Streymoy Island, Faroe Islands Travel Guide

Discover Streymoy Island in the Faroe Islands: A blend of dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. Perfect for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.

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Streymoy Island

Streymoy Island, the largest island in the Faroe Islands, is a striking blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. With its dramatic landscapes, the island offers a feast for the eyes. Towering cliffs, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls create a picturesque setting that feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. The island’s rugged terrain is perfect for hiking, providing visitors with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and neighboring islands. Don’t miss the famous Tórshavn, the capital city, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Wander through its narrow streets, visit the old town, and explore the Tinganes, one of the oldest parliamentary meeting places in the world. Nature lovers will find Streymoy Island a paradise. The bird cliffs of Vestmanna are a must-see, where thousands of seabirds nest on the steep, rocky cliffs. Take a boat tour to get up close and personal with these incredible wildlife spectacles. The island's fjords and inlets are also worth exploring, offering tranquil waters and beautiful scenery. For a unique experience, visit the village of Saksun. Nestled in a beautiful lagoon, this village feels like a step back in time with its traditional grass-roofed houses and stunning views. Streymoy Island is not just about nature; it’s also about culture and traditions. The island hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music to local food. The Faroese people are warm and welcoming, and their hospitality adds a special touch to your visit. Whether you’re exploring the island’s natural wonders or immersing yourself in its vibrant culture, Streymoy Island promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit Tórshavn's old town early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Wear layers and waterproof clothing; the weather can be unpredictable and changes quickly.
Try local Faroese dishes at small, family-run restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
Book a boat tour to the Vestmanna bird cliffs in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Explore the village of Saksun during low tide to walk along the lagoon and enjoy the scenic views.

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

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

Best attractions in Streymoy Island

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Nólsoy Lighthouse

Hike to the historic Nólsoy Lighthouse for breathtaking views and a glimpse into the Faroe Islands' rugged beauty and maritime past.

4.7

Vestmanna Tourist Centre

Explore the Faroe Islands from Vestmanna Tourist Centre: boat tours, local cuisine, history, and stunning scenery await!

4.2

Vestmanna

Explore Vestmanna, a charming village in the Faroe Islands, rich in stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Best landmarks in Streymoy Island

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Best Landmarks

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Kirkjubømúrurin

Discover the historic charm of Kirkjubøur, a captivating village on the Faroe Islands, rich in culture and breathtaking scenery.

4.5

Fossá

Explore the stunning Fossá waterfall, the tallest in the Faroe Islands, where nature's beauty meets tranquility in a breathtaking landscape.

4.6

The Nordic House

Explore the Nordic House, the cultural center of the Faroe Islands, where art, history, and contemporary creativity converge in Tórshavn.

4.4

Skansin

Explore Skansin, a historical fortress in Tórshavn, combining rich maritime history with stunning coastal views in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Best restaurants in Streymoy Island

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Katrina Christiansen

Experience authentic Scandinavian cuisine at Katrina Christiansen in Tórshavn – where tradition meets modern flavor.

4.3

Angus Steakhouse

Experience exquisite dining at Angus Steakhouse in Tórshavn - where exceptional steaks meet Faroese culinary traditions.

4.1

THE TARV Grillhouse

Experience culinary excellence at The TARV Grillhouse in Tórshavn - where local flavors meet modern cuisine.

4.4

Áarstova

Experience authentic Faroese cuisine at Áarstova in Tórshavn - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

4.5

Best bars in Streymoy Island

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Irish Pub Torshavn

Experience authentic Irish cuisine and hospitality at Irish Pub Torshavn, a cozy retreat in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.1

Katrina Christiansen

Discover the essence of Scandinavian cuisine at Katrina Christiansen in Tórshavn, where fresh local ingredients meet unforgettable flavors.

4.3

Angus Steakhouse

Experience the finest steaks and local flavors in Tórshavn at Angus Steakhouse, a top dining destination for meat lovers.

4.1

Barbara Fish House

Experience the finest seafood dining at Barbara Fish House in Tórshavn, where every dish celebrates the rich maritime culture of the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Streymoy Island

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Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover the charm of Tórshavn at Irish Pub, where authentic Irish hospitality meets local flavor in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Sirkus Bar

Experience Tórshavn's vibrant nightlife at Sirkus Bar, where locals and travelers gather for great drinks and unforgettable moments.

4.3

Glitnir

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tórshavn at Glitnir, where exceptional drinks meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Blábar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tórshavn at Blábar, a lively bar offering a mix of local culture, great drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.

4.5

Best shops in Streymoy Island

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H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil

Explore H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil, Tórshavn's beloved gift shop offering books, souvenirs, and unique Faroese treasures.

4.6

Á Handil

Explore the culinary wonders of Tórshavn at Á Handil, your go-to grocery store for local and international delights.

4.1

Guðrun & Guðrun

Discover unique Faroese fashion at Guðrun & Guðrun, a clothing store that blends tradition with modern style in Tórshavn.

4.5

Á handil

Discover the local flavors of the Faroe Islands at Á handil, Tórshavn's beloved grocery store featuring artisanal foods and fresh produce.

4.2

Explore Streymoy Island on the Map

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

Streymoy Island Essentials

Streymoy Island can be reached via Vágar Airport (FAE), the only airport in the Faroe Islands. From Vágar Airport, you can drive to Streymoy via the Vágatunnilin tunnel, which connects Vágar to Streymoy. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the airport to the capital, Tórshavn, which is located on Streymoy Island. Ferry services are also available from Denmark and Iceland, docking at Tórshavn.
Public transportation on Streymoy Island is well-organized, with buses connecting major towns and villages. Tórshavn, the capital, has a local bus service called 'Bygdaleiðir' which is free of charge. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the island at your own pace. Additionally, biking is popular, but be prepared for hilly terrain and changing weather conditions.
The official currency in the Faroe Islands is the Faroese króna (DKK), which is equivalent to the Danish krone. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Tórshavn and other larger towns.
Streymoy Island is generally very safe for tourists, with low crime rates. Standard precautions should be taken, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being cautious in unfamiliar areas. There are no specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists. It is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Tórshavn. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the larger towns for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers to adapt to the changing weather. Wear waterproof and windproof clothing. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in smaller villages. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and behave quietly. Public Transport: Do be punctual, as buses run on a strict schedule. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a nod. In more formal settings, a handshake is appropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like fermented lamb and dried fish. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Streymoy Island like a local, visit the local markets and shops in Tórshavn. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their island. Attend a traditional Faroese chain dance if possible. Explore the scenic hiking trails, especially the route from Tórshavn to Kirkjubøur, which offers stunning views and historical landmarks.

When is the best time to visit Streymoy Island?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Streymoy 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 Streymoy Island. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHalló
  [HAH-loh]
- GoodbyeFarvæl
  [FAHR-vayl]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNei
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVær så god
  [vair soh gohd]
- Thank youTakk fyri
  [tahk FEE-ree]
- Excuse me/SorryFyrirgef meg
  [FEER-ir-gehv meh]
- How are you?Hvussu hevur tú tað?
  [HVOOS-soo HEH-vur too tah]
- Fine. And you?Godt. Og tú?
  [goht oh too]
- Do you speak English?Talar tú enskt?
  [TAH-lahr too enskt]
- I don't understandEg skilji ikki
  [ey shil-yee ihkee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEg vil síggja menuin, vænliga
  [ey vil SEE-ya meh-NOO-in VAHN-lee-gah]
- I don't eat meatEg eti ikki kjøt
  [ey eh-tee ihkee chyut]
- Cheers!Skál!
  [skowl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseEg vil gjalda, vænliga
  [ey vil yal-da VAHN-lee-gah]
- Help!Hjálp!
  [HYAWLP]
- Go away!Far avstað!
  [FAHR AV-stath]
- Call the Police!Ring eftir lógmanni!
  [ring EV-teer LOWG-mahn-ee]
- Call a doctor!Ring eftir læknari!
  [ring EV-teer LYE-knar-ee]
- I'm lostEg er týstur
  [ey ar TEES-tur]
- I'm illEg er sjúkur
  [ey ar SYOO-kur]
- I'd like to buy...Eg vil keypa...
  [ey vil KAY-pah]
- I'm just lookingEg er bara at síggja
  [ey ar BAH-rah at SEE-ya]
- How much is it?Hvussu nógv kostar tað?
  [HVOOS-soo NOHV kost-ar tah]
- That's too expensiveTað er ov dyrt
  [tah ar ohv deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kanstu lægga prísin?
  [kahn-stoo LYE-gah PREES-een]
- What time is it?Hvat er tíðin?
  [kvat ar TEE-din]
- It's one o'clockTað er eitt
  [tah ar eyt]
- Half past (10)Hálf tið (10)
  [howlf tee-th (tayn)]
- MorningMorgun
  [MORE-goon]
- AfternoonEttermiðdegi
  [ET-ter-mith-deh-gee]
- EveningKvøld
  [kvool]
- YesterdayÍ gjár
  [ee DYOW-ar]
- TodayÍ dag
  [ee dah]
- TomorrowÍ morgin
  [ee MORE-gin]
- 1Eitt
  [eyt]
- 2Tvø
  [tvoo]
- 3Trý
  [tree]
- 4Fýra
  [FEER-ah]
- 5Fimm
  [feem]
- 6Seks
  [seks]
- 7Sjey
  [shay]
- 8Átta
  [OWT-tah]
- 9Ni
  [nee]
- 10Tíggju
  [TEE-yoo]
- Where's a/the...?Hvar er ein...
  [kvar ar ayn]
- What's the address?Hvat er heimilsheiðurin?
  [kvat ar HAY-mils-HAY-thur-een]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kanstu vísa mær (á kortinum)?
  [kahn-stoo VEE-sah myar (ow KOHR-teen-oom)]
- When's the next (bus)?Hvussu langt er til næsta (buss)?
  [HVOOS-soo lahngt ar til NAY-stah (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Eiða (til ....)
  [EYE-thah (til ....)]

History of Streymoy Island

Streymoy Island, the largest and most populous island in the Faroe Islands, bears the rich legacy of the Viking age. The early Norse settlers arrived around the 9th century and established small farming communities. Evidence of their presence can be seen in remnants of old settlements and ancient ruins scattered throughout the island.
A significant historical figure associated with Streymoy is Sigmundur Brestisson, a Viking chieftain who is credited with bringing Christianity to the Faroe Islands in the year 999. According to the 'Færeyinga Saga', he built the first Christian church in the village of Kirkjubøur on Streymoy. His dramatic life and tragic death are integral to Faroese history.
Kirkjubøur, located on the southern tip of Streymoy, was the ecclesiastical center of the Faroe Islands during the Middle Ages. The village was home to the Bishop's residence and several important religious buildings, including the ruins of the Magnus Cathedral, which began construction in the 13th century, and the medieval farmhouse, Kirkjubøargarður, which is still inhabited today.
In the 14th and 15th centuries, Streymoy Island was influenced by the Hanseatic League, a powerful commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and market towns in Northwestern and Central Europe. Tórshavn, the capital city situated on Streymoy, became a crucial trading post during this period, facilitating trade between the Faroe Islands and mainland Europe.
In 1677, during the Scanian War, a naval engagement known as the Battle of Tórshavn took place in the waters near Streymoy. Danish and Dutch forces clashed with the English fleet, marking one of the few military encounters in the Faroese waters. This battle underscored the strategic significance of the Faroe Islands during times of European conflict.
The 19th and 20th centuries saw the rise of the Faroese independence movement, which sought greater autonomy from Denmark. Streymoy, as the central and most politically active island, played a significant role in this movement. The establishment of the Løgting (Faroese Parliament) in Tórshavn in 1852 was a major milestone in the islands' quest for self-governance.
During World War II, the Faroe Islands, including Streymoy, were occupied by British forces to prevent a German invasion. Tórshavn became the administrative center for the British presence, and the island's infrastructure was significantly developed during this period. The wartime occupation left a lasting impact on Streymoy's society and economy.
Streymoy Island has experienced a cultural renaissance in recent decades, with Tórshavn emerging as a vibrant hub for Faroese music, art, and literature. The island hosts numerous cultural festivals, such as the annual Ólavsøka, a national celebration with roots dating back to the Viking era. Streymoy continues to be a dynamic blend of historical heritage and contemporary culture.