Bodø in winter

Northern lights and Arctic city vibes

And check out Bodø in summer!

Autumn and winter in Bodø mean northern lights, a mild coastal climate, and the perfect combination of cultural highlights and outdoor adventures.

A map of Norway with Bodø marked on the map.
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Located just north of the Arctic Circle, Bodø is one of the largest cities in Northern Norway. In 2024, it was named European Capital of Culture.

The climate in Bodø in winter is typical for the Norwegian coast, with (surprisingly) mild temperatures, but do expect snow and wind. The Arctic light this time of year is a must to experience. If you're lucky, you might see the northern lights dance above the city.

The Nordland Railway line has its end station in Bodø, and the Norwegian Coastal route Hurtigruten calls in the city every day. The airport is so close, it's within walking distance of the city centre.

Find inspiration below, or go directly to:

A person looking at the view from a mountain with orange sky.
Northern lights above Bodø in Northern Norway
Two women bathing outside the sauna Pust in Bodø.
Three people sitting inside of the sauna Pust in Bodø.
People in a RIB boat from Stella Polaris in Bodø.

The light in the north at this time of the year is something you just have to experience.

From a bright burnt orange sky…

...to the northern lights dancing above the fjord!

Did you know that the northern lights can be seen from September to April?

You have the best chance of seeing them on clear, dark nights, especially if you go with a guide.

Bodø has a small, compact city centre, surrounded by wild nature.

In the centre, you can hop straight into the Vestfjord for a refreshing dip, even in autumn and winter.

But of course, it's even more enjoyable in combination with the hot sauna Pust!

Thrill seekers should join a RIB trip from the city…

…to the world's strongest maelstrom, Saltstraumen, located just outside Bodø.

Don't worry about getting cold, you will be all set with warm thermosuits and good footwear. Just remember to wear wool clothes underneath!

Top things to do

Don’t miss these highlights.

  • Exclusive Northern Lights Hunt by Boat
    Bodø

    Exclusive Northern Lights Hunt by Boat

    When you visit Northern Norway in the winter - seeing the northern lights and the magical winter light in Bodø is a must.
    Book now
    Footsteps Through Bodø: Where Arctic Stories Come Alive
    Bodø

    Footsteps Through Bodø: Where Arctic Stories Come Alive

    Have you ever been outdoor a winter day in the Arctic before? Join us for a city walk through Bodøs fascinating history. Discover Bodø with your own feet Our city walk does not contain any churches, museums, or town halls. Instead, we’ll take you on a journey to uncover the true Bodø – its most captivating stories, its vibrant Arctic pulse, and the mesmerizing "Arctic Light."
    Book now
    Guided Northern Lights safari from Bodø
    Bodø

    Guided Northern Lights safari from Bodø

    Ever dreamt of seeing the Northern Lights? There are few things more magical than seeing the Aurora dancing across the night sky. Bodø is situated just above the Arctic circle, thus a good place to hunt the northern lights.
    Book now
    Hunt for the Northern Lights North of the Arctic Circle - Group Tour
    Bodø

    Hunt for the Northern Lights North of the Arctic Circle - Group Tour

    The beautiful Arctic light makes Northern Norway truly unique. If you want to see the Northern Lights and experience the blue light of the polar night, Bodø, the Helgeland Coast, and Lofoten are the places to go. Here, you’ll experience a journey of a lifetime in an extended paradise with untouched nature, stunning coastlines, and majestic mountains, combined with stays in historical gems.
    Hunting the Northern Lights from Bodø

    Hunting the Northern Lights from Bodø

    Join us on an adventure trip with many items and activities right outside Bodø. Get fascinated by the Northern Light phenomenon and get an introduction to how this occurs.
    Book now
    Mørkvedhallen climbing center
    Bodø

    Mørkvedhallen climbing center

    Try climbing at Mørkvedhallen – one of the 10 largest indoor climbing centres in Northern Europe.
    Nordlandsbadet (Water Park)
    Bodø

    Nordlandsbadet (Water Park)

    Welcome to Nordlandsbadet, one of Norway’s finest and most modern water parks! Right in the heart of Bodø, a world of water fun, relaxation, and activity awaits the whole family. With three different sections, each offering something unique, this is the perfect destination for families with kids, wellness lovers, and active swimmers alike.
    Northern Norwegian Art Museum
    Bodø

    Northern Norwegian Art Museum

    Explore the world of art at the Northern Norwegian Art Museum. This exciting addition to the city’s art and cultural scene offers exhibitions from a unique collection and borrowed works of both historical and contemporary art.
    Norwegian Aviation Museum
    Bodø

    Norwegian Aviation Museum

    The Norwegian Aviation Museum is Norway’s national aviation museum.
    Norwegian Jekt Trade Museum in Bodø
    Bodø

    Norwegian Jekt Trade Museum in Bodø

    Right by the sea with the view of the majestic mountains as a backdrop, nestled in the spectacular landscape of Bodøsjøen Outdoor Museum, you’ll find the Jekt Trade Museum. A Museum that tells the story of the raw coastal culture, and how the jekts (traditional cargo vessels) connected Northern Norway to the rest of Europe. At the heart of the exhibition stands the only original preserved jekt from Nordland and invites you to dive into a world that is unrecognizable today.
    Pust Sauna

    Pust Sauna

    Pust sauna in Bodø is an arena for well-being, socialization across age and social class, and has become a respite in people's hectic everyday life. Should be experienced, if we do say so ourselves.
    Book now
    RIB to Saltstraumen with Sea Eagle Safari - Explore Salten

    RIB to Saltstraumen with Sea Eagle Safari - Explore Salten

    Experience the force of the world's strongest tidal current – Saltstraumen. Explore Salten takes you and your group out in a RIB boat when the current is at its strongest. Get ready for a wild experience!
    Book now
    RIB-safari in Saltstraumen - Stella Polaris

    RIB-safari in Saltstraumen - Stella Polaris

    A must-do in Bodø!
    Book now
    eBike Northern Lights tour by the bonfire in Bodø
    Bodø

    eBike Northern Lights tour by the bonfire in Bodø

    An ebike tour to the seaside offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Following the roads north of the city, we reach the beach, where we get a bonfire going. As night falls, there's a chance to witness the northern lights dancing across the sky - a truly magical, unforgettable experience.
    Book now
Find more activities and attractions
People are walking in the streets of Bodø in winter on a cultural event
A drone picture of Bodø, with Kulturkvartalet Stormen, cultural centre by the harbour in the city centre
Inside Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum

Thanks to its thriving cultural scene, Bodø was the European Capital of Culture in 2024.

Visit the Kulturkvartalet Stormen cultural centre by the harbour in the city centre.

Stormen’s library has been named one of the world’s 10 most beautiful by WIRED, and its concert hall attracts internationally renowned stars.

There's also plenty to experience for art and museum lovers!

See exhibitions at Bodø City Museum, explore historical and contemporary art at Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum, and keep an eye out for cool street art.

The little ones are sure to have a fun time at the Norwegian Aviation Museum.

It has a great collection of both civilian and military aircraft, including the famous U-2 spy plane that put Bodø on the map during the Cold War.

Northern Norway has rich culinary traditions, where seafood plays a big role! Fresh seafood can be enjoyed all year round, but it's usually at its best in winter.

Try local clipfish, grilled stockfish, tasty game and more in restaurants like LystPå, Bjørk and Bryggerikaia.

For a sweet treat, stop by Craig Alibone Pâtisserie or the popular café Brødrene Berbusmel.

At Craig's, you can even sample caramel chocolate made with salt from the Saltstraumen maelstrom!

Food and drink

Taste delicious local food and book a table at a fine restaurant.

  • Restaurant ATTME
    Bodø

    Restaurant ATTME

    On the 7th floor at Wood Hotel Bodø, you will find Restaurant ATTME. Inspired by old cooking methods, infused with an innovative take on the comfy bistro tradition.
    Book now
    Nabolaget Food and Wine bar
    Bodø

    Nabolaget Food and Wine bar

    Nabolaget is a food and wine bar located in the heart of Bodø city center. We opened in June 2024 and proudly serve local ingredients from both sea and land.
    Top13 Bar & Lounge
    Bodø

    Top13 Bar & Lounge

    The city’s finest bar view with a fantastic 360 degree panorama of Bodø and the local district. You find it on the top floor og Radisson Blu Hotel, Bodø.
    Bryggerikaia
    Bodø

    Bryggerikaia

    Here you can sit right on the harbor and enjoy fine dining outdoors or indoors. Overlooking Bodøs piers.
    Ohma Asian Cooking
    Bodø

    Ohma Asian Cooking

    Urban and stylish restaurant with an exciting menu where every dish has its "touch" of Asia. Sushi of best quality based on local products.
    Book now
    LystPå
    Bodø

    LystPå

    Bodø´s fine wine and food institution with laid back atmosphere. Welcome to LystPå Restaurant!
    Book now
    Bådin - Open brewery, beer tastings and beer sales
    Bodø

    Bådin - Open brewery, beer tastings and beer sales

    Bådin Brewery was founded in 2012 and has grown from a small local producer into a modern brewery with increasing production capacity and a growing team. Today, Bådin offers beer tastings, brewery visits and tailor-made events, and also hosts its own beer festival.
    Craig Alibone Pâtisserie & Champagneria
    Bodø

    Craig Alibone Pâtisserie & Champagneria

    Situated in the heart of central Bodø lays an artisan pâtisserie and champagne bar.
    Hundholmen Brygghus

    Hundholmen Brygghus

    Our Brew-House is over two floors, and we have space for around 450 guests.
    Book now
    Restaurant Bjørk
    Bodø

    Restaurant Bjørk

    Restaurant house, with several departments, centrally situated in the glass arcade, Glasshuset. We have a pleasant and informal atmosphere, equally as suitable for every day use as for the more important occasions. Our menu is extensive and varied, adapted to suit our lunch, dinner and evening guests.
    Book now
Find more restaurants
Summer by the sea at Kjerringøy in Bodø in Northern Norway

A trip to the Kjerringøy island just outside Bodø is a must.

Visit the exceptionally well-kept Kjerringøy Old Trading Post, which was the inspiration for the fictional town of Sirilund, a setting that features in many of Norwegian Nobel laureate Knut Hamsun's novels.

The old trading post is open to visitors on Saturdays from September through December.

To get there, you can either take a bus or drive from Bodø. The journey includes a ferry crossing. Check the timetable in advance as departures may be infrequent.

Bodø is also the perfect base for trips to the Helgeland coast, the Lofoten islands, and hidden gems like Steigen and Hamarøy.

Where to stay

Book comfy hotels or cosy cabins. Find your home away from home.

  • Arnøy Brygge
    Nordarnøy

    Arnøy Brygge

    This idyllic island offers a great restaurant, traditional accommodation in "rorbu" and have boats and equipments for rent if you like fishing. If you are in Gildeskål, be sure to visit this place.
    Book now
    Comfort Hotel Bodø
    Bodø

    Comfort Hotel Bodø

    In the middle of Bodø you will find Comfort Hotel. The hotel is a “rock throw” away from everything you need, from nightlife to shopping and also to the concert arena “Stormen”.
    Book now
    Følvika Northern Retreat
    Sandhornøy

    Følvika Northern Retreat

    Travel business that offers cosy accommodation, delicious home made cooking and outdoor activities at Sandhornøya.
    Book now
    Manshausen - Where sea and mountains meet
    Leinesfjord

    Manshausen - Where sea and mountains meet

    In our award-winning seaside cabins, you can enjoy the feeling of being close to nature while staying warm and comfortable behind the large glass windows.
    Book now
    Quality Hotel Ramsalt
    Bodø

    Quality Hotel Ramsalt

    Quality Hotel Ramsalt is one of the newest hotels in the city center of Bodø, with walking distance to the train station, shopping opportunities and cultural- and city life.
    Book now
    Saltstraumen hotel and cabins
    Saltstraumen

    Saltstraumen hotel and cabins

    Saltstraumen hotel is right next to the Maelstrom, Saltstraumen.
    Book now
    Scandic Havet
    Bodø

    Scandic Havet

    Right on the waterfront in the heart of Bodø city center, you'll find Scandic Havet, an eco-labeled experience hotel and the largest conference hotel in Northern Norway. You don’t have to go far up the floors before you get a spectacular view of the city, the sea, and the mountains surrounding Bodø. On clear days, you can see all the way to Svartisen and Lofoten from the hotel's upper floors.
    Book now
    Smarthotel Bodø
    Bodø

    Smarthotel Bodø

    In September 2022 we opened our new street-art hotel in Bodø. With its central location you can combine urban city-life with magical nature experiences.
    Book now
    The Arctic Hideaway
    Fleinvær

    The Arctic Hideaway

    Out in the ocean west of Bodø, you can find Fleinvær. In the Island group of Fleinvær initiator Håvard Lund has built a pearl of a plant of nine small houses facilitated for concentrated work, peace and quiet; Fleinvær has no cars, no shops but high skies and a broad horizon.
    Book now
    Tranøy lighthouse
    Tranøy

    Tranøy lighthouse

    Tranøy is a magical place for peace of mind and pleasure. To just be there either in good weather or in a storm and experiencing the mighty mountains, the ocean, the birds, the midnight sun, the northern lights leaves deep traces in your body and soul.
    Book now
    Villa Haugen Boutique Hotel
    Leinesfjord

    Villa Haugen Boutique Hotel

    Villa Haugen is an exquisite and luxurious property in Steigen where you can embrace arctic adventures as wells as direct view of Lofoten - while enjoying world class cuisine with full board catering. It’s probably one of the best places in the area to experience both the northern light and the midnight sun.
    Book now
    Wood Hotel Bodø
    Bodø

    Wood Hotel Bodø

    The city's newest and most historic venture by Nordic Hotels & Resort is located on Rønvikfjellet, just a 15-minute drive from Bodø city center.
Find more places to stay
Girl cross country skiing on a snowy hill in Bodø with a beautiful view, Northern Norway

For more tips on this wonderful region, see the highlights of Salten.

Bodø has achieved the certification Sustainable Destination. Although this does not mean that the destination is completely sustainable, it does mean that it has made a commitment to work systematically to reduce the negative effects of tourism, while strengthening its positive ripple effects.

Get in-depth travel information and inspiration on Bodø’s official website.

Visit Bodø logo, Norwayvisitbodo.com

Getting here and around

Plan your trip to Bodø and Salten with Entur, Norway's official travel planner.

  • By plane

    Bodø Airport is located 2 kilometres from the city centre. The airport bus has many daily departures and covers the distance in about 5 minutes. A flight from Oslo to Bodø takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.

    Transfer in Bodø for your trip to the Lofoten Islands.

    Ad: Norwegian – cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European airports

    By train

    There are daily train connections between Trondheim and Bodø. The trip takes about 10 hours.

    Ad: Check out Vy’s website for prices and timetables

    By ferry

    The Norwegian coastal express Hurtigruten calls at Bodø twice a day.

    Fast passenger boats and car ferries take you from Bodø to several ports in the Lofoten Islands and along the Helgeland coast.

    Ad: Hurtigruten – the world’s most beautiful sea voyage

    By road

    Rv. 80 links Bodø to the E6, the main road through Norway.

    Another alternative is the Coastal Route Rv. 17, which hugs the coast a few kilometres to the west and takes you all the way to Trondheim. Note that there are several ferry crossings on this route.

    Ad: Auto Europe – always a smooth rental experience

    Local travel

    A bus network takes you around the city and municipality of Bodø.

Important information about winter driving in Norway

If you are going to drive in Norway in the cold season (October–April) you and your car need to be prepared before you hit the road. Icy, slippery roads, snow, darkness, and poor visibility can make driving challenging at this time of year and it's important to know how to prepare:

How to drive in Norway in winter conditions

Discover more

A football player celebrating at Aspmyra in Bodø.
Arctic football fever: Bodø/Glimt
Plan your trip to Bodø and Salten in Northern Norway and visit Saltstraumen
Saltstraumen – The world’s strongest maelstrom
People in hammocks in front of the Svartisen glacier in Helgeland, Northern Norway
Salten
  • The northern lights over the fishing village Reine in Lofoten, Northern Norway
    Northern lights
    Go island hopping on the Helgeland coast. Aerial photograph of Træna in Helgeland, Northern Norway
    Go island hopping along the Helgeland coast
    Manshausen island drone view
    An island escape that says WOW!
    Woman biking in Lurøy, Aldersund
    Kystriksveien – the coastal route

Take advantage of top offers

See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.

  • Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel in Oslo, Eastern Norway
    Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.
    The Hurtigruten ship MS Nordkapp in Geirangerfjord in Fjord Norway
    HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.
    Aurora borealis Tromso - Fjord Travel
    Fjord Travel NorwaySleep in an ice hotel, hunt the northern lights, and discover the magical fjords. Book your tour now!
    Skiing on finnmarksvidda
    Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.
    Buss bilde - NOR-WAY
    NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.
    Elegant wooden hotel in mountain valley beneath snow-capped peaks.
    De HistoriskeHave an unforgettable stay at one of Norway's unique, authentic historic hotels. Enjoy first-class dining experiences and a broad range of activities.
    Hotell Refsnes Gods - fasade
    Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.
    Lit-up tent in snow with colorful northern lights and mountains behind it
    Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.
    Airplane
    NorwegianNorwegian offers cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European destinations. Book flights through our low fare calendar to your destinations.
    Food - Brim Explorer
    Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.
    Campanyon - Arctic Dome Smiberget
    CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.
    Woodward - Arctic Campers
    Arctic Campers ASDo you want to try van life? Explore Norway in comfort and style with our smart and cosy campervans.
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    Norwegian HolidaysLow-price package holidays with Norwegian. Book your flight, hotel, and rental car all in one place.
    Raumabanen - SJ Nord
    SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the train
    Sykkeltur i Hardanger
    Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.
    Auto Europe
    Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.
    The Thief - A lifestyle boutique hotel in Oslo
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    CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.
    Shutterstock 4 - Rent-A-Wreck
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    Malangen resort - My nordic travel
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    Hardangerfjord - Authentic Scandinavia
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    Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.
    Hop on hop off bus - Stromma
    StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.
    Blazerbu - Norgesbooking
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    Standard Room - Svolvær - Thon Hotel
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    Family in outdoor pool in winter at Radisson Blu mountain resort & residences in Trysil, Eastern Norway
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    Two women waving out the windows of a campervan with Benzini Campers on the hood
    Benzini CampersThe adventure of your life starts here. Book a campervan with Benzini Campers now.
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    Valevåg Camping
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