Faroe Islands is located in Northern Europe, and its capital is Torshavn. It has a population of approximately 54,681 and covers an area of about 12,960 km². Its official currency is the Danish krone (DKK).
What stands out
People & place
4.2 /km² across 12,960 km²
Faroe Islands has a recorded population of 54,681 and a reported surface area of 12,960 km².
Economic snapshot
$4.05 billion nominal GDP
Nominal GDP is recorded at $4.05 billion and GDP per capita at $74,120 for 2024. These measures do not describe income distribution or household wealth.
The Faroe Islands, an autonomous archipelago of Denmark, lie in the North Atlantic between Iceland, Norway, and Scotland. Known for dramatic cliffs, mist‑shrouded valleys, and a resilient seafaring population, the islands offer a blend of rugged natural beauty and a close‑knit community spirit.
Comprising 18 major islands and numerous smaller islets, the Faroe landscape is dominated by steep basalt cliffs, deep fjords, and rolling green hills that rise abruptly from the sea. The weather is famously changeable, with strong winds and frequent fog, creating a surreal, ever‑shifting backdrop for hiking, birdwatching, and sailing.
Faroese culture is a lively tapestry of Viking heritage and maritime tradition. Music thrives in the form of folk singing (kvæði) and contemporary bands, while the annual Ólavsøka festival celebrates national identity with rowing races, dancing, and a bustling market. The cuisine centers on fresh seafood, lamb, and the iconic fermented fish dish ræstØl, reflecting the islands’ reliance on the sea and rugged land.
A pivotal moment in Faroese history occurred in 1948 when the islands were granted home rule, allowing them to manage most internal affairs while remaining under the Danish Crown. This autonomy has fostered a strong sense of identity and paved the way for modern economic diversification beyond traditional fishing.
Key facts
The Faroe Islands are one of the world’s premier bird‑watching destinations, home to over 300,000 seabirds each summer.
Population: approximately 540,000 people spread over an area of 1,399 square kilometers (540 sq mi).
The islands have no railways or highways connecting them; transportation relies on ferries, bridges, and a small domestic air network.
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
Faroe Islands has a recorded population of approximately 54,681 people.
How big is Faroe Islands?
Faroe Islands covers an area of about 12,960 km².
What is the population density of Faroe Islands?
Faroe Islands has a population density of roughly 4.2 /km² (people per square kilometre).
What is the GDP of Faroe Islands?
Faroe Islands has a gross domestic product (GDP) of approximately $4.05 billion as of 2024.
What is the GDP per capita of Faroe Islands?
Faroe Islands has a GDP per capita of approximately $74,120.
What currency is used in Faroe Islands?
Faroe Islands uses the Danish krone (DKK), with the symbol Kr..
Where is Faroe Islands located?
Faroe Islands is located in Northern Europe, Europe.
What is the native name of Faroe Islands?
The native name of Faroe Islands is Føroyar.
What are people from Faroe Islands called?
People from Faroe Islands are referred to as Faroese.
What is the phone calling code for Faroe Islands?
The international dialing code for Faroe Islands is +298.
What is the internet domain for Faroe Islands?
The country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Faroe Islands is .fo.
What time zone is Faroe Islands in?
Faroe Islands uses the Atlantic/Faroe time zone.
What is Faroe Islands known for?
The Faroe Islands, an autonomous archipelago of Denmark, lie in the North Atlantic between Iceland, Norway, and Scotland. Known for dramatic cliffs, mist‑shrouded valleys, and a resilient seafaring population, the islands offer a blend of rugged natural beauty and a close‑knit community spirit.
Northern Europe