Norsk
Just an hour from Oslo, the twin destination of Fredrikstad and Hvaler offers the perfect mix of city life and coastal tranquility. Here, cobbled streets meet salty sea breeze, and history blends naturally with modern life.
In Fredrikstad, the river Glomma divides two worlds: the modern city centre on the west, with its lively waterfront lined with cafés and restaurants, and the Fortress Town (Gamlebyen) on the east bank – Northern Europe’s best-preserved fortified town. Within its historic walls you’ll find a charming mix of cobbled streets, small wooden houses, galleries, cafés, museums and local craftsmanship. The Old Town is a living museum where people still live, work and create every day.
Out in the Hvaler archipelago, Norway’s first Marine National Park awaits. With more than 800 islands and skerries, this is a paradise for island hopping, kayaking, diving, hiking or simply relaxing by the sea. The region enjoys some of the country’s highest number of sunshine hours, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers in all seasons. On the main islands you can explore art galleries, open gardens, local food producers and cosy seaside restaurants serving freshly caught seafood.
Together, Fredrikstad and Hvaler form a destination full of contrasts – lively yet peaceful, historic yet creative, urban yet close to nature. Whether you come for a weekend by the river, a cultural walk through cobbled streets, or a summer adventure among the islands, this is a place that welcomes you all year round.
Attractions and activities for groups and FIT's
The Hvaler Archipelago – An Island Paradise
With its 833 islands and skerries this archipelago is truly a paradise
From cobbled streets to carved rocks
On this three hour tour we travel 3000 thousand years back in time
The History comes alive
Meet Karen the Ale Brewer, who lived, loved and suffered in the Fortress Town in the 18th century
A stroll in the fortress town
The star shaped ancient city of Fredrikstad, founded in 1567, is the best-preserved fortified town in Northern Europe
Maritime walk
Visit Isegran – a beautiful coastal culture island in the heart of Fredrikstad
A walk in Munch’s footsteps
A walk in Munch’s footsteps – mainly along the river in Fredrikstad city center.
Accommodation to suit you
From large hotels to your own lighthouse, Fredrikstad and Hvaler have the accommodation to suit your needs.
Gamlebyen Hotel
Gamlebyen Hotell Fredrikstad is a small gem of a hotel with a great location in the Old Town, surrounded by beautiful nature and historic buildings.
Hankø Hotel & Spa
South east of the Oslo fjord, about an hour’s drive from Oslo and 15 minutes from Fredrikstad, is one of Norway’s most beautiful islands, Hankø.
Homlungen Lighthouse | Skjærhalden | Hvaler
Homlungen lighthouse is idyllically located on its own islet outside Skjærhalden on Kirkøy, Hvaler.
Strømtangen lighthouse
Stay in your own lighthouse at Strømtangen. Accommodation takes place in the lighthouse itself and in an annex next door and is suitable for families…
Aktivitetsbyen – Fredrikstad Motel & Camping
Accommodation and activities right by the Old Town, the best-preserved fortified town in the Nordics. Idyllic, rural and historic surroundings with a short distance to…
Quality Hotel Fredrikstad
Quality Hotel in Fredrikstad is a beautiful and modern hotel right in the center of Fredrikstad.
Scandic City Hotel Fredrikstad
Scandic City Hotel is Fredrikstad’s most venerable and traditional hotel, restaurant and experience house. With its perfect location in the middle of the city’s business…
Hvaler Gjestgiveri
Guest house on the Hvaler Islands.