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5 Best Things to Do in Fredrikstad
Written by Shriniketh on July 16, 2020 Share on

5 Best Things to Do in Fredrikstad On Your Norway Vacation

There is always something to do in top tourist destinations, and the same is the case with Fredrikstad – you always have things to do in Fredrikstad. Norway, located in Europe, is one of the Scandinavian countries. Norway is the dream destination for many travellers across the globe. Considered one of the safest cities to live and travel, Norway provides compelling reasons on why it is a top tourist destination. People not only from Europe but across the whole globe love Norway for many reasons. This country is a boon for travellers. This is because there is so much to see and experience in every nook and corner of this country. Although there is only one thing you can never experience in a Norway trip – boredom! Every city and town of Norway is a unique experience in itself.

Fredrikstad; things to do in Fredrikstad
Image credits: Wikimedia

Though there are top cities like Oslo, Tromso, Bergen, etc. the true charm lies in the offbeat locations of Norway. And one such charming place is Fredrikstad. This city was born in the 16th century and is Norway’s first Renaissance city. The city is heavily fortified. This is because this city once served as the bulwark against the Swedes. So the city and the old town carry historical significance. This city lies on the southern side of the Oslo fjord. Hence, this city is one of the brightest and sunniest in Norway. There are so many things to do in Fredrikstad, that you’d adore this place!

5 Top Things to do in Fredrikstad

  1. Gamlebyen (Old Town)
  2. Isegran
  3. Old Town Model Train Centre
  4. Kongsten Fort
  5. Hankø Island

1. Gamlebyen (Old Town)

Gamlebyen, the Old Town, is an amazingly cute and compact settlement in the city. The settlements date back to 1657, one of the oldest in this city. The old town is fortified to the west side of the river bank. One of the key highlights of this place is the star-shaped structure. It was designed by a Dutch engineer. Over 350 people live in the cobblestone lanes within the fortified enclosures. This place is quite lively, especially at the weekends. Head out to listen to some lovely live music and concerts in the middle of the Old Town. There is no place other than the Old Town to embrace the culture of this city. The locals are quite warm and welcoming, making you feel at home. Also, not to forget the authentic cafes that enhance this place further!

Also Read: Best things to do in Oslo – Your Most Awaited Trip of the Year!

2. Isegran

River Glomma is one of the spectacular sights in this city. And in the mouth of that lies a stunning island, fortified dating back to the 13th century. Isegran is a calm and serene place for anyone looking to escape the bustling nature of cities. This place was once used as docks for ships. Now, there is a school which teaches the art of boatbuilding. And this is the only school in Norway which teaches that. You can also visit the famous maritime museum, which has amazing and interesting artefacts. Last but not the least, the cafes in and around the museum are very famous and renowned. Enjoy a hot coffee while you are enjoying a piece of history of Norway!

Isegran fort; things to do in Fredrikstad
Image credits: Wikimedia

Also Read: 21 Places to see the Northern Lights in the world

3. Old Town Model Train Centre

Old Town Model Train Centre is a truly fascinating place to visit in the city. This place is open only during the weekends, so that is something you will have to plan around. This has the largest model railway exhibit in the whole of Scandinavia. With over 400 square metres in size, two kilometres of track, and 35 locomotives, this miniature landscape is a sight to behold. This place is a must-visit for families travelling with kids. The miniature landscape is something that will keep the children hooked for a very long time! But it is not that adults wouldn’t enjoy this place. The trains here are computer operated and have a control centre within the centre itself. One of the most recommended and fun activity in Fredrikstad!

Also Read: These Best Things to Do in Tromso are sure to mesmerise the traveller

4. Kongsten Fort

Kongsten Fort is one of the forts which possessed brilliant strategical importance during the 16th-17th century. The location of the fort is an absolute strategic win for the Norwegians. It is a freestanding fortress to link to a hidden path in the Olden town. This place is now open for the visitors to check out and admire. Not to forget, this place is also rented for events like marriages and parties, which has garnered a lot of public interest. This fort was built in 1685. To commemorate the 300th anniversary of this fort, a postage stamp was released by the Norwegian government. You could truly understand the significance this place possesses only when you visit it!

 Kongsten Fort.
Image credits: Wikimedia

Also Read: Drop-dead gorgeous places in Norway to fall in love with

5. Hankø Island

No trip is complete without adding an adventurous flavour to it. Fret not, as there are adventurous things to do in Fredrikstad as well! Hanko Island is the hub for such activities. What used to be the hunting ground in the past for the Manors, is now an extraordinary place for hiking. King Olav V built a holiday home in the Hankø Island in 1930, which further fueled its popularity. You can get a ferry from the city to reach this island. And it is quite accessible as the ferries are frequent. Hiking the  Hankø Fjordhotell & Spa is a major attraction here. It was once reserved only for the elite Norwegians. Hence, you get to experience the finest of finest in the Hanko Island. Visiting Hankø Island will add the much-needed variety to your vacation!

Also Read: Norway Visa For Indians: Here’s How You Can Apply For Visa Hassle-Free

Suur-Pakri pankrannik
Image credits: Wikimedia

Sometimes, what makes a vacation complete is getting to the lesser-known path and experiencing the unknown. This gets only better when the unknown place is Fredrikstad. Trust travel experts of Pickyourtrail to curate you an amazing Norway itinerary through their Norway tour packages. What are you waiting? Explore the unknown to awaken your soul by travelling to the dream destination – Norway!

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