarks in Mykines

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Múlafossur Waterfall

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Múlafossur Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction in the Faroe Islands that captivates with its majestic cascades and serene coastal views.

4.8

Skansin

Discover Skansin, a historical fortress in Tórshavn, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the rich maritime heritage of the Faroe Islands.

4.3

View on Mullafossur and Gasadalur village

Experience the breathtaking Mullafossur Waterfall and the charming Gasadalur Village in the stunning Faroe Islands – a must-visit for nature lovers.

4.9

The Seal Woman (Kópakonan)

Explore the mystical tale of Kópakonan at the stunning Seal Woman sculpture in Mikladalur, a unique blend of art and Faroe Islands folklore.

4.8

Best restaurants in Mykines

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Múlafossur Waterfall

Discover Múlafossur Waterfall: A stunning cascade plunging into the Atlantic amidst breathtaking landscapes in Gasadalur, Faroe Islands.

4.8

Fríða Kaffihús

Discover Fríða Kaffihús: A delightful blend of culinary excellence and Faroese history awaits you in Klaksvík.

4.6

Hotel Føroyar

Discover culinary excellence amidst breathtaking views at Hotel Føroyar in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands – your gateway to unforgettable experiences.

4.3

Katrina Christiansen

Discover exceptional Scandinavian cuisine at Katrina Christiansen in Tórshavn, where local ingredients meet creative flair for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.3

Best bars in Mykines

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Fríða Kaffihús

Experience the flavors and heritage of the Faroe Islands at Fríða Kaffihús, a charming café and restaurant in Klaksvík.

4.6

Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover the warm ambience and delicious flavors at Irish Pub Torshavn, where Irish hospitality meets Faroese charm in the heart of Tórshavn.

4.1

Katrina Christiansen

Discover authentic Scandinavian cuisine at Katrina Christiansen in Tórshavn, where local flavors meet innovative culinary artistry.

4.3

Angus Steakhouse

Experience the best of Faroese cuisine with high-quality steaks at Angus Steakhouse, a must-visit restaurant in Tórshavn.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Mykines

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Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover the heart of Irish culture in Tórshavn at Irish Pub Torshavn, where tradition meets modern hospitality.

4.1

Sirkus Bar

Discover the lively nightlife at Sirkus Bar in Tórshavn, where great drinks, music, and friendly vibes await you in the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Glitnir

Discover the cozy charm of Glitnir, a local bar in Tórshavn, serving delightful Faroese brews in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

4.3

Blábar

Discover Blábar, a lively Tórshavn bar offering unique drinks and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unforgettable nights in the Faroe Islands.

4.6

Best shops in Mykines

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H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil

Explore H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil, a unique blend of a gift shop, bookstore, and souvenir haven in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands.

4.7

Miklagarður

Explore the heart of Tórshavn at Miklagarður, where local flavors meet everyday convenience in a charming supermarket experience.

4.5

Navia (yarn)

Discover Navia Yarn Shop in the Faroe Islands, where quality yarns and local craftsmanship create a unique shopping experience for all knitting enthusiasts.

4.6

PE Sørvágur

Explore the local flavors and community spirit at PE Sørvágur, a delightful grocery store in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.0

Explore Mykines on the Map

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

Mykines Essentials

Mykines is one of the westernmost islands in the Faroe Islands. To reach Mykines, you first need to fly into Vágar Airport, the only international airport in the Faroe Islands. From there, you can take a ferry from Sørvágur to Mykines, which operates from May to August. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes. Alternatively, there are helicopter services operated by Atlantic Airways that fly to Mykines year-round, weather permitting. The helicopter ride offers a stunning aerial view of the archipelago and takes around 10 minutes.
Once on Mykines, the primary mode of transportation is by foot, as the island is small and there are no roads for vehicles. Be prepared for some hiking, as the terrain can be rugged. The village of Mykines is the only settlement on the island, and everything is within walking distance. For those looking to explore further, guided walking tours are available and highly recommended.
The official currency in the Faroe Islands is the Faroese króna (DKK), which is pegged to the Danish krone. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases or in case electronic payment systems are down. There are no ATMs on Mykines, so make sure to withdraw sufficient cash before arriving on the island.
Mykines is generally very safe for tourists. There are no high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always wise to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious when hiking, as the terrain can be challenging and weather conditions can change rapidly. Always stay on marked paths and follow local guidelines to ensure your safety.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The island has limited medical facilities, so for serious medical issues, evacuation to the main islands may be necessary. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. For minor health issues, a basic first aid kit will be useful. Inform local guides or residents if you plan to hike alone, so someone is aware of your whereabouts.
Fashion: Do wear sturdy hiking boots and weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are recommended due to variable weather. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing, especially in local establishments. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While there are no specific religious sites on Mykines, general respect for local culture is appreciated. Public Transport: Do be aware that public transport is limited to ferries and helicopters. Plan your travel accordingly and book in advance. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hej' or 'Hallo'. Faroese people are generally warm and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Faroese dishes and seafood. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.
To experience Mykines like a local, take time to engage with the residents and learn about their way of life, which is deeply connected to the island's natural environment. Visit the puffin colonies during the breeding season, but always maintain a respectful distance. Participate in local events or festivals if your visit coincides with any. Lastly, make sure to enjoy the stunning views from Mykineshólmur, the westernmost point of the island, which offers breathtaking scenery and a chance to see the iconic Mykines lighthouse.

When is the best time to visit Mykines?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Mykines

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 Mykines. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [ˈhɑːloʊ]
- GoodbyeFarvæl
  [ˈfɑːrˌvæl]
- YesJa
  [jɑ]
- NoNei
  [neɪ]
- Please/You're welcomeVinaliga
  [viˈnɑːlɪɡə]
- Thank youTakk
  [tɑk]
- Excuse me/SorryUrsakandi
  [ʊrˈsɑːkən̩di]
- How are you?Hvussu hevur tú?
  [ˈhʊsʊ ˈhɛʊʊr tu]
- Fine. And you?Gott. Og tú?
  [ɡɔt. ɔɡ tu]
- Do you speak English?Tú tosa tú enskt?
  [tu ˈtoʊsə tu ˈɛŋɡlɪʃt]
- I don't understandEg skilji ikki
  [ɛɡ ˈskɪljɪ ˈɪkki]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEg vil fegin síggja matseðilin, vinaliga
  [ɛɡ vɪl ˈfeɪɡɪn ˈsiɡjɑ ˈmɑtˌsɛðɪlɪn ˈviːnɑˌlɪɡɑ]
- I don't eat meatEg eti ikki kjøt
  [ɛɡ ˈɛti ˈɪkki ˈkjøt]
- Cheers!Skál!
  [skɔl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseEg vil fegin gjalda, vinaliga
  [ɛɡ vɪl ˈfeɪɡɪn ˈjaldɑ ˈviːnɑˌlɪɡɑ]
- Help!Hjálp!
  [jaʊlp]
- Go away!Far burt!
  [fɑr bʊrt]
- Call the Police!Ring til politiið!
  [rɪŋ tɪl pʊˈlɪtɪð]
- Call a doctor!Ring til lækna!
  [rɪŋ tɪl ˈleɪknɑ]
- I'm lostEg eri lost
  [ɛɡ ˈɛri lɔst]
- I'm illEg eri sjúkur
  [ɛɡ ˈɛri ˈʃjuːkʊr]
- I'd like to buy...Eg vil fegin keypa...
  [ɛɡ vɪl ˈfeɪɡɪn ˈkeɪpɑ]
- I'm just lookingEg eri bara at hyggja
  [ɛɡ ˈɛri ˈbɑrɑ æt ˈhʏɡjɑ]
- How much is it?Hví nógv kostar tað?
  [hwi nɔɡ ˈkɔstɑr tɑð]
- That's too expensiveHetta er ov dýrt
  [ˈhɛtɑ ɛr oʊ ˈdiːrt]
- Can you lower the price?Kanni tú lækka prísin?
  [ˈkæni tu ˈlɛkɑ ˈpriːsɪn]
- What time is it?Hvønn tíma er tað?
  [ˈhʊvən ˈtiːmɑ ɛr tɑð]
- It's one o'clockKlokka er eitt
  [ˈklɔkɑ ɛr ɛɪt]
- Half past (10)Fimm minuttir yvir (10)
  [fɪm ˈmɪnʊtɪr ˈiːvɪr (10)]
- MorningMorgun
  [ˈmɔrʊn]
- AfternoonEftir miðdegi
  [ˈɛftɪr ˈmiːðɛɪ]
- EveningKvøld
  [kvʊld]
- YesterdayÍ gjár
  [i jɑr]
- TodayÍ dag
  [i dɑɡ]
- TomorrowÍ morgin
  [i ˈmɔrɡɪn]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Hvar er ein/te...
  [hvar ɛr eɪn/tɛ]
- What's the address?Hvat er adressan?
  [hvɑt ɛr əˈdrɛsɑn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kanst tú vísa mær (á kortið)?
  [kɑnst tu ˈviːsɑ mɛr (ɑː ˈkɔrtɪð)]
- When's the next (bus)?Nær kemur næsta (buss)?
  [nɛr ˈkɛmʊr ˈnɛstɑ (bʊs)]
- A ticket (to ....)Ein billett (til ....)
  [eɪn bɪˈlɛt (tɪl)]

History of Mykines

The island of Mykines, part of the Faroe Islands, was first settled by Vikings in the 9th century. Archaeological evidence suggests that the earliest settlers were Norsemen who brought with them their customs, livestock, and farming techniques. These early inhabitants established small communities and made a living primarily through fishing and sheep farming.
The Black Death reached the Faroe Islands in the 14th century, and Mykines was not spared. The plague decimated the population, leaving only a few inhabitants. This catastrophic event significantly impacted the island's development and led to a prolonged period of depopulation and hardship.
Christianity was introduced to Mykines in the 11th century, gradually replacing the Norse pagan beliefs. The construction of small churches and the establishment of ecclesiastical traditions marked this transition. The influence of Christianity brought about changes in the island's cultural practices and social structure.
In 1909, the Mykines Lighthouse was built on the westernmost point of the island. This lighthouse played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of maritime navigation around the Faroe Islands. The construction of the lighthouse also marked the beginning of a new era of connectivity and modernization for Mykines.
During World War II, the Faroe Islands, including Mykines, were occupied by British forces. The occupation led to the construction of various military installations and increased interaction with the outside world. The war period brought both challenges and economic opportunities, as the islanders provided supplies and services to the British troops.
After World War II, Mykines underwent significant changes with the introduction of modern amenities and infrastructure. The island saw the construction of new buildings, improved transportation links, and better communication systems. These developments helped to stem the tide of emigration and revitalized the local community.
In recent decades, Mykines has become a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience its unique cultural heritage and natural beauty. Efforts have been made to preserve the island's traditional way of life, including its distinctive Faroese architecture and customs. The influx of visitors has brought economic benefits while also posing challenges for sustainable development.