Suðuroy, Faroe Islands Travel Guide

Discover the untouched beauty and rich culture of Suðuroy in the Faroe Islands, an island of dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and unforgettable landscapes.

Suðuroy, the southernmost island of the Faroe Islands, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. Known for its dramatic cliffs, rolling green hills, and charming villages, Suðuroy offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local culture. Exploring Suðuroy means immersing yourself in stunning landscapes, from the awe-inspiring Beinisvørð cliffs to the tranquil shores of Hvalba. Each village on the island has its own distinct character, with friendly locals eager to share stories and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty of trails to conquer, with routes leading to breathtaking viewpoints and serene valleys. The island's rich birdlife, including puffins and gannets, adds to the allure for nature lovers. In addition to its natural wonders, Suðuroy boasts historical sites, such as the old churches and traditional Faroese houses, giving visitors a glimpse into the island's past.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Drive carefully on the narrow roads, especially in foggy conditions.
Bring waterproof clothing as the weather can change quickly.
Visit the village of Tvøroyri for a taste of local cuisine and hospitality.
Check the ferry schedule in advance to plan your trip to and from the island.

Top City Travel Guides in Suðuroy

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

Vágur

Tvøroyri

Destinations in Suðuroy

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

Suðuroy Island

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

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Suðuroy

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Hole in the Cliff

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

5.0

Hvannhagi

Discover Hvannhagi: Hike to a hidden Faroese valley with stunning lake views, geological wonders, and a tranquil escape into untouched nature.

4.5

Visit Suðuroy

Explore Suðuroy: Discover the southernmost Faroe Island's rugged beauty, hiking trails, and charming villages. Your adventure starts here!

5.0

Ásmundarstakkur

Discover Ásmundarstakkur, a breathtaking rock pillar on Suðuroy Island, offering dramatic coastal views and a glimpse into the wild Faroe Islands.

4.6

Best landmarks in Suðuroy

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Best Landmarks

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Kirkjubømúrurin

Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Kirkjubøur, one of the oldest villages in the Faroe Islands, steeped in culture and tradition.

4.6

Múlafossur Waterfall

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Múlafossur Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder set against the dramatic landscapes of the Faroe Islands.

4.8

Fossá

Explore Fossá, the tallest waterfall in the Faroe Islands, where nature's beauty meets adventure in a stunning landscape of cascading waters.

4.6

The Nordic House

Explore the rich heritage of the Faroe Islands at The Nordic House, a cultural center in Tórshavn showcasing art, music, and local traditions.

4.4

Best restaurants in Suðuroy

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Fríða Kaffihús

Experience authentic Faroese cuisine at Fríða Kaffihús - where rich flavors meet warm hospitality in Klaksvík.

4.6

Katrina Christiansen

Discover Scandinavian culinary excellence at Katrina Christiansen in Tórshavn – where local flavors meet elegant dining.

4.3

Angus Steakhouse

Experience exceptional steak dishes at Angus Steakhouse in Tórshavn - a culinary gem in the Faroe Islands offering local flavors with an inviting atmosphere.

4.1

Áarstova

Experience authentic Faroese cuisine at Áarstova in Tórshavn - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.5

Best bars in Suðuroy

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Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover the charm of Irish culture at Irish Pub Torshavn, a lively spot for travelers to enjoy great food, drinks, and local music in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.1

Sirkus Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Tórshavn at Sirkus Bar, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await you in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Mikkeller Tórshavn

Experience the unique flavors of craft beer at Mikkeller Tórshavn, a vibrant bar in the heart of the Faroe Islands, perfect for locals and travelers alike.

4.6

OY Brewing

Discover the local craft beer culture at OY Brewing, Tórshavn's premier brewpub with delicious brews and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Suðuroy

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Best Nightclubs

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Irish Pub Torshavn

Experience authentic Irish hospitality and cuisine in Tórshavn's beloved Irish Pub, a must-visit destination for food and culture enthusiasts.

4.1

Sirkus Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Sirkus Bar in Tórshavn, offering a diverse drink selection and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.

4.3

Mikkeller Tórshavn

Discover the vibrant craft beer culture at Mikkeller Tórshavn, where innovation meets Faroese tradition in every sip.

4.6

Glitnir

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tórshavn at Glitnir, where cozy ambiance meets reasonably priced drinks in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Best shops in Suðuroy

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Best Shops

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Hvannhagi

Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Hvannhagi, a tranquil gem in the heart of the Faroe Islands, perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.

4.5

Bónus

Explore the vibrant offerings of Bónus, the go-to supermarket in Tvøroyri for every tourist's shopping needs.

4.3

Bakkhús Supermarket

Discover the essence of Faroese cuisine at Bakkhús Supermarket, your local source for fresh produce and traditional delicacies.

3.9

Zacharias Muller Supermarket

Explore the flavors of the Faroe Islands at Zacharias Muller Supermarket, where local products meet friendly service in Porkeri.

4.7

Explore Suðuroy on the Map

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

Suðuroy Essentials

Suðuroy is one of the southernmost islands in the Faroe Islands archipelago. The most common way to reach Suðuroy is by taking a ferry from Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands. The ferry service, known as Smyril, operates multiple times a day and the journey takes approximately 2 hours. There is also a heliport in Vágur and Tvøroyri for those who prefer to travel by helicopter, with flights operated by Atlantic Airways.
Once on Suðuroy, getting around is relatively straightforward. Public buses connect the main villages and are a cost-effective way to travel. Taxis are also available but can be more expensive. Renting a car is a convenient option if you prefer to explore the island at your own pace. For the more adventurous, biking is a viable option, although be prepared for hilly terrain.
The official currency of the Faroe Islands is the Faroese króna (DKK), which is pegged to the Danish krone. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller villages where card facilities may be limited. ATMs are available in larger towns such as Tvøroyri and Vágur.
Suðuroy is generally very safe, with a low crime rate. There are no specific areas or neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists. Nonetheless, it is always advisable to take standard safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night.
In case of emergency, you can dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Medical facilities are available in Tvøroyri and Vágur, and it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies can be found in larger towns for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable. Avoid wearing overly flashy or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and act respectfully. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respectful to fellow passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly hello or a nod. A handshake is also appropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Suðuroy like a local, visit the local fish markets and sample freshly caught seafood. Engage with residents, who are generally friendly and willing to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don’t miss the scenic hikes to Hvannhagi and the bird cliffs at Beinisvørð. For a unique experience, attend local events and festivals, such as the Jóansøka festival in June, which offers an authentic taste of Faroese culture.

When is the best time to visit Suðuroy?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Suðuroy

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

- HelloHallo
  [hahl-loh]
- GoodbyeFarvæl
  [fahr-vahl]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNei
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVinaliga
  [vee-nah-lee-gah]
- Thank youTakk fyri
  [tahk fee-ree]
- Excuse me/SorryUrsaka
  [oor-sah-kah]
- How are you?Hvør ert tú?
  [hvur airt too]
- Fine. And you?Bárður. Og tú?
  [bahr-thur. ohg too]
- Do you speak English?Tú tosar enskt?
  [too toh-sar en-skt]
- I don't understandEg skilji ikki
  [eg skeel-yee ee-kee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEg vil sjá matseðilin, vinaliga
  [eg vil shao maht-seh-dil-in, vee-nah-lee-gah]
- I don't eat meatEg etti ikki kjöt
  [eg et-ee ee-kee kyot]
- Cheers!Skál!
  [skahl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseEg vil gjalda, vinaliga
  [eg vil gyahl-dah, vee-nah-lee-gah]
- Help!Hjálp!
  [hyaalp]
- Go away!Fara burtur!
  [fahr-ah boor-tur]
- Call the Police!Ring til politii!
  [ring til poh-lee-tee]
- Call a doctor!Ring til lækna!
  [ring til lehk-nah]
- I'm lostEg eri týndur
  [eg eh-ree teend-ur]
- I'm illEg eri sjúkur
  [eg eh-ree shoo-kur]
- I'd like to buy...Eg vil keypa...
  [eg vil kay-pah]
- I'm just lookingEg eri bara at hyggja
  [eg eh-ree bah-rah aht higg-yah]
- How much is it?Hvat kostar tað?
  [kvaht koh-stahr tahd]
- That's too expensiveTað er ov dýrt
  [tahd air ohv deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kanst tú lækka prísin?
  [kanst too lay-kah pree-sin]
- What time is it?Hvat tíð er tað?
  [kvaht teed air tahd]
- It's one o'clockKlokkan er eitt
  [klok-kahn air eyt]
- Half past (10)Halv tíggju
  [halv teeg-yoo]
- MorningMorgun
  [mor-gun]
- AfternoonEftirmiddag
  [ef-teer-mid-dahg]
- EveningKvøld
  [kvoeld]
- YesterdayÍ gjár
  [ee gyahr]
- TodayÍ dag
  [ee dahg]
- TomorrowÍ morgin
  [ee mor-ghin]
- 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 ayn/te ...]
- What's the address?Hvat er adressan?
  [kvaht air ah-dress-ahn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kannst tú vísa mær (á kortið)?
  [kanst too vee-sah mair (aw kor-tid)]
- When's the next (bus)?Nær kemur næsti (bussur)?
  [nair keh-mur nai-stee (boos-sur)]
- A ticket (to ....)Ein billett (til ...)
  [ayn bee-lett (til ...)]

History of Suðuroy

Suðuroy, the southernmost island of the Faroe Islands, has a rich history dating back to the Viking Age. The island was settled by Norsemen in the 9th century, and archaeological evidence suggests that it was an important base for Viking explorers. The village of Akraberg, located at the southern tip of Suðuroy, is believed to have been a significant Viking settlement.
During the medieval period, Suðuroy was part of the Kingdom of Norway. The island's strategic location made it an important point of trade for the Hanseatic League. The village of Vágur, situated on the eastern coast, became a bustling port where merchants exchanged goods such as fish, wool, and grains. Ruins of old trading posts and warehouses can still be found in the region.
In the mid-14th century, the Black Death reached the Faroe Islands, including Suðuroy. The pandemic had a devastating impact on the island's population, leading to a significant decline in inhabitants. Many villages were abandoned, and it took centuries for the population to recover. Historical records and local folklore recount tales of entire families being wiped out by the plague.
Suðuroy played a notable role in the Faroese Rebellion of 1538 against the Danish Crown. The rebellion was sparked by heavy taxation and harsh rule imposed by Denmark. The island's inhabitants, along with other Faroese, rose up in defiance. The rebellion was ultimately quelled, but it remains a significant event in the island's history, symbolizing the Faroese spirit of resistance.
The 17th century was marked by pirate invasions in the North Atlantic, and Suðuroy was not spared. Pirates, including the notorious Barbary corsairs, raided the island, plundering villages and taking locals as slaves. The village of Hvalba, located on the eastern coast, was particularly affected. Fortifications and lookout points were established to protect the islanders from further attacks.
In the 18th century, Suðuroy, along with the rest of the Faroe Islands, came under the direct control of the Danish monarchy. The Danish Crown established trade monopolies that restricted the island's economy. Despite these limitations, Suðuroy became known for its thriving fishing industry. The village of Froðba, with its natural harbor, became a central hub for fishing and trade.
During World War II, the Faroe Islands were occupied by British forces to prevent a German invasion. Suðuroy served as a strategic location for the British military, with radar stations and defensive positions established on the island. The British presence brought about significant changes, including the construction of new infrastructure. The village of Tvøroyri became an important military base, and remnants of wartime installations can still be seen today.
After World War II, Suðuroy experienced a period of modernization and development. The fishing industry continued to be a major economic driver, with new technologies and infrastructure enhancing productivity. The island also saw improvements in transportation, education, and healthcare. The vibrant culture of Suðuroy, with its traditional music, dance, and art, flourished during this time, contributing to the island's unique identity.