The Old Town - Gamlebyen Fredrikstad

The star-shaped old town of Fredrikstad was founded in 1567 and is the best-preserved fortress town in Northern Europe. The town gives you a sense of history, but it is no museum – people live and work here. The quarter is home to many galleries, artisans and cosy shops, restaurants, and cafes.

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.

Kortevaren, the oldest shop, was established in 1939. It sells toys, kitchen utensils, soap, sewing items and handkerchiefs. If they don’t sell it, you don’t need it. Gamlebyen is renowned for its artists’ studios, from which you can buy everything from pottery and sculpture to textile art.