Nólsoy Island, Faroe Islands Travel Guide

Discover Nólsoy Island in the Faroe Islands: A serene escape offering stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife in a tranquil setting.

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Nólsoy Island

Nólsoy Island is a small yet enchanting destination within the Faroe Islands. Known for its serene beauty and rich cultural heritage, this island offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Surrounded by the North Atlantic Ocean, Nólsoy combines breathtaking landscapes with a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding. The island is home to a charming village with traditional Faroese houses painted in vibrant colors. Visitors can explore the narrow winding streets and experience the warmth of the local community. The island is also famous for its lighthouse, which provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and nearby islands. Nature enthusiasts will find Nólsoy a paradise, with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring rugged coastlines. The island is a haven for seabirds, including puffins and storm petrels, making it a must-visit for ornithologists and nature lovers alike. The natural beauty of Nólsoy is complemented by its historical sites, including ancient stone formations and remnants of Viking settlements.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Bring waterproof clothing as the weather can be unpredictable.
Visit the lighthouse for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Take a guided tour to learn about the island's history and folklore.
Pack binoculars for birdwatching, especially during the nesting season.
Try local Faroese cuisine at the village café.

Explore Nólsoy Island: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Best attractions in Nólsoy Island

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Viking Sundial

Explore the Viking Sundial in Tórshavn's historic Tinganes, a testament to the Faroe Islands' rich Viking heritage and ancient timekeeping methods.

5.0

Best landmarks in Nólsoy Island

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Kirkjubømúrurin

Discover the enchanting village of Kirkjubøur, a historical gem in the Faroe Islands where ancient ruins meet breathtaking natural beauty.

4.5

Gjógv Natural Harbour

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gjógv Natural Harbour, a serene retreat in the Faroe Islands with stunning cliffs and rich cultural history.

4.8

Fossá

Experience the awe-inspiring Fossá Waterfall, the highest in the Faroe Islands, where nature's beauty creates a stunning backdrop for your travels.

4.6

The Nordic House

Discover the Nordic House in Tórshavn: A cultural center showcasing the rich heritage and artistic spirit of the Faroe Islands.

4.4

Best restaurants in Nólsoy Island

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Katrina Christiansen

Discover exquisite Scandinavian flavors at Katrina Christiansen in Tórshavn – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.

4.3

Angus Steakhouse

Discover Angus Steakhouse in Tórshavn: where premium steaks meet Faroese hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.1

Áarstova

Experience authentic Faroese cuisine at Áarstova in Tórshavn—where tradition meets taste in every bite.

4.5

Barbara Fish House

Discover the exquisite flavors of seafood at Barbara Fish House in Tórshavn, where local ingredients meet culinary excellence.

4.3

Best bars in Nólsoy Island

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover the heart of Irish hospitality in Tórshavn’s Irish Pub, where drinks flow and friendships flourish amid Faroese charm.

4.1

Angus Steakhouse

Indulge in the finest steaks at Angus Steakhouse, where premium beef meets the stunning flavors of the Faroe Islands.

4.1

Sirkus Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Sirkus Bar in Tórshavn, where locals and tourists unite for unforgettable evenings filled with drinks and entertainment.

4.3

Mikkeller Tórshavn

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional craft beers at Mikkeller Tórshavn, a must-visit bar in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Nólsoy Island

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover the heart of Irish hospitality at Irish Pub Torshavn, where traditional cuisine and lively music create an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Sirkus Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tórshavn at Sirkus Bar, a lively bar offering drinks and entertainment in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Glitnir

Discover the lively atmosphere of Glitnir Bar in Tórshavn, where creative cocktails and Faroese culture meet for an unforgettable night out.

4.3

Blábar

Discover Blábar, a vibrant bar in Tórshavn, where local flavors and a lively atmosphere meet for an unforgettable night out.

4.5

Best shops in Nólsoy Island

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil

Explore the charm of H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil in Tórshavn - a unique gift shop offering books, toys, and office supplies that capture the essence of the Faroe Islands.

4.6

Rúsdrekkasøla Landsins - Tórshavn

Discover the finest selection of local and international beverages at Rúsdrekkasøla Landsins, the premier liquor store in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands.

4.4

Bónus

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Bónus in Tórshavn, where local flavors and everyday essentials meet in a bustling supermarket setting.

4.4

Explore the vibrant grocery store Á in Tórshavn, offering a delightful selection of local and international products for every tourist's needs.

4.0

Explore Nólsoy Island on the Map

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

Nólsoy Island Essentials

Nólsoy Island is located to the east of Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands. The most common way to reach Nólsoy is by taking a ferry from Tórshavn, which operates multiple times daily. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding waters. Tickets can be purchased at the ferry terminal or online in advance.
Once on Nólsoy, the primary mode of transportation is on foot, as the island is relatively small and easily navigable. Bicycles can also be rented for quicker travel around the island. There are no car rentals available on Nólsoy, and the use of motor vehicles is limited to residents.
The official currency of the Faroe Islands is the Faroese króna (DKK), which is equivalent to the Danish krone. Most businesses on Nólsoy accept credit and debit cards, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions or in case of connectivity issues. ATMs are available in Tórshavn but not on Nólsoy, so make sure to withdraw sufficient cash before your trip.
Nólsoy is generally a very safe destination with a low crime rate. However, as with any travel destination, it is advisable to take basic precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists on the island.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The island has a small medical facility for minor health issues. For more serious medical emergencies, transport to Tórshavn will be necessary. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable. Avoid overly casual attire in local establishments. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful when using the ferry service. Avoid loud conversations and keep the area clean. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a nod, or a handshake for more formal interactions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and seafood, and always accept hospitality graciously. Don’t waste food, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Nólsoy like a local, take a walk around the charming village and visit the local café for traditional Faroese dishes. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the island’s history and culture. Don’t miss a hike to the lighthouse at Borðan for breathtaking views and a chance to see the island’s rich birdlife. For a unique experience, participate in local festivals and events, which offer a glimpse into the island’s traditions and way of life.

When is the best time to visit Nólsoy Island?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Nólsoy Island

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

- HelloHalló
  [ha-lo]
- GoodbyeFarvæl
  [far-væl]
- YesJa
  [ya]
- NoNei
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVænta
  [væn-ta]
- Thank youTakk fyri
  [tak fur-ee]
- Excuse me/SorryFyrigef
  [fyr-i-gev]
- How are you?Hvussu gongur tú?
  [hvus-su gon-gur too]
- Fine. And you?Godt. Og tú?
  [got oh too]
- Do you speak English?Talar tú enskt?
  [ta-lar too en-skt]
- I don't understandEg skilji ikki
  [eg shil-yi i-chi]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEg vil síggja menuin, takk
  [eg vil see-jya me-nu-in tak]
- I don't eat meatEg eta ikki kjøt
  [eg eh-ta i-chi shøt]
- Cheers!Skál!
  [skawl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseEg vil gjalda, takk
  [eg vil gyal-da tak]
- Help!Hjálp!
  [hyowlp]
- Go away!Far burtur!
  [far bur-tur]
- Call the Police!Ringi eftir politi!
  [ring-i ef-tir po-li-tee]
- Call a doctor!Ringi eftir læknari!
  [ring-i ef-tir læk-na-ri]
- I'm lostEg er týstur
  [eg air tees-tur]
- I'm illEg er sjúkur
  [eg air shoo-kur]
- I'd like to buy...Eg vil keypa...
  [eg vil kee-pa]
- I'm just lookingEg er bara at síggja
  [eg air ba-ra at see-jya]
- How much is it?Hvat kostar tað?
  [kvat kost-ar thah]
- That's too expensiveTað er ov dyrt
  [thah air ov di-rt]
- Can you lower the price?Kanstu lækkja prís?
  [kan-stu læk-ya prees]
- What time is it?Hvat er klokkan?
  [kvat air klok-an]
- It's one o'clockTað er eitt
  [thah air ay-it]
- Half past (10)Hálf tið (10)
  [howlf tid (10)]
- MorningMorgun
  [mor-gun]
- AfternoonHádegi
  [haw-de-gi]
- EveningKvøld
  [kvul-d]
- YesterdayÍ gjár
  [ee dyar]
- TodayÍ dag
  [ee daw]
- TomorrowÍ morgin
  [ee mor-gin]
- 1Ein
  [ayn]
- 2Tvær
  [tver]
- 3Tríggir
  [tree-gir]
- 4Fýra
  [fee-ra]
- 5Fimm
  [fim]
- 6Seks
  [seks]
- 7Sjey
  [shay]
- 8Átta
  [awt-ta]
- 9Niðan
  [nee-than]
- 10Tíggju
  [tee-gyu]
- Where's a/the...?Hvar er ein/tey...?
  [kvar air ayn/tey]
- What's the address?Hvat er adressan?
  [kvat air ad-dres-san]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan tú vísa mær (á kortinum)?
  [kan too vee-sa mae-ir ow kort-in-um]
- When's the next (bus)?Nær kemur næsti (bussin)?
  [nair kyu-mer nes-ti bus-in]
- A ticket (to ....)Ein billett (til ....)
  [ayn bil-et til]

History of Nólsoy Island

Nólsoy Island, one of the smallest inhabited islands in the Faroe Islands, has a rich history dating back to the Viking Age. Archaeological findings suggest that the island was settled around the 9th century by Norsemen. These early settlers were primarily engaged in farming, fishing, and sheep herding, establishing the foundation of the island's economy and culture.
During the medieval period, Nólsoy became an important hub for trade within the Faroe Islands. The island's strategic location in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean made it a vital stop for trading vessels. Artifacts such as coins and pottery found on the island indicate active trade with neighboring islands and mainland Europe.
In the 17th century, Nólsoy Island was frequently targeted by pirates due to its remote location and the wealth generated from its trade activities. The most famous of these pirates was Tórður Mikkelsen, also known as 'Nólsoyar Páll,' who became a local hero for his efforts to protect the island from pirate raids. His legendary exploits are still celebrated in Faroese folklore.
The 19th century brought significant changes to Nólsoy Island with the advent of the fishing industry. The island's natural harbor allowed for the establishment of fishing stations, which led to economic growth and an increase in population. This period also saw the construction of several key infrastructures, including the Nólsoy Lighthouse, which remains an iconic landmark.
During World War II, the Faroe Islands, including Nólsoy, were occupied by British forces to prevent a German invasion. The presence of British troops brought both challenges and opportunities to the islanders. While the occupation disrupted daily life, it also led to the construction of new facilities and improved communication with the outside world.
In recent decades, Nólsoy has experienced a cultural revival, with efforts to preserve its unique heritage and traditions. The island hosts several cultural events, including the annual Nólsoy Festival, which celebrates Faroese music, dance, and crafts. Tourism has also become an important part of the island's economy, attracting visitors interested in its rich history and natural beauty.