Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Fredrikstad, Norway

Norway’s inaugural Renaissance city, Fredrikstad was established in the 16th century under the directive of King Frederick II. The Old Town is situated within a bastion fort at the mouth of the Glomma, Norway’s longest river. The substantial fortifications were necessitated by Fredrikstad’s role as a Danish-Norwegian bulwark against the Swedes to the east.

Visitors can traverse the path around the moat, explore the charming Old Town, and then venture to the nearby forts at Isegran and Kongsten. This area on the southern side of the Oslo fjord, recognized as the sunniest region in Norway, boasts natural beauty that may leave you in awe. The breathtaking granite coves, the multitude of skerries and islets at Hvaler, and the pristine royal estate of Hankøy Island exemplify this beauty.

Now, let’s delve into the top attractions in Fredrikstad:

1. Gamlebyen (Old Town)

Undoubtedly charming, the fortified Old Town on the left bank of the Glomma in Fredrikstad is the oldest settlement in the city, dating back to 1567. Following Frederick II’s signing of the charter, Fredrikstad emerged as the first Norwegian city established after the Middle Ages.

The innovative star-shaped design is attributed to the 17th-century Dutch engineer and quartermaster Willem Coucheron.

He constructed zigzagging moats and earthwork ramparts that proved so effective that Fredrikstad was never captured during a siege.

Approximately 350 residents inhabit the cobblestone lanes within the fortifications, where the architectural styles range from quaint wooden houses to majestic Baroque buildings.

Visitors can unwind at one of the inviting cafes and restaurants, and browse the bustling flea market at the main square on Saturdays.

2. Isegran

Located at the mouth of the Glomma, Isegran is an island fortified since the 13th century.

A nobleman named Alv Erlingsson established a castle on Isegran, which was razed by the King’s army in 1287. Its fortifications would later serve as Fredrikstad’s defenses 400 years hence.

Isegran has a rich history as a shipbuilding hub, where historic wooden sailboats are currently restored in the same workshops where they were originally crafted.

The northern side of the island is home to Norway’s sole institution dedicated to the art of boatbuilding, where visitors can admire vintage boats moored in the waters.

The maritime museum housed in the powder magazine showcases the expertise involved in restoring “International One Design” sailboats, and visitors can enjoy a warm beverage at the cafe.

3. Kongsten Fort

Established in 1685, Kongsten Fort, located southeast of the Old Town, serves as a freestanding fortress designed to enhance Fredrikstad’s defenses at its eastern approach. This fort is connected to the Old Town via a “hidden path.” Appreciating the layout from its walls, one can discern the strategic rationale for its construction.

While there is no formal museum at Kongsten Fort, visitors can admire the architecture by exploring the well-preserved ramparts, gateway, bastions, powder magazine, casemate, and the commander’s residence.

These spaces are available for event rentals and accommodations, and the fort commemorated its 300th anniversary by appearing on Norwegian postage stamps.

4. Old Town Model Train Centre

Open on weekends and holidays, the Old Town features the largest model railway in Scandinavia.

Encompassed in interconnected buildings, a miniature landscape exceeding 400 square meters is equipped with two kilometers of track for 35 locomotives.

Both children and adults will be captivated by the intricate details, with figures, landforms, animals, monuments, and scenes of Fredrikstad rendered at a scale of 1:87.

The trains are operated through computer technology, and, as an added feature, the center’s control room is designed to resemble a Norwegian commuter train.

5. Hankø Island

A stunning destination for a hike, Hankø Island was once a hunting ground for the lord of the nearby Elingård Manor.

However, in the 1870s, therapeutic sulphurous mud was discovered on the island, transforming it into a spa and recreational area owned by the Norwegian royal family.

The area saw the planting of trees and the introduction of fallow deer, and in 1930, King Olav V established a holiday residence on Hankø.

Access the island via the ferry from Hankøsundet, which arrives at the northernmost point of Hankø.

At the departure point, visitors can admire the notable Seilerkroa inn, built in 1883 and painted red. Be sure to hike to Hankø Fjordhotell & Spa, which was founded in 1877 and once attracted Norway’s elite.

6. Hvaler Islands

The Hvaler archipelago, located at the southwesternmost point of Østfold county, comprises a stunning array of granite skerries and islands that vary significantly in size.

The islands derive their name from the plural form of “Hval,” the Norwegian word for whale, as their shapes resemble a pod of cetaceans resting in the water.

While they may appear remote, the islands are conveniently connected to the mainland by Road 108, allowing for a quick excursion.

The archipelago offers a wealth of activities: savor fresh seafood, embark on island-hopping ferries, hike through birch and spruce forests, discover hidden coves, participate in kayak tours, play golf at the Hvaler course, and explore Medieval churches.

7. Litteraturhuset Fredrikstad

A modern cultural center on the banks of the Glomma, the Litteraturhuset, which opened in 2013, is dedicated to the literary arts.

Featuring a wooden-clad cube structure with ample glass, the Litteraturhuset is the second-largest institution of its kind in Norway.

The center includes a café, auditorium, and exhibition space, hosting TED-style talks, art and science displays, as well as children’s performances and readings.

To stay informed about upcoming events, consult the program schedule, which features diverse activities nearly every day.

The Litteraturhuset also hosts noteworthy events such as the Fredrikstad Animation Festival each November and International Women’s Day in March.

8. Roald Amundsen’s Birthplace

Renowned as one of Norway’s beloved figures, polar explorer Roald Amundsen was born in Borge parish, just outside Fredrikstad.

Amundsen led the first successful expedition to the South Pole and was the first individual to navigate the Northwest Passage in the Arctic.

Born into a family of ship owners, it is said he developed his adventurous spirit sailing yachts along the Glomma River.

Interestingly, his mother initially discouraged him from pursuing a maritime career, prompting him to train as a doctor until her passing. Subsequently, he devoted his life to the sea.

The family homestead features a bust of Amundsen and is open on weekends for tours in winter and from Wednesday to Sunday during summer months.

The residence is furnished with period pieces and memorabilia from Amundsen’s expeditions, accompanied by knowledgeable guides imparting insights into his achievements.

9. Hans Nielsen Hauge’s Memorial Museum

Located on the picturesque Rolvsøy island, this painted cottage served as the birthplace of the influential early-19th-century social reformer.

A Lutheran minister, Hans Nielsen Hauge became a traveling preacher after a spiritual awakening in 1896, authoring numerous widely-read books and establishing the gender-equal Haugean Movement, which promoted informal religious gatherings—then illegal—while creating factories and mills across Norway and challenging the authority of the Church of Norway.

Visitors interested in his compelling life may arrange a visit to his birthplace, where the owner graciously provides coffee and waffles upon prior request.

10. Østfold Kunstsenter (Østfold Art Centre)

Situated within a refined 19th-century mansion in Fredrikstad’s center, Østfold Kunstsenter focuses on contemporary and applied art.

Managed by artists, the center features a gallery showcasing continually changing temporary exhibitions, alongside a sales gallery.

When this post was compiled, exhibitions included solo displays from installation artist Beathe C. Rønning, ceramics designer Margit Seland, conceptual artist Hazel Barstow, and painter Davood Zandian.

Additionally, the center hosts an art shop, café, and summer workshops for children.

11. Fredrikstad Cathedral

While not ancient, Fredrikstad’s 19th-century Gothic Revival cathedral offers remarkable features.

Consecrated in 1880, its most distinguishing characteristic is the impressive 70-meter tower topped with a copper-clad spire.

This edifice officially became a cathedral in 1969 with the establishment of the Borg diocese.

Inside the choir, one can admire the stained glass windows painted in 1917 by the talented religious artist Emanuel Vigeland, who contributed to cathedrals in Lund, Aarhus, and Stavanger.

Moreover, the altarpiece was created by Axel Revold, who served as a professor at the National Academy of Fine Arts in Norway for two decades.

12. Østre Fredrikstad Church

The Old Town’s initial church was constructed from wood in 1560 but was soon engulfed in flames.

This unfortunate fate befell each subsequent church built on the same site.

Following the destruction of the last wooden church in 1764, the city resolved to construct a stone and brick church, which has stood intact since 1779. Small remnants of its predecessor can be detected within the stonework of this distinguished Baroque church that accommodates 450 worshippers.

Visitors are encouraged to call ahead to view the understated interior, which features carved wooden pews and a gallery supported by Ionic columns adorned with gilded capitals.

13. Mærrapanna Naturreservat

In the summer, Mærrapanna Naturreservat offers an exceptional experience, serving as both a bathing area and nature reserve located a mere 15 minutes by car.

The picturesque landscape features monumental granite boulders that take on a captivating orange hue under the sun’s rays.

Scattered among the boulders are tufts of heather, pine foliage, and vibrant grassy spaces.

This narrow peninsula, never exceeding 100 meters in width, offers sheltered bathing spots where children can paddle safely along with picnic benches, fishing areas, a playground, barbecue facilities, and bathing ladders for more experienced swimmers.

14. Foten

Recognized as one of the most picturesque beaches near Fredrikstad, Foten is located just 10 kilometers southwest and consistently receives the Blue Flag designation for exemplary water quality and amenities.

Following its latest renovation in time for summer 2012, amenities now include a beach volleyball court and a new children’s playground.

The beach features a sandy bay that melds seamlessly with large, rounded granite rocks where sunbathers can relax during the summer months.

Swimmers are invited to enjoy the gentle sea by using the wooden pier equipped with bathing ladders; a multi-level diving board is also situated on the rocks beside deeper waters.

15. Fredrikstad FK

While attending a football match in Norway may not be a lifelong dream for everyone, there are several compelling reasons to consider the local team, Fredrikstad FK, during the summer months.

Football in Norway is a summer sport, taking place from March to November, so there is a strong likelihood of catching a match.

Fredrikstad FK has a rich history and cultural significance, playing at the well-equipped Fredrikstad Stadion, which was inaugurated alongside the Glomma River in 2007. Founded in 1903, the team, referred to as ‘The Aristocrats,’ is now competing in the 2. Divisjon after being relegated from the OBOS-ligaen in 2017. Nevertheless, their current status should not overshadow their heritage as one of Norway’s most successful clubs, having claimed the top division title nine times and lifted eleven Norwegian cups.