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Faroe Islands flag

Faroe Islands

Foroyar

Capital:Torshavn
Population:49,057
Currency:Danish kroner (DKK)
Language:Faroese (derived from Old Norse), Danish
smørrebrød - open face sandwiches

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Quick Look Factsheet

A multi-page overview of Faroe Islands.

Faroe Islands Factsheet

Customs and Culture

Cultural Attributes

The Faroe Islands have a rich cultural heritage, including several unique traditions that are still practiced today. Here are some examples:

The Faroese national holiday is Ólavsøka, which is held annually on July 29 and 30. This celebration includes concerts, processions, and other events.

The Faroese have a long tradition of singing and music-making, and there are many choirs and music festivals throughout the islands.

Sheep farming is an important part of the Faroese economy and culture, and the annual "sheep roundup" is a major event. During this tradition, farmers round up their flocks and take them down from the mountains.

The Faroese have a strong tradition of storytelling and oral history. Many ancient Faroese legends and myths have been passed down through generations.

The Faroese have a unique culinary tradition, including dishes like ræst kjøt (dried and fermented meat) and skerpikjøt (dried mutton).

The Faroe Islands are home to several distinctive types of handmade woolen clothing, including the iconic Faroese sweater.

The Faroese also have a tradition of boat-building, particularly of wooden boats called Faerings.

The Faroese language is a unique Nordic language with a strong oral tradition. The Faroese are proud of their language and work to preserve it for future generations.

smørrebrød - open face sandwiches

The Northmen's Roost, Where Whales Still Sing

Greetings, Gestures & Visiting

In the Faroe Islands, people often greet each other with a handshake or a hug, depending on their level of familiarity. It is also common to say "heilsa" or "heilsan" (pronounced "heylsa" or "heylsan"), which means "hello" or "hi" in Faroese.

In informal settings, people may also greet each other with a simple nod of the head or a wave of the hand. Additionally, it is common to ask "hvussu gangur?" (pronounced "kussu gangur"), which means "how are you?" in Faroese.

When saying goodbye, people often use the phrase "bless" (pronounced "bless"), which means "goodbye" in Faroese. Overall, the greeting customs in the Faroe Islands are generally friendly and informal, with a focus on warmth and respect for others.

The traditional clothing of the Faroe Islands is called the "føroysk nationaldragt," which translates to "Faroese national costume." This costume is worn for special occasions and celebrations, and it varies by region and gender.

For men, the traditional costume typically consists of a woolen waistcoat, a white shirt with a lace collar, woolen trousers, and a woolen cap. The waistcoat and trousers are often decorated with intricate embroidery, and the cap is typically black with a white pom-pom on top.

For women, the traditional costume is more elaborate and includes several layers of clothing. The costume typically includes a long-sleeved blouse with a white collar, a black skirt, an apron, a shawl, and a headdress. The headdress is made of silver and is often decorated with beads or other ornaments.

In modern times, traditional clothing is mostly reserved for special occasions such as weddings, christenings, and national holidays. In everyday life, Faroese people typically wear modern Western-style clothing, similar to what you would find in other Western countries. However, due to the cool and often windy climate of the Faroe Islands, warm and waterproof clothing is often necessary, especially during the winter months.

A house

Recreation

The Faroe Islands offer a range of recreational activities for both locals and tourists, despite their small size and remote location. Here are some examples:

Hiking and trekking - the Faroe Islands offer a variety of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the islands' stunning landscapes and natural beauty. Some popular trails include the hike to the summit of Slættaratindur, the highest mountain in the Faroe Islands, and the scenic path along the cliffs at Cape Enniberg.

Birdwatching - the Faroe Islands are home to a number of seabird species, including puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. Many visitors come to the islands specifically to observe these birds in their natural habitats.

Fishing - due to the islands' location in the North Atlantic, fishing is an important part of the local economy and culture. Visitors can go fishing with local guides and try their luck at catching fish such as cod, haddock, and salmon.

Cultural events - the Faroe Islands host a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and theater performances. These events offer visitors a chance to experience the islands' unique culture and traditions.

Boat trips and sea kayaking - the rugged coastline of the Faroe Islands is best explored by boat or kayak. Many local operators offer boat trips and guided kayaking tours that take visitors to see waterfalls, sea caves, and other natural wonders.

Football (soccer) - like in many other European countries, football is a popular sport in the Faroe Islands, and locals are passionate about their national team. Visitors can attend matches and experience the excitement of the local football culture.

Overall, the Faroe Islands offer a range of recreational activities that cater to a variety of interests and preferences, making them an ideal destination for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.

Holidays

  • Olaifest

    7/29

    Other

Dates of Interest

  • July 29th

How do people greet each other in the Faroe Islands?

Greetings are friendly and informal, typically a handshake or a hug depending on familiarity, often accompanied by "heilsa" or "heilsan" (hello).

Do

  • Shake hands or hug depending on how well you know someone
  • Say "heilsa" or "heilsan" for hello
  • Ask "hvussu gangur?" (how are you?)
  • Say "bless" when leaving

Good to know

  • In informal settings a nod or wave is common

What should I wear in the Faroe Islands?

Everyday dress is modern Western-style clothing, while the traditional "føroysk nationaldragt" costume is reserved for special occasions.

Do

  • Bring warm, waterproof clothing for the cool, windy climate
  • Wear the national costume for weddings, christenings, and national holidays if appropriate

Good to know

  • Men's traditional costume includes a woolen waistcoat, white lace-collar shirt, woolen trousers, and a black cap with a white pom-pom
  • Women's costume includes a long-sleeved blouse, black skirt, apron, shawl, and a silver headdress

What do people do for fun in the Faroe Islands?

Popular activities include hiking, birdwatching, fishing, boat trips and sea kayaking, cultural events, and football.

Do

  • Hike trails like Slættaratindur or Cape Enniberg
  • Watch seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes
  • Try fishing for cod, haddock, and salmon with local guides
  • Attend a national football match

Good to know

  • Explore the rugged coastline by boat or guided kayak tour
  • Cultural events include music festivals, art exhibitions, and theater performances

What should I know about Faroese culture before visiting?

The Faroe Islands have a rich heritage of music, storytelling, sheep farming, boat-building, and a distinctive cuisine and language.

Do

  • Experience Faroese music and choirs
  • Look out for the national holiday Ólavsøka on July 29-30
  • Try traditional dishes like ræst kjøt and skerpikjøt

Good to know

  • The annual sheep roundup is a major cultural event
  • Faroese is a unique Nordic language with a strong oral tradition
  • Faroese sweaters are iconic handmade woolen clothing

Last updated: 2026-07-12 · Sources: CountryReports

Photos of Faroe Islands

Travel and Tourism

Travel Alert Status
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Currency
6.586
Time Difference
UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Climate
mild winters, cool summers; usually overcast; foggy, windy
Airports
1
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Recipes

Featured Dish

"Grind og spik" (pilot whale and blubber).

Main dish

Browse all 1 recipes

History

Historical Eras

  1. Early Settlement

    825 – 1035

    Norse settlers, led by figures such as Grímur Kamban, arrived in the Faroe Islands around the early 9th century, displacing or absorbing a small earlier Irish monastic presence. Sigmundur Brestisson later consolidated Norwegian influence and introduced Christianity around 1000 AD, establishing the islands as a Norse Christian community under the authority of Norway.

  2. Norwegian Kingdom

    1035 – 1380

    The Faroe Islands were formally incorporated into the Kingdom of Norway in 1035, functioning as a dependency subject to Norwegian law and taxation. The islands were governed through a local assembly, the Løgting, one of the oldest parliaments in the world, which regulated local affairs under Norwegian royal oversight.

  3. Danish-Norwegian Rule

    1380 – 1814

    When Norway entered the Kalmar Union and subsequently the Denmark-Norway dual monarchy, the Faroe Islands passed under Danish-Norwegian sovereignty. A trade monopoly imposed from 1619 severely restricted economic development, and in 1655 the islands were granted as a fief to the von Gabel family, deepening the burdens on the local fishing population until the monopoly was abolished in 1856.

  4. Danish Crown Colony

    1814 – 1948

    At the Treaty of Kiel in 1814, Denmark retained the Faroe Islands when Norway was ceded to Sweden. The 19th century brought a Faroese cultural revival, including the standardization of the Faroese language, and representation in the Danish parliament was granted in 1849. During World War II, British forces occupied the islands from 1940 to 1945 while Denmark remained under German occupation, accelerating Faroese demands for greater autonomy.

  5. Autonomy & Modern Era

    1948 – present

    The Home Rule Act of 1948 established the Faroe Islands as an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, with control over most domestic affairs. The islands developed a prosperous fishing-based economy and maintained their distinct language and culture. Independence movements have gained recurring political attention, though a planned referendum in 2001 was canceled, and the question of full sovereignty remains an ongoing national debate.

Overview

The early history of the Faroe Islands is not clear. It appears that about the beginning of the 9th century Grímur Kamban, a Norwegian emigrant who had left his country to escape the tyranny of Harald I of Norway, settled in the islands. Early in the 11th century Sigmund or Sigmundur Brestisson, whose family had flourished in the southern islands but had been almost exterminated by invaders from the northern, was sent from Norway, whither he had escaped, to take possession of the islands for Olaf Tryggvason, king of Norway. He introduced Christianity, and, though he was subsequently murdered, Norwegian supremacy was upheld, and continued till 1386, when the islands became part of the Kalmar Union and later the double monarchy Denmark-Norway. Denmark retained possession of the Faroe Islands at the Treaty of Kiel in 1815.

Timeline of Key Events

  1. 1035

    Islands become part of the Kingdom of Norway.

    Islands become part of the Kingdom of Norway.

  2. 1380

    Along with Norway, the Faroe Islands become part of the Kingdom of Denmark.

    Along with Norway, the Faroe Islands become part of the Kingdom of Denmark.

  3. 1655

    Faroe Islands are presented to the von Gabel family.

    Faroe Islands are presented to the von Gabel family. Their oppressive feudal rule ends in 1709 when the Faroes come under direct Danish rule.

  4. 1849

    Faroes are given representation in both houses of the Danish parliament.

    Under the Danish constitution the Faroes are given representation in both houses of the Danish parliament.

  5. 1940

    World War II. British forces occupy the Faroes while Denmark is under German occupation.

    World War II. British forces occupy the Faroes while Denmark is under German occupation.

  6. 1948

    The islands become an autonomous, self-governing region of the Kingdom of Denmark.

    Home rule act is passed. The islands become an autonomous, self-governing region of the Kingdom of Denmark.

  7. 2001

    Planned referendum on independence is canceled.

    Planned referendum on independence is canceled after Denmark says a pro-independence result would lead to a halt in annual subsidies.

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Interesting Facts

  • The Faroes were first settled by Irish monks in the 6th century AD. The first Norse settlers were farmers.

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Geography and Environment

Terrain
rugged, rocky, some low peaks; cliffs along most of coast
Climate
mild winters, cool summers; usually overcast; foggy, windy
Natural Hazards
NA
Current Environmental Issues
NA
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People & Demographics

Languages Spoken

Faroese (derived from Old Norse), Danish

  • Danish
  • Faroese

Population

Population
49,057
Population in Major Urban Areas
TORSHAVN (capital) 20,000
Nationality Noun
Faroese (singular and plural)
Ethnic Groups
Scandinavian
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Government & Politics

Country Identity

Country Name
FaroeIslands
Local - Short
Foroyar

Government Structure

Government Type
NA
Legal System
Danish
Executive Branch
chief of state: King FREDERIK X of Denmark (since 14 January 2024), represented by High Commissioner Lene MOYELL JOHANSEN, chief administrative officer (since 2015) head of government: Prime Minister Aksel V. JOHANNESEN (since 22 December 2022) cabinet: Landsstyri appointed by the prime minister elections: the monarch is hereditary; high commissioner appointed by the monarch; following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or the leader of the majority coalition is usually elected prime minister by the Faroese Parliament; election last held 8 December 2022 (next to be held no later than 2026) election results: Aksel V. JOHANNESEN elected prime minister following the December 2022 legislative elections; percent of parliamentary vote - NA note: current coalition government is led by the Social Democrats alongside coalition partners
Legislative Branch
unicameral Faroese Parliament or Logting (32 seats; members are elected by popular vote on a proportional basis from the seven constituencies to serve four-year terms) elections: last held 20 January 2004 (next to be held no later than January 2008) election results: percent of vote by party - Union Party 23.7%, Social Democratic Party 21.8%, Republican Party 21.7%, People's Party 20.6%, Center Party 5.2%, Independence Party 4.6%; seats by party - Union Party 7, Social Democratic Party 7, Republican Party 8, People's Party 7, Center Party 2, Independence Party 1 note: election of two seats to the Danish Parliament was last held on 8 February 2005 (next to be held February 2009); results - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - Republican Party 1, People's Party 1
Judicial Branch
none
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Constitution
5 June 1953 (Danish constitution)
Independence
none (part of the Kingdom of Denmark; self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
National Holiday
Olaifest, 29 July

Capital City

Capital Name
Torshavn
Capital - geographic coordinate
62 00 N, 6 46 W
Capital Time Difference
UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

the meaning in Danish is "Thor's harbor"

Military

Branches: no regular military forces

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Economy

The Faroese economy has shown resilience and relative strength in recent decades, driven largely by the fishing industry and aquaculture, particularly salmon farming, which together account for the vast majority of export earnings. Strong global demand and generally favorable prices for seafood have supported continued growth, with GDP per capita now among the highest in the Nordic region. Unemployment has remained low, often below 3%, and labor shortages persist in several sectors, prompting active recruitment of foreign workers and incentives for Faroese expatriates to return home.

The Faroese Home Rule Government has generally maintained sound public finances, with periodic budget surpluses helping to manage public debt. However, the heavy reliance on fisheries and aquaculture leaves the economy vulnerable to fluctuations in fish stocks, disease outbreaks in salmon farms, and shifts in global market prices. Concerns about the long-term sustainability of fishing levels remain, and authorities continue to refine quota systems and management practices.

Efforts to diversify the economy have gained momentum, with growth in tourism, financial services, information technology, and maritime industries. Exploration for offshore oil and gas in Faroese waters has so far yielded no commercially viable discoveries, tempering earlier expectations that hydrocarbons might transform the economy. Renewable energy, particularly wind and tidal power, is increasingly prioritized as part of the islands' goal to reach 100% green electricity production.

The Faroe Islands continue to receive an annual block grant from Denmark, equivalent to roughly 3–4% of GDP, considerably smaller in relative terms than in earlier decades. The standard of living remains comparable to that of Denmark and other Scandinavian countries.

Snapshot

Currency Name and Code
Danish kroner (DKK)
GDP Real Growth Rate
10%

Banknotes

Faroe Islands Money - Front
Faroe Islands Money - Front
Faroe Islands Money - Back
Faroe Islands Money - Back

Budget & Public Finance

Fiscal Year
calendar year
Annual Budget
$484,000,000 (USD)
External Debt
$64,000,000 (USD)
Economic Aid
$135,000,000 (USD)

Labor, Industry & Trade

Labor Force by Occupation
fishing; fish processing; and manufacturing 33%; construction and private services 33%; public services 34%
Industries
fishing, fish processing, shipbuilding, construction, handicrafts
Agriculture Products
milk, potatoes, vegetables; sheep; salmon, other fish
Export Commodities
fish and fish products 94%, stamps, ships
Export Partners
Denmark 37.7%, UK 33.8%, Norway 6.6%, Netherlands 6.4%
Import Commodities
machinery and transport equipment 29%, consumer goods 36%, raw materials and semi-manufactures 32%, fuels, fish and salt
Import Partners
Denmark 57.7%, Norway 21%, Iceland 5.6%

Energy

Oil Production
0 bbl/day
Oil Consumption
4,500 bbl/day
Oil Reserves
0 bbl/day
Natural Gas Production
0 cu m
Natural Gas Consumption
0 cu m
Natural Gas Imports
0 cu m
Natural Gas Exports
0 cu m
Natural Gas Reserves
0 cu m

Communications

Telephone System
general assessment: good international communications; good domestic facilities domestic: conversion to digital system completed in 1998; both NMT (analog) and GSM (digital) mobile telephone systems are installed international: country code - 298; satellite earth stations - 1 Orion; 1 fiber-optic submarine cable to the Shetland Islands, linking the Faroe Islands with Denmark and Iceland; fiber-optic submarine cable connection to Canada-Europe cable
Internet Country Code
.fo

News & Weather

Current Weather

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Latest News

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Climate Overview

mild winters, cool summers; usually overcast; foggy, windy

Videos

1 curated YouTube videos.

  • Source: YouTube

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the population of Faroe Islands?
The population of Faroe Islands is approximately 49,057.
How do people greet each other in the Faroe Islands?
Greetings are friendly and informal, typically a handshake or a hug depending on familiarity, often accompanied by "heilsa" or "heilsan" (hello). Do: Shake hands or hug depending on how well you know someone Say "heilsa" or "heilsan" for hello Ask "hvussu gangur?" (how are you?) Say "bless" when leaving In informal settings a nod or wave is common
What should I wear in the Faroe Islands?
Everyday dress is modern Western-style clothing, while the traditional "føroysk nationaldragt" costume is reserved for special occasions. Do: Bring warm, waterproof clothing for the cool, windy climate Wear the national costume for weddings, christenings, and national holidays if appropriate Men's traditional costume includes a woolen waistcoat, white lace-collar shirt, woolen trousers, and a black cap with a white pom-pom Women's costume includes a long-sleeved blouse, black skirt, apron, shawl, and a silver headdress
What do people do for fun in the Faroe Islands?
Popular activities include hiking, birdwatching, fishing, boat trips and sea kayaking, cultural events, and football. Do: Hike trails like Slættaratindur or Cape Enniberg Watch seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes Try fishing for cod, haddock, and salmon with local guides Attend a national football match Explore the rugged coastline by boat or guided kayak tour Cultural events include music festivals, art exhibitions, and theater performances
What should I know about Faroese culture before visiting?
The Faroe Islands have a rich heritage of music, storytelling, sheep farming, boat-building, and a distinctive cuisine and language. Do: Experience Faroese music and choirs Look out for the national holiday Ólavsøka on July 29-30 Try traditional dishes like ræst kjøt and skerpikjøt The annual sheep roundup is a major cultural event Faroese is a unique Nordic language with a strong oral tradition Faroese sweaters are iconic handmade woolen clothing
What is the capital of the Faroe Islands?
Tórshavn is the capital and largest city of the Faroe Islands, situated on the southeastern coast of Streymoy, the archipelago's largest island. Its name translates to "Thor's Harbour," a nod to the Norse god of thunder. Despite its small size, Tórshavn serves as the political, cultural, and economic hub of the islands, housing the Løgting, one of the oldest parliaments in the world, which has roots stretching back to Viking-age assemblies.
Where are the Faroe Islands located?
The Faroe Islands are an archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean, roughly midway between Norway, Iceland, and Scotland. Geographically part of northern Europe, the islands lie at approximately 62°N latitude and belong to the European continental shelf. Though geographically remote, the islands occupy a strategically significant position along transatlantic shipping and communication routes. They are a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
What ocean and seas surround the Faroe Islands?
The Faroe Islands are entirely surrounded by the North Atlantic Ocean, with the Norwegian Sea lying to the northeast. The islands have no land borders, as they form an isolated archipelago of 18 principal islands. The surrounding waters are known for strong currents, frequent storms, and rich marine life, which has historically shaped the islands' economy and culture. The sea remains central to Faroese identity, sustaining both a major fishing industry and a tradition of seafaring.
What currency is used in the Faroe Islands?
The official currency of the Faroe Islands is the Danish krone, designated by the ISO code DKK. The islands also issue their own Faroese króna banknotes, which are equivalent in value to the Danish krone but are not legal tender in Denmark itself. This arrangement reflects the islands' unique status as a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. Danish coins circulate alongside locally issued Faroese notes in everyday transactions.
What languages are spoken in the Faroe Islands?
Faroese is the primary official language of the Faroe Islands, a North Germanic language directly descended from the Old Norse brought by Viking settlers in the 9th century. It is closely related to Icelandic and certain western Norwegian dialects. Danish is also an official language and is widely taught in schools and used in administrative and legal contexts. Most Faroese residents are fluent in both languages, and English is commonly understood, particularly among younger generations.
What is the historical background of the Faroe Islands?
The Faroe Islands were first inhabited by Irish monks as early as the 6th century AD, who sought solitude in the remote North Atlantic. Norse farmers arrived in the 9th century, and the population today is largely descended from those Viking settlers. The islands came under Danish rule in the 14th century and remained a Danish dependency for centuries. A landmark degree of self-governance was achieved in 1948, giving the Faroese their own parliament and broad autonomy over domestic affairs, while defense and foreign policy remain under Danish jurisdiction.
What is the geography of the Faroe Islands like?
The Faroe Islands consist of 18 inhabited and uninhabited volcanic islands characterized by dramatic, rugged terrain. Steep sea cliffs, narrow fjords, cascading waterfalls, and treeless highland plateaus dominate the landscape. The islands were shaped by glacial activity and ongoing Atlantic erosion, resulting in some of the most striking coastal scenery in northern Europe. The highest peak, Slættaratindur, rises to 882 meters on the island of Eysturoy, offering panoramic views across the archipelago.
What is the Faroe Islands known for?
The Faroe Islands are known for their commercial fishing and aquaculture industry, particularly farmed Atlantic salmon, which is among the country's most significant exports. The islands are also internationally recognized for their striking natural landscapes, including the cliffside village of Gásadalur and the dramatic rock stacks of Drangarnir. Faroese culture is distinguished by its living tradition of chain dancing, an ancient Nordic art form performed to sung ballads. The archipelago also gained global attention through the Grindadráp, a centuries-old pilot whale hunt that remains a subject of international debate.

Last reviewed 2026

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