Layover in Vagar: What You Need to Know
Vagar is a scenic island in the Faroe Islands, accessible via FAE (Vágar Airport). Whether you have a short connection or a longer layover, this guide covers your options for making the most of your time, from airport facilities to exploring the island’s dramatic landscapes.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
| Airport Code | FAE (Vágar Airport) |
| Location | Vagar, Faroe Islands |
| Language | Faroese (English widely spoken) |
| Currency | Danish Krone (DKK) |
| Visa Requirements | Check IATA Travel Centre for your nationality |
Pro Tip: Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing. Airport WiFi can be unreliable, and having navigation ready is essential for exploring Vagar.
Getting from FAE to Vagar
Vágar Airport is located on the island of Vagar itself, making it convenient for exploring the area. For detailed transit options, current bus schedules, and car rental information, visit the official Vagar tourism website or contact the airport directly.
Key Transit Considerations:
- Always factor in immigration and security time when calculating whether you can leave the airport
- For international departures, budget 2.5-3 hours before your flight to return to the airport
- For domestic connections, allow at least 60 minutes
- If traveling in a group, add 15-30 minutes to all time estimates – groups move slower through immigration and security
What to Do During Your FAE Layover
At the Airport
FAE is a smaller regional airport. Amenities data is currently limited, so we recommend:
- Checking with airport staff upon arrival for current dining and retail options
- Bringing snacks and entertainment in your carry-on, especially if you have a short layover
- Downloading offline entertainment before your layover – airport WiFi may be slow or time-limited
Exploring Vagar (If Your Layover Allows)
Vagar is known for its dramatic cliffs, hiking trails, and remote beauty. If you have 4+ hours, consider:
- Hiking: Short trails with stunning views of the North Atlantic
- Photography: Iconic Faroese landscapes and seabird colonies
- Local villages: Charming settlements with traditional architecture
- Dining: Local restaurants offer fresh seafood and traditional Faroese cuisine – eat in the city rather than the airport, as airport food is 2-3x more expensive
Luggage Storage & Facilities
If you need to store luggage during your layover:
- Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero: Partner with local businesses near airports for luggage storage, typically $5-10 per bag per day – much cheaper than airport lockers
- Multi-bag discounts: If traveling in a group, book all luggage together for the best rate
- Contact the airport: Ask about on-site storage options at FAE
Airport Lounges & Rest Options
Lounge availability at FAE is limited. Here are your options:
- Priority Pass: Gives access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide – some credit cards include it free
- One-time day passes: Most major airlines offer single-use lounge passes ($39-$59 depending on the carrier)
- Sleeping at the airport: Check SleepingInAirports.net for ratings and tips on resting at FAE
- Overnight layovers: If you have a longer layover, consider booking accommodation in Vagar or nearby islands
Money & Currency Tips
The Faroe Islands use Danish Krone (DKK). Avoid airport currency exchanges – rates are poor.
| Payment Method | Best For |
|---|---|
| ATM withdrawal | Best exchange rates; widely available |
| Wise or Revolut card | Zero markup in most countries; ideal for contactless payments |
| Credit/debit card | Widely accepted; check with your bank for foreign transaction fees |
Quick Layover Tips
- Pack a layover bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries in your carry-on for easy access
- Stay hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps manage jet lag
- Get an eSIM: Consider purchasing an eSIM (Airalo, Holafly) before traveling for instant data without hunting for WiFi
- Share your location: If exploring solo, share your location with a trusted contact
- Designate a group leader: If traveling with others, assign one person to manage timing and communication
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave FAE airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave FAE airport during a layover if you have sufficient time. Always factor in immigration and security time. For international departures, budget 2.5-3 hours before your flight to return to the airport. For domestic connections, allow at least 60 minutes. If you have 4+ hours total layover time, you have enough time to explore Vagar.
What is there to do at FAE during a layover?
At the airport, you can rest, eat, and use retail facilities. If you leave the airport, Vagar offers hiking trails, dramatic cliff views, photography opportunities, and charming villages. Local restaurants serve fresh seafood and traditional Faroese cuisine. For short layovers, download offline entertainment and bring snacks in your carry-on.
How long of a layover do I need at FAE?
For a safe layover at FAE, allow at least 2-3 hours for domestic connections and 2.5-3 hours for international departures (including immigration and security). If you want to explore Vagar, aim for 4+ hours total layover time. Groups should add 15-30 minutes to these estimates.
Are there lounges at FAE?
Lounge availability at FAE is limited. You can access lounges through Priority Pass (1,400+ worldwide locations) or purchase one-time day passes from most airlines ($39-$59). Check with your airline at the airport for current lounge options.
Is there luggage storage at FAE?
FAE may have on-site luggage storage – ask airport staff upon arrival. Alternatively, use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero for luggage storage near the airport, typically $5-10 per bag per day. Groups can book multiple bags together for discounted rates.
Plan Your Perfect Layover
Make the most of your time at FAE with the Yopki layover calculator. Enter your layover duration and travel style to get personalized recommendations for activities, dining, and logistics.