Things To Do
in Drammen

Drammen is a beautiful city located along the Drammen River in southeastern Norway. It is known for its stunning waterfront promenade where locals and visitors can stroll and enjoy views of the river and surrounding mountains. The city has a rich history, with well-preserved older buildings coexisting with modern architecture.

Drammen offers a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and a vibrant dining scene, making it a popular destination for tourists.

  • "Takk" - Thank you
  • "Vær så snill" - Please
  • "Unnskyld" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Hvordan har du det?" - How are you?
  • "Ha en fin dag" - Have a nice day

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
  • Coffee: $3 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Drammen's Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk around Spiralen, a famous spiral road that offers stunning views of Drammen. Enjoy a light breakfast at a café nearby.

afternoon
:

Visit the Drammen Museum to learn about local history and art. Take a leisurely stroll along the Drammenselva river and enjoy the scenic views.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Norwegian dishes. End your day with a relaxing walk by the riverbank.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Drammen Art Gallery to admire contemporary artworks. Try a local pastry at a nearby bakery while enjoying the ambiance.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic architecture in the city center, including the impressive townhouse. Take a guided tour to uncover the stories behind these buildings.

evening
:

Catch a live show at the Drammens Theatre, known for its vibrant performances. Wind down with a nightcap at a local pub.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings, including fjords and mountains.
  • Rich cultural scene with museums, theaters, and festivals.
  • Good quality of life with access to outdoor activities.
  • Well-developed infrastructure and public transportation.
  • Strong economy with various job opportunities.
  • High cost of living, especially housing.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
  • Cold winters can be challenging for some residents.
  • Language barrier for non-Norwegian speakers.
  • Potential for isolation due to geographic location.

Best Activities in Drammen

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in Drammensmarka

Explore the beautiful forests and trails in Drammensmarka for an adventurous hiking experience with stunning views.

Cycling along Drammen River

Enjoy a scenic bike ride alongside Drammen River, offering picturesque landscapes and charming stopover spots.

Kayaking or Canoeing on the Drammen Fjord

Experience the tranquility of the Drammen Fjord by kayaking or canoeing, allowing for a peaceful connection with nature.

Tours

Uncover the best of Drammen with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Drammen

Visit one of these nice places.

Spiralen

Spiralen is a tunnel with a 5.5% grade and a lookout point at the top, offering panoramic views of Drammen and the surrounding area.

Ypsilon Bridge

Ypsilon Bridge provides a stunning architectural backdrop and scenic views of the city and the Drammen River.

Drammenselva River Promenade

The river promenade along Drammenselva offers picturesque views of the river, surrounding nature, and various landmarks in the city.

Food in Drammen

Drammen, Norway offers a delightful mix of traditional Norwegian cuisine with a modern twist. Known for its fresh and sustainable approach to food, the local dishes are a must-try for any culinary enthusiast.

Drammen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rakfisk

Fermented trout, often served with flatbread and sour cream. Best enjoyed at Bingen Kafé located by the river.

Must-Try!

Krumkake

A crispy, rolled wafer cookie often filled with whipped cream. Visit Alm Øst for an authentic taste.

Fårikål

Norwegian lamb and cabbage stew, a hearty dish perfect for colder days. Try Café Oscar for a delicious version.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Drammen better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Drammen Fish Market

Located by the river, this market offers a variety of fresh seafood and local delicacies. Don't miss the seafood stalls for a taste of the region.

Bragernes Torg Market

Open-air market with vendors offering a wide range of local produce, artisanal cheeses, and traditional snacks.

Street Food Fridays

Every Friday, various food trucks gather in the city center offering diverse street food options from around the world.

Weather

The climate features a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild summers and cold winters. Average temperatures in summer typically range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop between -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months usually occurring in late summer. Snow is common in winter, and the region can experience both rain and snow. The proximity to the fjord moderates the temperature variations, making extreme weather events less common. Overall, the area experiences a distinct seasonal variation, showcasing the beauty of each season from blooming springs to snowy winters.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Drammen, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close when interacting with others. Norwegians value their personal space and being mindful of this cultural norm is respectful behavior.

Punctuality

Being punctual is highly valued in Norwegian culture, including in Drammen. Arriving on time for meetings, appointments, and social gatherings demonstrates respect for others' time and is considered a polite behavior.

Appreciate nature and environment

Norwegians, including those in Drammen, have a deep appreciation for nature and the environment. It is respectful to engage in eco-friendly practices and show appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds the city.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Drammen with these exclusive activities.

Safety

This city boasts a reputation for being relatively safe, with low crime rates compared to many urban areas in Europe. Residents and visitors generally report feeling secure, with violent crime being quite rare. Petty crimes like pickpocketing may occur, especially in crowded areas, but these incidents are not frequent. The local police force is approachable and active in the community, contributing to a sense of safety among the population. Public spaces are well-lit and maintained, which enhances security, especially during evening hours. Emergency services are reliable and accessible, further ensuring public safety. Overall, the combination of a proactive community, effective law enforcement, and the presence of public services creates a safe environment for both locals and tourists. Visitors are encouraged to take standard precautions, as they would in any city, but can generally enjoy their time without significant concern for safety.

Tipping in Drammen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Drammen, Norway, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is appreciated to round up the total or leave a small tip for good service, typically around 5-10%.

Payment

Payment in Drammen, Norway, is predominantly cashless, with credit and debit cards widely accepted. Mobile payment methods such as Vipps are also popular. It is less common to rely solely on cash for transactions.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Drammen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Drammen, with the city coming alive with vibrant blooms and greenery. The weather starts to warm up, and you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the picturesque landscapes.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is peak tourist season in Drammen, with long days and pleasantly warm temperatures. This is the ideal time for outdoor adventures, water activities, and enjoying the city's festivals and events.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn brings stunning foliage and a dramatic change in scenery, making it a great time for nature enthusiasts. The weather begins to cool down, and it's a fantastic time for hiking and photography.

Winter (December to February)

Winter offers a magical setting in Drammen, with snow-covered landscapes and opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. The city also hosts festive events, making it a charming time to visit.

Drammen at Night

As the sun sets, the city comes alive with a vibrant and diverse nightlife. You'll find a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs offering something for everyone, from laid-back, cozy spots to energetic dance floors. The waterfront area, particularly around the river, is a popular destination, where many establishments boast stunning views and outdoor seating. Live music is a common feature, with local bands and artists frequently performing in various venues, adding a lively and authentic atmosphere to the night. For those who enjoy a quieter evening, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants that stay open late, serving up delicious Norwegian cuisine and international dishes. Cultural events, such as theater performances, live comedy, and art exhibitions, are regularly hosted throughout the city, providing a rich array of entertainment options. The local breweries and distilleries are also worth a visit, offering tastings and tours that showcase the craft of Norwegian beer and spirits. The city's well-connected public transport system, including night buses, makes it easy to explore different areas and venues with ease, ensuring you can experience the best of what the city has to offer after dark.

Hiking in Drammen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gulskogen Park

A scenic park located close to Drammen, offering trails that are great for leisurely hiking and enjoying nature.

Bjørnen

A popular hiking area that provides various trails with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for moderate hikes.

Kjosterudjuvet

A beautiful canyon area with hiking paths that wind through diverse terrain, perfect for adventure seekers.

Drøbakskogen

Located just outside Drammen, this forest area features numerous paths and trails for a pleasant and relaxing hike.

Holmenkollen

Though a bit farther from Drammen, it offers stunning views and a variety of hiking trails, known for its iconic ski jump.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Drammen through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Drammen by plane.

Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL)

The main international airport serving Oslo and the surrounding region, located approximately 70 km northeast of Drammen.

Sandefjord Airport, Torp (TRF)

An international airport located about 40 km south of Drammen, serving as a secondary airport for Oslo.

Oslo Airport, Fornebu (not currently in international use, historical reference)

Once served as the main airport for Oslo before Gardermoen, located about 15 km from Drammen. It is now closed for commercial operations.

Walkability

Located along the Drammenselva river, this city features a compact and pedestrian-friendly layout, making it conducive for walking and cycling. The central areas are designed with wide sidewalks and pedestrian zones, allowing residents and visitors to explore comfortably. Public parks and recreational areas contribute to the walkable environment, providing green spaces interspersed throughout the urban landscape. The city's commitment to sustainable transportation is evident through various bike lanes and paths that integrate with walking routes. There are also essential amenities like shops, cafes, and cultural attractions within walking distance, enhancing the overall accessibility of the city. Public transportation options further complement the walkable experience, allowing easy movement around the region. The combination of urban design, amenities, and green spaces makes this city a pleasant place for pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Immigrants

A significant portion of the population, including groups from Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Norwegian Nationals

The native population of Norway, primarily Scandinavian roots.

Youth (Ages 0-19)

A considerable demographic group including children and teenagers.

Working Age Adults (Ages 20-64)

This group constitutes the majority of the workforce in Drammen.

Senior Citizens (Ages 65+)

An increasing demographic group due to aging population trends.

The Soul of Drammen

Discover the essence of Drammen through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is one of the most popular sports in Drammen, with several local clubs and a strong community support. The sport attracts a wide range of participants, from youth leagues to adult competitions.

Handball

Handball is highly popular in Drammen, with successful local teams and active participation in both men's and women's leagues. The sport is played at various levels throughout the city.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey enjoys a dedicated fan base in Drammen, highlighted by local teams competing in national leagues. The city has several ice rinks that host both amateur and professional games.

Basketball

Basketball has been growing in popularity in Drammen, with community programs and clubs promoting the sport among youth. Local teams participate in regional competitions.

Athletics

Athletics, including track and field events, is a prominent sport in Drammen, with clubs that foster talent and organize events for all ages.

Cycling

Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Drammen, supported by scenic routes and a cycling community that engages in both competitive and leisure biking.

Traffic

Traffic in the city is influenced by its geographic location, connecting various regions and serving as a hub for transportation. The road network is relatively well-developed, with several major routes facilitating travel to and from nearby areas. The E18 highway runs adjacent to the city, providing a crucial link for both local and regional traffic. Public transportation options include buses that serve the city and surrounding communities, making it easier for residents and visitors to navigate without relying solely on private vehicles. The train station in Drammen connects the city to major destinations like Oslo, enabling efficient travel for commuters. While traffic flow is generally manageable, peak hours can lead to increased congestion, especially on main thoroughfares. Additionally, the presence of ongoing construction projects or road maintenance can temporarily affect traffic conditions. Cycling is promoted in the area, with designated bike lanes helping to ease the burden on road traffic and providing residents with alternative commuting options. Overall, the city's traffic situation reflects a mix of urban activity and efforts to support sustainable transportation methods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Drammen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants and cafes in Drammen offer diverse vegetarian options, with some specializing in innovative plant-based dishes.

Vegan

While vegan options are less common, several eateries have vegan-friendly choices, especially in the city center.

Gluten-free

Look for the 'glutenfri' symbol on menus, as many establishments provide gluten-free versions of traditional Norwegian dishes.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Drammen with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Located south of Oslo, this city features a comprehensive healthcare system that encompasses various facilities and services to cater to the health needs of its residents. The municipality is served by public health services, including hospitals, general practitioners, and specialist clinics, ensuring access to a wide range of medical care. The largest healthcare facility in the area is Vestre Viken Hospital, which offers a variety of specialized medical services and has departments for emergency care, surgery, and psychiatry. In addition to hospital care, residents have access to numerous general practitioners (GPs) who provide primary care services, as well as specialized medical practices focusing on areas such as physiotherapy, dentistry, and mental health. Public health initiatives are also prominent, promoting preventive care and health education. Collaboration between various health services and community organizations enhances the overall health and well-being of the population. Overall, the healthcare system is characterized by a strong emphasis on accessibility, quality of care, and integration of services to meet the health needs of the community effectively. Residents can benefit from Norway's universal healthcare model, which ensures that healthcare services are provided regardless of individual financial circumstances.

Discover Norway

Read more in our Norway 2024 Travel Guide.

Norway Travel Guide