Fly to Bodø

Just outside the city center, a fantastic experience called Saltstraumen awaits. Saltstraumen is considered to be the most powerful tidal current in the world, when a mass of 400 million cubic meters of water is pushed through a tight strait and into Skjerstadfjorden. This is where the sea turns into a river, making tidal currents terrific for a thrilling rib safari.

The best way to experience Saltstraumen is by going on a Rib trip directly from Bodø. Several of the rib trips start at Hurtigrutekaia (The coastal steamer pier), within walking distance from the city center of Bodø. Others start in the actual city center.

The coast line north of Bodø is really beautiful. If you have the time, you should plan for a trip to Kjerringøy - a historical market place where local fishermen sold their fish, which then again was transported to Bergen by bigger ships. Kjerringøy is now administrered by the Nordland Museum. Several locals have their summer house in Kjerringøy, which is located about 40 kilometers north of Bodø.

If you are in for just an afternoon trip on the Northern side of Bodø you can visit the long and wonderful beach at Mjelle, which will give you a magnificent view of the Lofoten islands, seen as a wall of mountains on the horizon. Go late at night to have front row view to the midnight sun!

Even closer to the city is Ausvika, a nice bay popular for outdoors activities. The white sand on the beach makes the spakling, clear ocean tempting on sunny days, even though the water is known to be relatively cold throughout the year.

Bodø has developed substantially in revent years and it hosts a range of restaurants. cafes and bars. Stormen Konserthus (The Storm Consert House) is located in the city center and has a rich program of concerts and events. In the same building you will find the city's new library and if you are interested in architecture, this building is worth a visit by itself.

In 2019 the Norwegian Jekt Trade Museum opened in Bodø. A jekt is a cargo sailboat that was used to transport stockfish. This is a highly interesting exhibition about the 400 years of history surrounding the jekt trade which was crucial for the economy Northern Norway in the past. The museum is located in Bodøsjøen about 4 kilometers from the city center.

The Helgeland coast (Helgelandskysten) is less famous than Lofoten on the other side of the Vestfjord. This beautiful coast line has stunning sceneries, less tourists than Lofoten and is perfect for campers and those seeking peace and tranquility.

The best way to explore Helgelandskysten is by car. Numerous camping sites where you may put up your tent or rent a small cabin are at your disposal. Small, cosy cafés are often to be found at the pier in fishing villages. Ask at the gas station or in the café for local tips on where to find the best hiking trails.

In the winter, Bodø and its surrounding area offer great skiing. Whether you prefer cross country skiing, downhill or randonee, you have plenty of options. Skarmoen alpine park is the closest to Bodø, while Vestvatn Alpine is a 70 kilometer drive from the city.

Avation enthusiast or not, if you are in Bodø you should definitely visit The National Norwegian Aviation Museum which opened in 1994. Here you will find 10 000 sqare meters of aviation history, both military and civil. This is a family friendly activity with activities for children and educating for adults.