Things to see and do Fredrikstad

Norway's most famous explorer was born in Tomta, on the banks of the river that runs through Fredrikstad. Roald Amundsen, who mapped out the Northwest Route, i.e. the route over the American continent, was also the first to reach the South Pole. He died trying to rescue another explorer, Nobile, trapped in the Arctic ice. Here you can read about his life and the fascinating number of records and discoveries Amundsen made.

A museum that deals with the history of the city, but also temporary art exhibitions according to the seasons. Free Internet connection throughout the museum. Fun activities are offered, such as making a miniature reproduction of the city out of cardamom and icing sugar shortbread in winter (for the snow!). It's also an opportunity for a nice walk through the old town and to take shelter in case of rain!

The Fredrikstad fortress is the only one in the country still standing with ramparts. Built between 1663 and 1666 by Willem Coucheron and his son Anthony Coucheron on the orders of the Danish-Norwegian King Frederik II, it is modelled on Dutch fortresses and features a wide moat which, curiously, forms a half-star shape around the old town. It was only attacked once, in 1814, during the war between Sweden and Norway.

Dating from 1537, when it was built by King Frederick II, it is the most beautiful walled city in Norway. A few hundred people are still lucky enough to live within its walls, where the cobbled streets give way to charming cafés and restaurants where you can relax for a while. It's good to walk along the waterfront to see the boats moored at the pontoons and the weather is often good for a picnic near the seagulls or on a bench surrounded by colourful houses.