Mr NordicTórshavn is the capital of the Faroe Islands, the remote archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Because of its location, the Faroe Islands are located between Iceland and Norway, Tórshavn is a true northern capital. And also the world’s smallest capital. Of the approximately 48,000 inhabitants that the country has, one third lives in Tórshavn.
The rugged landscape of the Faroe Islands in combination with the constantly changing weather guarantee guaranteed beautiful photos and challenging experiences
Tórshavn means the port of Thor, the god of thunder and lightning from Norse mythology. Thor’s hammer occupies a considerable position on the city’s coat of arms. The city is located on the east coast of the island of Streymoy. This is the largest island of the Faroe Islands. In the north-west of the city lies the 347-meter high Húsareyn mountain and in the southwest is the Kirkjubøreyn mountain of 350 meters high. Tórshavn has an area of 185 km².
What to do
Although the city lacks the charm that is so characteristic of the other places on the archipelago, the city is certainly worth a visit. Because while in the rest of the country there is often a search for a restaurant (they are really rare in the Faroe Islands), you have it in abundance in Tórshavn. Shops, restaurants, all located around the cozy city center. Also visit the remains of the Skansin fort and the lighthouse. We also found the historical museum, the Foroya Fornminnissavn, highly recommended. Wander around for hours and delve into the Faroe history. Delicious.
The cathedral of Tórshavn is the second oldest church in the archipelago. The church is located in the old city center in the north of Tinganes. It is a Lutheran cathedral that has been the seat of the Bishop of Faroe Islands since 1990. The history of the church goes far back in time. Initially, during the Middle Ages there was a place of prayer at the place where the church can be found today. In 1609 a real church was built on the site by order of King Christian IV. The church was rebuilt in 1788 and in 1865 the cathedral was given a whole new look. The current church is a true stone masterpiece.
The Natural History Museum with a beautiful botanical garden with more than 150 Faroe Islands plant species is worth a visit.
The Skansin Fort is located on a hill next to the port of Tórshavn. It was built in 1580 to protect the city against pirates. The fort was expanded in 1780. During the Second World War the fort served as a military base for the English. There are several guns to be seen, both from the British occupation and the Danish period. The fort offers a fairytale view of the harbor, the surrounding landscape and the island of Nolsoy.
Explore the rest of the Faroe Islands
Of course you do not travel all the way to the Faroe Islands for just a short visit to the capital. The distance and the price of the tickets make that very difficult. And besides that, it’s also a shame if you don’t see more of this special northern group of islands than just Tórshavn. Because in comparison to the rest of the country, Tórshavn is a bit in terms of beauty. Rent a car and take the time to explore the remote islands. Visit perhaps the most beautiful island in Europe, Mykines, which can only be reached by boat or helicopter. Or explore the breathtaking cliffs of Vestmanna from the water. The Faroe Islands have so much to offer in terms of nature, outdoor and history.
Cozy terraces & the latest Faeroese fashion
But why then to Tórshavn? Because sometimes it’s just really nice to visit the coziness of the city. In some places it is really difficult to find a restaurant and there is often no choice but to eat at the hotel or guesthouse where you stay. So explore the city, settle down on one of the terraces at the harbor, view the latest Faroe Islands fashion and above all have a chat with the local youth (who hardly seem to understand why you want to visit their country so badly) that delivers very nice conversations!
Last Updated on April 19, 2022
