Welcome to Fredrikstad – Norway’s charming riverside city, beautifully situated where the Glomma River meets the Oslofjord. Known as Northern Europe’s best-preserved fortified town, Fredrikstad blends centuries of history with a lively cultural scene and easy access to the coast and nearby islands.

A walk through history

Step into Gamlebyen, the Old Town – a star-shaped fortress founded in 1567 and one of Scandinavia’s finest heritage sites. Wander along cobbled streets lined with 17th-century wooden houses, now housing small shops, galleries, cafés and artisan workshops. The free city ferry links the Old Town with the modern city centre, making it easy to explore both sides of the river. Visit Kongsten Fort, a historic stronghold with panoramic views of the town, or cross to the island of Isegran, where 700 years of maritime history come to life through traditional boatbuilding and open-air exhibitions.

Culture, heritage and city life

Fredrikstad’s identity is closely tied to the Glomma River, once vital for timber export and shipbuilding – and still the heart of the city today. Its riverbanks invite for walks, outdoor dining and lively waterside events. In the Old Town, the Fredrikstad Museum brings 450 years of local history to life, while the Model Train Centre – the largest in Scandinavia – fascinates visitors of all ages. Across the river, the modern city centre unfolds with art at Østfold Kunstsenter, literature at the House of Literature, and a relaxed urban atmosphere shaped by cafés, culture and football passion.

Archipelago adventures and coastal nature

Just beyond the city lies the Hvaler archipelago – a maze of islands, islets and skerries forming Ytre Hvaler National Park, Norway’s first marine national park. Here, you can kayak, dive, fish or simply unwind on white-sand beaches surrounded by pristine nature. Scenic hiking routes such as the Ancient Trail (Oldtidsruta) lead past Bronze and Iron Age monuments that tell stories from Norway’s earliest history.

Restaurants and conferences

Fredrikstad offers a wide range of restaurants – from local cuisine served in historic Old Town settings to modern seafood dining experiences along the river and harbour. The city also provides excellent venues for meetings and conferences, combining state-of-the-art facilities with cultural charm and close proximity to the sea.

Nearby destinations

Halden
Sarpsborg
Strömstad
Oslo