Fredrikstad, Norway

Bridge across the River Glomma in Fredrikstad, Norway
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Fredrikstad_BridgeacrossGlomma01.JPG
Author: Chris Nyborg


Fredrikstad is a city in Østfold county which is on the southeastern tip of Norway. The city covers 285.9 sq km (110.4 sq mi) and has a population of 73,000 (2011 estimate). It straddles the river Glomma at its mouth to the Skagerrak strait.

Fredrikstad was founded by King Frederik II in 1567. It was established to replace an older town, Sarpsborg, located on the east bank of the Glomma. Sarpsborg was destroyed by the Swedes during the Northern Seven Years' War (1563-70), and its initial population comprised refugees from the destroyed Sarpsborg.

Fredrikstad Cathedral
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Fredrikstad_Cathedral01.JPG
Author: Chris Nyborg


Half the remaining population of Sarpsborg decided to remain where they were to rebuilt their town, while the balance crossed to the west side of the Glomma river to populate Fredrikstad. The two cities were finally reunited in 2008, and the merged Fredrikstad/Sarpsborg, with a population of 123,000, is the fifth largest city in Norway.

Visiting Fredrikstad

The most practical option to reach Fredrikstad is by flight to Moss Airport in Rygge (RYG). The airport is served by Ryanair with flights from London Gatwick, London Stansted and a number of other cities in Europe. Arriving here, take the Flybussekspressen bus to Sarpsborg (20 minutes away) and Fredrikstad (30 minutes away).

Sights & Attractions in Fredrikstad

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