Torshavn Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Torshavn.
Healthcare System
The Faroe Islands operate a Nordic-style public healthcare system with high standards. The National Hospital (Landssjúkrahúsið) in Tórshavn is the main medical facility, offering emergency care, general medicine, and various specialist services. The system is well-funded and modern, though some specialized treatments may require medical evacuation to Denmark.
Hospitals
Landssjúkrahúsið (National Hospital) at J.C. Svabosgøta is the primary hospital serving Tórshavn and the entire archipelago. It has an emergency department open 24/7. For tourists, treatment is available but may require payment upfront or proof of insurance. EU/EEA citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can access services under reciprocal agreements.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (apotek) in Tórshavn are well-stocked with common medications. The main pharmacy is Apotekið in the SMS shopping center. Opening hours are typically limited (weekdays 9am-5:30pm, Saturday mornings), so plan accordingly. Many common over-the-counter medications available elsewhere may require prescriptions. Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications as specific brands may not be available.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended. Medical evacuation to Denmark or Iceland can cost tens of thousands of euros. EU/EEA citizens should bring their EHIC, but this doesn't cover repatriation or all services. Non-EU visitors should ensure they have adequate insurance as healthcare costs can be significant.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a complete supply of prescription medications in original packaging with prescriptions, as specific brands may not be available
- Ensure your travel insurance explicitly covers medical evacuation from remote locations
- EU/EEA citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or equivalent
- Keep the National Hospital contact number saved in your phone
- If you have specific medical conditions, inform your accommodation provider
- Dental emergencies can be expensive; ensure your insurance covers dental care
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Petty theft and pickpocketing are extremely rare in Tórshavn. The crime rate is among the lowest in the world, and locals often leave cars unlocked and bicycles unattended.
Rapidly changing weather is the primary safety concern. Conditions can shift from sunny to stormy within minutes, with strong winds (sometimes exceeding 100 km/h), heavy rain, and fog. Hypothermia is a real risk even in summer.
Tórshavn's streets, hiking paths, and coastal areas can be extremely slippery due to frequent rain, moss, and algae on rocks and wooden surfaces. Falls are the most common tourist injury.
Fog can descend rapidly, making navigation difficult. Mobile phone coverage is good in Tórshavn but limited in remote areas. Trails may not be well-marked, and conditions can become dangerous quickly.
Roads can be narrow, winding, and include one-lane tunnels with passing places. Sheep often wander onto roads. Weather conditions can make driving hazardous with limited visibility and strong crosswinds.
Unexpected large waves can sweep people off rocks and piers. The sea is cold year-round (6-11°C), and survival time in the water is limited. Coastal cliffs can be unstable.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Scams targeting tourists are virtually non-existent in Tórshavn. The local culture values honesty, and the small community size makes fraudulent behavior extremely rare. You're more likely to experience locals going out of their way to help than to encounter any scam.
Not a scam per se, but prices in the Faroe Islands are genuinely high due to import costs and the remote location. Some tourists mistake high prices for being overcharged.
Extremely rare, but occasionally individuals may offer informal tours. While usually legitimate, they may lack proper insurance or permits.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Weather Preparedness
- Always carry waterproof and windproof layers, even if the weather looks fine when you leave
- Download offline weather apps (yr.no is the local favorite) and check forecasts multiple times daily
- Dress in layers using wool or synthetic materials; avoid cotton which stays wet and cold
- Bring a warm hat, gloves, and buff/scarf year-round for sudden temperature drops
- Accept that weather may force you to cancel or modify plans; flexibility is essential
- Learn to interpret weather symbols and warnings used in the Faroe Islands
Hiking Safety
- Never hike alone in remote areas; always inform someone of your route and expected return time
- Carry emergency supplies: first aid kit, emergency blanket, whistle, extra food, water, and charged phone with offline maps
- Wear proper hiking boots with ankle support and good grip; trails are often muddy and slippery
- Start hikes early in the day to ensure adequate daylight, especially in winter months
- Turn back if weather deteriorates; summiting is optional, returning safely is mandatory
- Respect marked trails and cairns; creating new paths causes erosion
- Download the 112 app which shares your GPS location with emergency services
- Be aware that rescue operations can be delayed by weather; self-sufficiency is important
Driving Safety
- Always drive with headlights on, as required by law year-round
- Learn tunnel etiquette: in one-lane tunnels, yield at passing places (marked with 'M'); vehicles facing uphill have right of way
- Drive slowly and watch for sheep on roads; they have right of way and are unpredictable
- Be extremely cautious in strong winds, especially on exposed roads and bridges
- Fill up with fuel when you can; gas stations are limited and may have restricted hours
- In tunnels, follow the lights: green means go, red means stop and wait
- Keep a safe distance from other vehicles; roads can be slippery year-round
- Avoid driving during severe weather warnings; conditions can become dangerous quickly
Water Safety
- Never turn your back on the sea when near the coast; rogue waves can appear suddenly
- Stay well back from cliff edges; they can be unstable and slippery
- Do not swim unless at designated areas; the sea is cold (6-11°C) year-round and currents are strong
- Avoid coastal areas during storms or high wind warnings
- If you fall in the water, you have limited time before hypothermia sets in; call 112 immediately
- Be extremely careful on harbor piers and jetties, especially when wet
Communication
- Mobile coverage is excellent in Tórshavn and good along main roads, but limited in remote areas
- Download offline maps before hiking or driving to remote areas
- The 112 emergency app can send your GPS location even with limited signal
- Learn a few basic Faroese phrases, though most locals speak excellent English
- Keep your accommodation's contact information saved offline
- Inform your accommodation if you're planning remote hikes or extended trips
Cultural Respect
- Respect private property; much land is privately owned even if it appears open
- Always close gates behind you to prevent sheep from wandering
- Don't disturb nesting birds, especially during breeding season (April-August)
- Ask permission before photographing locals or private property
- Respect the Faroese whaling tradition even if you disagree; avoid confrontational discussions
- Keep noise levels down, especially in residential areas and nature
- Pack out all trash; littering is taken very seriously in Faroese culture
Health Precautions
- Bring all prescription medications with you; specific brands may not be available
- Tap water is safe to drink and of excellent quality throughout the islands
- Be aware that pharmacy hours are limited; stock up on any needed items during business hours
- Protect against wind burn and UV exposure even on cloudy days
- Carry blister treatment if hiking; wet conditions often cause foot problems
- Be prepared for seasonal affective disorder symptoms during dark winter months
Money and Valuables
- While crime is very low, don't leave valuables visible in rental cars at popular tourist spots
- Credit cards are widely accepted; carry some Danish kroner for small purchases
- ATMs are readily available in Tórshavn but limited in smaller villages
- Keep important documents (passport, insurance) in your accommodation safe if available
- Prices are high; budget accordingly to avoid financial stress during your trip
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Tórshavn and the Faroe Islands are exceptionally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. The crime rate is extremely low, and harassment is very rare. Women can walk alone at night without significant concern. The local culture is respectful and egalitarian, with strong gender equality values. The main safety considerations for women are the same as for all travelers: weather conditions and natural hazards rather than personal security concerns.
- Solo women travelers report feeling very safe throughout Tórshavn and the Faroe Islands
- Harassment and catcalling are extremely rare; locals are respectful and helpful
- It's safe to walk alone at night in Tórshavn, though streets can be very quiet and dark in winter
- Use normal precautions when drinking alcohol; while the environment is safe, it's wise to watch your drinks and stay aware
- Women are well-represented in all aspects of Faroese society and are treated with respect
- Solo dining is common and comfortable; you won't feel out of place eating alone
- Local women often hike and explore alone; solo female hikers are common and accepted
- The main concerns are weather-related; carry appropriate gear regardless of gender
- If you do experience any issues (which is very rare), locals and authorities will be supportive and helpful
- Join hiking groups or tours if you prefer company for remote trails
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1933. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2016. The Faroe Islands have comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals. Same-sex couples have equal adoption rights. The legal framework is progressive and aligned with other Nordic countries.
- Tórshavn is safe for LGBTQ+ travelers; violence or harassment based on sexual orientation is extremely rare
- The LGBTQ+ scene is very limited; there are no dedicated gay bars or clubs in the Faroe Islands
- Same-sex couples can share hotel rooms and book double beds without any issues
- Public displays of affection are unlikely to cause problems, though they may attract curious looks in this small community
- Younger Faroese people are generally very accepting and open-minded
- Some older or more religious residents may hold conservative views, but this rarely translates to hostility
- The Faroe Islands celebrate Pride events, though on a much smaller scale than larger cities
- Legal protections are strong; if you experience discrimination, it can be reported to authorities
- Use discretion in very small villages where traditional values may be stronger
- Overall, apply the same level of openness you would in other Nordic countries
- Connect with local LGBTQ+ communities online before visiting if you want to meet others
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is absolutely essential for visiting Tórshavn and the Faroe Islands. The remote location means that serious medical issues may require expensive evacuation to Denmark or Iceland, which can cost €50,000-100,000 or more. Weather-related disruptions frequently cause flight and ferry cancellations, leading to extended stays and additional costs. The challenging terrain and weather conditions increase the risk of hiking injuries or accidents. Without proper insurance, medical treatment and evacuation costs could be financially devastating.
Planning your trip? Make sure you have the right travel insurance for Torshavn Safety Guide before you go.