Streymoy
Streymoy Tours
Learn More About Streymoy
Streymoy is the largest island in the Faroe Islands and often the starting point for most visitors, with Tórshavn (the city that is the center of Faroese life), while still surrounded by untouched landscapes and dramatic coastlines. Streymoy feels both familiar and surprising. Like Iceland, it is shaped by the sea, weather, and volcanic history, yet its distinct character makes it special.
Tórshavn, located on the southeast coast, is one of the world’s smallest capitals but is full of charm. Colorful houses with turf roofs line the old town, narrow streets wind between historic buildings, and the harbor bustles with fishing boats. The city blends tradition and modern life, offering museums, art galleries, local music, and excellent restaurants. For travelers, Tórshavn is a cultural hub and a perfect base for exploring the island.
Beyond the capital, Streymoy offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the Faroes. To the north, cliffs rise hundreds of meters above the sea, providing nesting grounds for seabirds such as puffins, fulmars, and guillemots. The village of Saksun is one of the most photographed places in the islands, with its lagoon, turf-roofed houses, and mountains as a backdrop. Another highlight is Kirkjubøur, the country’s most important historical site, where medieval ruins and traditional farmhouses tell the story of Faroese heritage.
Hiking is a favorite activity on Streymoy, with trails leading across green valleys, along fjords, and up to panoramic viewpoints. The landscapes change constantly with the light and weather, offering new impressions at every turn. Whether walking near the sea cliffs, exploring hidden waterfalls, or driving through the mountain passes, the scenery is unforgettable.
What makes Streymoy truly remarkable is how it combines daily Faroese life with wild, untamed nature. The island gives visitors a taste of everything the Faroe Islands represent: living culture, dramatic landscapes, rich history, and the warmth of small communities. For anyone traveling to the Faroes, it is an essential part of the journey.
Our Atlantic Neighbors: Travel Stories, Folklore & Hidden Gems in the Faroe Islands
Discover the Faroe Islands by Car: A Local’s Guide to Self-Drive Tours
How We Will Create Your Lifetime Journey: Best Self-Drive Tours in Iceland and the Faroe Islands
Velkomin!
Why Coolcations Are the Future of Travel: Iceland, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland Should Top Your List!
Most Common Questions About Streymoy in the Faroe Islands
What is Streymoy known for in the Faroe Islands?
Streymoy is the largest island in the Faroes and the cultural and political heart of the country. It is home to Tórshavn, the capital, and offers some of the most famous attractions in the archipelago. Visitors see its historic villages, bird cliffs, and stunning fjords. Streymoy is often called the gateway to the Faroe Islands because it combines daily Faroese life with untouched natural beauty.
How can I book a Streymoy tour?
Booking a Streymoy tour is easy. Many local tour operators and agencies in Tórshavn offer options ranging from half-day cultural visits to full-day hiking adventures. Tours can be reserved online, directly on our page (check the availability above). In summer, booking in advance is recommended to secure a spot.
What are the top attractions to see on a Streymoy tour?
Streymoy tours often include Kirkjubøur, the most important historical site in the Faroes, with medieval ruins and traditional farmhouses, and Saksun, a picturesque village with turf-roofed houses overlooking a lagoon. Visitors can see towering bird cliffs in the north, where puffins and fulmars nest. Tórshavn itself, with its old town and colorful harbor, is also a highlight.
Are guided tours available on Streymoy?
Yes, guided tours are widely available and provide a richer experience. Local guides share stories about Viking history, Faroese folklore, and everyday life on the island. A guided tour also ensures you do not miss hidden viewpoints, lesser-known trails, or cultural insights that are easy to overlook when exploring independently.
Can I combine Streymoy tours with visits to other islands?
Many operators offer combination tours with Streymoy and nearby islands such as Eysturoy, Vágar, or Sandoy. It is easy to combine destinations in a single day thanks to bridges, tunnels, and ferries. This allows travelers to maximize their time in the Faroes while enjoying Streymoy’s highlights.
What kind of wildlife can I see on Streymoy tours?
Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the northern cliffs of Streymoy, which are home to puffins, guillemots, fulmars, and other seabirds. Sheep graze freely on the hillsides, adding to the rural charm. Seals are occasionally seen along the coastline, and sometimes dolphins and porpoises appear in the surrounding waters.
What is the best time of year to take a Streymoy tour?
The ideal time is from May to September when weather conditions are milder, birdlife is active, and the long daylight hours provide plenty of time for exploring. Winter also has its appeal, with fewer visitors, snow-covered landscapes, and cozy evenings in Tórshavn. Each season shows Streymoy’s different face.
How long does a typical Streymoy tour last?
Tours can range from short three-hour excursions to full-day experiences lasting eight to ten hours. Half-day tours usually focus on cultural and historic sites, while more extended tours include hikes, birdwatching, and multiple village visits. Travelers can choose the tour length that best matches their interests.
Do Streymoy tours include hiking?
Yes, many tours include walking or hiking. Some feature short strolls around villages and viewpoints, while others involve full hikes into valleys and along fjords. Hiking on Streymoy is moderate and accessible for most travelers, with rewarding views at nearly every turn.
Are Streymoy tours suitable for families with children?
Streymoy tours are very family-friendly. Children often enjoy the colorful houses of Tórshavn, the open spaces in Saksun, and the chance to see puffins or sheep. If traveling with young children, families should choose tours with shorter walking distances.
How do I get from Tórshavn to the main attractions on Streymoy?
Most tours start directly from Tórshavn and include transport. Driving distances are short, with Kirkjubøur about 15 minutes away and Saksun roughly 45 minutes by car. The northern cliffs can be reached within an hour. Having transport included in your tour makes exploring stress-free.
What should I wear on a Streymoy tour?
The weather in the Faroes is unpredictable, so layers are essential. A waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves are recommended year-round, even in July. Comfortable shoes with good grip are also important for exploring villages, uneven paths, and hiking trails.
Are private Streymoy tours available?
Yes! Private tours are available for couples, families, or groups who prefer a personalized experience. With a private tour, you can choose how much time to spend in each location, whether you want a stronger focus on history, photography, or hiking.
Why should I choose a Streymoy tour during my trip to the Faroe Islands?
A Streymoy tour offers a perfect balance of Faroese culture, history, and natural beauty. In one trip, you can explore the capital city, visit historic sites, enjoy birdwatching, and experience remote villages. For first-time visitors, Streymoy offers a complete introduction to the Faroes and creates memories that last a lifetime.