Things To Do
in Fredrikstad

Fredrikstad is a charming coastal city in Norway, known for its well-preserved fortress and picturesque Old Town, Gamlebyen. It is situated at the mouth of the Glomma River, making it a scenic spot for visitors. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, with museums, galleries, and vibrant art scenes.

Its lively waterfront and numerous parks provide a perfect blend of history and nature.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through Gamlebyen, the Old Town, where you can admire the wooden houses and cobblestone streets. Visit the Fredrikstad Museum to learn about the city's history.

afternoon
:

Head to the fortress, where you can explore the walls and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Have lunch at a local café in the Old Town.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant and take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, soaking in the sunset over the water.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Borgeby Nature Reserve for a morning hike. Take in the serene surroundings and spot local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the Isegran cultural area, where you can explore art galleries and local artisan shops. Have lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Attend a cultural event or concert at the Fredrikstad Concert Hall, followed by dinner at a nearby restaurant known for its local cuisine.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$25
Coffee$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$4
🏨Hotel Night$120
🛍️Local Souvenir$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and rich cultural heritage
  • Safe and welcoming environment for tourists
  • Variety of outdoor activities available year-round
  • High cost of living compared to other destinations
  • Limited nightlife options outside of the city center
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and autumn
  • "Hei" - Hello
  • "Takk" - Thank you
  • "Hvor er toalettet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Kan jeg få regningen, takk?" - Can I have the bill, please?
  • "God morgen" - Good morning

Places to Visit in Fredrikstad

Visit one of these nice places.

Gamlebyen

The picturesque Old Town features colorful wooden houses and charming streets, perfect for capturing the essence of Fredrikstad.

Fredrikstad Fortress

The fortress offers stunning views of the city and the river, as well as historical architecture that makes for great photo opportunities.

Isegran

A cultural hub with beautiful waterfront views, ideal for capturing both nature and art in one frame.

Culinary Guide

Food in Fredrikstad

Fredrikstad offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects both traditional Norwegian dishes and modern gastronomy. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and vibrant markets.

Fredrikstad Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Raspeballer

A traditional potato dumpling served with meat and gravy, often enjoyed during special occasions.

Must-Try!

Lapskaus

A hearty meat stew made with root vegetables, perfect for cold weather.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Fredrikstad Food Market

A lively market where local vendors offer fresh produce, artisanal products, and street food options throughout the summer.

Climate Guide

Weather

Fredrikstad experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while winter can drop to -5°C (23°F) or lower. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with the wettest months occurring in late summer and early autumn. Snow is common in winter, creating a picturesque landscape.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Personal Space

Norwegians value personal space and may stand further apart during conversations; be mindful of this cultural norm.

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Norwegian culture, whether for meetings, social gatherings, or public transport.

Quietness in Public

Maintaining a moderate volume in public places is customary; loud conversations may be frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Fredrikstad is considered a safe city with low crime rates. Visitors should practice standard safety precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and securing personal belongings. In case of emergencies, the local emergency number is 112. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas at night and avoid isolated places.

Tipping in Fredrikstad

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Norway, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payment options like Vipps are popular for easy transactions.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures begin to warm up, flowers bloom, and outdoor activities become more popular. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the parks.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather and long daylight hours, making it perfect for outdoor festivals, beach visits, and enjoying local markets.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning foliage, especially in parks and nature reserves. It's also a great time for food festivals celebrating the harvest.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow can transform Fredrikstad into a winter wonderland, ideal for cozy indoor activities and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Fredrikstad at Night

Fredrikstad's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different crowds. Popular spots often feature live music or themed events. The waterfront area is particularly lively in summer, while cozy pubs offer a more relaxed atmosphere during colder months. Enjoy local beers and cocktails at trendy bars, or dance the night away in clubs featuring both local and international DJs.

Hiking in Fredrikstad

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kråkstadåsen Trail

A well-marked trail offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for both hiking and biking.

Sjømannsbyen Trail

This scenic trail runs along the coast, providing stunning views of the fjord and opportunities for bird watching.

Airports

How to reach Fredrikstad by plane.

Oslo Airport Gardermoen

Located about 90 kilometers from Fredrikstad, this is the main international airport serving the region, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Fredrikstad is quite walkable, especially in the Old Town, where cobbled streets and pedestrian-friendly areas make it easy to explore on foot. The city's layout encourages walking, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants within a comfortable distance. Public transportation is available for longer distances or if you prefer not to walk.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to Fredrikstad for job opportunities, contributing to a vibrant and diverse community.

Families

Many families reside in Fredrikstad, attracted by its safe environment, quality schools, and recreational facilities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Fredrikstad, with local teams playing in national leagues and a strong community following.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey enjoys popularity in the region, with local teams competing in various leagues and attracting dedicated fans.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Fredrikstad is generally manageable, with well-maintained roads and a reliable public transport system. Buses connect the city with surrounding areas efficiently. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, thanks to dedicated bike lanes. Parking can be limited in the city center, so using public transport or walking is often more convenient.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Fredrikstad.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free dishes are becoming more common, especially in larger restaurants, but it's best to ask when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Norway has an excellent healthcare system, and Fredrikstad is equipped with hospitals and clinics providing quality medical care. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 113. For non-emergency situations, visitors can visit local clinics, and many doctors speak English. Travelers should have adequate health insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Norway

Read more in our Norway 2025 Travel Guide.

Norway Travel Guide