Welcome to The Fortified Town

Gamlebyen is one of Northern Europe’s real treasures. In well-preserved buildings and along cobbled streets you will find a blend of everyday life, art, history, quaint shops, museums, galleries, theatres and charming cafés. People have shopped here since 1640! The shops are open all year, also Sundays. There is a weekend flea market and a Christmas market at weekends before Christmas. Every season in the Old Town has its charm and rewards your visit.

Gamlebyen has a busy and varied calendar of concerts and festivals. And is brim-full with history. A stroll in its streets carries you back several centuries.

The star-shaped defence walls around the town are perfect for picnics and strolls and for slowing your pulse. Gamlebyen is a living part of Fredrikstad, with good food, attractive shops and a unique atmosphere.

Gamlebyen is renowned for its artists’ studios, from which you can buy everything from pottery and sculpture to textile art.