Get Around - Travel Information
Navigating Nordland is an adventure in itself, with diverse transport options connecting the region’s vast landscapes. Whether by road, sea, or rail, knowing the best ways to travel will enhance your experience and make your journey more efficient.
© Pete Oswald - visitnorway.com
Best Ways to Explore Nordland
© Kristoffer Mollevik - Visit Helgeland - Helgeland BridgeThe Legendary Coastal Route
KYSTRIKSVEIEN (FV17)
Kystriksveien is often ranked among the world’s most scenic
drives, running from Steinkjer to Bodø.
Key highlights include:
© CH - visitnorway.comRental Car
Ideal for flexibility and reaching remote areas, especially in Lofoten and Helgeland. Ensure you check ferry routes if planning to cross water.
© Bård Loken - Visit NorwayPublic Transport
Buses and trains connect major towns, but schedules can be limited in rural areas. Plan ahead for seamless connections.
© visitnorway.comFerries
A crucial part of Nordland’s transport network, ferries enable island-hopping and provide scenic alternatives to driving.
© Anton Ligaarden - Visit NorwayGuided Tours
Best for those who prefer structured itineraries with expert local knowledge.
- Frequent ferry crossings offering breathtaking fjord views.
- Stops at the Torghatten mountain, the Vega Archipelago, and the Arctic Circle.
- A relaxed pace with opportunities to explore coastal villages and detours to lesser-known gems.
© Fredrik Ahlsen - Visit NorwaySlow-traveling by Coastal ferries
For those eager to embark on an unforgettable maritime journey, Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages. These remarkable ships provide a delightful blend of transportation and cruise-like experiences, complete with delectable onboard dining options, panoramic views of the majestic coastline, and a range of optional excursions designed to enhance your adventure and immerse you in the local culture.
Both of them offer stunning coastal ferry routes that stretch between Bergen and Kirkenes. These routes make stops at several picturesque Nordland ports, each known for their unique charm and breathtaking scenery, including:
Brønnøysund
Sandnessjøen
Nesna
Ørnes
Bodø
Stamsund
Svolvær
© Tommy Andreassen - Nordnorge.comHurtigruten
The historical coastal express service, operating daily departures with a traditional maritime experience. It offers a unique combination of local transport, freight services, and expedition-style cruising. Travelers can book shorter segments between Nordland's ports or opt for the full coastal journey.
© Ronny M. Olsen - Havila KystrutenHavila Kystruten
Havila is a addition on the coastline of Norway, offering modern and environmentally friendly ships with a focus on sustainable travel. With hybrid propulsion and battery technology, Havila ships provide a quieter and greener alternative while maintaining comfort and luxury.
© visitnorway.comLofoten & Helgeland Ferry Network
The ferry network in Nordland is essential for connecting the fragmented coastline. Key routes include:
Lofoten:
Moskenes–Bodø, Svolvær–Skrova–Skutvik, and Reine–Kirkefjord.
- Helgeland:
Sandnessjøen–Dønna–Løkta, Vega ferry routes, and connections to Træna and Lovund.
- Express Boats: Fast passenger boats link Bodø with Helgeland, Lofoten, and Salten.
© Ernst Furuhatt - nordnorge.com - Bodø HarborMajor Airports in Nordland
© Ernst Furuhatt - nordnorge.comBodø Airport (bOO)
The largest airport in Nordland, with frequent domestic flights to Oslo, Trondheim, Tromsø, and other Norwegian cities, as well as some international seasonal routes.
© Pete Oswald - visitnorway.comEvenes Airport (EVE)
Serving as a gateway to both Lofoten, Vesterålen, Harstad and Narvik, this airport offers domestic flights and some international routes, a convenient entry point for travelers to northern Nordland.
© Vidar Molokken - Visit NorwayMo i Rana Airport (MQN)
A regional airport mainly serving Helgeland, with connections to Bodø, Trondheim, and Oslo, facilitating access to southern Nordland’s scenic coastal routes and inland attractions.
© Ernst Furuhatt - nordnorge.com - Bodø HarborBodø as a Transport Hub
Bodø is Nordland’s main transport hub, providing connections by air, sea, and rail. Planning ahead is key when traveling in Nordland, especially for ferry schedules and public transport timetables. Whether driving along the coast, island-hopping, or taking a slow voyage by sea, each mode of transport offers a unique perspective on this stunning region.
Flights:
Bodø Airport (BOO) has frequent flights to Oslo, Tromsø, and key regional airports.
Ferries:
Direct routes to Lofoten, Væran islands, and Helgeland.
Trains:
The Nordland Line (Nordlandsbanen) runs from Trondheim to Bodø, offering one of Europe’s most scenic railway journeys.
Adventures
© 2026 All Rights Reserved.
