12 Fun Things To Do in Bodø 🇳🇴: Visit Bodø Attractions

Welcome to your ultimate guide to Bodø—Northern Norway’s most surprising city! If you’re dreaming of wild coastlines, Arctic adventures, and a dash of urban cool, you’re in the right place. As someone who’s spent countless days exploring Bodø’s hidden corners (and sampling more cinnamon buns than I care to admit), I’m here to show you everything you need to know before your trip.

🏡 Where to stay in Bodo:

• 🏨 4-Star: Comfort Hotel Bodø · Radisson Blu Hotel Bodø
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Bodø Hotel · Scandic Bodø
• 🏢 Apartment: Aurora Central Premium Apartment, Bodø
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Smarthotel Bodø
• 🏩 For Couples: Quality Hotel Ramsalt

👩🏻 Best guided tours:

• Silent Coastal Cruise to Kjerringøy from € 110 (⭐️4.9/5)
• Bodø: Kjerringøy & Silent Coastal Cruise from € 110 (⭐️4.8/5)
• Hike to Hovdsundet Beach - Bodo, Northern Norway from € 102 (⭐️4.9/5)
• eBike tour to viewpoint Keiservarden from € 78 (⭐️4.9/5)
• Hiking Trip to Keiservarden, Classic Hike, Bodo - Northern Norway from € 107 (⭐️4.9/5)

Best Things To Do in Bodø, Norway

1. Bodø Cathedral

Architectural marvel. Standing tall in the heart of Bodø’s town center, the cathedral immediately caught my eye with its striking concrete basilica design and distinctive 36-meter free-standing clock tower. I spent a peaceful morning exploring this unique church, which sits perfectly positioned on the brink between the steep coastal slope and the upper flat plain about 20 meters above sea level. What makes this cathedral special isn’t ornate gold decoration or ancient stonework, but rather its clean modernist lines and the way northern light filters through its impressive stained glass windows.

Interior treasures. Stepping inside, I was immediately drawn to the breathtaking 12-meter high stained glass window designed by Åge Storstein that dominates the east wall behind the altar. The cathedral’s spacious interior seats around 890 people, but even with other visitors, I found plenty of quiet corners to appreciate the artistry. The ten tapestries from Nordland region add warmth to the concrete walls, while the rose window creates a kaleidoscope of colors across the floor on sunny days.

Historical significance. What touched me most was the subtle World War II memorial tucked away inside. The inscription reads: “In memory of those from Bodø. No one named, no one forgotten.” This poignant reminder tells the story of Bodø’s difficult past, as the previous wooden church was destroyed during the bombing that devastated the entire city center. Outside, I took a moment to appreciate Kristoffer Leirdal’s sculpture depicting Petter Dass, before wandering through the surrounding green area that completes this listed cultural heritage site.

Visitor Information:

• Location: Torvgata 12, Central Bodø
• Opening Hours: Monday-Friday: 10:00-15:00, Sunday: Services at 11:00
• Admission: Free

2. Norwegian Aviation Museum

Aviation wonderland. The moment I walked into the Norwegian Aviation Museum, I was struck by the building itself – designed in the shape of a massive propeller and spanning an impressive 10,000 square meters. As the largest aviation museum in the Nordic countries, this national treasure houses an extraordinary collection of both civilian and military aircraft. I spent hours wandering among more than 40 meticulously preserved airplanes and helicopters, getting close enough to examine rivets, cockpits, and engine details that tell the story of aviation history in Norway and beyond.

Military marvels. The military section quickly became my favorite part of the museum. Standing face-to-face with legendary aircraft like the Spitfire and the Focke-Wulf Fw 190 gave me goosebumps – these aren’t replicas but actual machines that flew during crucial historical moments. The Star Fighter and U-2 spy plane exhibits were particularly fascinating, with detailed information panels explaining their significance during the Cold War. What surprised me most was how close visitors can get to these historic aircraft – in many cases, you’re just an arm’s length away from machines that changed the course of history.

Civilian classics. The civilian exhibition offers a different but equally compelling experience, showcasing the evolution of commercial and recreational flight in Norway. I loved exploring workhorses like the Ju 52 and Twin Otter, aircraft that connected Norway’s remote communities across challenging terrain and weather conditions. The interactive displays brought the experience to life – I tried my hand at a simplified flight simulator and gained a new appreciation for the skills pilots need to navigate Norway’s mountainous landscape.

3. Nordlandsbadet

Aquatic paradise. Stepping into Nordlandsbadet felt like discovering a tropical oasis in the Arctic – especially welcome during my winter visit to Bodø when temperatures outside hovered around freezing. This modern water park and swimming complex quickly became my favorite indoor retreat in the city. The facility features an impressive variety of pools designed for every preference: lap swimming lanes for serious exercise, shallow areas for families, and my personal favorite – the wave pool that creates a realistic beach-like experience in the heart of Northern Norway. The warm water and humid air made it easy to forget the snow-covered landscape outside.

Family fun. What impressed me most was how perfectly Nordlandsbadet caters to different age groups and interests. Children squealed with delight as they zoomed down colorful water slides, while teenagers challenged each other on the diving platforms. I spent time watching families enjoy the dedicated children’s areas with shallow pools and gentle water features. The wristband payment system proved incredibly convenient – no need to worry about wet cash or cards as you move between activities.

Adult relaxation. After enjoying the main pools, I treated myself to access to the adults-only spa section on the second floor – worth every krone of the additional fee. This tranquil space offers five different types of steam baths and saunas, each with unique therapeutic benefits. The outdoor heated pool became my personal haven, where I floated peacefully while snowflakes occasionally drifted down around me – a quintessentially Norwegian contrast of hot and cold.

4. Jektefartsmuseet

Maritime heritage. Tucked away near Bodø’s harbor, the Jektefartsmuseet quickly became one of my most unexpected discoveries in Northern Norway. This relatively new museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s maritime past, centered around the beautifully preserved jekt boat ‘Anna Karoline’. Walking into the modern museum building, I was immediately struck by the contrast between the contemporary architecture and the historic wooden vessel housed within.

Interactive experience. What sets this museum apart is its hands-on approach to history. Instead of simply displaying artifacts behind glass, the exhibits invited me to experience maritime life through all my senses. I tried my hand at traditional knot-tying techniques used by sailors, examined detailed ship models showing the evolution of jekt design, and even sampled dried fish prepared using traditional methods. The museum’s thoughtful use of multimedia – from audio recordings of old sea shanties to video reconstructions of historic voyages – brought the maritime past vividly to life in ways that engaged both my intellect and imagination.

Cultural connections. Beyond the boats themselves, I discovered how deeply jekt shipping influenced the development of coastal communities throughout Northern Norway. The museum expertly weaves together economic history, cultural traditions, and personal stories of the families whose livelihoods depended on these vessels. What touched me most were the collection of letters and journals from sailors and their families, revealing the human side of maritime history – the dangers faced at sea, the long separations, and the celebrations when boats returned safely.

Things to do in Bodø with Kids

1. Mørkvedhallen Klatresenter

Climbing thrills. Mørkvedhallen Klatresenter turned out to be the unexpected highlight of our Bodø adventure. This impressive climbing center is truly one of the greatest climbing gyms in Europe, and I was amazed by how quickly the kids took to scaling the walls. The facility is massive with a large bouldering hall featuring approximately 130 boulders and 150 climbing routes of varying difficulties. What makes this place special is that everyone can adjust the level of mental and physical challenge while having fun together.

Beginner-friendly environment. Don’t worry if you’ve never climbed before – neither had we! The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, providing all the necessary equipment and safety instructions. They offer rental harnesses and climbing shoes as part of your ticket price, and the guided tour and autobelay introduction made us feel safe right from the start. My nephew, who was initially terrified of heights, was confidently scaling walls by the end of our session. As one reviewer poetically put it, “They cure scare of heights every day”.

Social atmosphere. Beyond just climbing, Mørkvedhallen has created a wonderful community space. There’s a café area where you can rest your fingers and grab a snack before continuing your climbing adventure. The center also features a trampoline, training facilities, and a slack line, providing plenty of options to keep the kids entertained. I noticed many locals greeting each other, creating a warm, welcoming vibe that made us tourists feel right at home.

Visitor Information:

• Location: Adults: 215-235 NOK ($20-22), Children: 140-155 NOK ($13-15)
• Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Sat: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Sun: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Location: Mørkvedveien 104, 8028 Bodø, Norway

2. Bodø Spektrum

Water wonderland. Bodø Spektrum’s Nordlandsbadet is a water paradise that had my niece and nephew squealing with delight. As one of Northern Norway’s most modern indoor water parks, it features pools of all shapes and sizes to suit different ages and swimming abilities. The wave pool was an instant hit with the kids, while the exercise pool gave me a chance to swim some laps. Other attractions include fountains, caves with a flow channel, water mushroom, jacuzzis, and diving boards at various heights.

Wellness retreat. While the kids splashed around with their dad, I treated myself to a few hours in the Spektrum Velvære wellness center. This impressive spa features six different saunas, including a meditation sauna with therapeutic music and aromas, and a relaxation sauna with eucalyptus aroma. There’s also an indoor and outdoor jacuzzi, heated benches, footbaths, and massage showers. Note that the wellness center has an 18-year age limit Monday to Saturday as they serve alcohol.

Practical considerations. The facility is well-maintained with clean changing rooms and helpful staff. I appreciated that they have special family changing rooms available, making the process much easier with young children. Ticket sales end 1.5 hours before closing time, and everyone must head to the showers 30 minutes before closing. If you’re planning to visit during school holidays or other free days in Bodø schools, be aware that different opening hours and pricing may apply.

3. Nordland Museum

Cultural immersion. Unfortunately, during our visit, we discovered that the Nordland Museum was temporarily closed for reconstruction. This was disappointing as I’d heard great things about their exhibitions, particularly the Viking silver treasure found in Bodø, which is one of the biggest treasures discovered in Northern Norway. The museum typically showcases Northern Norwegian culture and history through meticulously curated artifacts and interactive displays.

Sámi heritage. What makes this museum special is its focus on the indigenous Sámi culture, providing fascinating insights into their lifestyle and traditions. The museum has transformed into “Bådåddjo/Buvvda Musea” as part of Bodø’s celebration as the European Capital of Culture. They’ve been featuring both historical exhibitions and contemporary arts and crafts related to Sámi culture, making it an educational experience for children and adults alike.

Visitor experience. When the museum reopens, expect a well-organized layout that allows for an easy flow from one exhibit to the next. The knowledgeable staff are always ready to provide insights and answer questions, enhancing the visit especially for curious kids. There’s also a cozy café where you can relax and reflect on your experience while sampling local delicacies. The museum’s central location in Bodø makes it easily accessible for tourists exploring the city center.

Visitor Information:

• Price: Adults: approximately 150 NOK ($14), Children: reduced rates
• Opening Hours: When open: Mon-Fri: 12:00-19:00, Sat-Sun: 11:00-16:00
• Location: Prinsens gate 116, 8005 Bodø, Norway

Free Things to do in Bodø

1. Moloen

Seaside serenity. My first morning in Bodø, I followed the locals’ lead and headed straight to Moloen, the city’s iconic breakwater. This impressive structure, extending into the harbor, offers one of the most peaceful walks I’ve experienced in Norway. As I strolled along the pathway, the crisp Arctic air filled my lungs while panoramic views of the city skyline unfolded before me. What makes this spot special is how it changes with the weather – on calm days, it’s serene and meditative; during storms, it’s dramatically powerful as waves crash against the rocks.

Photography paradise. I spent hours at Moloen capturing the perfect shots of Bodø’s skyline. The breakwater provides unobstructed views in all directions, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts. During my visit, I witnessed several locals fishing from the rocks – a timeless activity that connects residents to their maritime heritage. One elderly gentleman told me he’d been fishing from this exact spot for over 40 years, sharing stories about how the harbor has transformed while the sea remains constant.

Social hub. What I didn’t expect was how Moloen serves as a gathering place for locals of all ages. Families with children, elderly couples, and young friends all converge here throughout the day. During summer evenings, the area truly comes alive as people bring picnics to enjoy under the midnight sun. I joined a group of friendly locals who invited me to share their coffee and homemade cinnamon buns while watching boats navigate the harbor – a simple pleasure that became one of my fondest memories of Bodø.

2. Walking the Streets

Urban exploration. Walking Bodø’s streets quickly became my daily ritual. The city center is remarkably compact and walkable, with most attractions within a 15-minute stroll of each other. What makes these walks special is the juxtaposition of modern architecture against the backdrop of dramatic mountain scenery and sea views. I particularly enjoyed exploring the area around Stormen Library and Concert Hall – their striking white facades have transformed the city’s appearance and created beautiful public spaces that invite both tourists and locals to linger.

Street art discovery. One morning, I decided to follow the self-guided street art tour (maps available at the tourist information center). Bodø has embraced urban art in a big way, with massive murals decorating buildings throughout the center. Each piece tells a different story about the region’s culture, history, or natural environment. My favorite was a massive whale mural that seemed to swim across an entire building facade. What impressed me most was how the art is integrated into everyday spaces – turning ordinary corners into moments of surprise and delight.

Cultural immersion. Beyond the visual appeal, walking Bodø’s streets offered me genuine insights into local life. I watched fishermen unload their daily catch at the harbor, observed students gathering at cozy cafés, and noticed how residents greet each other by name – revealing the close-knit nature of this northern community.

Seasonal Activities

Christmas

Festive illuminations. Christmas in Bodø is a magical experience that completely changed my perception of winter travel. The city compensates for its limited daylight hours with spectacular light displays that transform the urban landscape. My evening walks through the city center became a highlight as the streets glowed with thousands of twinkling lights reflected in the snow. The official Christmas lights switch-on ceremony in late November marks the beginning of the festive season, with locals gathering to enjoy warm drinks and traditional songs.

Market traditions. The Bodø Christmas Market (Julemarked) became my daily destination during my December visit. Set up in the city center, the market features wooden stalls selling everything from handcrafted gifts to traditional Norwegian Christmas foods. I spent hours browsing local handicrafts while warming my hands on a cup of gløgg (mulled wine). The aroma of freshly baked pepperkaker (gingerbread cookies) and sound of Christmas carols created a sensory experience I won’t soon forget.

Cultural celebrations. What truly touched me was experiencing Norwegian Christmas traditions firsthand. The St. Lucia Day celebrations on December 13th were particularly moving, with processions of white-clad children carrying candles through the city. I also attended a Christmas concert at Bodø Cathedral, where the acoustics perfectly complemented the traditional Norwegian Christmas hymns. Many locals invited me to join their “julebord” (Christmas table) celebrations – elaborate festive meals that are central to Norwegian Christmas traditions.

Summer

Midnight sun magic. Summer in Bodø introduced me to the surreal experience of the midnight sun. From late May to mid-July, the sun never fully sets, creating what locals call “white nights.” This natural phenomenon transformed my sleep schedule and allowed for incredible late-night adventures. One evening, I joined a midnight hike to Keiservarden mountain, where dozens of locals and visitors gathered to watch the sun hover just above the horizon at 1 AM – an otherworldly experience that’s uniquely Arctic.

Festival atmosphere. The summer months bring Bodø’s cultural scene to life with numerous festivals and events. The highlight of my visit was Nordland Musikkfestuke, a week-long classical music festival that transforms the entire city into a concert venue. From formal performances at Stormen Concert Hall to impromptu concerts in parks and cafés, music fills every corner of Bodø. I was particularly moved by a string quartet performing on the harbor front as the midnight sun cast a golden glow over the musicians.

Coastal activities. Summer opens up Bodø’s coastline for exploration and water-based activities. The Saltstraumen Safari became one of my most thrilling experiences – a boat tour to witness the world’s strongest tidal current, where water speeds reach 20 knots creating massive whirlpools. Closer to the city, I joined locals for swimming at the city beaches when temperatures permitted. What surprised me was how warm the evenings felt despite the northern latitude, with families barbecuing and socializing on the beaches well past what would normally be bedtime.

Spring

Nature awakening. Spring arrives late in Bodø, but when it does, the transformation is dramatic and beautiful. My April visit coincided with what locals call “vårslepp” – the release of spring – when the landscape rapidly shifts from winter white to vibrant green. What makes spring special in Bodø is the rapidly increasing daylight, with each day gaining several minutes of light. This creates a palpable sense of optimism among locals who emerge from their winter routines to embrace outdoor activities.

Bird watching bonanza. Spring brings an extraordinary natural spectacle to Bodø – the return of millions of migratory birds to their Arctic breeding grounds. I spent a fascinating morning at Bodø’s bird mountain with local ornithologists, watching thousands of puffins, kittiwakes, and sea eagles. The Fugløya Bird Festival celebrates this natural phenomenon with guided tours, lectures, and photography workshops. Even as a casual observer with no previous interest in birds, I found myself captivated by the sheer scale and drama of this annual migration.

Cultural revival. Spring also marks the resumption of Bodø’s cultural calendar after the winter pause. The Bodø Biennale showcases contemporary dance and performance art in unusual venues throughout the city. I stumbled upon dancers performing in the harbor area, using shipping containers as their stage – a perfect example of how this festival blends art with everyday spaces. The Spring Market in May brings local food producers and craftspeople to the city center, offering the first fresh produce of the season alongside traditional crafts.

Autumn

Northern lights season. Autumn in Bodø introduced me to one of nature’s most spectacular shows – the aurora borealis. From late September, as darkness returns to the Arctic, the night skies frequently dance with green, purple, and blue lights. My most memorable evening was spent at Turisthytta viewpoint, where I joined a small group of aurora hunters. We waited patiently in the crisp autumn air until the lights appeared, moving like ghostly curtains across the sky. The experience was both humbling and exhilarating – nature’s own light show that no photograph can truly capture.

Harvest celebrations. The autumn months bring a focus on local food and traditions. The Smak Nordland food festival became the highlight of my September visit, with local restaurants and food producers showcasing the region’s culinary heritage. I sampled everything from freshly caught Arctic cod to cloudberry desserts, all paired with local craft beers. What impressed me most was how the festival connected food to cultural identity, with chefs explaining the historical significance of traditional dishes while presenting modern interpretations.

Atmospheric landscapes. Autumn transforms Bodø’s surroundings with a spectacular color palette. The mountains and forests adopt rich reds and golds, creating a photographer’s paradise. I took advantage of the still-mild weather to hike the trails around Bodømarka, where the autumn colors contrasted beautifully with the deep blue of the fjords. The Bodø Photo Festival celebrates this photogenic season with exhibitions and workshops focused on Arctic landscape photography. Even with my amateur skills, I captured some of my most treasured travel photographs during this golden season.

Day Trips From Bodø

1. Kjerringøy Handelssted

Historic time capsule. My journey to Kjerringøy Trading Post began with a scenic coastal cruise from Bodø, where I was immediately struck by the raw beauty of the Norwegian coastline. This remarkably preserved 19th-century trading post consists of 15 protected buildings with authentic interiors, offering a genuine journey back in time. As I wandered among the old wooden structures, I could almost hear the echoes of the Nordland boats and trading ships that once dominated this area. The site’s location, nestled against the backdrop of dramatic mountains and the shimmering Karlsøyfjorden, creates a magical atmosphere that photos simply can’t capture.

Cultural immersion. What fascinated me most about Kjerringøy was learning about the merchants who shaped this remote outpost. I spent hours exploring the buildings, imagining the bustling activity during the herring fishing boom. The knowledgeable staff shared fascinating stories about how these merchants bought fish in Lofoten, processed it here, and sold it as far away as Bergen – a remarkable operation given the limited transportation of the era.

Practical considerations. While the interior of the buildings is only open during the summer season (June through August), I found that visiting in spring still offered a worthwhile experience. The exterior grounds and the stunning natural setting provide plenty to explore. After touring the trading post, I enjoyed a delicious meal at Kjerringøy Bryggehotell, where panoramic windows frame breathtaking views of Karlsøyfjorden and the distant Lofoten Wall. The combination of historical exploration and natural beauty makes this day trip well worth the journey from Bodø.

⭐ Best tours

• Silent Coastal Cruise to Kjerringøy – Combine 2 highlights of the Bodø region on this half day tour. Glide silently through majestic Nordfjord and step into history with a visit to Kjerringøy Handelssted.
• Bodø: Kjerringøy & Silent Coastal Cruise – Combine 2 highlights of the Bodø region on this half day tour. Glide silently through majestic Nordfjord and step into history with a visit to Kjerringøy Handelssted, a 19th century trading post.

2. Hovdsundet

Hidden beach paradise. My journey to Hovdsundet Beach was one of those experiences that makes you question your geographical bearings. This secluded white-sand beach north of the Arctic Circle looks like it was plucked from a tropical island and dropped into Northern Norway. The hike there is challenging but incredibly rewarding – a perfect example of the Norwegian saying “nothing good comes easy.” As I rounded the final bend in the trail and caught my first glimpse of the turquoise water against white sand, I actually gasped out loud. No wonder this spot has become one of Bodø’s most photographed locations.

Trail adventures. The path to Hovdsundet offers a thrilling variety of terrain that kept me engaged throughout the journey. I traversed coastal cliffs, pine forests, white-sand beaches, and rocky outcrops – each section presenting its own challenges and rewards. My guide advised staying along the outer side of the mountains rather than cutting through the forest, which proved to be excellent advice. The outer path, while more exposed, offers continuous ocean views and is actually easier to navigate than the unmarked forest terrain. During the hike, I spotted two sea eagles soaring overhead – a magical moment that had me fumbling for my camera.

Practical considerations. This is not a casual stroll – the hike to Hovdsundet demands proper preparation and a reasonable level of fitness. I spent about 3 hours on the 8 km round trip, not including time relaxing at the beach. My guide recommended visiting during low tide when the beach is at its most expansive. On the way, we passed another beautiful spot called Auvika, which would make an excellent camping location for those wanting to extend their adventure overnight.

⭐ Best activities

• Hike to Hovdsundet Beach - Bodo, Northern Norway – Visit Hovdsundet Beach on a challenging 6- to 8-hour hiking trip form Bodo. Make your way across pebble beaches, along coastal cliffs, and threw pine forests to reach the secluded white sand beach. You’re free to fully take in your surroundings, as your guide takes care of navigating the unmarked trail. Geared towards advanced hikers, the varied terrain offers an holistic view of northern Norway’s natural landscape.

3. Keiservarden

Iconic summit. Keiservarden has become my favorite half-day hike from Bodø – accessible enough for most fitness levels yet rewarding enough to feel like a genuine achievement. Standing 366 meters above sea level, this modest peak offers disproportionately spectacular views. On the clear spring day I visited, the panorama stretched from the Lofoten Islands in the west all the way to the Swedish border in the east. The city of Bodø lay spread out below like a miniature model, with tiny boats creating white wakes in the blue fjord.

Improved access. What makes Keiservarden particularly appealing is the well-maintained trail. Since 2016, Sherpa-built stone stairs have made the ascent more accessible while protecting the terrain from erosion. I found these stairs added a pleasant rhythm to my climb, though they do require attention on the descent, especially if wet. The total distance from the parking area to the summit is about 2.5 km, with several alternative routes available. I chose the main path, which consists mostly of well-defined trails (91%) with small sections of forested/wild trail (4.28%) according to the trail markers.

Midnight sun magic. While my April visit didn’t coincide with the midnight sun period, I’ve heard from locals that Keiservarden is one of the best places to experience this Arctic phenomenon. From late May through mid-July, hikers can summit in the evening and witness the sun hovering above the horizon at midnight, casting a golden glow across the landscape.

⭐ Best tours

• eBike tour to viewpoint Keiservarden – Biking to Keiservarden’s summit—a trek that’s more rewarding than it is strenuous—just might make you fall in love with Bodø. On this guided tour, you’ll stash your walkie-talkie and hop on an e-bike for a 3-mile (4.5-kilometer) ride to the plateau’s top, nabbing one of the best views in the city. The ride down can be as exciting as you like, and just as much of an adventure.
• Hiking Trip to Keiservarden, Classic Hike, Bodo - Northern Norway – Get out into the pristine nature of Northern Norway without the hassle of trip planning on this hiking tour. In a small group of no more than 15 people, embark on an easy climb to the top of Keiservarden, 1,200 feet (366 meters) above sea level, from where you’ll enjoy sweeping views across the water to the Lofoten Islands.

❓ FAQ

How do I get to Kjerringøy from Bodø?

Kjerringøy is about a 30-minute drive north of Bodø, followed by a short car ferry from Festvåg to Misten. You can also take a bus from the centre of Bodø to the ferry terminal. The journey offers stunning coastal scenery and is one of the best day trips in the Bodø area.

What are the top 10 things to do around Bodø?

Some of my favorites include a trip to Saltstraumen (the world’s strongest tidal current), hiking Keiservarden for the best views, sea eagle safari by RIB boat, visiting the Norwegian Jekt Trade Museum, exploring the city centre, shopping at City Nord, and enjoying local pastries at Craig Alibone Pâtisserie. Don’t miss the midnight sun during summer and the northern lights in winter!

Can I visit Svartisen glacier from Bodø?

Yes, Svartisen is Norway’s second largest glacier and can be reached by car, bike, or organized tours from Bodø. It’s a full-day trip and offers some of the most dramatic nature surrounding Bodø.

What is a RIB boat tour, and why should I try it?

A RIB boat tour is a thrilling ride in a rigid inflatable boat, perfect for exploring the coast, Saltstraumen, and spotting wildlife. One of the best experiences in Bodø is the sea eagle safari by RIB boat, where you’ll see these majestic birds up close.

Where can I find the best views and Instagrammable places in Bodø?

Keiservarden is known as the “roof of Bodø” and offers panoramic views over the city, fjord, and mountains. Hovdsundet and the red beach near Mjelle are also top Instagram spots. The midnight sun hike to Keiservarden is one of my favorite things to do in summer.

What are the best restaurants and cafés in Bodø?

For a treat, try Craig Alibone Pâtisserie or Brødrene Berbusmel bakery in the centre of Bodø. There are also great bars in Bodø, like Dama di, and plenty of local restaurants serving fresh seafood.

Is Saltstraumen worth a trip, and what can I do there?

Absolutely! A trip to Saltstraumen is a must. You can witness the powerful maelstrom, visit the Saltstraumen Museum, and even combine it with a sea eagle safari for a full day of adventure.

What are some unique museums to visit in Bodø?

The Norwegian Jekt Trade Museum tells the story of Norwegian coastal trade and features the historic jekt ship Anne Karoline. The Norwegian Aviation Museum is a must for aviation fans, with interactive exhibits about the story of Norwegian aviation and the city’s history.