Vágar, Faroe Islands Travel Guide

Discover the wild beauty of Vágar in the Faroe Islands - a land of dramatic cliffs, tranquil lakes, and charming villages, perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Vágar, the third-largest island in the Faroe Islands, is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers. Known for its dramatic landscapes, Vágar offers a mix of towering cliffs, serene lakes, and picturesque villages. The island is home to the Faroe Islands' only airport, making it the gateway to exploring this Nordic paradise. One of the most iconic sights in Vágar is the stunning Múlafossur Waterfall, which cascades directly into the ocean. The nearby village of Gásadalur, once one of the most isolated in the Faroe Islands, is now accessible via a tunnel and offers breathtaking views. Another must-see is Lake Sørvágsvatn, which appears to hover above the ocean due to a unique optical illusion. Vágar is also rich in cultural heritage. The quaint village of Bøur, with its turf-roofed houses and narrow streets, provides a glimpse into traditional Faroese life. Hiking trails around the island offer not only physical challenges but also the reward of panoramic vistas. Whether you're an avid hiker, a bird-watching enthusiast, or simply someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Vágar is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Bring waterproof clothing; the weather can be unpredictable.
Visit in the summer for extended daylight hours and milder weather.
Book accommodations in advance as options are limited.
Consider renting a car to explore the island at your own pace.
Respect local wildlife and natural sites by sticking to marked paths.

Top City Travel Guides in Vágar

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

Vestmanna

Sandavágur

Kvívík

Sorvagur

Miðvágur

Destinations in Vágar

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

Gásadalur

Vágar Island

Streymoy Island

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

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Vágar

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Múlafossur Waterfall

Witness the breathtaking Múlafossur Waterfall in the Faroe Islands, where water cascades into the Atlantic Ocean amidst stunning scenery.

4.8

View on Mullafossur and Gasadalur village

Experience the iconic Múlafossur Waterfall in the Faroe Islands, where dramatic cascades meet the serene village of Gásadalur. A must-see natural wonder.

4.9

Bøsdalafossur Waterfall

Witness the stunning Bøsdalafossur Waterfall in the Faroe Islands, where a lake dramatically cascades into the Atlantic Ocean.

4.2

Drangarnir

Discover Drangarnir, the Faroe Islands' stunning sea stacks: a must-see natural wonder offering breathtaking views and a unique hiking experience.

4.3

Best landmarks in Vágar

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Kirkjubømúrurin

Explore Kirkjubøur, a historic village in the Faroe Islands known for its ancient churches, charming architecture, and breathtaking coastal views.

4.6

Múlafossur Waterfall

Discover the breathtaking Múlafossur Waterfall in the Faroe Islands, a stunning natural attraction perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

4.8

RentYourCar.fo - Airport & Tórshavn Car Rental

Discover the stunning landscapes of the Faroe Islands with RentYourCar.fo, your go-to car rental agency for an unforgettable adventure.

4.8

Gjógv Natural Harbour

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Gjógv Natural Harbour in the Faroe Islands, where nature's wonders and charming village life await.

4.8

Best restaurants in Vágar

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Fríða Kaffihús

Experience the best of Faroese cuisine at Fríða Kaffihús, where tradition meets modern dining in Klaksvík's heart.

4.6

Hotel Føroyar

Discover unparalleled comfort and stunning views at Hotel Føroyar in Tórshavn – your perfect getaway in the Faroe Islands.

4.3

Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover the vibrant spirit of Tórshavn at Irish Pub - where great food meets local culture in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.1

Katrina Christiansen

Experience authentic Scandinavian flavors at Katrina Christiansen in Tórshavn – where every dish tells a story.

4.3

Best bars in Vágar

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Irish Pub Torshavn

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Irish Pub Torshavn, where traditional Irish cuisine meets Faroese charm in the heart of Tórshavn.

4.1

Katrina Christiansen

Experience the best of Scandinavian dining in Tórshavn, with fresh local ingredients and traditional flavors at Katrina Christiansen.

4.3

Fiskastykkið // Úti á Gjógv

Discover the flavors of the Faroe Islands at Fiskastykkið, where local ingredients meet breathtaking views in a cozy café.

4.7

Angus Steakhouse

Experience the best of Faroe Islands cuisine at Angus Steakhouse, where exceptional steaks meet local culinary traditions.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Vágar

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Best Nightclubs

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Sirkus Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tórshavn at Sirkus Bar, where creative cocktails and lively ambiance await every visitor.

4.3

Glitnir

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Glitnir, Tórshavn's top bar for local brews and a lively atmosphere, showcasing the best of Faroese culture.

4.3

Blábar

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Tórshavn at Blábar, a local bar offering unique cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere.

4.6

Tórshøll

Tórshøll: Where locals gather to savor drinks and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Tórshavn.

4.8

Best shops in Vágar

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Best Shops

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Vestmanna Tourist Centre

Explore the beauty and culture of the Faroe Islands at Vestmanna Tourist Centre, your gateway to unforgettable adventures and local flavors.

4.2

Dúvugarðar Saksun Heritage Farm

Explore the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes at Dúvugarðar Saksun Heritage Farm in the heart of the Faroe Islands.

4.5

H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil

Explore H. N. Jacobsens Bókahandil, Tórshavn's charming gift shop offering books, souvenirs, and toys that capture the essence of the Faroe Islands.

4.7

Bónus

Discover the best local and international flavors at Bónus in Sandavágur, a must-visit grocery store for every traveler in the Faroe Islands.

4.4

Explore Vágar on the Map

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

Vágar Essentials

Vágar is one of the Faroe Islands, and the primary means of getting there is by air. Vágar Airport (FAE) is the only airport in the Faroe Islands and is located on the island of Vágar itself. Direct flights are available from several European cities, including Copenhagen, Reykjavik, and Edinburgh. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Denmark or Iceland to Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands, and then drive or take a bus to Vágar.
Transportation on Vágar is facilitated by a network of well-maintained roads. Car rental is a popular option and allows for greater flexibility when exploring the island. Buses also run regularly between Vágar and other islands, including Tórshavn. Taxis are available but can be expensive. For those who enjoy cycling, renting a bike is a good way to explore the scenic landscapes at your own pace.
The official currency in the Faroe Islands is the Faroese króna (DKK), which is equivalent to the Danish krone. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is advisable to carry some cash for purchases in smaller establishments or in more remote areas. ATMs are available in main towns, including Sørvágur and Miðvágur.
Vágar is generally a very safe destination with low crime rates. There are no specific areas with high crime targeting tourists. However, standard precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night are still recommended. The locals are friendly and helpful, contributing to a welcoming and secure environment for visitors.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. The nearest medical facility is Vágar Health Center in Miðvágur, which can handle minor health issues. For more serious medical emergencies, Tórshavn has better-equipped hospitals. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Practical and waterproof clothing is recommended. Avoid overly casual attire in more formal settings. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and avoid making noise. 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 friendly nod or handshake. Locals appreciate politeness and a friendly demeanor. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as skerpikjøt (dried mutton) and fresh seafood. Don't refuse food offered by locals as it is considered impolite.
To experience Vágar like a local, take time to visit small villages such as Gásadalur and Bøur, where you can enjoy stunning views and tranquil settings. Engage with locals who are often willing to share stories about their way of life. Don't miss the chance to hike to the iconic Múlafossur waterfall and explore the beautiful Sørvágsvatn lake. Participating in local events and festivals will also enrich your cultural experience.

When is the best time to visit Vágar?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Vágar

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

- HelloHey
  [hei]
- GoodbyeFarvæl
  [far-vail]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNej
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVinaliga
  [vee-nah-lee-gah]
- Thank youTakk fyri
  [tahk fuh-ree]
- Excuse me/SorryUrsäkka
  [oor-seh-kah]
- How are you?Hvussu hevur tú?
  [hoo-su heh-vur too]
- Fine. And you?Fint. Og tú?
  [feent. ohg too]
- Do you speak English?Talar tú enskt?
  [tah-lar too eng-skt]
- I don't understandEg skilji ikki
  [eg skeel-yee ee-kee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEg vil síggja matseðilin, vinaliga
  [eg vil see-gah maht-say-dhlin, vee-nah-lee-gah]
- I don't eat meatEg etti ikki kjöt
  [eg eh-tee ee-kee kyut]
- Cheers!Skál!
  [skahl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseEg vil gjalda, vinaliga
  [eg vil yah-lah, vee-nah-lee-gah]
- Help!Hjálp!
  [yahlp]
- Go away!Far burt!
  [far boort]
- Call the Police!Kalla løgregluna!
  [kah-lah luh-greh-loo-nah]
- Call a doctor!Kalla ein lækna!
  [kah-lah ayn lehk-nah]
- I'm lostEg eri misvísandi
  [eg eh-ree mees-vee-sahn-dee]
- 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 leita
  [eg eh-ree bah-rah at lay-tah]
- How much is it?Hvat kostar tað?
  [hvat koh-stahr tahd]
- That's too expensiveTað er ov dýrt
  [tahd air ohv deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kanst tú lækka prísin?
  [kahnst too leh-kah pree-sin]
- What time is it?Hvat tíð er tað?
  [hvat teed air tahd]
- It's one o'clockKlokkan er eitt
  [klok-kahn air eyt]
- Half past (10)Hálv fimm
  [hahlv fim]
- MorningMorgun
  [mor-gun]
- AfternoonEftirmiddags
  [ef-teer-mid-dahgs]
- EveningKvøld
  [kvul-d]
- YesterdayÍ gjár
  [ee gahr]
- 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 ayn/teh]
- What's the address?Hvat er adressan?
  [hvat air ah-dreh-sahn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kanst tú vísa mær (á kartuni)?
  [kahnst too vee-sah mair (aw kar-too-nee)]
- When's the next (bus)?Nær kemur næsta (buss)?
  [nair keh-mur nay-stah (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Ein billette (til ....)
  [ayn bih-let-teh (til ....)]

History of Vágar

Vágar is one of the larger islands in the Faroe Islands archipelago and holds significant historical importance. It was among the first islands settled by the Norsemen in the 9th century. The island's fertile lands and strategic location made it an ideal spot for early settlers.
In the late 13th century, Vágar was the site of a significant conflict known as the Battle of Vágar. This battle was part of the broader struggle for control over the Faroe Islands between the Norwegian and Scottish crowns. The battle ended with the Norwegian forces retaining control, further solidifying their influence over the archipelago.
Sørvágur, one of the main villages on Vágar, was established in the late medieval period. The village has historically been a hub for fishing and trade, contributing significantly to the local economy. Sørvágur's development is closely tied to the island's maritime heritage.
During World War II, Vágar played a crucial role when the Faroe Islands were occupied by British forces in 1940. The British built an airfield on Vágar, which is now the Vágar Airport, the only airport in the Faroe Islands. This period brought significant infrastructural development to the island.
Vágar Airport, originally constructed by the British during World War II, was officially opened for civilian use in 1963. The airport has since become a vital link between the Faroe Islands and the rest of the world, facilitating both tourism and trade.
In 2002, the Vágar Tunnel was opened, connecting the island to the larger island of Streymoy by road. This tunnel significantly improved accessibility and has had a profound impact on the island's connectivity and economic development.
Vágar is rich in cultural heritage, with traditions such as the Grindadráp, a community-based whale hunting practice that has been part of Faroe Island culture for centuries. The island also hosts various festivals and events that celebrate its history and unique cultural identity.