Drammen Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Drammen, Norway, and plan your itinerary with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Drammen

Nestled in the heart of Buskerud County, in eastern Norway, is the charming city of Drammen. Drammen boasts a rich culture and a long history dating back to the Viking era. Today, it serves as a melting pot of modernity and tradition, where visitors can explore heritage sites and landmarks, enjoy outdoor adventures, sample delicious traditional foods, and more. Here is your comprehensive guide to all things Drammen:

List of Places to Visit in Drammen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Drammen Museum: This museum showcases exhibitions that focus on Drammen’s history and cultural heritage. The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts, including Viking-era artifacts, folk culture, and items from Drammen’s industrial past.
  • Øvre Sund Park: This park is home to one of the largest preserved urban areas in Norway and is a representation of Drammen’s growth during the 19th-century wooden architecture period. It features neatly preserved townhouses with wooden facades and ironwork.
  • Mjøndalen Museum: Mjøndalen Museum offers a glimpse into the history of Mjøndalen, a neighboring town to Drammen. The museum has a wide range of exhibitions about the town’s inhabitants, family life and local industry.

Natural Attractions of Drammen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Drammensmarka: An outdoor adventure haven, Drammensmarka is located on the outskirts of the city. It comprises vast forested areas, rugged coastal landscapes, scenic hiking trails, and cross-country skiing trails.
  • Spiralen: Spiralen is a winding road that leads to the top of a hill from which you can get a panoramic view of the city’s surroundings.
  • Vikersundbakken: This ski jumping hill has hosted many international skiing competitions. Visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surroundings during the off-season.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Drammen

Drammen has a well-developed network of hiking and biking trails, which is an excellent option for those who crave outdoor activities. There are several hiking and biking trails located near the city. These include

  • Bragernesåsen: Located on the outskirts of Drammen, Bragernesåsen has an extensive network of trails that are perfect for Nordic-skiers, hikers, and mountain bikers.
  • Randsfjordleden: Randsfjordleden is a 122km trail that passes through Drammen, situated near the banks of Lake Tyrifjorden.
  • Kjekstadmarka: Kjekstadmarka has a range of scenic trails that are perfect for hiking and mountain biking.

Best Things to Do in Drammen: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Union Scene: The Union Scene is a cultural center that hosts concerts, events, and theatrical performances throughout the year. It is a great place to experience Drammen’s vibrant arts scene.
  • Explore the Bragernes Centre: This is Drammen’s largest shopping center, where locals and visitors can find high street brands, local vendors, and bars.
  • Cruise along the Drammen River: A breathtaking way to take in the city’s beauty is to take a boat trip along the Drammen River. Visitors can enjoy a buffet lunch with a guide pointing out the landmarks along the way.

Week-Long Itinerary for Drammen

Day 1: Spend the first day exploring the city center and visiting cultural landmarks, such as the Drammen Museum and Øvre Sund Park.

Day 2: Take a bike tour of Bragernesåsen and explore the surrounding forests and the scenic vista.

Day 3: Visit the bustling Union Scene, where you can attend concerts and cultural events in any season.

Day 4: Enjoy a guided Boat trip along the Drammen River.

Day 5: Spend your day at the Vikersundbakken Ski Jump and witness an adrenaline-fueled winter sports competition.

Day 6: Take a day trip to Oslo and visit some of the local attractions there.

Day 7: End your trip by having a picnic and enjoying a scenic hike in Drammensmarka.

Food and Drink Scene of Drammen

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rakfisk: Rakfisk is a local dish comprising fermented fish that is served with rye bread, butter, and boiled potatoes; it may have an acquired taste, but locals love it!
  • Flesk og Duve: This hearty dish is made of boiled potatoes and pork belly served with melted sweet brown sauce.
  • Kjøttkaker: Kjøttkaker is a meatball that is a popular delicacy in Drammen. It is served with potatoes softened by cream sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Aass Bryggeri: Aass Brewery is a popular local brewer in Drammen that produces a wide variety of beers, such as classic Pilsner, Porter, and Amber brews.

Where to Stay in Drammen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Drammen boasts a wide range of accommodation options for visitors. Here are some of the top-rated establishments:

  • Comfort Hotel Union Brygge: This modern 3-star hotel is located in central Drammen and has an impressive view of the river and surrounding hills.
  • Yess Hotel: Yess Hotel is situated near the city center and boasts a fitness center, spa, and sauna.
  • Scandic Park: Scandic Park is a 4-star hotel located in Stroemmen, a neighborhood on the outskirts of the city with a more peaceful vibe.

What to Buy in Drammen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ullvarefabrikk: This wool products store sells handmade woolen clothing that is warm and comfortable for those icy winter nights in Norway.
  • Syrin Interiør: Syrin Interiør offers an exclusive range of interior decoration and home decor products with a Nordic touch.
  • Handverkstepper: Handverkstepper is the perfect place to buy woollen handmade carpets and mats.

Local Culture and Customs of Drammen

Drammen is known for its vibrant nightlife, a love for their Viking history, and a hearty appetite for traditional dishes. While exploring the city, remember to respect local customs and dress appropriately. If you’re visiting during winter, it’s essential to prepare for the cold weather, and always check weather conditions before hiking in Drammensmarka.

Best Time to Visit Drammen

The best time to visit Drammen is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is mild, and there is abundant greenery. However, Drammen is a year-round destination, and winter visitors can enjoy skiing, hiking, and cultural events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Drammen

Do:

  • Do prepare for the weather conditions, especially during winter.

  • Do prepare for unique flavors and local dishes, such as Rakfisk.

Don’t:

  • Don’t dress inappropriately or disrespect local customs.

  • Don’t litter or deface historical landmarks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Drammen

Norway is generally a safe country, and the same applies to Drammen. However, visitors are advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions, especially during the winter months. Visitors should be cautious of pickpockets in high tourist areas and stay away from rough neighborhoods at night.

Health in Drammen

Norway has excellent public healthcare facilities, and visitors are advised to get comprehensive travel insurance.

Getting to Drammen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Drammen

Oslo Airport Gardermoen is the closest airport to Drammen, situated 70 km away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi, bus, or train to Drammen.

Bus Stations Near Drammen

There are regular bus services from Oslo to Drammen. Visitors can also take a bus from Bergen, Kristiansand, or other cities in Southern Norway.

Other Options

The train is a popular option for visitors coming to Drammen. There are several daily trains running from Oslo, Bergen, and other cities across the country.

How to Get Around in Drammen

Drammen is a small city, and Much of it is walkable. Visitors can also use any of the public transportation systems, such as buses, trains, or taxis.

Where to Go Next from Drammen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Oslo: The capital city is about 35 minutes away from Drammen. Visitors can take a train, bus, or taxi, to explore the city’s many attractions.
  • Kongsberg: Kongsberg is a small town located 40 km from Drammen, and it features a breathtaking silver mine, which visitors can explore.

Conclusion

Drammen offers an incredible range of cultural, nature, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a solo traveler or a package tourist, the city has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you have everything you need to plan your visit to Drammen and enjoy every moment of your stay.

Bragernes Square. Bragernes Square. Drammen Theatre. Drammen Theatre.