2 Best Sights in Halden, Oslofjord

Built in the late 1600s to keep out Swedish invaders, this star-shape fortress sits at the city’s highest point. The exhibit in the former prison describes its involvements in international conflicts from the 17th century to World War II. An old pharmacy illustrates the history of pharmacology, including the use of bird claws in folk medicine. At the far end of the inner courtyard, the bakery could once bake enough bread to feed 5,000 men, while the brewery could easily keep their thirsts quenched with 3,000 liters of beer. If all this makes you feel hungry, stop by Fredriksten Kro, an old-fashioned pub with outdoor seating.

Rød Herregård (Red Manor House) is one of the finest and best-preserved 18th-century manors in Norway. A restored building houses period furniture, artwork, and an amazing display of stuffed-animal hunting trophies. An impressive Baroque garden and an English garden surround the manor on the edge of the fjord. The house has a unique weapons collection, as well as a café and a gallery that are only open in the summer. Guided tours are offered three times a day May to September.