Tórshavn

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Tórshavn is the capital of the Faroe Islands, a self-governing archipelago in the North Atlantic midway between Norway, Iceland and Scotland. At 62°N the islands sit at a similar latitude to southern Iceland, and while they’re not as well known as Scandinavian destinations for aurora viewing, the Northern Lights are visible here during periods of strong geomagnetic activity.

The city is one of the smallest capitals in the world, with a population of around 14,000, but it punches above its weight culturally. Tinganes, the historic peninsula in the old harbour, has served as the seat of the Faroese parliament since the Viking age and is one of the oldest parliamentary meeting places in the world. The grass-roofed buildings, narrow lanes and colourful harbourfront give Tórshavn a distinctive character.

For aurora viewing, the challenge on the Faroes is the weather. The maritime climate brings frequent cloud and rain, so flexibility and patience are essential. When skies do clear, the islands’ lack of light pollution and wide open landscapes offer excellent conditions. Getting out of Tórshavn to darker spots on the northern islands (Eysturoy, Borðoy or Vágar) improves your chances. The dramatic coastline, sea stacks, cliffs and mountain silhouettes, makes for striking aurora photography when conditions align.

The Faroe Islands are well connected by air, with flights from Copenhagen, Reykjavík, Edinburgh and Bergen. The compact size of the archipelago means everywhere is within an hour or two’s drive from Tórshavn, connected by tunnels, bridges and ferries. Beyond aurora hunting, the islands offer world-class birdwatching, hiking along dramatic sea cliffs and a growing reputation for creative Nordic cuisine.

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How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Tórshavn. Geomagnetic activity, cloud cover and the amount of ambient light all play a big part. Check the forecasts for how good the viewing conditions are today.

Aurora Probability and Atmospheric Conditions

0%

There is a 0% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Tórshavn area (forecast for 25 August 2026 at 10:39am UTC)

Kp 1.33

The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.

  • 0-2 (Very low) Far north, quite dim, and not very active.
  • 3-5 (Moderate) Can be seen further south, with increased brightness and activity. Chance of good viewing conditions nearer the pole.
  • 6-7 (High) Visible in many northern regions, with vibrant displays.
  • 8-9 (Extreme) Widespread visibility, often seen in areas much further south than usual, with intense and colorful displays.
HPI 15 GW

The Hemispheric Power Index (HPI) is a vital measure used to assess the strength of auroral activity at the poles. It estimates the total auroral energy input, with values above 20 GW indicating an aurora-active state. When the HPI reaches levels of 100 GW or more, it signifies a very significant geomagnetic storm, which can lead to spectacular auroral displays.

Bz 2 nT

Bz refers to the north-south orientation of the magnetic field embedded in the solar wind. It is measured in nanoteslas (nT).

When Bz is negative (southward), it allows solar wind particles to penetrate the Earth’s magnetic field more easily. A strong negative Bz is often associated with increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Conversely, when Bz is positive (northward), the Earth’s magnetic field tends to block the solar wind, resulting in reduced aurora activity.

Bt 6 nT

Bt measures the overall power of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) from the Sun; higher numbers (e.g., above 20 nT) mean more energy available for aurora.

Density 1.73 p/cm3

Solar wind density refers to the number of charged particles in a given volume of the solar wind, typically measured in particles per cubic centimetre (p/cm3).

A typical solar wind density is around 2.76 p/cm3.

The density of the solar wind affects how many particles reach the Earth’s magnetosphere. A higher density means more particles are available to interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When these charged particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, energy is released in the form of light that we see as the aurora.

Speed 336.7 km/s

Solar wind speed refers to the velocity at which charged particles are ejected from the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.

A typical solar wind speed is about 375 km/s. When both speed and density are high, the energy transferred to the Earth’s magnetosphere increases, enhancing the chances of seeing vibrant auroras.

Light Levels

Moon

Waxing gibbous 82%

Sunrise 5:57am

Sunset 9:01pm

Moonrise 8:51pm

Moonset 1:18am

Weather Forecast for Tórshavn

Clouds

14°C Feels like 14°C

High
14°C
Low
11°C

  • Chance of precipitation 0%

  • Cloud cover 79%

  • Southerly winds 5 km/h gusts of 8 km/h

Aurora season in Tórshavn

The aurora season in Tórshavn runs from October to March, with the best viewing conditions in November and February.

Peak viewing In season Off season

Book an amazing adventure in Tórshavn

Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Tórshavn.

  • Free cancellation

    Sightseeing Around Nólsoy to see Puffins

    4.3 (39)

    2 hours From £151.97

    Take a break from your busy life and treat yourself to a relaxing boat tour around the beautiful Island of Nólsoy. With this two-hour trip, you can take in the amazing sights of the Eastern side of Nólsoy, sail past two lighthouses, and witness the majestic birdlife - including puffins! This is the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and get back to nature. With this boat tour, you can enjoy the breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere that the island has to offer. So don't miss out - purchase your two-hour boat trip around Nólsoy today!

  • Private tour

    Faroe Islands Private Northern Islands Tour

    5.0 (1)

    6 hours From £440.06

    Discover the serenity of the Northern Islands on our private tour tailored just for you. With a personal driver guide at your service, navigate the enchanting landscapes of the north. This exclusive journey allows you to savor the breathtaking beauty of the northern isles in privacy. Uncover the secrets of local legends and enjoy the freedom to customize your exploration, making it a truly private and immersive experience in the Faroes. Join us on this trip to explore some of the northern islands, recognizable for their tall, steep mountains and lush, green valleys. Expect the views and lighting constantly change as we drive around, through, or even under these mountains. We’ll visit the biggest fishing town in the Faroe Islands, a few deserted villages, and take a stroll in the northernmost village in the Faroes. You’ll get to hear folklores about Vikings, local heroes and legends as we pass wooden churches, powerful waterfalls, massive cliffs, and spots that made movie backdrops.

  • Free cancellation

    Faroe Islands Sagas of Sandoy

    5.0 (1)

    6 - 8 hours From £234.11

    Discover the hidden gems of Sandoy on this intimate, small-group tour. Explore Viking history in Kirkjubø, drive through a stunning undersea tunnel with modern cave paintings, and visit charming villages, including Skopun with its giant mailbox. Wander along white sandy beaches, see rare wildlife, and experience breathtaking coastal cliffs. Learn about ancient settlements, Faroese folklore, and the island’s artistic heritage. With knowledgeable local guides, this immersive journey blends nature, history, and culture, offering a unique glimpse into Sandoy’s past and present. A truly unforgettable adventure off the beaten path!

  • Free cancellation

    Faroe Islands: Highlights Tour

    5.0 (12)

    6 - 8 hours From £234.11

    Join us for a beautiful private tour of the highlights of the Faroe Islands where we'll stop at a few must-see spots and some extra ones along the way, while doing our best to avoid the crowds. We’ll head out of the city via the old mountain road route to Norðadalsskarð, a photographer’s dream, where you will have a moment to enjoy the panoramic view. First stop is the picturesque Saksun surrounded by a mountain amphitheatre right in front of Pollurin lagoon. Saksun is a hidden gem located about 10 minutes away from the main road especially know for the turf roof and natural beauty. Heading onwards, it will take us around half an hour to reach the village of Tjørnuvík. Tjørnuvík lays nestled in a valley surrounded by high mountains and boasts a striking black sandy beach, famous amongst cold waters surfers. Afterwards, we drive through the old mountain road on our wayt to visit the cosy village of Gjógv, named after its deep gorge and known for its beautiful and unique scenery.

  • Free cancellation

    Full Day Vágar Island Tour Including Slave Cliff Hike

    5.0 (3)

    6 hours From £269.32

    Experience the Wonders of Vágar – A Journey Through Legends, Landscapes, and Iconic Landmarks Embark on an unforgettable tour of Vágar Island, home to some of the most breathtaking sights in the Faroe Islands. Marvel at the legendary "slave cliff," where you'll witness the optical illusion of the famous "hovering lake." Visit the picturesque village of Gásadalur and admire the stunning Múlafossur Waterfall. Hike along the shores of Leitisvatn, the largest lake in the Faroes, leading to the dramatic Bøsdalafossur waterfall, cascading directly into the North Atlantic Ocean. Travel along scenic mountain roads, explore Viking legends, and immerse yourself in the wild beauty of this remote Nordic paradise. With expert guidance, and a well-planned itinerary, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, history, and spectacular nature. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, photographer, or explorer, this one-day experience will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

  • Free cancellation

    Fishing Experience in Faroe Islands

    4.4 (7)

    4 hours From £304.52

    Embark on a captivating fishing expedition around Nolsoy. Sail across placid waters, enjoy catching different fish species like cod, haddock, and elusive halibut. Nolsoy isn’t just for fishing. It’s a birdwatcher’s haven, hosting one of the world’s largest storm petrel colonies. Witness puffins, guillemots, and gannets nestled on the cliffs. On navigating the island, spot seals lounging on shores or dolphins and whales occasionally surfacing. Your Nolsoy trip is not just fishing but an immersion into a vibrant marine ecosystem. Unforgettable experiences at every turn, promise an enriching, exhilarating adventure.

Places to check out around Tórshavn

Discover Restaurants, Bars, Waterfalls and more…

Explore more nearby Tórshavn

Get off the beaten track, these nearby destinations also offer opportunities to see the Northern Lights and are within easy reach of Tórshavn.

  • Turf roofed stone building at Saksun

    Credit: Annie Spratt

    Saksun

    62°14'33"N, 7°10'19"W

    Aurora probability in Saksun: 0%

    Saksun, a remote village nestled in a natural amphitheatre on the Faroe Islands, is renowned for its stunning fjord, traditional turf-roofed houses and serene beauty, offering visitors a glimpse into authentic island life amidst dramatic landscapes.

  • Gjógv, the most northern village on Eysturoy

    Credit: Annie Spratt

    Gjógv

    62°19'17"N, 6°56'16"W

    Aurora probability in Gjógv: 0%

    Gjógv, a picturesque village on the Faroe Islands, is famed for its stunning natural harbour carved by a sea gorge, traditional grass-roofed houses and breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs and the North Atlantic Ocean.

  • The famous Múlafossur waterfall plunges directly into the ocean at Gásadalur

    Credit: Hans Christian Strikert

    Gásadalur

    62°6'26"N, 7°26'2"W

    Aurora probability in Gásadalur: 0%

    Gásadalur, a remote village on the Faroe Islands, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including the iconic Múlafossur waterfall that cascades directly into the ocean and its dramatic cliffside location offering stunning views of the North Atlantic.