Cultural Capital 2024: Highlights in Bodø
This year, for the first time, a place north of the Arctic Circle made the running as one of three cultural capitals. We give you the best tips for Bodø and what you shouldn't miss.
February 16, 2024
The idea of the Capital of Culture is not a new one. It originated back in 1985. Back then, Athens won the race. Since then, the EU has named one or more cities every year to make people aware of them - and, of course, to put them on the radar of travelers. The aim is to promote cultural exchange and cultural development. An independent jury is responsible for the selection and cities from all EU member states can apply. Alongside Bad Ischl in Austria and Tartu in Estonia, Bodø in Norway is the first place north of the Arctic Circle to make the running. Here are the best tips for Bodø:
The 2024 cultural program
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Bodø's cultural program includes more than 1,000 different highlights this year. It kicked off on February 3 in the harbor with a big opening ceremony. It continues with a colorful series of performances, concerts, art exhibitions and events. The aim is to be particularly sustainable. The Pure Music scheduled for March 22, 2024 is set to be the most sustainable concert of all time. The indigenous Sámi people will also be a focal point in the series of events. It's difficult to choose the best cultural tips for Bodø from all the events that are offered. Here, you can find an overview of all events.
Experience breathtaking landscapes
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If you come to Bodø, you must take time to explore the nature of northern Norway. The landscape is strongly influenced by the Nordic conditions. The tundra vegetation is full of low plants and lichens, and during the summer months you can admire the pretty arctic flowers. Along the coast and in the valleys there are extensive conifer forests. Bodø is a paradise for birdwatchers, but reindeer, foxes, badgers, lemmings, seals and whales have also chosen the region as their home. You can experience them while hiking, fishing or doing winter sports, for example. You should definitely visit the maelstrom Saltsraumen and the old lighthouse.
Get to know northern Norwegian cuisine
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Seafood fans will rave about the traditional cuisine of the region. Fried cod, salmon, prawns and crab are on almost every menu. One local delicacy is reindeer meat. It's usually eaten grilled, smoked or as a stew and is served with potatoes and vegetables. The region around Bodø is rich in wild berries. Blueberries, cloudberries and lingonberries can therefore be found in many desserts, jams and sauces. The area is also known for craft beer and cheese production. The typical, so-called Flatbrød is, of course, a must.
Restaurant tips
Hundholmen Brygghus
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Whether you come here in jeans or a suit, guests are always welcome. The hospitality at Hundholmen Brygghus is correspondingly warm. During the day, you can enjoy a combination of excellent pub food, international cuisine and traditional Norwegian dishes. And in the evening, the restaurant transforms into a club, including DJ and event calendar.
Hundholmen Brygghus
Tollbugata 13, 8005 Bodø, Norway
Tel: +47 48 50 27 27 27
Web: hundholmenbrygghus.no
Bryggerikaia
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If you fancy a more sophisticated dining experience, head near the harbor. Here, Bryggerikaia, located in the Glasshuset shopping center, delights with local delicacies. Classics such as grilled dried fish and numerous other dishes with fresh ingredients straight from the sea have made the restaurant a classic. Locals have been coming here for 15 years.
Bryggerikaia
Sjøgata 1, 8006 Bodø, Norway
Tel: +47 75 52 58 08
Web: bryggerikaia.no
Restaurant Bjørk
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Inspired by Italian cuisine, they serve delicious pizza and pasta with local ingredients. The branch in Glasshuset is slightly larger and offers a more extensive menu. A branch in the north of the city serves the most popular dishes on the menu. It includes delicacies such as smørbrød with deep-fried chicken, deep-fried stockfish from Værøy and grilled monkfish.
Restaurant Bjørk
Storgata 8, 8006 Bodø, Norway
Tel: +47 75 52 40 40
Web: restaurantbjork.no
Hotel tips
Radisson Blu
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The hotel is located directly on the quay and the view of the harbor is spectacular. Spacious rooms and suites, the Norwegian restaurant Fjord and the Bar Top 13 on the roof terrace speak for the hotel, as does the attentive service.
Radisson Blu
Storgata 2, 8006 Bodø, Norway
Tel: +47 75 51 90 00
Web: radissonhotels.com
Price: Doubles from € 90
Scandic Havet
Scandic Havet
This hotel is also located right by the sea, just a few steps from the center of Bodø. The rooms impress with their bright, Nordic style. Guests can also look forward to wonderful views from the Skybar on the 17th floor, two restaurants and a fitness center.
Scandic Havet
Tollbugata 5, 8006 Bodø, Norway
Tel: +47 75 50 38 00
Web: scandichotels.de
Price: Doubles from € 110
Thon Hotel Nordlys
Thon Hotel Nordlys
Steaks and seafood, cod and salmon, pizza and burgers - the Egon restaurant spoils you with culinary delights, while guests can look forward to spacious rooms with great views of the marina.
Thon Hotel Nordlys
Moloveien 14, 8003 Bodø, Norway
Tel: +47 75 53 19 00
Web: thonhotels.com
Price: Doubles from € 100
