Skansin Fortress Travel Guide

Skansin is a fortress in Tórshavn in the wild Faroe Islands. Built in the 16th Century, the fortress is now a monument and a recreational area for locals and travellers alike.

Skansin is nestled just beside the harbour and the Tórshavn bus terminal. There is a lighthouse here as well as guns from World War ll and older guns as well.

You will have a panoramic view of Nólsoy Island from this grassy hill. Many people gathered here during the total solar eclipse in the Faroe Islands in 2015.

Reach the fortress when walking only for minutes from the Tinganes peninsula where the government buildings in the Faroe Islands are located. Skansin fortress has a relaxed atmosphere and you will for sure enjoy the views you get.

Hotel Hafnia lies only minutes away from the attraction. Same goes for the seaside Hotel Djurhuus.

You can easily spend half an hour here walking between the guns and the lighthouse. Sit down for a while on one of the benches and soak in the coastal views.

Skansin Opening Hours

The Skansin fortress in Tórshavn is always open. This place is free of charge. Weather in the Faroe Islands tend to be most gentle in the evenings so this is a great option for an easy evening activity.

As the Tórshavn harbour sits next to the fortress, Skansin is a favourite attraction for guests coming with cruise ships to the capital. It takes only minutes to walk from the harbour and up to the grassy fortress with the iconic white and red painted lighthouse.