Things To Do
in Fredrikstad
Fredrikstad is a charming coastal city in southeastern Norway, known for its exceptionally well-preserved fortified Old Town (Gamlebyen) and lively riverfront. The city sits at the mouth of the Glomma River and blends maritime history with a contemporary cultural scene of galleries, festivals and cafés. Its compact center, islands and nearby archipelago make it an excellent base for day trips to coastal hiking, boating and seafood dining.
Fredrikstad is easy to reach from Oslo and offers a relaxed, walkable atmosphere with strong local identity and seasonal outdoor life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the charming Old Town of Fredrikstad, where you can enjoy traditional Norwegian pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the cobblestone streets, admiring the well-preserved wooden houses that date back to the 17th century. Don’t forget to visit the Fredrikstad Fortress, an impressive star-shaped fortress that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Spend your afternoon exploring the various art galleries and boutique shops scattered throughout the Old Town. Make your way to the city's cultural center, where you can experience local art exhibits and possibly catch a live performance or workshop. For lunch, indulge in a meal at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the river, sampling fresh seafood and local delicacies.
As the sun sets, head to one of the vibrant bars or restaurants along the waterfront to enjoy a relaxing dinner. Savor traditional dishes paired with local craft beers or wines while watching the boats glide by on the river. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, soaking in the serene atmosphere and the twinkling lights reflecting off the water.
Begin your day at the Østfold Art Center, where you can explore contemporary art exhibitions featuring both local and international artists. Participate in a guided tour to gain insights into the various artistic movements represented in the exhibits. Following your visit, enjoy a coffee break at the center’s café, which often showcases works by local artisans.
In the afternoon, visit the Isegran Island, a historical site that once served as a shipbuilding yard. Wander through the ruins and enjoy the scenic views of the river, then head to the museum on the island to learn about its fascinating history. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the grassy banks, surrounded by nature and the sounds of water lapping against the shore.
For dinner, choose a cozy restaurant in the Old Town specializing in local cuisine. Afterward, immerse yourself in the local music scene by attending a concert at one of Fredrikstad's popular venues, where you can enjoy live performances by both established and emerging artists. Wind down your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, discussing the art and music you experienced throughout the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍺Beer (local, pub) | $7-10 |
| 🚕Taxi start / short ride | $8-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (double, per night) | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful, well-preserved Old Town with cultural charm
- Easy access to coastal nature, islands and boating
- Walkable center with good local food and relaxed atmosphere
- Close to Oslo for convenient day-trips or onward travel
- Seasonal businesses and services may be limited in winter
- Accommodation and dining can be pricier than inland destinations
- Weather can change quickly, affecting outdoor plans
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with larger Norwegian cities
- "Hei" - Hi / Hello
- "Takk" - Thanks
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Hvor er ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Snakker du engelsk?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Fredrikstad
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled streets, colorful wooden houses and fortress ramparts create classic, picturesque shots — best in the soft morning or golden-hour light.
Reflections, moored boats and riverside cafes provide dynamic urban and maritime images, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Small island with historic buildings, sea views and framing opportunities of the bridge and harbor.
Rocky skerries, lighthouses and open sea offer dramatic coastal landscapes — ideal for wide-angle shots and long exposures.
Views from the ramparts capture the Old Town layout and surrounding waterways with warm evening light.
Food in Fredrikstad
Fredrikstad Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh cold shrimp served with mayo, lemon and bread — widely available at fishmongers and casual eateries along the quay.
Must-Try!
A Norwegian staple made from white fish, often served with potatoes and vegetables; find them at traditional cafés and lunch spots.
Locally smoked salmon is common on menus; try it at seafood restaurants or brought home from local fish markets.
A sweet, caramelized whey cheese served on bread or waffles — available in bakeries and grocery stores everywhere.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets and fish stalls near the quay and in Gamlebyen offer fresh shrimp, salmon, cured fish and local produce — ideal for a quick seafood lunch or picnic.
During summer and festival weekends you’ll find street vendors selling grilled fish, hot dogs (pølse) and waffles; try a freshly made waffle with jam and sour cream.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Being on time is important for appointments, tours and social plans — Norwegians value punctuality and reliability.
Respect personal space and maintain a low voice in public transport and indoor spaces; avoid loud, attention-seeking behavior.
It’s common to remove shoes when entering private homes; follow the host’s cues and bring clean socks if visiting.
Norwegians are environmentally conscious: recycle when possible, avoid littering and follow marked trails to protect nature.
Safety
Tipping in Fredrikstad
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Norway is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants and taxis. Many Norwegians do not tip for casual coffee or quick purchases.
Cards are widely accepted everywhere — contactless and mobile payments are common. Cash is rarely needed, but keep small bills for remote stalls; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather and budding greenery make it pleasant for walks and cycling; ferry and boat services resume more regularly. Bring layered clothing — mornings can be cool and breezy.
Warmest, sunniest time with long daylight hours, festivals and active coastal life; ideal for island-hopping, swimming and outdoor dining. Expect crowded weekends in Gamlebyen and book accommodations in advance.
Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage along trails; good time for hiking, photography and quieter city experiences. Rain increases, so waterproof gear is recommended.
Cold with occasional snow and short daylight; atmospheric Old Town scenes and quieter attractions. Dress warmly and be prepared for icy sidewalks and reduced boat schedules.
Fredrikstad at Night
Hiking in Fredrikstad
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal paths across the Hvaler islands offer rocky shoreline hikes, lighthouse viewpoints and opportunities to combine hiking with swimming and boat access.
A long-distance trail network through Østfold with accessible sections near Fredrikstad for half-day or full-day hikes across varied landscapes.
Nearby peninsulas and nature areas provide shorter ridge and coastal walks with panoramic views over the fjord and skerries.
Trails along the Glomma River and nearby woodlands are suitable for gentle walks, birdwatching and family outings year-round.
Airports
How to reach Fredrikstad by plane.
Main international airport serving Oslo, about 1–1.5 hours by car or train to Fredrikstad; best option for most international arrivals with regular trains and shuttle services.
Secondary airport used by some low-cost and regional carriers; roughly 1–1.5 hours drive to Fredrikstad depending on route and transport options.
Located relatively close across the fjord; service varies by season and airline — check current schedules. Road connections and ferries can link Moss and Fredrikstad.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with roots in the Østfold region; community-oriented with interest in local history and outdoor life.
Many residents commute to Oslo or larger nearby towns, and Fredrikstad attracts families seeking a coastal lifestyle with good schools and amenities.
Summer brings tourists, boaters and day-trippers from Oslo and abroad, boosting activity in the Old Town and coastal areas.
Small but growing international community of expatriates, students and professionals who work in regional industries or commute to Oslo.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular spectator and participation sport; local clubs and youth teams are active and matches are community events.
Ice hockey has a following in the region with local clubs and seasonal play in indoor rinks.
In winter, cross-country skiing is popular in nearby trails and parks; hiking, cycling and water sports dominate warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fredrikstad.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in cafés and modern restaurants — expect vegetable-focused dishes, salads, soups and grain bowls. Inform staff of preferences; many places can adapt dishes, but traditional fare is often fish-forward.
Vegan choices are increasing in larger cafés and newer eateries; supermarkets carry plant-based milks and alternatives. Notify restaurants in advance for better options, especially in smaller towns.
Most restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests; Norwegian bakeries also commonly offer gluten-free items, though selection varies. Look for gluten-free labeling in menus or ask staff.