Tórshavn: what to see in the capital of the Faroe Islands
What to see in Tórshavn: Tinganes and its ancient parliament, the old quarter of black houses, Skansin fort, museums and the trip to Kirkjubøur.
Tórshavn is the capital of the Faroe Islands and one of the smallest capitals in the world: about 14,000 people live in the town, and more than 20,000 including the surrounding districts. It is on the island of Streymoy and is the perfect base for exploring the country.
What to see in Tórshavn
Tinganes
The harbour peninsula where, around the year 825, one of the oldest parliaments in the world was founded. Its red wooden houses with turf roofs are still the seat of government. This is the place to start.
The old quarter (á Reyni)
Narrow lanes with black tarred wooden houses, white windows and turf roofs, some of medieval origin. Next to it is Tórshavn Cathedral, the second oldest church in the country.
Skansin
The old fort above the harbour, which was a British Royal Navy base in the Second World War. Today it is a viewpoint over the town and the bay.
Museums and culture
- National Museum: geology, history and Viking treasures. It holds the 16 medieval pew ends from Kirkjubøur, considered the greatest national treasure.
- National Gallery (Listasavn Føroya): Faroese art.
- Nordic House (Norðurlandahúsið): a cultural centre with Nordic design, concerts and a café.
Parks and walks
The Viðarlundin park, the Bojsensgarður garden and the Vágsbotn harbour, with bars and restaurants.
Eating in Tórshavn
The town has a surprising food scene for its size, with restaurants such as Ræst and Roks. Another very Faroese experience is heimablídni: a dinner in the home of a local family.
Day trip: Kirkjubøur
Just outside the capital is Kirkjubøur, the medieval religious centre of the islands, which the city bus also reaches. It is one of the easiest and most rewarding trips from Tórshavn.
Getting around town
The red city buses run frequently past the most visited places. If you drive, remember the parking disc: parking in the centre is regulated.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Tórshavn?
Half a day or a day is enough for the centre. Most travellers use it as a base for exploring the rest of the islands.
Is there a city bus in Tórshavn?
Yes. The red city buses run frequently past the most visited places in town.
What is Tinganes?
It is the harbour peninsula where one of the oldest parliaments in the world met, founded around the year 825. Its red wooden houses are still the seat of government.