Runavík, The Faroe Islands - Cruise Port
The town of Runavik in the Faroe Islands is definitely the port less travelled. Never heard of it? Neither did we until our original Greenland ports of call got canceled and it showed up as a replacement on our Greenland and Iceland itinerary. But it also has lots to offer, even if it is a more or less chill destination. Check out what we discovered and why this is a place worth exploring.
A Glimpse of Runavik and the Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands are almost dead center between Iceland and Norway. An 18-island archipelago, it’s an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark but with its own language and culture. Runavik is located on the island of Eysturoy, among a chain of settlements along the Skálafjørður—the largest fjord in the Faroe Islands—and serves as a gateway to Eysturoy’s natural beauty.
Runavik has a population of just 4,000 people, and there are more sheep than humans here! Hence, you get plenty of opportunities for wooly photo ops and wool products, in abundance. You can also visit nearby towns, such as the capital Torshavn, via the underwater tunnel Eysturoyartunnilin. The tunnel is often referred to as the jellyfish for its unique roundabout, the first under the sea. While there may be boat tours to explore other islands, for most folks, this is a chill day—walking the town, taking a short local bus tour, and hiking among the sheep.
Docking in Runavik: First Impressions
For a town of its size, Runavik has a deep enough berth to allow a straight docking, placing you within a 10-minute walk of the town center. King’s Harbor (Kongshavn) isn’t much to look at—industrial, with containers and a small parking area. In fact, the working area is mingled with passengers passing by, which is unusual. But despite this, it comes with a very generous welcome committee.
Upon disembarking, you’ll meet the “Ask Me” agents from the local tourist board. They’re everywhere, happy to answer questions, guide you to the main part of town, or help with anything really. You’ll spot them every 100 yards, wearing yellow vests—"Ask Me, Ask Me, Ask Me" is their motto. It definitely put a smile on my face! There's also a cute shack at the dock where they hand out maps. A warm welcome, to say the least. I haven’t seen a port issue a welcome schedule before—ours had our ship’s name on it! Of course, there are tour buses waiting here, but no public toilets. And dress for unpredictable weather. Even if the sun’s out, it can get rainy, windy, and cold.
Exploring the Town: Getting Around Runavik
Once you step off the port, cross the street and turn left. Follow the “Ask Me” agents as they guide you left past some rough steps and a parking lot, then turn right onto Heiðavegur, the main street where almost everything you need in town is located. But before you begin your exploration, it’s best to make a beeline for the tourist information office, which is about a five-minute walk as you enter the street.
You’ll notice the lines outside—it’s mostly for bus tour tickets, which include a ride around the famous jellyfish roundabout. The tour lasts about an hour and costs 150 DKK (roughly 22 USD). One of the big hits is the free Wi-Fi in the area.
Essential Information: What You’ll Find in Town
ATMs in Town:
Sjalvtoka ATM – Betri Banki
Foroya Banki ATM
Public Bathroom:
Runavikar Community Center (public toilet and local art exhibition)
Sundry Food Items:
Var Convenience Store
Local Bus to Other Towns:
For towns like Torshavn, you can pay with a credit card directly to the driver.
Other Notable Places:
Radiobudin – A cool local spot to check out.
Etika Sushi – Skip the line for a table, grab a to-go box, and sit outside in the back.
Inngongd – A thrift store run by a local church group offering music and snacks downstairs.
Rusdrekkasola Landsins – The local liquor store.
Runavik has pretty good sidewalks, though you’ll have to get over a rougher side street and some stairs leading from the port and into town.
Scenic Views and Outdoor Adventures
Beyond the town itself, there’s plenty of natural beauty to explore. Just outside of town, across the street and past a school, you’ll find the Toftavatn trail. It’s an easy walk, and there’s something amusing about spotting chickens along the way (though I still don’t know what that’s about). You’ll also find birdwatching opportunities and, of course, sheepwatching! Many visitors enjoy hiking the trail and "stalking" the sheep for the perfect shot.
While I didn’t have time to walk the full trail, I’ve heard you can make a complete circuit. The scenery is impressive, with the striking landscapes of the Faroe Islands surrounding you. If your ship sails around areas just south and north of Eysturoy, such as the south coast of Vagar Island and Drangarnir, you’ll be treated to even more imposing views.
Final Thoughts: Why Runavik is a gem
Runavik may be small, but it offers a surprising amount of charm and character. Whether you’re strolling through the town, hopping on a bus tour, or hiking among the sheep, it’s the perfect place for a laid-back day of exploration. The local hospitality, stunning natural beauty, and simple pleasures of the town make it an unexpectedly memorable stop on any itinerary.
If you're looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination with a welcoming atmosphere, Runavik is a hidden gem worth visiting. It may not have grand tourist attractions, but its authenticity and natural wonders make it well worth the stop.