Finalrentals Blog
Published in Car Rentals Category.
A trip to Sandoy is now one of the easiest self-drive outings from Tórshavn. The 10.8-kilometre Sandoyartunnilin connects Streymoy directly to Sandoy, so you no longer need the former car ferry. The journey from Vágar Airport takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Renting a car at Vágar Airport lets you stop at beaches, villages and viewpoints. You won't need a special off-road car, but size matters on narrow village streets. Budget for fuel and tunnel tolls in addition to your rental, and check how they're charged. Our guide explains which car to choose, what you'll pay to cross, and where to stop along the way.
Best Rental Car for Sandoy and Tunnel Fees
Choosing a car rental for Sandoy depends more on passengers, luggage, and road conditions.
Compact Cars and Two-Wheel Drive
A compact two-wheel-drive car is usually enough for 1 or 2 travellers. You can reach Sandoy's main settlements along its regular road network without needing extra ground clearance. A small hatchback is also easier to handle when another driver approaches on a narrow street.
Choose an estate, crossover or medium SUV if you're travelling with 4 or 5 people, large suitcases or a pushchair. For 2 people with small bags, a compact car usually provides enough space. You'll also find it easier to move through tight village streets without worrying about a wide car.
Some rural roads have passing places where you can wait for traffic to pass. Keep them clear when parking, because they are not sightseeing stops. You also need to stay on permitted roads because off-road driving in the Faroe Islands is prohibited.
Passenger Space, Luggage, and Rental Extras
If you're bringing children on a day trip to Sandoy, reserve suitable child seats before pickup. Faroese rules require an appropriate restraint for children under 12 years old or under 135 centimetres tall. Everyone must wear a seat belt, including rear passengers. When exploring the Faroe Islands with kids, check your boot space for coats, snacks and other essentials.
Look beyond the rental price when comparing insurance. Check the excess, additional-driver charges, breakdown assistance, and any exclusions for glass, tyres or wheels.
Sandoyartunnilin Tunnel Fees and Rental Company Billing
Sandoyartunnilin has no toll booth. Cameras record your number plate, and your car rental company charges you. On a day trip to Sandoy, you pay for both directions, not just the crossing onto the island. The tunnel's standard published rate for a normal car is DKK 175 each way, or DKK 350 return. However, rental companies can charge different amounts.
Driving to Sandoy from Tórshavn to Sandoy
You can follow the main roads from Tórshavn straight to the tunnel without booking a ferry. Plan your pickup and leave enough time to reach the tunnel.
Rental Car Pickup and Route From Tórshavn
If you're staying in the capital, you can start from Tórshavn and head southwest towards Velbastaður and Gamlarætt. The Sandoy tunnel begins near Gamlarætt and runs 10.8 kilometres beneath Skopunarfjørður. You emerge at Traðardalur on Sandoy, between Sandur and Skopun.
A drive from central Tórshavn to Sandur normally takes about 30 minutes. From Vágar Airport, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the route through Vágatunnilin.
Tunnel Driving Rules and Road Safety
Sandoyartunnilin has 2 traffic lanes, with one for each direction. The tunnel speed limit is generally 80 kilometres per hour, unless signs give a lower limit. You drive on the right, just as you do on other Faroese roads.
Keep your dipped headlights on during both day and night. Everyone must wear a seat belt, and you should maintain enough space behind the next car. Don't overtake, stop or turn around inside the tunnel unless an emergency requires you to stop. Keep your radio on for tunnel safety announcements and follow the signs.
Outside villages, the normal speed limit is 80 kilometres per hour. It falls to 50 kilometres per hour in built-up areas, unless road signs say otherwise.
Narrow Roads, Village Parking, and Weather Checks
Drive slowly through villages and watch for parked cars, walkers, and approaching traffic. Routes towards Søltuvík and Skarvanes have narrow or steep stretches. Leave passing places available and use marked village parking before heading out on foot.
Húsavík has narrow internal streets. You can park near the large white Sólarris building in the village centre and explore from there. To reach Dalur, use Dalstunnilin.
Before your day trip to Sandoy, check weather forecasts and current road conditions. Strong gusts, fog and winter ice can affect even short drives. Road information may show wind speed, road temperatures and ice warnings. If you see sheep on the road, slow down and wait rather than trying to drive around them quickly. Report any collision with livestock to the police.
Sandoy Day Trip Itinerary and Scenic Stops
A day trip to Sandoy can cover several places without a long hike. Plan about 6 to 7 hours on the island, with extra time for your drive back to Tórshavn.
Sandur Beach, Lake Sandsvatn, and the Art Museum
Start at Sandur's sandy beach and dunes, an unusual stretch of coast in the Faroe Islands. About 30 to 45 minutes is enough for a quiet walk and photos. Next, stop near Sandsvatn, the country's third-largest lake, for a view over the water. You can also try kayaking if you have enough time and book ahead.
The Sandur Art Museum is worth another 30 to 60 minutes. Its collection includes works by S. J. Mikines, Janus Kamban and Ingálvur av Reyni.
Skálavík, Húsavík, and Dalur
Drive east to Skálavík, where you can walk near the river and harbour or stop for a coffee. About 30 to 45 minutes works well if you're planning to continue south. Nearby food options may have seasonal opening hours, so carry water and something to eat.
In Húsavík, you'll find historic stone fences and traditional houses. The village also has stories and remains connected with the Lady of Húsavík. Park at Sólarris, then explore the old streets on foot. Continue to Dalur through the new tunnel, where you can explore the quiet village and pebble shoreline. Take a short walk around the area before heading back towards Skálavík or Sandur for lunch.
Søltuvík, Skopun, and the Return Journey
Head back towards Sandur, then consider a detour to Søltuvík's Atlantic coastline when visibility is good. The road is narrow, and parking at the bay is limited. Check that your chosen route stays on paved public roads, as required by your rental agreement. Finish in Skopun, where the giant blue postbox makes a fun photo stop.
Takeaway
A day trip to Sandoy doesn't require an expensive SUV or a complicated driving plan. A compact car is usually enough for the island's main roads, while a larger car works better for families with extra luggage. What matters is choosing a car you're comfortable driving and knowing how your tunnel fees are charged. Check your rental conditions before leaving so you can avoid unexpected costs.
Rent a car in the Faroe Islands with Final Rentals and share the drive with an additional driver. Additional drivers are available for a fee, and you can use an eligible debit card for your deposit. Book and manage your car rental anytime. Download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best car for a Sandoy trip?
The best car for Sandoy is usually a compact two-wheel-drive car. Main roads are good, and parking is easier in smaller villages. Choose an estate or crossover if you have more passengers, a pushchair, or several large bags. You usually won't need four-wheel drive for standard sightseeing routes, but always consider the weather and road conditions.
What are the best things to do in Sandoy on a day trip?
The best things to do in Sandoy include visiting Sandur beach, Sandsvatn, and the Sandur Art Museum. Explore the historic villages of Húsavík and Dalur, then head west to Søltuvík for dramatic coastal views. Skopun's oversized blue postbox makes a fun final photo stop. Together, these places offer Faroese art, village history, sandy shores, and open Atlantic scenery in one day.
How much are the Sandoy tunnel fees for a rental car?
Standard Sandoy tunnel fees are DKK 175 per crossing, or DKK 350 for a return journey. Your rental company may charge a different amount. If you rented a vehicle, your rental company may deduct the charges from your deposit. The optional Vágar and Norðoyar tunnel package does not include Sandoyartunnilin.
