As a UK traveler, is it really necessary to rent a car in the Faroe Islands?
Absolutely. While public transport (buses and ferries) is reliable, schedules are limited, especially in remote areas and on weekends. Renting a car gives you unmatched freedom and flexibility to explore hidden waterfalls, remote villages, and scenic hiking trailheads. Without a car, you’ll miss many of the islands’ highlights.
How far in advance should I book a rental car in the Faroe Islands?
It’s strongly recommended to book as early as possible, especially during the high season (June–August). Car supply is limited, and demand is high. Booking 3 to 6 months in advance secures availability, better prices, and more vehicle choices. Last-minute bookings can mean no cars or very high rates.
What’s the best platform for booking a car in the Faroe Islands?
QEEQ is an excellent choice for UK travelers. It aggregates local suppliers, offers a user-friendly interface, clear packages, and transparent pricing. You can easily compare models, prices, and inclusions all in one place.
What type of car should I choose? Is a small car enough?
For most travelers (1-2 people), a compact or economy car is sufficient. The roads are generally narrow, so small cars are easier for meeting other vehicles and parking. For families or those with a lot of luggage, consider a midsize vehicle. 4x4s are rarely necessary unless you plan to drive on gravel roads, which are often prohibited by rental agreements.
Are automatic cars easy to rent in the Faroe Islands?
Yes, but manual cars are more common and usually cheaper. If you prefer an automatic, be sure to select this option when booking—and book early via QEEQ as automatics are in shorter supply.
Where is the most convenient place to pick up a rental car as a UK visitor?
Vágar Airport (FAE) is the most convenient location. Most rental desks are in the arrivals hall, so you can pick up your car straight off the plane and avoid extra transfers to Tórshavn.
Do Faroe Islands rental companies accept UK credit cards (Visa/Mastercard)?
Yes, all rental companies accept major international credit cards. Note that you will almost certainly need a physical credit card in the primary driver’s name to pay the security deposit. Debit or prepaid cards are not usually accepted for this.
Can I do a one-way rental—for example, pick up at the airport and return in Tórshavn?
Technically yes, but it’s uncommon and usually incurs a high one-way fee. The islands are small, so most travelers pick up and return at the same location, usually the airport, for convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Does the rental include unlimited mileage?
Almost all rental packages in the Faroe Islands include unlimited mileage, which is important since you’ll likely cover large distances. Always check this in the terms when booking via QEEQ.
Are there special considerations for renting a car in winter (November–March)?
Yes. All vehicles must be fitted with winter tyres by law. Weather can change rapidly, and roads may close due to snow or ice. Keep your itinerary flexible, monitor weather and road conditions (www.road.fo), and drive with extra caution and reduced speed.
Is my UK driving licence valid for renting and driving in the Faroe Islands?
Yes, a valid UK photocard driving licence is fully recognized in the Faroe Islands. No extra permits or translations are needed.
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
No. As long as your licence is written in Latin characters (e.g., English), an IDP is not required for UK licence holders.
Is there a minimum age to rent a car? Are there extra fees for young drivers?
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 and to have held a licence for at least one year. Some premium vehicles may require drivers to be 25+. Drivers aged 21-24 usually incur a young driver surcharge, charged per day.
What documents do I need to bring to the rental desk?
You’ll need: 1) a valid UK photocard driving licence, 2) a credit card in the main driver’s name, 3) your passport, and 4) your rental voucher (digital or printed).
Can I add an additional driver? What are the requirements and fees?
Yes. All extra drivers must be present at pick-up and show their own valid licence and passport. There is usually a per-day fee. Anyone not listed as a driver is not insured.
What does it cost to rent a car in the Faroe Islands and what’s included?
In high season, a small economy car typically costs £70–120 per day. This usually includes basic rental, CDW insurance, theft protection, and unlimited mileage. Exclusions often include super CDW, fuel, tunnel fees, young driver and extra driver charges.
What is CDW (Collision Damage Waiver)? Does it cover all damage?
CDW is basic insurance that limits your liability for damage to a fixed excess (usually £500–£1,000). It does not cover tires, glass, undercarriage, or roof damage, nor losses from negligence or drink driving.
What is SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver)? Should I buy it?
SCDW is an upgrade that reduces your excess to zero or a very low amount. Highly recommended, as the islands’ conditions increase the risk of minor scrapes. It provides peace of mind and can be purchased during booking or at the desk.
How are undersea tunnel tolls charged? How do I pay as a renter?
Rentals are fitted with sensors. Just drive through the tunnels—the system records usage. Rental companies total your tolls and charge your credit card upon return. Many offer unlimited tunnel packages for a fixed fee, which is often more economical.
Do I need to pay a deposit? How much is it?
Yes. The deposit is usually equal to the CDW excess (£500–£1,000), frozen on your credit card. With SCDW, the deposit is much lower or sometimes waived. The hold is released after return if there are no issues.
How does fuel pricing in the Faroe Islands compare to the UK?
Fuel prices are similar to or slightly higher than the UK, fluctuating with global oil prices. Gas stations are well-distributed but rarer in remote areas, so refill when your tank is a third full. All are self-service and accept international credit cards.
What is the typical fuel policy for rentals?
Most rentals are 'full-to-full': you pick up and return the car with a full tank. Always top up at a nearby station before returning and keep the receipt. Failure to do so incurs high refueling fees.
Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of?
Watch for: 1) Airport surcharges (usually included in the price); 2) cleaning fees if the car is excessively dirty; 3) admin fees for processing traffic fines. Always check your rental contract for details.
Can I pay for my rental with a debit card?
You can pay the total rental cost with a debit card, but the security deposit must be on a credit card in the primary driver’s name. This is standard industry practice.
How is insurance handled when booking through QEEQ?
QEEQ shows exactly which insurance is included (usually CDW). QEEQ also offers third-party full insurance as an alternative to the rental company’s SCDW. You can book basic cover on QEEQ and upgrade to SCDW at the desk if you wish.
What is the pick-up process at Vágar Airport?
After collecting your luggage, go to the rental desks in the arrivals hall. Present your documents and voucher. The agent will explain insurance/tunnel fees and have you sign the contract. They’ll give you the keys and direct you to the parking area outside.
What should I check when inspecting the car at pick-up?
Check for: 1) all scratches, dents, or paint chips (compare with the damage report and take photos/video of anything not noted); 2) tire condition and pressure; 3) glass for cracks; 4) interior cleanliness and all controls; 5) fuel gauge is full.
What is the return process and how much time should I allow?
Return the car to the designated lot (usually the same as pick-up), with a full tank and all your belongings. Hand the keys to an agent or use a drop box for after-hours returns. Allow at least 30 minutes for fueling and possible queues.
Can I pick up or return my car outside of business hours?
Generally yes. For after-hours pick-up, provide your flight details in advance. The company may arrange for staff to meet you or give self-service instructions. After-hours return is typically via a key drop box. Confirm procedures and fees in advance.
Do I need to wash the car before returning it?
Normal road dirt is fine, but if the car is excessively dirty (e.g., mud, food stains, sand), clean it or tidy the interior before returning to avoid cleaning fees.
Is driving in the Faroe Islands left-hand or right-hand traffic? Is it hard for UK drivers?
The Faroe Islands drive on the right, with steering wheels on the left—opposite to the UK. There’s a short adjustment period; always remind yourself to 'keep right,' especially at roundabouts and junctions.
What’s the most important traffic rule to know?
Right of way: at unmarked junctions, vehicles from your right have priority. Uphill traffic has priority over downhill. Most importantly—sheep always have right of way! Slow down and be ready to stop for them.
What are the speed limits and are there many speed cameras?
Unless posted otherwise: 50 km/h (31 mph) in towns; 80 km/h (50 mph) on rural paved roads. Speed cameras exist and are sometimes mobile. Fines are high, so obey speed limits.
How should I drive on single-track roads?
Single-track roads are common. Use passing places to allow oncoming vehicles to pass. The car closest to a passing place should pull in. Never stop in passing places for sightseeing, and always wave thanks.
Do I need to keep headlights on at all times?
Yes, by law, dipped headlights must be on at all times, day and night, regardless of weather.
How much does weather affect driving? What about fog or strong winds?
Weather can change rapidly. Heavy fog, strong crosswinds (especially on bridges), and rain are common. Always check forecasts before departure, slow down in bad weather, and be prepared to stop if visibility is poor.
What should I do if I encounter sheep on the road?
Slow down, don’t honk or try to scare them, and wait patiently for them to move. In spring, watch for lambs. If you hit a sheep, report it to the police immediately.
What’s special about tunnels in the Faroe Islands?
There are both toll undersea tunnels and many unlit mountain tunnels. Old tunnels are narrow and dark—always use headlights and drive slowly. The Eysturoyartunnilin features a unique underwater roundabout.
Is parking in Tórshavn city centre difficult? How do I pay?
Parking can be tight. Most spaces have time limits—use the parking disc provided in your car and set your arrival time. Blue zones are usually free but time-limited, white zones are paid. Read signs carefully; fines are steep.
Can I use Google Maps or Waze for navigation?
Yes, Google Maps works very well. Waze is less popular and may lack real-time updates. Download offline maps in advance as signal can be patchy in remote areas.
Is it legal to use a mobile phone while driving?
Hand-held phone use is illegal. Use hands-free devices only. For safety, have a passenger handle navigation or stop before adjusting your phone.
Can I take my rental car on island ferries?
Yes, major ferries (such as to Suðuroy) transport vehicles. Book tickets in advance, especially in summer. Some islands (like Mykines or Kalsoy) do not allow or recommend visitors to bring cars.
Are there unpaved/gravel roads and can I drive a rental on them?
There are some gravel roads, but most rental contracts prohibit driving on unpaved roads. Any damage incurred on these roads is not covered by insurance.
How strict are drink-driving laws?
Very strict. The blood alcohol limit is 0.02%, much lower than the UK. Even one beer may put you over the limit. Zero-tolerance is the best policy.
Is it safe to drive at night?
Night driving requires extra caution—many roads are unlit, and sheep may be on the road. In summer, daylight lasts longer, but in winter, long nights and bad weather make driving more challenging. Use high beams when safe and slow down.
What should I do if my car breaks down?
Turn on hazard lights, move the car to a safe spot, and place the warning triangle (usually in the boot) 50–100 meters behind. Call the emergency roadside number found on your rental paperwork or keychain.
What’s the correct procedure if I’m in an accident, even a minor one?
Always: 1) Stop and ensure safety; 2) Call 112 (police), even for minor bumps or if you hit a sheep; 3) Notify the rental company; 4) Exchange details if others are involved; 5) Take photos. Never settle privately.
Do I need a child seat for my kids?
Yes, by law, children under 135 cm must use an appropriate car seat or booster. You can book seats in advance with your rental via QEEQ (additional fee applies).
Are gas stations open 24 hours?
Most have 24-hour self-service pumps (credit card with PIN required), but attached shops and attended service close in the evening.
What are the three most important tips for UK drivers in the Faroe Islands?
1) Slow down and respect nature—the scenery is worth it; 2) Invest in full insurance for peace of mind; 3) Always remember to drive on the right—say 'Keep Right' before every journey.
