Sarpsborg was founded 1,000 years ago by Saint Olaf II of Norway, and is situated beside the Sarpefossen waterfall, which has one of the highest flow rates in Europe. The city has one of the country's coolest science centres for children - and the most days of sunshine of any place in Norway.

Ever since the ice receded and made the area liveable for humans, people have settled in Sarpsborg. But the city itself was founded by Saint Olaf when he sailed up Glomma, Norway's longest river, in 1016. The huge waterfall Sarpefossen halted his expedition and thus he chose the location as his capital.

Sarpefossen in Glomma has one of the highest flow rates in Europe, and has been characterised as "a masterpiece over the Norwegian Niagara falls". The power of the waterfall has always been appreciated, and from the 19th century, most of the urban development and activity in Sarpsborg was centred around the company Borregaard - today a world-leading bio-refinery.

Sarpsborg is located in the heart of Østfold, between Oslo on the west and the Swedish border on the east. Explore the city and the county's history at Borgarsyssel museum. Your should also take the trip to Kulåsparken in the heart of the city.

In addition to beautiful nature and good options in the city center with restaurants, culture and shopping, there is a historic buzz about the city. In fact, no municipality in the country has more registered ancient petroglyphs than Sarpsborg - 3000 years old.

Families with children will find a lot of good reasons to visit Sarpsborg. INSPIRIA is one of Norway's National Science Centres, and a place where visitors are encouraged to learn through interactive exhibitions in mathematics, science and technology. Or join the spectacular planetarium - an indoor starry sky! Outdoors they have a cool Pump Track for skateboards, bikes and scooters.

At "Eventyrfabrikken", The Adventure Factory, you are met by a suspension bridge, pipes you can crawl trough, ball pools, trampolines, pedal cars and jumping castles, and a whole lot of fun within 2000 square meters!

Get in-depth travel information and inspiration on Sarpsborg official website.

isarpsborg.com

Explore all the options below, or go directly to:
Things to do | Where to stay | Food and drink | Getting here and around

Things to do in Sarpsborg

From ancient rock carvings to exciting science and activity centres — there is a lot to discover!

Top activities

Jump sky high on a trampoline or keep your feet grounded at the golf course — find the activities for you.

Food and drink

Visit Sarpsborg oldest bakery or enjoy a light meal at a vegan café — get a taste of Sarpsborg.

Where to stay

From comfy hotels to cozy campsites — find your home away from home.

Getting here and around

Plan your trip to Sarpsborg with Entur.

Featured

Top attractions in Sarpsborg

The Bjørnstad Ship

The Bjørnstad ship Read more

The Bjørnstad Ship

INSPIRIA science center

A science centre is a popular scientific recreation and learning centre of technology, natural sciences and mathematics, where visitors are encouraged… Read more

INSPIRIA science center

Borgarsyssel Museum

Borgarsyssel Museum holds an extensive collection of artifacts and old objects from different periods of time. In addition there are about 20 old… Read more

Borgarsyssel Museum

Kjerringåsen Alpincentre

Kjerringåsen is the largest down hill skiing area in Østfold. Read more

Kjerringåsen Alpincentre

Sarpefossen

The waterfall is about 23 meters , and the flow of water is immense, coming from Norway's largest river Glomma. There are three power stations in… Read more

Sarpefossen

Kulås park

Kulås parken is situated in the center of town. Read more

Kulås park

Hafslund Manor

Hafslund Manor is one of the most beautiful manors in Norway. It has traditionally teemed with activity: farming, forestry, sawmills powered by… Read more

Hafslund Manor

Svev Trampoline Park

Welcome to Svev Trampolinepark Sarpsborg! With its 2800 square meters, this is one of the largest trampoline parks in Norway. In Sarpsborg you… Read more

Svev Trampoline Park

Soli Brug

Visit Soli Brug and meet the family Dørje-Berg. Read more

Soli Brug

Skjeberg Golfklubb

An 18- hole golf course with lush fairways surrounded by small ponds and beautiful greens. Read more

Skjeberg Golfklubb

Borregaard Golf Club

A 9-hole golf course placed in the idyllic surrondigs of the Glomma River. Read more

Borregaard Golf Club

Destinations in Eastern Norway

Read more about Eastern Norway

Asker, Bærum and Drammen

West of Oslo you’ll find Asker, Bærum and Drammen; famous for world-class art, white beaches and the city of Drammen is also referred to… Read more

Asker, Bærum and Drammen

People cross-country skiing in the forest at Bjorli, Lesja, Eastern Norway

Bjorli and Lesja

Itching to put on those skis? Enjoy long, snowsure winters in Bjorli and Lesja! In the summertime, you can hike, bike, ride, and fish in 250 lakes and… Read more

Bjorli and Lesja

Two people paddling on Lake Femunden in Eastern Norway

Femund Engerdal

More and more visitors come for the peace and quietness by more than 900 lakes, just interrupted by folk music and wild animals. Read more

Femund Engerdal

Flå

Explore nature in a lush mountain valley, enjoy the view from the mountains, and get in close contact with wild animals such as bears, lynx, and moose… Read more

Flå

The historical Oscarsborg fortress in Drøbak

Follo

A 20-minute drive from Oslo takes you to Follo, a region full of fun and excitement. Here, you can scream on the thrilling rides at TusenFryd, visit a… Read more

Follo

A family is buying shellfish at Skjærhalden fiskemottak, Eastern Norway

Fredrikstad

Fredrikstad is a cosy city with deep historical roots and it’s home to one of the best-preserved fortress towns in Scandinavia. Just west… Read more

Fredrikstad

Four kids taking a break on a mountain hike in Gol in Hallingdal, Eastern Norway

Gol

In the village of Gol in Hallingdal, you’ll find both tranquil nature experiences and action-packed adventures for the whole family – all… Read more

Gol

Langøytangen lighthouse on the island of Langøya in Langesund

Grenland

Home to Norway’s largest outdoor climbing park, the Telemark canal, and a wealth of interesting museums, Grenland offers a blend of cultural and… Read more

Grenland

Hadeland and Ringerike

Being on the list of nationally valuable cultural landscapes, Hadeland and Ringerike can offer some of Norway’s most visited museums and… Read more

Hadeland and Ringerike

Halden

Halden is an idyllic small town nestled down by the Iddefjord, just on the border of Sweden. Above the town looms the mighty Fredriksten Fortress. Read more

Halden

Hallingdal

The Hallingdal valley is shaped like a big smile across south-east Norway, with high mountains, family parks and fun activities for people of all… Read more

Hallingdal

Hemsedal

The winter wonderland of Hemsedal has been named Norway’s best ski resort for a number of years because of its perfectly groomed slopes, cool… Read more

Hemsedal

Holmestrand

Hiking opportunities all year round, kayaking on silent lakes, and the chance to learn about Norway’s rich industrial heritage. Enjoy… Read more

Holmestrand

A boat drives in a leisurely pace in the Hortenkanalen canal in Horten in Vestfold, Eastern Norway

Horten and Åsgårdstrand

The charming seaside towns of Horten and Åsgårdstrand are rich in history and culture, and offer beautiful coastal and inland nature.… Read more

Horten and Åsgårdstrand

Inner Østfold

The area between Oslo and the Swedish border offers unspoilt nature, excellent fishing spots, and the Halden canal, which is the oldest… Read more

Inner Østfold

Two women meditation in the Finnskogen forest in Hedmark county

Kongsvinger and Elverum

It's extensive forest and a host of walking, hunting and fishing options right on your doorstep make Elverum and Kongsvinger well worth a visit… Read more

Kongsvinger and Elverum

Kragerø

The charming little coastal town of Kragerø is set in beautiful surroundings in Eastern Norway. Discover a fabulous cluster of islands in… Read more

Kragerø

Svenner, one of many lighthouses in Norway open for overnight stays

Larvik and Stavern

Looking for sun, summer and festivals? But also history and scenic surroundings? Then Larvik and Stavern is the place for you! You are guaranteed to… Read more

Larvik and Stavern

Moss

Choose between 50 different beaches or try the city's new pride: the diving tower! Discover historical Refsnes Gods or Gallery F 15, one of… Read more

Moss

Nesbyen

In family-friendly Nesbyen, you are always close to nature, whether skiing, hiking, biking or splashing on the beach in your bathing suit. Read more

Nesbyen

Norefjell

The mountains at Norefjell, just 90 minutes from Oslo, offer peaceful nature with a grand view. In winter, you can go skiing and snowboarding –… Read more

Norefjell

Setting sun in the Hardangervidda national park

Numedal

In Numedal the main attractions are the mountain heights, but with stave churches and medieval roots you can also get a unique glimpse of Norwegian… Read more

Numedal

Oslo

Welcome to the new capital of Nordic cool! Get all our tips on top things to see and do in Oslo, including major attractions like MUNCH and the… Read more

Oslo

Rauland

Enjoy an active holiday in the charming mountain village of Rauland by the foot of the Hardangervidda mountain plateau. Read more

Rauland

Rjukan

Rjukan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located close to the Hardangervidda National Park. The area is known for Gaustatoppen mountain peak and the… Read more

Rjukan

Romerike

Romerike offers unique accommodation and exciting activities. Here, you can visit the historic birthplace of the constitution, ski indoors, or indulge… Read more

Romerike

Sandefjord

Sandefjord boasts miles of coastline, as well as a rich historical heritage. Vikings have left their mark here, as has the whaling industry. Read more

Sandefjord

Savalen

Savalen is a village situated by the lake of the same name - and a sought after holiday destination for people searching recreation and nature-based… Read more

Savalen

Skeikampen

The mountains at Skeikampen have been a popular recreation area for generations. Cruise down a slope, hike up a mountain, or simply lean back and… Read more

Skeikampen

Telemark

From summer adventures in the coastal town of Kragerø to skiing in powder snow from Gaustatoppen. Experience magnificent nature, exciting… Read more

Telemark

A musk ox coming up a hill during summer in Dovrefjell, Eastern Norway

The Dovrefjell mountains

Step into the kingdom of the mythical musk oxen. Go hiking, biking, and horseback riding or visit the award-winning Viewpoint Snøhetta. Read more

The Dovrefjell mountains

Plan your trip to the Gjøvik region in Eastern Norway and go cycling along Lake Mjøsa

The Gjøvik region and Ringsaker

Enjoy the good life in the countryside! Toten, Søndre Land, Ringsaker and Gjøvik offer wonderful local food, a rich cultural life, and… Read more

The Gjøvik region and Ringsaker

Gudbrandsdalen valley

Gudbrandsdalen is known for its lush nature, local food and fun family activities. The area boasts three national parks and offers great opportunities… Read more

Gudbrandsdalen valley

Hamar

Get to know this charming, medium-sized city on the banks of Mjøsa, Norway’s largest lake. Experience a rich cultural life and one of the… Read more

Hamar

Jotunheimen

Jotunheimen is a massive mountain area in Eastern Norway, home to Norway’s two highest mountains, Galdhøpiggen and Glittertind. Other… Read more

Jotunheimen

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is located in the lush Gudbrandsdalen valley in Eastern Norway and offers a mix of culture, family fun, and outdoor activities. Read more

Lillehammer

A woman taking photos of a lake and trees in autumn colours in the Rondane national park, Eastern Norway. Snowclad mountains in the background.

Rondane mountains

At once tranquil and sublime, Rondane national park is an ideal place to experience the mountains and highlands of Eastern Norway. Read more

Rondane mountains

Tønsberg and Færder

From the Vikings to the tourists of today, people have always flocked to Tønsberg, Norway's oldest city. Located about an hour's… Read more

Tønsberg and Færder

Valdres

According to National Geographic, the Besseggen ridge is one of the top 20 hikes in the world. Not surprisingly, it’s located in Valdres –… Read more

Valdres

Vestfold

Vestfold’s coastline has an extensive cultural history. The region by the Oslofjord has played a central role in Norwegian history as a hub for… Read more

Vestfold

Vrådal

Vrådal is a small village in the midst of the county of Telemark and can tempt you with royal mountains, lush forests, and quiet lakes, not to… Read more

Vrådal

A person skiing in the Geilo ski resort, Eastern Norway

Winter in Geilo

Geilo is one of the first alpine resorts in Norway and offers fantastic winter outdoor adventures, from alpine and cross-country skiing to… Read more

Winter in Geilo

Overview of Trysil and the Trysil Ski Resort in Eastern Norway in winter

Winter in Trysil

Family-friendly Trysil is Norway’s largest ski destination. Surrounded by unspoilt nature, Trysil was one of the first holiday spots in Europe… Read more

Winter in Trysil

People biking on a gravel road in Ål in Hemsedal, Eastern Norway

Ål

Bring your kids to Hallingdal feriepark, go mountain biking on some of the country’s best tracks, or walk through the mountains in search of… Read more

Ål

A girl walking in a garden on the island Isegran in Fredrikstad, Eastern Norway

Østfold

Between Oslo and the Swedish border, you’ll find Østfold – a region full of cultural cities and idyllic seaside experiences. Read more

Østfold

Show Map

Show Details

Statens Kartverk, Geovekst og kommuner - Geodata AS

By road

There are daily bus departures between Oslo and Sarpsborg.

Ad: Vy express - travel with bus throughout Norway

The motorway, E6, passes through Sarpsborg, so getting here by car is easy. Travel time from Oslo is about one hour.

Ad: AutoEurope - always a smooth rental experience
By train

The Østfold railway runs between Oslo and Fredrikstad via Sarpsborg several times a day. The journey from Oslo to Sarpsborg takes about one and a half hour.

Ad: Check out Vy's webpage for prices and timetables.
By plane

Oslo Airport is situated 134 kilometers north of Sarpsborg, and from there you can take an express train or bus to Oslo Central Station (Oslo S ). From Oslo you can reach Sarpsborg by train or bus.

Ad: Widerøe - the largest regional airline in Scandinavia

Dynamic Variation:

Accommodation

Getting Here & Around

Tours & Round trips

Offers

Plan your trip to Sarpsborg

Things to do in Sarpsborg

Top activities

Food and drink

Where to stay

Getting here and around

By road

By train

By plane

Sarpsborg also offers …

Categories

Sub-Categories

Regions

Details

General

Accessibility

Age limit

Discount

Effort level

Landscape

Price range

Season

Accommodation

Camping

Hotel facilities

In-room facilities

Ski resorts

Outdoor Activities

Activities

Alpine Skiing

Biking

Canoeing & kayaking

Cross-country skiing

Fishing

Hiking

Wildlife safaries

Winter activities

Plan Your Trip

Getting here

Services

Taste Norway

Norwegian cuisine

Pubs & Bars

Restaurant & café

Things To Do

Activities

Activities for kids

Beaches

Shopping

Theme park

Categories

Sub-Categories

Regions