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Few scams

Northern Europe

Tourist scams in Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands are generally safe, and crime is a minor risk. No specific tourist scam patterns are identified in this guide. High prices, unfamiliar banknotes and airport taxi fares charged per passenger can cause confusion, but are not themselves scams.

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    Habits that keep you safe

    Taxis

    • Confirm the total fare before getting in.
    • Airport taxis have fixed rates. The stated fare to Tórshavn is 220 kr per passenger, not per cab.
    • If booking ahead, use the taxi company's website and keep the confirmation.

    Money

    • Budget for high prices. An expensive bill alone does not mean you have been scammed.
    • Displayed consumer prices include 25% VAT. Check any unexpected tax added at checkout.
    • Euros are not accepted in stores. No currency exchange services have been offered on the islands since 2024.
    • Faroese and Danish banknotes have equal value and are used interchangeably. There is no service charge for exchanging these notes.
    • Before leaving, swap Faroese banknotes for Danish notes in stores or hotels. Banks outside Denmark usually do not recognise Faroese notes.

    Cards and ATMs

    • Bring Visa or Mastercard. American Express is not accepted in stores or most hotels.
    • Check the amount before approving a card payment.
    • Shield your PIN and keep your card in sight.
    • Keep receipts and check your account for unfamiliar payments.

    Your belongings

    • Keep your phone, wallet and travel documents secure.
    • Keep bags within reach in public places.
    • Store a separate copy of important documents and your card issuer's contact details.

    Nights out

    • Alcohol is very expensive. Check drink prices before ordering.
    • Keep your drink in sight and avoid accepting open drinks from strangers.
    • Plan your journey back before drinking.

    Police and officials

    • After a collision with a sheep, immediately contact the police in Tórshavn on +298 351448.
    • You do not need to compensate the farmer for lost income after a sheep collision. The police report helps the farmer claim through their own insurance.

    Questions

    Are tourist scams common in the Faroe Islands?

    The islands are generally safe, and crime is a minor risk. No specific scam patterns or scam hotspots are identified in this guide. Still, check prices and keep valuables secure.

    Is the airport taxi fare per person or per car?

    The stated fixed airport taxi fare to Tórshavn is 220 kr per passenger, not per cab. Confirm the total for your group before travelling.

    Does a high price mean I am being overcharged?

    Not necessarily. Almost everything is expensive, including alcohol. Check prices before ordering or buying. Displayed consumer prices already include 25% VAT.

    Are Faroese banknotes legitimate?

    Yes. Faroese and Danish banknotes have equal value and are used interchangeably on the islands. Swap Faroese notes for Danish notes before leaving, as banks outside Denmark usually do not recognise them.

    Can I pay with euros or exchange foreign cash locally?

    Euros are not accepted in stores. No currency exchange services have been offered on the islands since 2024. Plan your payment options before arrival.

    Which payment cards should I bring?

    Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. American Express is not accepted in stores or most hotels. Check payment amounts and monitor your account.

    What should I do if I notice an unfamiliar card payment?

    Freeze the card and contact your card issuer through its official app or phone number. Save the transaction details and ask about disputing the payment.

    How can I reduce risks during a night out?

    Check drink prices, keep your drink in sight and plan how to get back. Alcohol is very expensive, so confirm costs before ordering.

    Must I pay a farmer if I hit a sheep?

    You do not need to pay compensation for the farmer's lost income. Immediately contact the police in Tórshavn on +298 351448. This helps the farmer claim through their own insurance.

    Who should I contact after theft or fraud?

    Report it to the police and keep a report reference. Contact your bank for affected cards, your insurer for a claim and your embassy or consulate for a stolen passport. Dial 112 for an emergency or fire.

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