Things To Do
in Hønefoss
Hønefoss is a small Norwegian town located about 60 km northwest of Oslo at the north end of Ringerike and alongside the dramatic Begna River. It grew up around the waterfall and timber industry and today mixes historic wooden buildings with modern services and easy access to lakes and forests. The town is a practical base for exploring nearby national parks, waterways and cultural sites while offering quiet cafés and local markets.
Hønefoss is compact, friendly and well connected by road and rail, making it a good stop for nature lovers and those seeking low-key local life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Norwegian pastries such as skolebrød. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the city's charming streets, admiring the unique architecture and the scenic views along the Ringerike river. Visit the Hønefoss Church, a beautiful 19th-century structure, and soak in the history it represents.
In the afternoon, head to the Hønefoss Waterfall, where you can witness the breathtaking scene of water cascading down the rocks. There's a lovely park nearby, perfect for a picnic or just relaxing while taking in the natural beauty. For some local culture, visit the Ringerike Museum to discover the region's rich history and heritage.
In the evening, dine at a cozy restaurant that offers local Norwegian cuisine, perhaps trying fresh fish or reindeer dishes. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, where you can enjoy the sunset over the river. Conclude your day with a warm drink at a café, reflecting on the beautiful sights you’ve experienced.
Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before setting out for a hiking adventure in the nearby hills. The crisp morning air is invigorating as you traverse well-marked trails surrounded by stunning pine forests and breathtaking views of the valley. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the wildlife you encounter along the way.
After your morning hike, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature at one of the many scenic viewpoints. Spend the afternoon trekking the trails of the nearby Vikerfjell mountain range, where you will find a mix of challenging paths and relaxing routes suitable for all skill levels. Take time to appreciate the serene surroundings and possibly spot some local fauna.
Wrap up your day with a visit to a rustic lodge that serves traditional Norwegian meals. Gather around a warm fire with fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter as you enjoy a comforting dinner. As night falls, gaze up at the starry sky, far away from city lights, experiencing the peacefulness of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-5 |
| 🚆Train to Oslo (one-way) | $15-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $100-160 |
| 🛍️Groceries (weekly for one) | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to lakes, forests and outdoor activities
- Compact, safe town with friendly locals and good public transport links
- Close to cultural sites like Kistefos Museum
- Quieter and less touristy than major Norwegian cities
- Limited nightlife and few late-night services
- Fewer dining and shopping choices compared with bigger cities
- Public transport less frequent late at night and in rural areas
- Weather can be unpredictable outside high summer
- "Hei" - Hi / Hello
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Unnskyld / Beklager" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Hvor er ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Kan du hjelpe meg?" - Can you help me?
- "Hvor mye koster det?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Hønefoss
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic waterfall and river with old mill architecture make for dramatic long-exposure shots and riverside compositions.
Picturesque views of the river, reflections, and charming wooden buildings; great at golden hour.
Contemporary sculptures set in forested landscape and the striking art gallery building provide excellent contrast and architectural photos.
Wide lake vistas, sunrise/sunset shots and seasonal mist over the water in cooler months.
Classic Norwegian wooden facades, colourful doors and quiet side streets for intimate urban photography.
Food in Hønefoss
Hønefoss Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy sour-cream porridge often served with sugar and cinnamon—traditional comfort food available in bakeries and during local festivals.
Must-Try!
Cured salmon or locally smoked trout served with mustard-dill sauce (sennepssaus) — commonly found in cafés and more traditional restaurants.
Game is common in menus around Ringerike; try moose served as steak or in a hearty stew at seasonal menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Occasional local markets and seasonal stalls in the town centre where you can try fresh baked goods, cheeses and smoked fish—check local listings for market days.
Small bakeries offer freshly baked breads, rolls (boller) and pastries such as skolebrød—perfect for a quick snack or breakfast.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Norwegians value personal space and quiet—avoid loud conversations in public transport and respect private property.
Be punctual for appointments and tours; arriving late is considered rude.
It's common to remove shoes when entering private homes—follow the host's cue and bring clean socks.
Alcohol laws are strict—stores stop selling spirits late and licensed premises regulate hours; drinking in public may be frowned upon in some places.
Safety
Tipping in Hønefoss
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory in Norway; service charges are included in restaurant bills. Leaving small change or rounding up for good service is appreciated but not expected.
Cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted and contactless payments are common; many places prefer card over cash and some small vendors may not accept cash at all. ATMs are available but not as common in smaller towns—use bank cards where possible.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warmest and sunniest time (June–August) with long daylight hours; ideal for boating, swimming, fishing and hiking—expect temperatures from 15–25°C. Popular for festivals and outdoor cafés; book accommodation in advance on busy weekends.
Crisp air and colourful foliage from September to October; good for mushroom picking, scenic drives and quieter trails. Days shorten noticeably and rain increases—bring waterproof layers.
Cold and snowy (December–February), with temperatures often below freezing and limited daylight; excellent for cross-country skiing, skating on frozen lakes when safe and cozy indoor cafés. Roads can be icy—winter tires recommended if driving.
Snow melts and nature returns from April to May, with unpredictable weather—muddy trails but lovely blossoms and bird migration; early spring can still be chilly.
Hønefoss at Night
Hiking in Hønefoss
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive forest trails suitable for day hikes, mountain biking and cross-country skiing in winter; varied terrain and scenic viewpoints.
Network of paths through mixed forest with shorter loops ideal for families and wildlife spotting.
Gentle shoreline trails offering lakeside scenery, birdwatching and picnic spots close to Hønefoss.
Local hills and ridgelines with panoramic views over Hønefoss and the valley—popular for short hikes and sunset walks.
Airports
How to reach Hønefoss by plane.
Main international airport about 60–90 minutes by car or train from Hønefoss depending on route; regular train and bus connections to/from Oslo and onward rail to Hønefoss.
Smaller international airport with budget flights, about 90–120 minutes by car; fewer public transport options to Hønefoss compared with Gardermoen.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families who have lived in the region for generations or moved from larger cities for quieter life.
People who commute to Oslo or Drammen for work but live in Hønefoss for lower housing costs and access to nature.
Like many small Norwegian towns, there is a notable older demographic who are active in local community life.
Summer sees an influx of domestic tourists and day-trippers exploring lakes, cabins and nearby attractions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A national pastime in Norway—popular in winter with many groomed trails near Hønefoss.
Local clubs and youth teams are active, with community matches and training common throughout the year.
When lakes freeze and at local rinks, skating and amateur hockey are popular winter activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hønefoss.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in cafés and many restaurants offer fish-free dishes; larger places in town will accommodate requests but menus may be limited compared with big cities.
Vegan choices exist but can be limited—ask cafés for plant-based milk and simple salads, and check menus in advance or call ahead for full vegan meals.
Gluten-free bread and options are commonly available in bakeries and restaurants; inform staff and they will usually help with substitutions.