Eysturoy

Faroe Islands, Europe

Eysturoy is a STATE in Faroe Islands, Europe.

Eysturoy, the Faroe Islands’ second-largest island, is a realm of jagged peaks, deep fjords, and emerald valleys dotted with turf‑roofed villages. The iconic Risin og Kellingin sea stacks rise defiantly off Eiði’s coast, while Slættaratindur—the archipelago’s highest summit—rewards hikers with endless Atlantic panoramas. The Eysturoyartunnilin sub‑sea tunnel now brings you swiftly from Tórshavn, yet the island’s winding old mountain roads still lead to hidden gems like Gjógv, with its natural harbour and puffin colonies. In Fuglafjørður, the harbour bustles with fishing boats and a lively arts scene, and Runavík offers a sheltered fjord setting perfect for kayaking. Whether you’re driving the scenic ‘Buttercup Route’, walking among grazing sheep on ancient trails, or savouring fresh salmon in a waterfront café, Eysturoy delivers raw Nordic beauty in every season—from the midnight sun of summer hikes to the aurora‑draped darkness of winter. Here, nature doesn’t just surround you; it envelops you.

Best time to visit Eysturoy

June to August offers the most benign weather (8–13°C), long daylight, and puffin breeding season—ideal for hiking and boat trips. May and September are quieter, with spring blooms or autumn colours, but can be windy. Winter (November–February) is dark and stormy, yet gives a chance to see the Northern Lights and experience Faroese cosy culture. The tunnel now makes year‑round travel easier, but many rural attractions close outside summer.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Cool 5-8°C, gales and frequent showers

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Off‑peak

Unpredictable, many outdoor tours end; a time for cosy village life.

Know before you go

Getting there

FAE

Vágar Airport

International

45 km away

Getting around

"A car is by far the best way to explore Eysturoy’s scattered sights; rental offices are at Vágar Airport and in Tórshavn. The Eysturoyartunnilin toll tunnel links Streymoy and Borðoy, with a striking sub‑sea roundabout. Buses connect main villages but are infrequent—check ssl.fo timetables. Cycling is possible but challenging due to steep hills, tunnels, and winds. Ferries to neighbouring islands depart from Leirvík (to Klaksvík) and Syðrugøta (to Streymoy). Many minor roads are single‑track; always give way to uphill traffic and sheep."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

25 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in accommodations, cafes, and public buildings

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Vágar Airport from $10 (nummaris.fo)

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very low crime, but natural hazards (cliffs, weather, road conditions) reduce transport and night safety. Scams virtually nonexistent.

Night safety

8/10

Very low crime, but natural hazards (cliffs, weather, road conditions) reduce transport and night safety. Scams virtually nonexistent.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

9/10

"Eysturoy is exceptionally safe with negligible crime, but the greatest danger is nature itself. Unfenced cliffs, sudden fog, and gale‑force winds demand caution on hikes. Never venture onto sea‑stack ledges or close to cliff edges. Weather can change in minutes; always check forecasts and tell someone your route. Driving requires care on narrow, sheep‑dotted roads. Single‑track tunnels have passing points. In winter, black ice and high winds are hazards. Emergency services are reliable but may be distant; a satellite communication device is wise in remote areas."

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities on Eysturoy are limited to small health centres and clinics; the nearest hospital is in Tórshavn on Streymoy. Always carry travel insurance covering emergency evacuation and outdoor activities. The weather can cause hypothermia even in summer—pack warm, waterproof layers. Tap water is safe, and pharmacies exist in larger villages. If you rely on regular medication, bring an adequate supply, as local availability may be limited."

Culture

Local customs

"Faroese people are warm but reserved. Greet with ‘Góðan dag’ or a simple hello. Dress for the weather, not fashion—functional outdoor clothing is the norm. Tipping is not expected but rounding up a restaurant bill is appreciated. Respect grazing sheep and never trespass on cultivated land. Doorways often have shoe‑removal customs. Whisky and beer offer a toast with ‘skál’. Drone flying is heavily restricted; always check local rules. Knitwear makes a meaningful souvenir and supports local artisans."
FaroeseDanish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$10 | a basic local meal (fish & chips, open sandwich) costs around $10

Hotels

$80-120 | budget guesthouses/hostels range $80-120/night

Local transport

$3 | local bus ride costs about $3, car rental from $60/day

Cost notes

Faroe Islands are on par with Scandinavia; alcohol is particularly expensive.

Timezone

Atlantic/Faroe
Local time 23:08

More facts

Population

11,000

ISO code

FO-OS

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Fuglaf'jorur, Fuglaf'ordur, Fuglafjoerdur, Fuglafjordur, Fuglafjorduras, Fuglafjörður, Fuglafjørður, Fuglefiord, Fuglefjord, Vjoska Fuglafijordur, Вёска Фуглафіёрдур, Фуглафьордур, Фуглафьёрур, Østerø, Austurey, エストゥロイ島

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