Norðoyar, Faroe Islands Travel Guide

Discover Norðoyar in the Faroe Islands, where rugged landscapes, rich culture, and serene isolation combine to offer an unforgettable northern adventure.

Norðoyar, also known as the Northern Isles, is a realm of rugged beauty in the Faroe Islands. This group of islands offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and tranquil isolation. Among these islands, Borðoy, Kunoy, and Viðoy stand out with their majestic mountains, deep fjords, and charming villages. Klaksvík, the second largest town in the Faroe Islands, is located on Borðoy. It serves as the cultural and economic heart of Norðoyar. The town boasts a lively harbor, fascinating museums, and the iconic Christianskirkjan church, which showcases traditional Faroese architecture. From Klaksvík, you can explore the other islands by boat, providing a chance to see Norðoyar’s dramatic coastlines and marine life. For nature lovers, Norðoyar is a paradise. The hiking trails here offer breathtaking views and a sense of untouched wilderness. Don't miss the hike to the top of Villingadalsfjall on Viðoy, where you can stand at the highest peak in the Northern Isles. Bird watchers will also delight in the numerous seabirds that nest on the cliffs, including puffins and guillemots. The serene landscapes and fresh air make Norðoyar a perfect escape for those looking to reconnect with nature.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during the summer months for the best weather and longest daylight hours.
Take a ferry from Klaksvík to explore the smaller islands for a true sense of adventure.
Bring sturdy hiking boots for the trails, as the terrain can be challenging.
Check local schedules for cultural events and festivals in Klaksvík.
Pack warm clothing, even in summer, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Try local Faroese cuisine at one of the traditional restaurants in Klaksvík.

Top City Travel Guides in Norðoyar

The cities of Norðoyar, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Gøta

Klaksvik

Destinations in Norðoyar

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

Kunoy Island

Kalsoy Island

Klaksvík

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

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Norðoyar

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Klakkur

Explore Klakkur, a stunning mountain in the Faroe Islands, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable hiking experiences for all adventurers.

4.8

Kallur Lighthouse

Hike to the iconic Kallur Lighthouse on Kalsoy Island for breathtaking views and a touch of James Bond magic in the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Vestmanna

Explore Vestmanna: Faroe Islands' dramatic cliffs, rich birdlife, and Viking history await in this charming coastal village.

Hole in the Cliff

Discover the breathtaking Hole in the Cliff in the Faroe Islands, a stunning natural wonder offering dramatic views and unforgettable experiences.

5.0

Best landmarks in Norðoyar

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Kirkjubømúrurin

Experience the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of Kirkjubøur, the historical gem of the Faroe Islands.

4.6

Múlafossur Waterfall

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Múlafossur Waterfall, a hidden gem in the Faroe Islands surrounded by stunning landscapes and tranquil scenery.

4.8

Fossá

Discover the breathtaking Fossá Waterfall, the highest in the Faroe Islands, where nature's beauty and power come together in a spectacular display.

4.6

The Nordic House

Discover The Nordic House in Tórshavn—where art, culture, and Nordic traditions come together in a stunning architectural masterpiece.

4.4

Best restaurants in Norðoyar

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Fríða Kaffihús

Experience authentic Faroese cuisine in a charming café setting at Fríða Kaffihús in Klaksvík.

4.6

Hotel Føroyar

Discover unparalleled comfort and stunning views at Hotel Føroyar – your perfect retreat in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Katrina Christiansen

Experience authentic Scandinavian cuisine at Katrina Christiansen in Tórshavn, where local flavors meet exceptional dining.

4.3

Vestmanna Tourist Centre

Experience culinary delights and breathtaking boat tours at Vestmanna Tourist Centre in the beautiful Faroe Islands.

4.2

Best bars in Norðoyar

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Fríða Kaffihús

Experience the heart of Klaksvík at Fríða Kaffihús, where delicious Faroese cuisine meets rich local history in a cozy café setting.

4.6

Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover authentic Irish hospitality in Tórshavn's vibrant Irish Pub, blending local flavors with a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Katrina Christiansen

Discover the heart of Scandinavian flavors in Tórshavn at Katrina Christiansen, where fresh ingredients meet Faroese tradition.

4.3

Angus Steakhouse

Discover Angus Steakhouse in Tórshavn - A premier destination for steak lovers and a taste of Faroese culinary tradition.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Norðoyar

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Irish Pub Torshavn

Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Irish Pub Torshavn, where local charm meets traditional flavors in the Faroe Islands.

4.1

Kallur Lighthouse

Explore the breathtaking Kallur Lighthouse on Kalsoy Island, where stunning views and serene hikes await every adventurous traveler.

4.5

Sirkus Bar

Discover the lively charm of Sirkus Bar in Tórshavn, where great drinks and vibrant nightlife await tourists in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Mikkeller Tórshavn

Discover Mikkeller Tórshavn, the ultimate craft beer bar in the Faroe Islands, offering a unique selection of brews and an inviting atmosphere for all.

4.6

Best shops in Norðoyar

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Best Shops

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Fríða Kaffihús

Discover the charm of Klaksvík at Fríða Kaffihús, a cozy café blending delicious flavors with a touch of Faroese history.

4.6

The Seal Woman (Kópakonan)

Explore the captivating legend of Kópakonan, the Seal Woman, through a stunning sculpture in Mikladalur, a cultural highlight of the Faroe Islands.

4.8

Kallur Lighthouse

Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene beauty of Kallur Lighthouse, a must-visit attraction in the stunning Faroe Islands.

4.5

Bónus

Experience local flavors and essential goods at Bónus, the friendly supermarket of Klaksvík, Faroe Islands.

4.3

Explore Norðoyar on the Map

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

Norðoyar Essentials

Norðoyar, comprising six islands in the Faroe Islands, can be accessed primarily via Vágar Airport, the only international airport in the Faroe Islands. From Vágar Airport, you can take a domestic flight, helicopter, or ferry to Norðoyar. The ferry service from Tórshavn to Klaksvík is a popular and scenic route. Public buses also connect Tórshavn to Klaksvík, with regular services available.
Within Norðoyar, transportation options include buses, taxis, and rental cars. The public bus service is reliable and connects the main islands. Taxis are readily available but can be expensive. Renting a car offers flexibility, especially if you plan to explore more remote areas. Bicycle rentals are also an option for those looking to enjoy the scenic routes at a leisurely pace.
The official currency is the Faroese króna (DKK), which is pegged to the Danish krone. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, hotels, and restaurants. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in more remote areas. ATMs are available in the main towns, including Klaksvík.
Norðoyar is generally very safe for tourists. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being vigilant in crowded places. The community is close-knit and friendly, contributing to a low crime rate.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital is in Klaksvík, which offers comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are available in the larger towns. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-urgent medical advice, you can visit local clinics or pharmacies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers due to the variable weather. Waterproof and windproof clothing is essential. Avoid overly casual clothing when dining in nicer restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in churches. Remove your hat and speak quietly. Public Transport: Do be punctual as buses run on a strict schedule. Don't play loud music or speak loudly. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. It's polite to say 'Góðan dag' (Good day). Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as skerpikjøt (dried sheep meat) and ræst kjøt (fermented lamb). Don’t refuse food offerings as it can be considered impolite.
To experience Norðoyar like a local, visit the local fish market in Klaksvík where you can buy fresh seafood and interact with fishermen. Participate in local festivals like Ólavsøka to immerse yourself in Faroese culture. Hiking is a favorite pastime; popular trails include those on Kunoy and Kalsoy islands, offering breathtaking views. Engage with locals at cafes and pubs; they are known for their hospitality and willingness to share stories about their homeland.

When is the best time to visit Norðoyar?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Norðoyar

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

- HelloHallo
  [Hah-lo]
- GoodbyeFarvæl
  [Far-vail]
- YesJa
  [Yah]
- NoNej
  [Nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVinaliga
  [Vin-ah-lee-gah]
- Thank youTakk
  [Tahk]
- Excuse me/SorryUrsak
  [Ur-sahk]
- How are you?Hvussu hevur tú?
  [Hvoo-soo eh-var too?]
- Fine. And you?Bara væl. Og tú?
  [Bah-rah vail. Ohg too?]
- Do you speak English?Talar tú enskt?
  [Tah-lar too eng-skt?]
- I don't understandEg skilji ikki
  [Egg shil-lee ee-kee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEg vil gita matseðilin, vinaliga
  [Egg vil gee-tah maht-seh-dil-in, vin-ah-lee-gah]
- I don't eat meatEg etti ikki kjöt
  [Egg et-tee ee-kee kyot]
- Cheers!Skál!
  [Skahl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseEg vil gjalda, vinaliga
  [Egg vil yahl-dah, vin-ah-lee-gah]
- Help!Hjálp!
  [Yahlp]
- Go away!Far burtur!
  [Far boor-tur]
- Call the Police!Ring til løgregluna!
  [Ring til lur-ehg-loo-nah]
- Call a doctor!Ring til læknan!
  [Ring til layk-nahn]
- I'm lostEg eri týndur
  [Egg eh-ree teen-door]
- I'm illEg eri sjúkur
  [Egg eh-ree shoo-kur]
- I'd like to buy...Eg vil keypa...
  [Egg vil kay-pah...]
- I'm just lookingEg eri bara at hyggja
  [Egg eh-ree bah-rah at hig-gah]
- How much is it?Hvussu kostar tað?
  [Hvoo-soo koh-star thah?]
- That's too expensiveTað er ov dýrt
  [Thah air ohv deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kanst tú minnka prísin?
  [Kahn-st too min-kah prees-in?]
- What time is it?Hvat tíð er tað?
  [Hvat teed air thah?]
- It's one o'clockKlokkan er eitt
  [Kloh-kahn air it]
- Half past (10)Hálv (10)
  [Hahlv (ten)]
- MorningMorgun
  [Mor-goon]
- AfternoonEftir miðdegi
  [Ef-teer mid-day-ee]
- EveningKvøld
  [Kvol-d]
- YesterdayÍ gjár
  [Ee yar]
- TodayÍ dag
  [Ee dahg]
- TomorrowÍ morgin
  [Ee mor-gin]
- 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 air ain/te...]
- What's the address?Hvat er adressan?
  [Hvat air ah-dress-an?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kanst tú vísa mær (á kortinum)?
  [Kahn-st too vee-sah mair (ow kor-tin-um)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Nær kemur næsti (bussur)?
  [Nair keh-moor nay-stee (boos-sur)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Ein bilett (til ....)
  [Ain bee-let (til ....)]

History of Norðoyar

The Norðoyar region, comprising the northernmost islands of the Faroe Islands, has a rich history dating back to the Viking Age. Archaeological evidence suggests that Viking settlers arrived in the 9th century, establishing farms and small communities. These settlers were drawn by the fertile land and rich fishing grounds, laying the foundation for the region's enduring maritime culture.
A key figure in Norðoyar's history is Tróndur í Gøtu, a chieftain from the island of Eysturoy but with significant influence across the Faroe Islands, including Norðoyar. Tróndur played a central role in the resistance against Norwegian rule during the late Viking Age. His legacy is commemorated in local folklore and the Faroese ballad tradition, highlighting his impact on the islands' cultural identity.
The Christianization of the Faroe Islands began around the year 1000, profoundly affecting the Norðoyar region. Missionaries from Norway and Iceland introduced Christianity, leading to the establishment of churches and the gradual decline of pagan practices. This transition is marked by the construction of the Norðoyar’s first churches, which became centers of community life and culture.
During the late Middle Ages, the Hanseatic League, a powerful commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds, established trade routes that included the Faroe Islands. Norðoyar, with its strategic location, became a significant trading hub. The exchange of goods such as fish and wool for grain and other necessities helped shape the economic landscape of the region.
Klaksvík, the largest town in Norðoyar, was the site of a significant political event known as the Klaksvík Uprising in 1955-1956. This was a protest against the merger of the local hospital with the central hospital in Tórshavn, reflecting broader tensions between local autonomy and centralization. The uprising highlighted the strong community spirit and desire for self-determination among the people of Norðoyar.
In the 20th century, the fishing industry experienced significant growth in Norðoyar, particularly in Klaksvík. The development of modern fishing fleets and processing facilities transformed the town into a major economic center. This boom not only bolstered the local economy but also reinforced the Faroese maritime culture, which remains a vital part of Norðoyar's identity.
Norðoyar is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Norðoyastevna, which celebrates local heritage through music, dance, and traditional Faroese chain dancing. These festivals serve as a living testament to the region's rich cultural history and provide a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the Faroese way of life.