Car Rental Faroe Islands

The wild, remote, and stunningly beautiful archipelago known as the Faroe Islands is located halfway between Norway and Iceland but is technically a territory of Denmark. Despite its remote location, you can still rent a car through Airport Rentals and see everything the Islands have to offer at your own pace.

When it comes to driving around the Faroe Islands, several of the main islands are connected with road bridges or tunnels, while the rest have car ferry connections, making car hire a fantastic way to get around. From hiking in the mountains or fishing in the Atlantic Ocean, to shopping, dining and drinking in Torshavn, there is something for every kind of traveller.

Booking your rental car with Airport Rentals

Securing your rental car online is straightforward, particularly with Airport Rentals. It is highly advised to book your rental car as soon as you have your flight ticket, to secure your preferred vehicle and get the perfect car hire deal available.

Comparing prices and deals

Comparing Faroe Islands car rental deals can be easily done online. We take pride in our powerful yet easy to use search widget, that with a few clicks and inputs will present you with all the available options according to your travel needs. Search and compare offers from various car hire companies and brands, with the ability to filter every detail, including the pickup and drop off dates, the vehicle makes or models, number of passengers, plus other amenities for a convenient and safe travels.

Understanding car hire terms and conditions

Keep in mind that all drivers must:

• Present a valid driving license

• If the license is not in English, an International Driving Permit may be required

• Some car rental companies may require the driver’s license to be held for at least one year, depending on the car category.

Rental cars contracts may also include additional charges such as administrative or processing fees for handling damage, traffic or speeding charges, cleaning the car, and refueling.

Car rental protection options, such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), are usually part of the agreement. These provide coverage in the event of an accident and waive your financial responsibility for damages or loss to the rental car, typically eliminating the need to pay a deductible. You can find information on the protection available through Airport Rentals during the booking process.

Picking up Faroe Islands car rentals at Vágar Airport or Tórshavn

Upon arrival in the Faroe Islands, collecting your rental car is not complicated. Vágar Airport, one of the convenient airport locations, is the primary location for car rental pick up. A shuttle or short walk will get you to the depot to collect your vehicle, so that you can hit the road in no time.

Navigating Faroe Islands roads and tunnels

Before you begin you exploration with your rental car, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the driving regulations and road conditions in the Faroe Islands. Here are some important things to remember:

• Always drive on the right-hand side of the road

• Keep your headlights on at all times

• Wear your seatbelt

• Be mindful of sheep on the roads

The Faroe Islands have a total of 20 tunnels, and when driving through these, remember to be aware of the toll fee for sub-sea tunnels. If you encounter an accident involving a sheep, it’s a legal requirement to inform the Faroese Police.

Road conditions and speed limits in the Faroes

While the Faroe Islands generally have well-maintained roads, being mindful of speed limits is crucial. The maximum speed limit in town areas is 50 km/h (31 mph), and on highways or roads outside of towns, the speed limit can go up to 80 km/h (50 mph). Off-roading is strictly prohibited to protect the natural environment.

While navigating Faroe Islands roads, remember to:

• Stick to the right-hand side

• Fasten seat belts

• Keep headlights illuminated continuously

• Modify speed on single-lane roads

• Stay watchful for sheep that may wander onto the roads.

Faroe Islands tunnel regulations and safety

The tunnel system in the Faroe Islands offers a distinctive driving experience. A tunnel pass simplifies the process and helps avoid online payments to the public tunnel company. The sub-sea tunnels have two tolls, and if you don’t have a tunnel pass, you can pay the toll at a gas station within 3 days of using the tunnel.

The newest tunnels in the Faroe Islands are two-lane, while the older ones are single-track. In the event of oncoming traffic in the tunnel, always turn right and use the lay-bys every 100 meters to allow smoother traffic flow in the narrow, single-track tunnels.

Fueling up: gas stations and fuel types

There are 23 gas stations spread across the six islands with petrol stations in the Faroe Islands, so you’ll never be far from a place to refuel. Both petrol and diesel are available at these gas stations.

The two main petrol companies operating in the Faroe Islands are EFFO and Magn. Some petrol stations, like those in Kollafjrur and Srvágur, offer amenities such as restrooms, making them convenient stops during your journey.

Sightseeing on the road: top attractions accessible by rental car

One of the best things about having a rental car in the Faroe Islands is the freedom it gives you to explore top hot spots, scenic drives, and popular tourist sites at your own pace. The Kallur Lighthouse is a prime example. To reach it, you would drive to Klaksvík on the island of Borðoy and then take a car ferry to Kalsoy. The hike to the lighthouse is a two-mile trail that showcases stunning emerald landscapes and includes encounters with sheep.

Another must-see attraction is the village of Gásadalur, which is accessible through a driving tunnel. The drive from Vagar Airport to Gásadalur typically takes around 18 minutes. Nearby, you’ll find the stunning Mulafossur Waterfall, renowned for its natural beauty and located approximately 11 km from Vagar Airport.

Apart from these, there are numerous other places to see in the Faroe Islands that can be accessed by car, such as renowned waterfalls, remote villages, and the chance to travel to different islands using the ferry and tunnel system.

Returning your car hire

Upon concluding your journey, the rental car needs to be returned. Before doing so, it’s advisable to:

1. Thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any new damages that may have occurred during your rental period.

2. Take pictures at the beginning and the end of the rental term to document the condition of the car.

3. Obtain a signed slip confirming that the car is in proper condition when returned to avoid potential charges later on.

When returning your car, remember that most fuel policies stipulate that the vehicle must be returned with a full tank of fuel. This means that you should refuel the car to a full tank before returning it. If there are new damages to the rental car upon return, report it promptly to the rental agency to avoid charges for the discovered damages later on.

Faroe Islands car rental tips for families

For those traveling with family to the Faroe Islands, there are some specific pointers to consider:

• Any child under the age of four years must be seated in a child safety seat.

• It’s prohibited for any child under the age of 12 to sit in the front seat of a vehicle.

• Those found without a proper child safety seat for children under 135 cm (53 inches) will be subject to on-the-spot fines.

When choosing a car rental company, consider family-friendly options. Car rental companies like Budget offer a variety of child safety seats for rent, ensuring that even the youngest members of your family can travel safely. With numerous car rental locations available, finding the perfect option for your family has never been easier.

There are plenty of family-friendly destinations in the Faroe Islands that are accessible by car. These include:

• Tinganes in Torshavn

• The historical village of Kirkjubøur

• Picturesque Saksun and Tjornuvik villages

• The tranquil Gjogv

• The stunning Kallur Lighthouse on Kalsoy Island

Driving etiquette and cultural considerations

While driving in the Faroe Islands, remembering local customs and driving etiquette is crucial. For instance, honking the horn while driving is considered improper due to the minimal traffic and local customs. If you come across a funeral procession, it’s customary to stop and remain by your vehicle for a brief period as a gesture of respect.

Unique aspects such as navigating single-lane tunnels and being cautious of sheep on the roads are also part of the Faroe Islands driving experience. When encountering wildlife on the road, drive slowly and give them space, especially at night when animals are more active.