Bodø travel guide

Aerial panaroama view of Bodø, Norway
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Introduction to Bodø

Bodø, known for its incredible Norwegian Aviation Museum, Kjerringoy trading, and Nyholms Fort, is a travel destination everyone should visit once in their lifetime. This municipality in Nordland, Norway, has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. Home to a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of more than 52.8 thousand people, Bodø is truly one of the main highlights of Norway.

Bodø was founded in the year 1816.

Easily accessible from the Bodø airport, Bodø is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Norway. Travelers looking to experience the best of Norway often choose to stay in Bodø.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the town of Bodø below!

History of Bodø

Situated just north of the Arctic Circle, Bodø holds a rich history dating back to the Stone Age. Archaeological evidence, such as ancient rock carvings, suggest that the area has been inhabited for over 10,000 years.

Bodø's modern history began in 1816, when it was granted town status by King Charles XIV John of Sweden. Despite facing significant challenges, including a devastating fire in 1893 that levelled the town, Bodø's resilience saw it rebuild and continue to thrive.

In World War II, the town was the site of a strategic air station and suffered heavy bombing from German forces. Post-war reconstruction was rapid, and today, Bodø stands as a vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural landmarks.

The city is also famous for hosting the Norwegian Aviation Museum, a nod to its aviation history. From ancient settlements to modern resilience, the history of Bodø is a testament to its enduring spirit and charm.

Local culture and customs in Bodø

Bodø is a charming city that reflects the traditional and contemporary Norwegian lifestyle. The city is known for its warm and hospitable locals who take pride in their Sami heritage. You'll find a rich cultural scene with a thriving music community, particularly jazz and classical genres. The city is home to the country's oldest professional orchestra, the Nordnorsk Opera og Symfoniorkester, which is worth a visit.

Norwegians value punctuality, so if you're invited somewhere, be sure to arrive on time. When greeting, a firm handshake is common, and personal space is respected. It's customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home. Bodø's culture also revolves around the great outdoors. Norwegians love 'Friluftsliv' (open-air living), so don't be surprised to see locals hiking, fishing, or enjoying a picnic, regardless of the weather.

The city celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the Bodø Jazz Open in winter and the Parkenfestivalen in summer. Both offer a great opportunity to mingle with locals and immerse yourself in the city's culture. Also, remember that Norway has strict regulations about alcohol; it is only sold at certain times and places, and public drinking is generally frowned upon.

Currency information for travelers in Bodø

The standard currency of Bodø, Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). It's advisable to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases, but credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are commonplace. VISA and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted, while American Express is less so. Be aware that some establishments may charge a small fee for card transactions. ATMs, known locally as 'Minibanks', are readily available throughout the city. As for budgeting, Norway is known for its high cost of living, with dining and alcohol particularly expensive. It's advisable to factor these costs into your budget when planning your visit.

Language tips for travelers in Bodø

Norwegians are known for their proficiency in English, so communication should not pose a problem in Bodø. However, attempting to speak a few phrases in Norwegian can make your experience more rewarding. Salutations like 'Hei' (Hello), 'Takk' (Thank you), and 'Unnskyld' (Excuse me) can be useful. For food-related inquiries, 'Hva er dette?' means 'What is this?'. Be mindful of the tonal nature of Norwegian language; the intonation can change the meaning of a word. Also, Norwegians appreciate it when foreign travelers make an effort to understand their language and culture. Remember, Norwegians tend to be direct in their communication, so don't interpret this as rudeness.

Best time to visit Bodø

The best time to explore Bodø, Norway largely depends on what you want to experience. For those interested in experiencing the Midnight Sun, a phenomenon where the sun stays visible for 24 hours, the ideal time to visit is between late May and mid-July. This period also offers mild temperatures, typically ranging from 10°C to 18°C. If you prefer to witness the Northern Lights, plan your trip between late September and mid-April. It's important to note, however, that this period comes with colder weather and shorter daylight hours. The city is generally less crowded during these periods. If you wish to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and boating without the crowds, consider visiting in May or September. Regardless of when you decide to visit, remember that weather in Bodø can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to pack for all conditions. No matter the season, the best time to explore Bodø is always when it aligns with your interests.

Local tip for visiting Bodø

When visiting Bodø, an insider tip worth noting is to experience the 'Midnight Sun.' While this phenomenon is not uncommon in the northern parts of Norway, the unique vantage point offered by Mount Rønvikfjellet in Bodø makes it a must-see. During summer, the sun doesn't set below the horizon in Bodø. Locals suggest climbing up Mount Rønvikfjellet late in the evening to witness the magical sight of the sun at midnight. It's a moderate hike, and the summit provides a splendid panorama of the city, the archipelago, and the endless sun. Remember to bring along warm clothes as the temperature can drop, and a thermos of hot beverage can enhance the experience. Although known to locals, this tip is not commonly mentioned in typical travel guides, but can significantly contribute to a memorable visit to Bodø.

Top services in Bodø

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Bodø, Norway. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 274 airlines that fly to Norway. Browse the 25 top-rated tours available to you in Bodø. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Bodø.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Bodø, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Bodø on your vacation in Norway.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Bodø from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the town of Bodø!

Learn more about Norway

There are many reasons to visit the town of Bodø, but a trip to Norway needs no explanation.

Exploring Norway, which spans 385,207 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Norway offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Norwegian Aviation Museum, Kjerringoy trading, and the Nyholms Fort, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Norway.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Norway.

What to see in Bodø

Bodø has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the town.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the town of Bodø.

Top attractions in Bodø

Home to plenty of top attractions, Bodø is more than just a wonderful town in Norway. Bodø is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Norway.

One fascinating sight in Bodø is the unforgettable Norwegian Aviation Museum. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the town, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Bodø. This remarkable attraction is located at Børtindgata 35B, 8004 Bodø, Norway and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 10:00-18:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Norway, check out our list of top attractions in Bodø below. Discover the best places to visit in Bodø, including the fascinating Norwegian Aviation Museum, Kjerringoy trading, Nyholms Fort, Saltstraumen, and Mørkvedhallen klatresenter.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Bodø.

Things to do in Bodø

Enrich your travel experience in Bodø by joining tours and activities. Bodø offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the town.

Discover the most popular experiences in Bodø below.

Most popular experiences in Bodø

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the town of Bodø.

Bodø offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Adventure Tours, Walking Tours, and Hiking Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Norway.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Bodø by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Bodø

Travelers in Bodø can choose from 15 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Bodø one of the best travel destinations in Norway.

Bodø also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Cityguiding in Mo I Rana is the cheapest tour in the town, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 23 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Bodø. This Historical Tour is available in 2 languages: Norwegian, and English. Around 6 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 5 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Bodø and book a top-rated tour in the town. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Bodø below.

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Search for things to do in Bodø

Discover the best things to do in Bodø. Choose from 25 fantastic tours and activities available in the town.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Bodø. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Bodø

Bodø, nestled in Norway's Nordland region, offers a diverse culinary scene that showcases the best of Norwegian cuisine. The city centre, with its bustling lanes lined with food stalls and restaurants, is one of the best places to eat in Bodø. Here, you can enjoy local delicacies such as Klippfisk, dried and salted cod, and Tørrfisk, stockfish, which are both traditional dishes of the area. For a fine dining experience, Bryggerikaia and NYT are must-visit venues. These high-end restaurants offer an array of seafood dishes, where freshly caught fish from the Norwegian Sea take center stage. Street food lovers shouldn't miss the opportunity to try Rød Pølse, a popular sausage often served with bread or potatoes. Remember to pair your meals with a glass of local craft beer or Aquavit, Norway's signature distilled spirit. Lastly, keep an eye out for local food festivals such as the Bodø Food and Drink Festival, which provide a delightful tasting journey through the city's culinary culture.

Nightlife in Bodø

Bodø, Norway, is a city that shines even when the sun goes down. Its nightlife scene is refreshing, offering a unique blend of experiences that appeals to both locals and tourists. From bustling pubs to elegant bars, Bodø's night scene is a vibrant mix of entertainment and enjoyment. The best area for bars in Bodø is its city center, where you can find a variety of establishments catering to different tastes. Dama Di - Kunst, Kultur, Bar, a renowned art bar, is a must-visit place where you can enjoy live music and performances in an artistic atmosphere.

The nightlife in Bodø is punctuated by the Northern Lights, adding a magical touch to your night out. For an unforgettable experience, make sure to visit Hundholmen Brygghus - a local microbrewery with a wide variety of craft beers and a lively atmosphere. It is also worth noting that the city's nightlife is safe and welcoming, with locals known for their warm hospitality. Whether you're looking for a quiet drink with a view of the aurora borealis or a lively night in a bustling bar, Bodø's nightlife scene offers something for everyone.

Best shopping in Bodø

Bodø, the heart of Norway's Arctic region, offers a unique shopping experience blending modern fashion trends with traditional Norwegian craftsmanship. The best place to go shopping in Bodø is the bustling Glasshuset shopping center, home to a variety of stores offering everything from trendy clothes and accessories to locally sourced food items. Here, you'll find national and international brands as well as small boutiques showcasing local artisans' work.

Stroll along the charming streets of the city center where the Sjøgata shopping street is nestled. Known for its preserved old wooden houses, the street offers a number of specialty stores selling unique handicrafts, art, and antiques. Remember to bring home a piece of traditional Sami craftwork or a Norwegian sweater as a keepsake.

For a more local experience, visit the Bodø Farmers Market. Held once a week, this market offers a wide range of fresh produce, homemade crafts, and delicious local delicacies. Keep in mind, most shops in Bodø open at 10 am and close around 4-6 pm, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. Credit cards are widely accepted, making shopping a breeze.

Best Free Things to Do in Bodø

When visiting Bodø, Norway, you'll find plenty of opportunities for adventure and cultural immersion that won't cost you a penny. One of the best free things to do in Bodø is to explore the majestic Saltstraumen, the world's strongest maelstrom. Witness the power of nature as you watch the swirling waters, a sight that's truly breathtaking. History buffs can visit the Bodø Domkirke, a stunning neo-Gothic cathedral with intricate stained-glass windows that tell stories of faith and resilience. For art lovers, the city offers the Bodø Kunstforening, featuring contemporary and traditional Norwegian art. With its ever-changing exhibitions, it's a place where you can immerse yourself in the local art scene. Finally, don't miss the opportunity to spot the Northern Lights. Bodø's location within the Arctic Circle makes it one of the best spots to witness this natural spectacle. Wrap up warm, head outside on a clear night, and prepare to be enchanted by this otherworldly display.

Vacation packages in Bodø

The best and easiest way to visit Bodø is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Norway.

Booking a vacation package to Bodø means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Bodø to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Bodø is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Bodø, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the town of Bodø.

Find vacation packages in Bodø

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful town of Bodø.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Bodø get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Norway. Your customized holiday package to Bodø is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Bodø

To get to the town of Bodø the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Norway can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Bodø by booking flights with any of the 4 airlines that offer direct flights to Bodø airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Bodø airport are Air China, Ryanair, Norwegian, Turkish Airlines, and United Airlines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Bodø.

To reach the town of Bodø, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Bodø airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Bodø, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Bodø airport and Bodø below.

Find cheap flights to Bodø

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Bodø, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Norway. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Bodø, Norway, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Bodø costs around 66 EUR and is offered by the airline Norwegian.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Bodø cost approximately 58 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on September 4 and the return flight is scheduled on September 10. The flight time is around 1 hour per way.

The return flight is operated by Svolvær Airport, Helle.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Norway and the town of Bodø from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Bodø

Travelers visiting Bodø in Norway can fly to Bodø airport directly from 1129 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Bodø airport and the town of Bodø in Norway depart from Bodø airport in Bodø, Norway, Norman Manley International airport in Kingston, Jamaica, and Cochin International airport in Kochi, India.

Travelers can fly to Norway by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Bodø; from 4 weekly flight(s) from Kingston; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Kochi.

The airline that operates most flights to Norway is Lanmei Airlines. Lanmei Airlines offers 6 scheduled flight routes to Norway.

Discover the most popular flights to Bodø below. Click to view flights to Bodø, Norway from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Bodø

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a town as fantastic as Bodø is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Bodø usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Bodø offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the town allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Bodø and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Bodø planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Norway can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Bodø. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the town, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Bodø.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Bodø in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Bodø

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Bodø provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Bodø. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

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Search for accommodation in Bodø

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the town of Bodø on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the town of Bodø that match the information provided.

Transportation in Bodø

Bodø, located in the northern part of Norway, offers a variety of accessible transportation options for both locals and tourists.

The public bus system, operated by 177 Nordland, is a reliable and efficient way to navigate the city. Buses run frequently and cover most areas of Bodø. For those looking for a more flexible option, taxis are readily available. Both Bodø Taxi and Nordland Taxi offer safe and convenient services around the clock.

Car rentals are another viable choice, with several international and local companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Europcar having offices in the city. Remember, driving in Bodø can be a unique experience due to its stunning views and scenic routes, especially the famous Kystriksveien Coastal Route.

For a truly local experience, consider taking a ferry trip to the nearby Lofoten Islands or a bike ride through the city's picturesque landscapes. With all these options, getting around Bodø is an enjoyable part of your Norwegian adventure.

Car rental in Bodø

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Bodø. Bodø has 4 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Bodø start from 51.59 EUR per day or 361.11 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Toyota Yaris.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Bodø, starting from 45.43 EUR per day or 318 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Volkswagen Up.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Bodø, Norway, below.

Popular types of car rental in Bodø

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the town of Bodø to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Bodø can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Norway at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Bodø is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Bodø is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the town of Bodø.

Check out all options available in Bodø and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Norway below.

Search for car rental in Bodø

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful town of Bodø. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Bodø, Norway, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Bodø

The town of Bodø is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Norway. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Norway has it all.

Norway is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Norway that are as magical as the town of Bodø. The most popular travel destinations in Norway are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Norway

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Norway. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Bodø

A taste of Norway through a visit to Bodø can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Bodø to another remarkable destination in Norway.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the town of Bodø to other spectacular locations in Norway, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Bodø

Travelers in Norway can catch flights to domestic airports in Narvik, Brønnøysund, Sandnessjøen, Røst, and Oslo. Domestic flights in Norway are operated by 3 airlines: Widerøe, SAS, and Norwegian. There are around 14 scheduled flight routes operating to Bodø on a weekly basis.

From Bodø, travelers can book scheduled flights to 12 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Bodø depart to many top-rated destinations in Norway and are offered by Widerøe, SAS, and Norwegian.

Search domestic flights from Bodø

Traveling to another city or region in Norway? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Bodø to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Norway on the selected dates.

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