How to get to Bodo

When planning a journey beyond the Arctic Circle, many tourists wonder how to get to Bodø — a distinctive city on the coast of Northern Norway, known for its winds and proximity to natural wonders. This administrative centre of the Nordland region attracts travellers with its well-developed infrastructure, making a trip to Bodø convenient at any time of the year. There are various ways to arrive: you can choose a quick flight, a scenic train ride, a bus route, or an independent journey by car.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Bodø is by air. The city has its own major airport (IATA code: BOO), which receives regular flights all year round. The main flow of tourists arrives here from Oslo: the flight from the capital of Norway takes just about one and a half hours.

The airport serves as an important hub for regional transport, connecting the city with Trondheim, Tromsø, and settlements on the Lofoten Islands, such as Leknes or Svolvær. A pleasant bonus for travellers is the location of the air hub: it is situated literally on the outskirts of the central part of the city, so you can reach the centre on foot, by taxi, or by bus in a matter of minutes.

For those who prefer ground transport, a trip to Bodø will be an unforgettable adventure, as this is the final station of the picturesque Nordland Line (Nordlandsbanen). The train journey from Trondheim takes about 10 hours and passes through the incredible landscapes of Northern Norway, including a crossing of the Arctic Circle.

The railway station is located in the very centre of the city, within walking distance of the ferry terminal and most hotels. This makes arriving by train exceptionally convenient for tourists wishing to continue their journey to the Lofoten Islands or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this Arctic city.

Bus services connect Bodø with various settlements in the region, offering travellers comfortable and scenic routes. One of the key directions is the route from Narvik: this path runs through impressive landscapes with views of the fjords and mountains for which Northern Norway is famous.

For those travelling overland, the town of Fauske, located approximately 60 kilometres to the east, is considered an important transport hub. It is here that tourists travelling on long-distance routes often transfer. The road from Fauske to the city centre takes about an hour and runs along a beautiful coastline, making the drive part of your sightseeing programme.

Travelling by car to Bodø via the mainland is a drive along one of Europe's most scenic roads. The main route follows the country's primary transport artery — the E6 highway. Tourists heading from the south, for example from the direction of Trondheim or the town of Mo i Rana, cross the Arctic Circle on the way and overcome the Saltfjellet mountain pass. In the area of Fauske, you need to turn onto the Rv80 road, which leads directly to the coast and the city centre.

Another popular option is arriving from the Lofoten Islands, where the road trip is combined with a sea voyage. From key points in the archipelago, such as Leknes or Svolvær, motorists usually head to the ferry pier in Moskenes. Large ferries depart from here, transporting vehicles and passengers to the mainland in 3–4 hours, allowing you to rest before the final leg of the journey.

There is also a more exotic route from the remote island of Røst. Here, travel logistics depend entirely on the vessel schedule, and the long sea crossing becomes a full-fledged part of the adventure in Northern Norway, revealing an impressive view of the approaching city from the sea.

Preparing for a trip to Bodø requires attention to details specific to the Arctic climate and local way of life. To help you feel confident and comfortable, we have compiled a list of practical recommendations relevant for guests of Northern Norway.

• Wind protection gear. The city is located on an open peninsula, so strong gusts of wind are not uncommon here. Umbrellas often prove useless, so it is better to opt for a high-quality raincoat and a windproof jacket with a hood. Dress in layers to easily adapt to the changeable weather.
• Payment specifics. The country has almost completely switched to cashless payments. Bank cards are accepted everywhere: from buses and taxis to small souvenir shops. Cash kroner may only be needed in exceptional cases, so there is no need to exchange large sums.
• Store operating hours. Plan your shopping in advance: most grocery supermarkets are closed on Sundays. The sale of beverages containing alcohol is also strictly regulated: strong drinks can only be purchased in the specialized Vinmonopolet chain, which operates on a limited schedule, and sales in regular stores stop earlier than closing time.
• Drinking water. Tap water in the region is of high quality and has a pleasant taste. You can safely drink it from the tap without boiling, without spending your budget on bottled water.
• Natural rhythms. If you plan to visit the famous Saltstraumen current, be sure to check the tide table: the whirlpools reach their maximum strength four times a day. Also consider the factor of the Midnight Sun in summer (bring a sleep mask) and the Polar Night in winter (plan your walks for the short daylight period).

Following these simple rules will allow you to avoid everyday difficulties and fully dedicate your time to exploring the nature and atmosphere of the city.