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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.

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.

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.

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.

Find more restaurants
Summer by the sea at Kjerringøy in Bodø in Northern Norway
Manshausen in Steigen

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.

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.

Visit Bodø logo, Norwayvisitbodo.com

Getting here and around

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

Take advantage of top offers

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

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