Bodø - just north of the arctic circle

Sitting between an archipelago and the open ocean, vibrant and lively Bodø is the heart of the Salten region and Northern Norway’s second biggest city. A glacier, mountains, islands and a strong maelstrom surround it. It’s also located in the northern lights belt just north of the arctic circle.

This is the place to walk the streets, have coffee in chic coffee bars, dine in a good restaurant and go shopping. Photographers go out on the breakwater or to the little Nyholm fortress to capture the view of the city with the peaks in the background or climb the hill at Rønvikfjellet to see the city from above. As you explore the city, enjoy the unusual street art. 

Storm watching

Despite its northerly position Bodø is not really affected by heavy snowfall, and snow rarely lies in the city streets. So, whilst you won’t need to pack your snow boots, you will need a windproof jacket as Bodø is the first place for an incoming storm from the Gulf stream. If you’re brave enough, you can head to the breakwater to see the incoming storms, but most prefer the higher vantage point and comfort of sitting in a sky bar. When the wind howls down from the inland mountains and nips at your ears, the puddles freeze and the stars glitter, that’s when the northern lights appear! 

Winter light  and  Northern lighs  

During the day winter light reflects from the sea, and at night the Northern lights dance above the waters of Vestfjord. You can witness them in the city or more intimately in the northern wilderness alongside the mighty peaks of Saltfjellet.  In Bodø you can also use electric bikes to head to a place where the city lights don’t interfere, journeying from the city centre to simple gravel roads, paths and nature in Maskinisten. On clear nights with good chances to see the northern lights, this will be an experience you will not forget!

Winter activities in Bodø and Salten 

There's a whole world of adventure waiting for you in northern Norway. Cross country skiing in Sulitjelma is recognised as some of the best in the whole of Norway. In Sulisfjellet, Fjellfarer runs cross-country trails, which former Tour de ski winner Martin Johnsrud Sundby, describes as World Cup standard.  

Dog sledding is another authentic winter experience that you can enjoy either as a passenger or driving your own team. No previous experience is needed to drive the sled into the white landscapes and enjoy the arctic nature. You get to meet your dogs first and prepare the sled together. They are a bunch of barking huskies more excited than you to start the trip! They are well used to visitors, great with children and love getting your attention and petting. 

Saltstraumen, the strongest maelstrom in the world 

The Saltfjord is a huge fjord system, reaching 80 km inland. However, near the mouth there is a passage that is both shallow and narrow. You could compare it with all 90,000 football fans at Wembley Stadium trying to get out through a single door after the match. When the tide comes in, there is simply way too much water pressing its way through the narrows. A fantastic spectacle of whirlpools can be observed from the cliffs on the shore as the water rushes through in 10 to 15 knots. Go there with a fishing rod or take a RiB tour. 

A city of culture  

However, the northern lights aren't the only attraction. As a European city of culture in 2024, Bodø has a lot of cultural attraction to offer. The Stormen concert hall and the new library are cultural landmarks. Whether you want booming acoustics or some peace and tranquillity, believe it or not you can find these two in the same building! Just next door is the Nordland Museum, which is made up of 14 old buildings right next to the fjord.

Sample Bodø’s culinary delights 

The food scene in Bodø is an eclectic mix of world cuisine and local traditions. At Løvold, sample the meatballs and creamed peas that Bodø locals have been eating for generations. Don’t miss trying Møsbrøm flatbread, the king of flatbreads, which is served almost everywhere or a visit to Restaurant Lyst På, Bodø´s fine wine and food institution. A modern nordic brasserie placed in the heart of the city where honest cooking meets fresh and seasonal Norwegian produce served in a fun and relaxed atmosphere, the menu is laid-back and informal in the daytime or a fine-casual a la carte and tasting menu in the evening. 

©Top photo Kent Even Grundstad_nordnorge.com