A well-kept secret
Located on a peninsula surrounded by fjords and located not far from Norway’s second largest glacier, Svartisen. Bodø is an Arctic wonderland and great starting place from which to discover Arctic & Coastal Norway.
Why visit Bodø
Arctic & Coastal Norway’s second largest town
Located between fjords and mountains, Bodø is a wonderland for those who really want to explore Arctic & Coastal Norway! Easy hiking close to town, island hopping in the Bodø archipelago, excursions to scenic Kjerringøy or the world's strongest whirlpool.
Unlimited tour options
Bodø is surrounded by mountains and fjords. Saltenfjorden, Vestfjorden, Børvasstindene, Sulitjelma, Beiarfjellet and Saltfjellet. There are endless possibilities for short and long trips; spring, summer, autumn and winter.
Norway’s second largest glacie
There are few places in the world you can experience glaciers as closely. Explore Norway's second largest glacier - Svartisen - which is only a short drive or boat ride from Bodø.
European city of culture 2024
Bodø will become the first European cultural capital north of the Arctic Circle. The city has a vibrant creative atmosphere and the award-winning cultural quarter was completed in 2014; designed by London-based architectural firm DRDH and centrally located in the harbour. Enjoy a concert or theatre performance here!
Northern Lights and midnight sun
Want to see the sun that never goes down, giving light, bright summer nights or the spectacular display of the Northern Lights? Bodø is a superb spot to observe these natural wonders from.
The world’s strongest whirlpool
Take a rib tour and be awed by the Maelstrom of Saltstraumen, the world’s most powerful whirlpool. It’s also an amazing diving site and has great fishing conditions.
Norway’s most delightful marina
Bodø has one of Norway's most charming marinas for small boats. You can buy fresh shrimp from the local fishermen every day throughout the year. We also recommend a trip out here in stormy weather – feel the exhilaration when the south-westerly wind blows direct.
The Arctic hideaway
Take a local boat from Bodø to The Arctic Hideaway out on Fleinvær and spend a night in very special houses facing the sea. Simplicity at its finest!
Bodø is for many an undiscovered and suprisingly diverse place in the sea kingdom of the Arctic north.
Bodø
European city of culture 2024
Bodø is the county capital of Nordland, is located at 67 ° 17'N and is Arctic & Coastal Norway's second largest city. Located on a peninsula bordered by fjords, mountains and not far from Norway's second largest glacier, Svartisen. Bodø is an urban and natural wonderland and a terrific location from which to explore Arctic & Coastal Norway!
Urban life-style and easy hiking, island hopping in the Bodø archipelago, or excursions to scenic Kjerringøy or the world's strongest whirlpool. Bodø has often been described as the "gateway to Lofoten" and is absolutely worth a visit! The city offers a vibrant cultural life, award-winning world-class architecture, and plentiful opportunities for hiking, ski touring, mountain biking, canoeing, sea eagle and rib safaris.
Observe the midnight sun from June 4 to July 8 when the city comes alive 24-hour’s a day. In the Autumn and Winter months during cold, clear evenings, there’s a great chance to see the magnificent Northern Lights. There are also several major festivals in the summer and winter months that are worth a visit. You can easily get to Bodø by air. If you prefer more environmentally friendly travel you can take the train, as the city is the last stop on the Nordlandsbanen (Nordland line)
The town is charming and intimate, with Norway's most delightful marina. You can buy fresh shrimp from local fishermen throughout the year. Bodø locals are genuinely pleasant, open and easy-going. For outdoor enthusiasts, Bodø is a mecca with the city centre just around the corner from the seemingly untouched wilderness. All this makes the city a perfect starting point for ski tours, mountain biking, hiking, fishing and kayaking.
Bodø, however, is much more than weather, wind and nature. It has a diverse music and cultural scene, and has been selected as the first European city of culture, north of the Arctic Circle
Land | Norge |
Innbyggere | 71 590 |
Bodø becomes the first European cultural capital in the Arctic in 2024. Make a cultural trip to the north!
Adventures that can be combined with Bodø
The World’s most beautiful coastal cruise
Narvik-Svolvær-Henningsvær-Gravdal-Reine-HamarøyWelcome to the world’s most beautiful archipelago, Lofoten! M/S Sjoveien lies ready to explore one of the most stunning areas in the north, departing from the historically significant city Narvik.
Duration: 6 days Period: See dates for 2025Arctic & Coastal Norway in a Nutshell
Svolvær-Henningsvær-Gravdal-Reine-HamarøyJoin us on a fantastic coastal cruise in August 2020 and experience the world's most beautiful archipelago - Lofoten and Hamarøy - with visits to Svolvær, Henningsvær, Borg, Reine and Hamarøy.
Duration: 6 days Period: SeptemberArctic & Coastal Norway
Have a northern base with access to great activities for corporate groups, large family gatherings or groups of friends.
Outstanding, authentic & motivational experiences
Arctic and Coastal Norway provides an incredible environment for both professional and social gatherings.