How we built this comparison
This page combines traveler discussion patterns, published price ranges, flight schedules, and seasonal data to help you decide between Faroe Islands and Iceland.
- Reviewed 50+ Reddit threads from r/travel, r/solotravel, r/Iceland, r/faroeislands
- Verified costs and logistics against current booking platforms like Booking.com, Atlantic Airways, and local tour operators
- Cross-referenced seasonal patterns, weather data, and travel advisories from official tourism boards
⚡ The TL;DR Verdict
Choose Faroe Islands if you crave solitude, dramatic intimate landscapes, and a more off-the-beaten-path experience with a daily budget of $150-250 USD. Pick Iceland for epic, diverse, and grand natural wonders, more developed infrastructure, and a social scene, but be ready for a higher daily spend of $250-450+ USD. Both demand a love for raw nature and a willingness to embrace unpredictable weather.
- Choose Faroe Islands: You prioritize untouched nature, quiet villages, dramatic cliffs, puffin colonies, and a sense of discovery away from crowds, with a slightly more manageable budget for accommodation and food (though transport is key).
- Choose Iceland: You're seeking diverse, grand landscapes like glaciers, volcanoes, geysers, and expansive waterfalls. You appreciate well-established tourist routes, more dining options, and a vibrant capital city, and are prepared for premium pricing.
- Choose Both: If you have 10-14 days and a substantial budget, you could combine them. Fly into Keflavik (KEF), spend 5-7 days exploring Iceland's south coast or Snaefellsnes, then take an Atlantic Airways flight from KEF to Vágar (FAE) for another 4-6 days in the Faroes, completing the ultimate North Atlantic adventure.
Quick Comparison
| Category | Faroe Islands | Iceland | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nature & Scenery | Intimate, dramatic, raw, sheep-dotted green hills, towering sea cliffs, unique 'lake above the ocean' perspective. Less varied but deeply immersive. | Epic, diverse, vast, volcanic landscapes, glaciers, geysers, black sand beaches, powerful waterfalls. Offers more 'wow' moments. | Iceland |
| Costs & Budget | Accommodation and food can be slightly less expensive than Iceland outside Tórshavn. Car rental and fuel remain high. Flights are often the biggest hurdle. | Notoriously expensive across the board, from accommodation to food, activities, and transport. Flights can be cheaper from major hubs. | Faroe Islands |
| Getting Around | Essential to rent a car for flexibility, extensive tunnels (some tolled), well-maintained but narrow roads. Ferries connect some islands. Public transport is limited but free in Tórshavn. | Car rental is king for the Ring Road. Excellent road network, clear signage, but can be crowded. Organized tours are plentiful and a good alternative. | Tie |
| Accommodation | Limited options outside Tórshavn, often guesthouses, Airbnbs, or small hotels. Booking far in advance is crucial, especially in summer. | Wide range of choices from hostels to luxury hotels, guesthouses, and farm stays. More availability but higher prices, particularly in Reykjavik. | Iceland |
| Food & Drink | Focus on fresh seafood, lamb, root vegetables. Limited fine dining but excellent traditional cooking. Alcohol is expensive and regulated. | Diverse culinary scene in Reykjavik, traditional Icelandic fare (lamb, fish), hot dogs, and craft beer culture. Plenty of options but very pricey. | Iceland |
| Culture & History | Deep Viking roots, unique language, strong maritime traditions, turf-roofed houses, smaller museums. Intimate and authentic. | Rich Viking sagas, independent spirit, extensive museums (National Museum of Iceland), modern art, vibrant music scene. More accessible history. | Tie |
| Crowds & Solitude | Very few crowds even in peak season. Easy to find solitude on hikes. Tórshavn is lively but not overwhelming. Sense of undiscovered gem. | Can be very crowded at popular Golden Circle and South Coast spots. Expect tour buses. Solitude requires more effort to find, venturing off the Ring Road. | Faroe Islands |
| Weather & Seasons | Highly unpredictable year-round. Mild summers, cool winters. Frequent rain, fog, and strong winds. Layers are essential any time. | Unpredictable, but generally more distinct seasons. Colder winters, milder summers. Northern Lights in winter, midnight sun in summer. Inland can be windier. | Tie |
| Activities & Adventure | Primarily hiking, birdwatching (puffins on Mykines), boat trips to sea caves, photography, exploring villages. Focus on immersive nature. | Hiking, glacier walks, ice cave tours, snorkeling/diving Silfra, horseback riding, whale watching, ATV tours, city exploration. Wider range of guided adventures. | Iceland |
| Getting There | Limited direct flights, primarily from Copenhagen (CPH), but also Paris (CDG), Edinburgh (EDI), and occasionally NYC (JFK). Atlantic Airways is the main carrier. | Excellent air connectivity to major hubs in North America and Europe. Keflavik (KEF) is a major international airport, often a stopover point. | Iceland |
⛰️ Nature & Scenery
When it comes to sheer diversity and scale, Iceland is hard to beat. From the explosive Strokkur geyser to the monumental Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the shimmering Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and the alien landscapes around Myvatn, Iceland delivers iconic, grand-scale natural phenomena. The Golden Circle and Ring Road offer a spectacle at every turn, making it feel like a different planet. The Faroe Islands, while equally stunning, offer a more concentrated, intimate drama. Imagine hiking to the 'Floating Lake' of Sørvágsvatn, witnessing puffins on Mykines, or exploring the remote beauty of Saksun. It's less about grandiosity and more about getting lost in the raw, untouched beauty of moss-covered cliffs and crashing waves. "Iceland’s like a greatest hits album of natural wonders, Faroe Islands is that really intense, critically acclaimed indie album that only true fans know about and love," as one Reddit user put it. If you want the 'gram-worthy, bucket-list ticking experience, Iceland's got it. If you want to feel truly alone with nature, the Faroes deliver.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Iceland
- Why: Iceland wins for its unparalleled diversity of epic, iconic natural wonders that are often more accessible for a wider range of travelers.
- Who this matters for: First-time visitors to the region, those seeking iconic 'wow' moments, and photographers who want a variety of dramatic backdrops.
💸 Costs & Budget
Neither destination is 'cheap', but the Faroe Islands can offer a slightly more palatable budget, primarily due to fewer large-scale tourist operations inflating prices. A decent guesthouse in the Faroes might run 1000-1500 DKK ($145-220 USD) per night, versus 20,000-30,000 ISK ($145-220 USD) for a comparable room in Iceland, though you'll find more budget hostel options in Iceland. Groceries in the Faroes (e.g., in a local 'Miklagarður' or 'Bónus' store) might cost 500-700 DKK ($73-100 USD) for a few days, similar to Iceland's Krónan or Bónus stores at 7,000-10,000 ISK ($50-73 USD). The biggest cost differentiator is often flight access; direct flights to Vágar (FAE) are fewer and pricier than to Keflavik (KEF). In Iceland, a basic meal can easily be 3,000-5,000 ISK ($22-37 USD), and a beer 1,200-1,500 ISK ($9-11 USD). The Faroes might see slightly lower prices for local fare, with a typical restaurant main costing 150-250 DKK ($22-37 USD). "Honestly, my Faroes trip felt expensive, but then I went to Iceland and realized the Faroes were a bargain for the solitude," commented a Redditor. Your biggest cost in both will be car rental, easily 600-1000 DKK/10,000-15,000 ISK ($88-145 USD) per day, plus fuel.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Faroe Islands
- Why: While still expensive, the Faroe Islands offer marginally better value for accommodation and fewer temptations for costly activities, allowing for a slightly lower overall spend.
- Who this matters for: Budget-conscious travelers, those who prioritize solitude over lavish experiences, and visitors who prefer self-catering.
🚗 Getting Around
Both destinations are best explored by car for maximum flexibility and to truly experience their remote beauty. In the Faroe Islands, car rental is non-negotiable for most visitors. Roads are excellent, though often single-lane in places or winding. Be prepared for subsea tunnels (Eysturoyartunnilin and Sandoyartunnilin) which cost around 100-175 DKK ($15-25 USD) per return trip. Ferries are crucial for reaching islands like Mykines (seasonal, around 120 DKK / $18 USD return) or Suðuroy. Iceland also necessitates a car, especially if you're venturing beyond the Golden Circle. The Ring Road (Route 1) circles the entire country, providing access to most major sights. Roads are well-maintained, but F-roads (mountain roads) require a 4x4. "Driving in Iceland is easier in some ways because the sights are so spread out and the roads are wider, but Faroes felt more adventurous with those tunnels and mountain passes," a traveler mentioned online. While Iceland offers more robust tour options (bus, super jeep, glacier hikes), the Faroes' smaller scale means navigating is less daunting, but planning for specific ferry times is critical. Both have high fuel costs (approx. 16-18 DKK/280-300 ISK per liter, ~$8-9 USD per gallon).
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Tie
- Why: Both require car rental for optimal exploration, offering distinct but equally effective methods of experiencing their unique landscapes.
- Who this matters for: Independent travelers who enjoy road trips and want the freedom to explore at their own pace.
🏠 Accommodation
Iceland offers a far greater variety and quantity of accommodation options, catering to all budgets, albeit at a premium. In Reykjavik, you'll find everything from vibrant hostels like KEX Hostel (5,000-10,000 ISK/$37-73 USD for a dorm bed) to boutique hotels like Hotel Borg (35,000-60,000 ISK/$255-435 USD). Along the Ring Road, guesthouses and farm stays are abundant, but prices remain high (20,000-35,000 ISK/$145-255 USD for a private room). The Faroe Islands have a much more limited supply. Tórshavn, the capital, offers the most choices, including Hotel Føroyar (1500-2500 DKK/$220-365 USD) or smaller guesthouses. Outside Tórshavn, options are scarce – often small Airbnbs, local guesthouses, or the occasional hotel in a larger village like Runavík or Klaksvík. Prices can be surprisingly similar to Iceland for a basic private room (1000-1500 DKK/$145-220 USD), but availability is the main issue. "Finding a last-minute room in the Faroes in July felt like finding a unicorn. Booked six months out and still had limited choices," one Reddit user shared. Camping is an option in both, offering significant savings, with campgrounds in the Faroes around 100 DKK ($15 USD) per person per night and in Iceland 1,500-2,500 ISK ($11-18 USD).
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Iceland
- Why: Iceland provides significantly more choice, availability, and a wider range of price points for accommodation across the country, making planning easier.
- Who this matters for: Travelers with specific budget or luxury preferences, those who prefer more established hotel chains, and those planning trips closer to departure.
🍽️ Food & Drink
While both offer delicious fresh seafood and lamb, Iceland's food scene, especially in Reykjavik, is far more developed and diverse. You can find everything from Michelin-starred fine dining at places like Dill Restaurant (tasting menu ~20,000-30,000 ISK/$145-220 USD) to casual, delicious options like the famous Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog stand (600 ISK/$4.50 USD). The craft beer scene has exploded, with numerous breweries and bars offering local brews (a pint can be 1,200-1,500 ISK/$9-11 USD). The Faroe Islands offer a more traditional, rustic culinary experience. Expect exceptional fresh fish and shellfish, exquisite lamb, and root vegetables. Koks, their Michelin-starred restaurant, has relocated, but smaller, fantastic eateries like ROKS (sister restaurant) or Barbara Fish House (mains 200-350 DKK/$29-50 USD) in Tórshavn showcase local ingredients beautifully. Alcohol is heavily taxed and expensive in both, sold primarily in state-run stores (Rúsdrekkasøla Landsins in the Faroes, Vínbúðin in Iceland). "I loved the simplicity of the Faroese food, but after a week, I craved variety. Iceland had so many different restaurants to try," said a traveler. For sheer choice, Iceland takes the lead, but the Faroes offer a true taste of local, unspoiled ingredients.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Iceland
- Why: Iceland wins for its greater variety of dining experiences, from high-end to budget-friendly, and a more vibrant craft beverage scene.
- Who this matters for: Foodies, those who enjoy dining out frequently, and travelers seeking diverse international and local culinary experiences.
📜 Culture & History
Both nations boast a proud Viking heritage and unique Nordic cultures. Iceland's history is well-documented and celebrated in accessible ways, with Reykjavik offering excellent museums like the National Museum of Iceland (2,500 ISK/$18 USD entry) and the Saga Museum, providing immersive insights into their past. The country's strong literary tradition, centered around the Icelandic Sagas, is a cornerstone of their identity. The Faroe Islands offer a more intimate, living history. Their distinct language, Føroyskt, is a testament to their isolation. You'll find turf-roofed houses in villages like Saksun and Tjørnuvík, historical churches, and the national museum Føroya Fornminnissavn (60 DKK/$9 USD entry) in Tórshavn, which gives a great overview. "Icelandic sagas are epic, but walking through Kirkjubøur felt like stepping directly into Faroese history, more tangible," a Reddit user commented. While Iceland has a more developed cultural infrastructure and a bustling art and music scene in Reykjavik, the Faroes provide a deeper dive into a more preserved, small-scale cultural identity. It's a tie because they offer different yet equally compelling cultural experiences: Iceland for broad accessibility and depth in Reykjavik, and the Faroes for a truly authentic, preserved local culture spread across its villages.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Tie
- Why: Both offer compelling and unique cultural experiences rooted in Viking heritage, but with different scales and levels of accessibility.
- Who this matters for: Travelers interested in Norse history, unique languages, and traditional ways of life will find rich experiences in both.
🚶 Crowds & Solitude
If you're seeking true solitude and a sense of having a place almost to yourself, the Faroe Islands are an undeniable winner. Even in peak summer, major attractions like Múlafossur Waterfall in Gásadalur or Sørvágsvatn will have visitors, but it's rare to feel overwhelmed. Many hikes will see you encounter more sheep than people. Tórshavn, while a capital, maintains a cozy, uncrowded feel. You genuinely feel like you've discovered a hidden gem. Iceland, on the other hand, especially along the Golden Circle and South Coast (e.g., Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara), can feel like a theme park at times, with dozens of tour buses and hundreds of people vying for the same photo op. "After battling crowds at Skógafoss, getting to the Faroes felt like a breath of fresh air. I hiked for hours and saw maybe two other people. Bliss," a Redditor expressed. While you can find solitude in Iceland by venturing into the Highlands or Westfjords, it requires more planning and often a 4x4. For an intrinsically uncrowded experience, the Faroes are unmatched.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Faroe Islands
- Why: The Faroe Islands offer significantly more opportunities for solitude and fewer crowds, even at popular sites, creating a more peaceful and immersive natural experience.
- Who this matters for: Introverts, nature lovers who dislike crowds, photographers seeking unspoiled shots, and those who want an 'off-the-beaten-path' feel.
☁️ Weather & Seasons
Both destinations are famous for their highly unpredictable weather – if you don't like the weather, wait five minutes! The Faroe Islands have a truly maritime climate, meaning milder but wetter and windier conditions year-round. Summer temperatures average 10-13°C (50-55°F), rarely getting truly warm. Rain and fog are frequent companions, adding to the dramatic atmosphere but requiring constant layering. Winters are mild (around 3-6°C / 37-43°F) but dark and often stormy. Iceland experiences more continental influences, leading to slightly more defined seasons. Summer (June-August) sees average temperatures of 10-15°C (50-59°F), with longer daylight hours and the famous Midnight Sun. Winters (December-February) are colder, often hovering around 0°C (32°F) or below, with snow and ice common, but also the best chances for Northern Lights viewing. "I thought Iceland's weather was wild until I spent a week in the Faroes. Went through all four seasons in a single afternoon hike!" a traveler joked. Both require robust waterproof and windproof gear regardless of the season. The 'winner' depends entirely on what you're seeking: Faroes for a consistent, moody, ever-present drama; Iceland for the specific seasonal phenomena of Midnight Sun or Northern Lights, accepting the trade-offs. So, it's a tie as their weather patterns each offer unique experiences.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Tie
- Why: Both destinations are characterized by highly unpredictable weather, offering different but equally dramatic seasonal experiences and requiring similar preparedness.
- Who this matters for: Travelers who are prepared for any weather, those seeking specific seasonal phenomena (Northern Lights/Midnight Sun vs. moody drama), and hikers who embrace the elements.
🥾 Activities & Adventure
Iceland offers a far broader range of organized adventure activities, leveraging its diverse landscapes. You can hike on glaciers (like Sólheimajökull), explore ice caves (Vatnajökull), snorkel between tectonic plates in Silfra fissure, go horseback riding on Icelandic horses, or take thrilling super jeep tours into the Highlands. Whale watching is popular from Reykjavík or Húsavík. Many tour operators make these activities highly accessible. The Faroe Islands' adventure scene is more focused and raw. Hiking is paramount, with stunning trails leading to sea stacks, dramatic cliffs, and remote villages. Birdwatching, especially for puffins on Mykines (ferry & guided hike required, around 700 DKK/$100 USD total), is a highlight. Boat trips to sea caves (e.g., Vestmanna Sea Cliffs, around 300 DKK/$45 USD) are popular, offering unique perspectives. "Iceland felt like an adventure playground, so many options. Faroes was more about the pure hiking and immersion, which I also loved, just different," noted a visitor. While the Faroes offer deep, immersive nature experiences, Iceland provides a wider array of adrenaline-pumping, bucket-list worthy guided adventures and more accessible options for varying fitness levels beyond just hiking.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Iceland
- Why: Iceland wins for its expansive range of organized adventure activities, from glacier walks to snorkeling, catering to diverse interests and thrill levels.
- Who this matters for: Adventure seekers, those looking for unique guided experiences, and travelers who enjoy a mix of strenuous and moderate activities.
✈️ Getting There
Iceland is significantly easier and often cheaper to reach due to its strategic location and the popularity of Keflavik (KEF) as a transatlantic stopover. Airlines like Icelandair, Play, and various European carriers offer frequent direct flights from numerous cities across North America (e.g., New York, Boston, Toronto, 5-6 hours) and Europe (e.g., London, Paris, Copenhagen, 2-3 hours). This competition often drives down prices, with round-trip fares from major US cities sometimes as low as $400-600 USD during shoulder seasons. The Faroe Islands have Vágar Airport (FAE), served primarily by Atlantic Airways and a few other carriers. Direct flights are less frequent and typically originate from Copenhagen (CPH, 2 hours), Edinburgh (EDI, 1.5 hours), Paris (CDG, 2.5 hours), or Oslo (OSL, 1.5 hours). Seasonal direct flights from New York (JFK) are occasionally available but limited. "Getting to Iceland felt like a breeze, just a direct flight. To the Faroes, I had to connect through Copenhagen, which added a whole day of travel," a Reddit user recounted. A round-trip ticket to the Faroes can easily cost $700-1200+ USD, making it a more substantial portion of the overall budget. The ferry from Denmark (Smyril Line) is an option but takes several days.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Iceland
- Why: Iceland offers far superior flight connectivity from major international hubs, more frequent flights, and generally lower airfare, making it more accessible.
- Who this matters for: Travelers with limited vacation time, those on a stricter budget for flights, and visitors flying from North America or outside Europe.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Which destination is better for hiking?
Both offer incredible hiking. Faroe Islands provides more intimate, dramatic coastal hikes with a sense of solitude. Iceland offers a wider range of terrain, from volcanic landscapes to glaciers, with more strenuous multi-day treks possible, but often with more crowded trails at popular spots.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Faroe Islands and Iceland?
Yes, you can see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in both, typically from September to April. Iceland has a stronger reputation due to its clearer skies and organized tours, but the Faroe Islands offer equally dark skies away from Tórshavn. Patience and clear skies are essential in either location.
Is it possible to visit both on one trip?
Absolutely! It's a popular combination for North Atlantic adventurers. Atlantic Airways offers direct flights between Keflavik (KEF) and Vágar (FAE), making it relatively easy to hop between the two. Allow at least 4-5 days for the Faroes and 5-7 days for Iceland for a meaningful experience in each.
Which destination is more family-friendly?
Iceland is generally more family-friendly due to its better infrastructure, wider range of accessible attractions (like the Golden Circle), and more diverse accommodation and dining options. The Faroe Islands, while safe, have fewer dedicated kid-friendly amenities and attractions, making it better for families with older, more adventurous children.
Do I need to rent a car in both places?
Yes, a rental car is highly recommended and almost essential for both destinations to fully explore their natural beauty and remote areas. Public transport is limited, especially in the Faroes. Be prepared for potentially challenging driving conditions in winter in both countries.
Which destination is better for photography?
Both are photographer's paradises, offering dramatically different but equally stunning scenes. Iceland provides epic, wide-angle landscapes with volcanoes, glaciers, and grand waterfalls. The Faroe Islands excel in moody, intimate, and unique coastal scenes with turf-roofed houses, sheep, and sea stacks, often with fewer people in your shots.
What's the best time of year to visit each?
For both, summer (June-August) offers the mildest weather and longest daylight hours, ideal for hiking and exploring. However, this is also peak season with higher prices and more crowds in Iceland. Shoulder seasons (May, September-October) can be excellent for fewer crowds and potentially better prices, with good chances for Northern Lights in autumn.
Are the Faroe Islands truly 'undiscovered' compared to Iceland?
Relatively speaking, yes. While tourism is growing in the Faroe Islands, it receives a fraction of Iceland's annual visitors. You'll encounter far fewer tour buses and crowds, creating a more authentic and serene experience. Iceland, while breathtaking, sees millions of visitors annually, especially at its most famous sites.
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