About
Bodø is a city in Nordland county, in northern Norway, and serves as the county's capital. It lies on the Norwegian coast in Europe, and it is known as a gateway to the Arctic Circle and to the Lofoten Islands, which are reached from the city.
What a visit offers
Bodø suits travellers who want to use a northern Norwegian city as a base. Many visitors come here on the way somewhere else, so the city works well as a place to arrive, rest and plan the next stage of a journey along the coast.
- Arctic Circle: the city is a common starting point for trips that cross the Arctic Circle.
- Lofoten Islands: the islands are a short onward journey, making Bodø a convenient entry point for exploring them.
- Coastal setting: the city's location on the sea gives it a northern maritime character.
Planning your trip
Because Bodø connects travellers to the wider north, it is worth allowing time both to see the city itself and to make onward plans. The surrounding Nordland region is large and varied, so choosing which parts to explore will shape how you spend your days. Those interested in the Arctic and in Norway's northern coast will find that Bodø gives a practical and relaxed introduction to the area.