Europe > 🇫🇴 Faroe Islands
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Faroe Islands can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Faroe Islands ; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Faroe Islands ?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Faroe Islands ?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🏙️ Main Cities in Faroe Islands
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Tórshavn | FAE |
Should You Rent a Car in the Faroe Islands? 🚗🌦️
The Faroe Islands are a dream for nature lovers, filled with towering cliffs, dramatic fjords, turf-roofed villages, and endless coastal views. While public transport is available, it often runs infrequently and can be affected by weather. Because the islands are scattered and connected by tunnels and bridges, having your own transport makes exploration far easier. So, should you rent a car in the Faroe Islands? For most travellers, the answer depends on how far they want to explore beyond the capital.
🚶 When You Don’t Need a Car
You can skip the car if your plan is to stay in Tórshavn or join organised tours. The capital is small, walkable, and full of charm, with easy connections to nearby attractions.
| Situation | Why You Can Go Car-Free | Best Transport Option |
|---|---|---|
| Staying in Tórshavn | Everything sits close together | Walking or local bus |
| Joining day tours | Transport is already included | Tour minivan or coach |
| Short hiking trips | Trails start near villages | Taxi or shuttle |
➡ This works well if you prefer guided experiences or don’t want the stress of driving in unpredictable weather.
🚗 When Renting a Car Is the Best Choice
If you want to reach waterfalls, remote villages, bird cliffs, and panoramic viewpoints, a rental car gives you full freedom. Driving is straightforward, and the scenery is spectacular around every turn.
| Benefit | Why It Transforms Your Trip |
|---|---|
| Flexibility | Stop whenever you see wildlife or breathtaking views |
| Scenic access | Reach places not served by buses |
| Island hopping | Drive through undersea tunnels |
| Efficiency | Save time compared to waiting for public transport |
Top Self-Drive Destinations
| Destination | Highlight | Road Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Gásadalur | Iconic waterfall over the sea | Scenic valley drive |
| Saksun | Remote village with tidal lagoon | Narrow mountain road |
| Gjógv | Clifftop gorge with seabirds | Coastal views all the way |
| Viðareiði | Northernmost village | Unmatched ridge driving |
🚦 What to Expect When Driving
Driving in the Faroe Islands is calm and enjoyable, but you must stay alert due to changing weather and sheep on the road.
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You drive on the right-hand side
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Roads are paved, smooth, and well signposted
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Weather changes quickly—fog can appear suddenly
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Some tunnels have only one lane, so you must use passing bays
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Sheep often wander across the road, so take your time
Car Rental Info
You can rent vehicles directly at Vágar Airport or in Tórshavn. Companies like Avis, Budget, and local providers offer everything from compact cars to 4x4s.
🚕 Alternatives to a Car
| Option | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | Affordable and clean | Limited schedules |
| Ferry | Scenic island access | Must plan around timetables |
| Helicopter | Unique travel experience | Runs only a few times per week |
| Guided Tours | No planning needed | Less flexibility |
🧭 Conclusion
If you want independence and the ability to explore hidden corners of the Faroe Islands at your own pace, renting a car is the best option. It gives you access to dramatic landscapes, remote villages, and photo stops that tours may skip. If you prefer a relaxed trip based in Tórshavn or you enjoy guided excursions, you can enjoy the islands without renting a vehicle—but you’ll see much less.