Reyn Old Town
Step back in time in Reyn Old Town, Tórshavn's historic heart with charming turf-roofed houses and a living heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Longer daylight hours
Reyn Old Town
Best Time
Longer daylight hours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Reyn Old Town, Tórshavn's historic heart with charming turf-roofed houses and a living heritage.
"A must visit for everybody who is visiting Faroe. Long life Faroese traditional architecture!"
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Faroese weather is unpredictable. Waterproofs and layers are essential, even in summer!
🚶♀️ Wander and Explore
The best way to experience Reyn is on foot. Get lost in the charming alleys and discover hidden gems.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turf-Roofed Houses
Reyn and Undir Ryggi districts
Iconic black wooden houses with grass roofs, some dating back to the 17th century. A true postcard view!
Faroese Parliament Building
Tórshavn
See the historic 'wooden hut' that serves as the seat of government, a symbol of Faroese tradition.
Atmospheric Streets
Reyn Old Town
Wander through narrow lanes, discovering charming corners and picturesque doorways. Perfect for photographers!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Faroese Charm
Respecting a Living Heritage
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Faroese weather is unpredictable. Waterproofs and layers are essential, even in summer!
🚶♀️ Wander and Explore
The best way to experience Reyn is on foot. Get lost in the charming alleys and discover hidden gems.
📸 Capture the Charm
Reyn is incredibly photogenic. Bring your camera for stunning shots of the historic houses and landscapes.
🤫 Respect Residents
Remember that people live here. Be quiet and respectful as you explore this historic neighborhood.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Faroese weather is unpredictable. Waterproofs and layers are essential, even in summer!
🚶♀️ Wander and Explore
The best way to experience Reyn is on foot. Get lost in the charming alleys and discover hidden gems.
📸 Capture the Charm
Reyn is incredibly photogenic. Bring your camera for stunning shots of the historic houses and landscapes.
🤫 Respect Residents
Remember that people live here. Be quiet and respectful as you explore this historic neighborhood.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Reyn Old Town for its authentic charm and well-preserved historic architecture, particularly the iconic turf-roofed houses. Many appreciate the opportunity to see a living heritage site and the unique atmosphere of Tórshavn's oldest district. Some note the unpredictable weather, which is a characteristic of the Faroe Islands.
"A must visit one for everybody who is visiting Faroe. After seeing local prime ministers “wooden hut” office, will go back home and smack our local politician mouths for wasting our money on their luxury offices. Long life Faroese
traditional architecture!"
Jan Štefanides
"The autonomous island of Faroe Islands under the Republic of Denmark. This island is located between Norway and Iceland. The area of this island is 14 square kilometers and has 779 islands, including 18 big islands. According to the population of 2017, the total population here is 50332. After the Treaty of Kill, Norway handed over control of it to Denmark. After the second world war, it became an autonomous government. The Parliament of the Pharaoh is considered the oldest parliament in the world."
Dr.Ankit Bhingaradiya
"It looks like a normal set of houses. Beautiful. But it is the parliament, very curious. Perfect that they preserve the location and the historic buildings for the function they have always played"
David Caballero
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Reyn Old Town is located within Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands. You can easily walk to Reyn from the city center. If you're arriving by ferry or plane, you can take a taxi or local bus to the heart of Tórshavn and then proceed on foot to Reyn.
While you can drive to Tórshavn, parking directly within Reyn Old Town can be limited due to its narrow streets. It's best to park in a designated car park in Tórshavn and explore Reyn on foot.
Tórshavn is a very walkable city. Exploring Reyn Old Town and the surrounding areas on foot allows you to fully appreciate the atmosphere and discover its charm.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Reyn Old Town is a public area and does not require an entrance fee. You can wander through its streets and admire the historic architecture freely.
Reyn Old Town is accessible at all times, as it's a residential area. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and photography opportunities.
While the streets are free to explore, some historic buildings might have specific visiting hours or tours if they are open to the public as museums or cultural sites. It's best to check locally if you wish to enter any specific buildings.
📸 📸 Photography
Every corner of Reyn Old Town is picturesque! Focus on the unique turf-roofed houses, the narrow cobblestone streets, and the harbor views. The Parliament building also offers a unique photographic subject.
While you can photograph the exteriors of the houses, be mindful of residents' privacy. Avoid intrusive photography and always be respectful.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create a beautiful, moody atmosphere, especially with the characteristic Faroese weather. Summer offers longer daylight hours for extended shooting.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Reyn Old Town itself is primarily residential and historic. However, Tórshavn's city center, which is adjacent to Reyn, offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs serving local and international cuisine.
You can expect fresh seafood, lamb, and traditional Faroese dishes. Many restaurants focus on local ingredients and offer a unique culinary experience.
While Tórshavn can be a bit pricey, looking for cafes or pubs offering lunch specials or simpler fare can be more budget-friendly. Happy hour deals might also be available at some establishments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds within Reyn itself, the surrounding areas of Tórshavn offer parks and open spaces. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options directly in the old town are limited, but cafes and restaurants are plentiful nearby. Remember to emphasize the importance of respecting the residents and their homes while exploring.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Golden hour light can be particularly magical here, casting a warm glow on the historic buildings. Don't be deterred by cloudy or rainy weather; these conditions often enhance the moody, ethereal quality of the landscape and architecture, leading to truly evocative images. Be sure to capture the Faroese Parliament building for a touch of historical significance in your portfolio.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Piece of History
The architecture is a testament to traditional Faroese building methods, designed to withstand the harsh Atlantic climate. The turf roofs provide excellent insulation, and the dark tarred wood helps protect the timber. Wandering through the narrow, winding lanes of Reyn feels like stepping back in time, with each turn revealing a new, postcard-worthy scene. The area is also home to the Faroese Parliament, a significant symbol of the islands' long-standing self-governance.
Visitors often remark on the unique atmosphere, especially when the weather is typically Faroese – misty, rainy, or windy. This moody ambiance, combined with the historic setting, creates an unforgettable experience. It's a place that invites slow exploration, encouraging visitors to appreciate the details of the architecture and the quiet resilience of life in this remote archipelago.
Navigating Tórshavn and Reyn
While driving is an option to reach Tórshavn, parking directly within Reyn Old Town can be challenging due to its narrow, historic streets. It's advisable to utilize the designated car parks available in the city center and then explore Reyn by walking. This approach not only avoids parking hassles but also allows for a more immersive experience of the old town's atmosphere.
Exploring Reyn on foot is highly recommended. The charm of this area lies in its intimate scale and the ability to discover its nooks and crannies at your own pace. Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be uneven, and be prepared for the famously changeable Faroese weather by dressing in layers and carrying waterproof gear.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit