Florø Travel Guide

Florø is Norway's westernmost city, located near the world's longest and deepest fjord, Sognefjord. It became the first city in the province of Sogn og Fjordane when it was established in 1860 in response to the the demand for a city in the fishing-region of Kinn. Florø retains a charming feel and it was selected the most pleasant city to live in by National Radio Channel 2, twice in a row. In 1998 the city received another price,  as it was named the "Environmental City" by the Norwegian Minister of the Environment for its extensive efforts regarding the environment. The small-town atmosphere you will experience in Florø is very much alive and original with a charming main street and a good selection of shops.

Fishing boats and ships traveling along the coast had already made use of the harbour for many years before Florø received its city charter. In these years, the herring fisheries became a major industry in the region. Many consider herring -- «the silver of the seas» -- to be the main reason why the town was founded, which one finds again in the town’s shield.  Fish still plays an important role in the coast town, but now Salmon takes centre-stage.

Several large enterprises turning out processed fish or fish feed for sea farming in considerable quantities, are based in Florø. These are successful, modern export businesses. «The black gold» – oil – is also important. Fjord Base supplies the oil extraction industry in the North Sea on a large scale. Still another cornerstone in Florø is Kværner, internationally renowned ship builders specializing in tankers. Our economy is expanding, and we are proud of our low rate of unemployment. Florø is a major industrial centre, although it is hardly apparent at first sight. On certain days, when the wind is right, you notice the smell from the fish factories. And you may hear the locals say: «I can smell money!»