Travelers are fickle. At one moment, we’re in search of winter sun, and the next we’re totally cool packing extra layers as long as we can witness Northern Lights, indulge in Christmas market delights, or hit the slopes in a magical mountain town.
Iceland may not tick off the latter as a ski destination, but it’s long been both mystical and mysterious to travelers worldwide, especially with easier connectivity over the last decade.
As such, more and more travelers couldn’t stifle their wanderlust impulses anymore, ultimately flocking to Iceland’s stunning waterfalls and famous Blue Lagoon and exploring the charming, vibrant streets of Reykjavik.
I had a blast the first time I visited Iceland, and I still consider this wondrous island to be my favorite country.
On my second trip, though…ehh, let’s just say the magic was lost when sharing space at waterfalls and black sand beaches as if I was a fish swimming upstream against a current of selfie sticks.
The good news is there’s a perfect alternative. Just as captivating with similar culture, otherworldly landscapes, and yes, unpredictable weather (so be ready), lies Europe’s lesser-known Faroe Islands, just highlighted by Yardbarker as a 2025 must-visit.
Europe’s Best Alternative To Iceland
The Faroe Islands boast all the same charm you find in Iceland except for a few quirks like Reykajvik’s museum dedicated to the male anatomy.
But, like Iceland, there are some shared quirks too, such as folklore legends of hidden elves living within society and endless streets with unpronounceable names like Tinghúsvegur.
As for similar attractions, expect to find unimaginably beautiful waterfalls like Múlafossur, rolling landscapes reminiscent of a Lord of the Rings film, hobbit-like homes, and yes, you can even get up close and personal with miniature horses.
One notable missing piece in comparison to Iceland is the famous Blue Lagoon, but as a visitor myself, I’d say you can skip it in favor of Iceland’s new hotspot Akureyri, where spas’ entry fees are slashed in half.
The Faroes don’t have any geothermal spas, but you can check out Varmakelda, known as “The Healing Spring,” which is said to ‘increase love and passion’ if you’re into that woo-woo stuff.
Some other notable plusses for The Faroes are:
- Saksun has black sand beaches similar to Iceland’s Vik
- There’s no ‘Ring Road’ like Iceland, but there’s an impressive Eysturoy Tunnel to connect islands
- For cheap eats, try a Faroese ‘French-style ‘hot dog, comparable to Iceland’s gas station staple
- Deeply-rooted Viking heritage; check out The Faroe Islands National Museum ($11 admission)
- The capital Torshavn; a spitting image of Reykjavik’s multi-colored rows of delightful streets
Reaching The Faroes & Where To Stay
The Faroe Islands might be blushing brighter than their vibrant, postcard-worthy red townscape.
Following Iceland’s footsteps, their flagship carrier Atlantic Airways launched the first-ever direct flight to the States in 2023, but has since been discontinued due to lack of interest.
One could argue serving New York’s lesser-known New York Stewart International Airport was a mistake, but the historic route never took off like Iceland’s Play Airlines.
The good news is there are still a variety of ways to reach The Faroes, including Atlantic Airways, with popular connecting hubs such as London, Paris, Barcelona, and yes, even Reykjavik, to double dip in similar destinations.
The Faroe Islands welcomed their first name-brand hotels in 2020, so you can use your points at Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands or opt for a more authentic feel, such as the aforementioned hobbit-like homes.
If I’m not cashing in Hilton points, I’d choose The View in Bøur, with astounding waterfront views in traditional sod-roofed houses.
The Faroes’ Stunning Coastal Villages
Torshavn makes a great base, just like Reykjavik would in Iceland, but paying a visit to the Faroes’ tiny villages might be the highlight of your trip.
Anyone who’s done deep research on where to go in the Faroes has to have Gjógv at the top of their list.
Named after a 200-meter-long sea-filled gorge, this blip on the map packs a punch with natural beauty as one of the best photo-worthy spots of Denmark’s autonomous nation.
Next would be Nólsoy, an island of its own just a half-hour ferry ride from Torshavn, beholding epic mountain views.
Mykines (open late spring through summer) is home to a fruitful Puffin population, a popular sightseeing excursion both here and in Iceland.
For the adventurous, the coastal village of Tjørnuvík is known as a surfer’s paradise. Pack a wetsuit!
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
