The fjord towns within easy striking distance of Oslo are filled with history and rich in the lore of the area's Viking past. You can explore the east or west side of the Oslofjord. With time for only one, we suggest the historic east side, centering around Fredrikstad and Halden.
Stretching for 100km (62 miles), Oslofjord is Oslo's link to the open sea. Touring the fjord's western and eastern banks is richly rewarding. The eastern shore also has many beaches with fine sands frequented by Oslovians in summer, especially in July. Even then, however, the waters may be too cold for you if you come from hotter climes than Norway. The western side of the fjord was the site of several Viking settlements, and some of their remains or ruins can be seen today.
