Named after the Norse god Thor, Tórshavn has been the political centre and capital of the Faroe Islands for more than 800 years. Featuring a charming harbour and rustic old town, over a third of the Faroese population call Tórshavn home.

Things to do

Walk along the narrow cobblestone streets in Tinganes, the oldest part of Tórshavn. Featuring traditional Faroe homes and one of the oldest parliamentary buildings in the world, Tinganes marks the meeting spot of Norwegian colonists in the Viking ages.

Located between Tórsvøllur Park and Viðarlundin Park, The National Gallery of the Faroe Islands is an exceptional museum that displays the works of local Faroe artists and designers. The intricate building houses a small but impressive selection of artwork.

Serving as both a concert hall and exhibition centre, The Nordic House is a multi-purpose cultural venue. Discover Faroese culture while wandering the halls of this contemporary, grass-covered structure.

Searching for the best views in town? Tórshavn Cathedral provides a nice panorama of the city below, while Skansin Fortress overlooks the harbour and surrounding old town. Unused since WWII, take a walk along the winding paths that lead to a lighthouse for a view of the ocean

Getting around

The easiest way to enter Tórshavn is by ferry from Hirtshals in Denmark, though there are bus connections from Vágar Airport. Within Tórshavn, buses offer various routes that extend to museums and shopping centres. The city is compact enough for exploring on foot.