This Norwegian city, an hour from Oslo, sits amid mountains and forests. It has museums, theaters, and a vibrant nightlife scene with pubs and restaurants.
Drammen, Norway's seventh largest municipality, sits along the Drammenselva river just 44 km southwest of Oslo. This city of over 100,000 residents has transformed from an industrial center into a cultural hub. You can explore the dramatic Spiralen tunnel, swim in Drammensbadet's extensive pools, or walk along the river promenade. Drammen's riverside location and proximity to Oslo make it an appealing day trip from the capital.
Getting to Drammen
Trains connect Drammen to most places in Eastern Norway. It's a short 40-minute ride from Oslo, making it a convenient day trip destination. The city is also well-connected by road, with the E18 highway passing through.
Exploring Bragernes Torg and the City Center
Bragernes Torg, the largest town square in Norway, forms the central point of Drammen. This expansive public space hosts markets and events, and serves as a gathering point for locals. From the square, you can walk down to the Drammenselva river, which divides the city into two main areas: Bragernes to the north and Strømsø to the south.
Spiralen: A Unique Viewpoint
One of Drammen's most unusual sights is Spiralen, a tunnel that spirals six times around its own axis as it climbs up the hillside. At the top, you'll find Spiraltoppen, a viewpoint with panoramic views of the city and surrounding valley. The tunnel, originally created as a quarry, has become a distinctive landmark and tourist spot since its opening in 1961.
Drammensbadet: A Swimmer's Paradise
Drammensbadet, one of Scandinavia's largest swimming facilities, opened in 2008. It has nine pools, including four outdoor ones, water slides, a wave pool, and a wellness area with saunas and hot tubs. Families and fitness buffs often visit this popular aquatic center.
Cultural Attractions
The Drammen Museum of Art and Cultural History presents the region's past through its exhibits. You'll find it in Marienlyst, where it includes a manor house from the 1770s, permanent exhibitions, and an open-air museum with historic rural buildings. The museum grounds also have a small Japanese garden, providing a calm space for reflection.
Bridges and Waterfront Walks
Drammen's riverside location has shaped its urban landscape. Several bridges connect the two sides of the city, with the modern Ypsilon bridge being particularly eye-catching. Waterfront walks on both sides of the river allow you to see the city's mix of 19th-century buildings and contemporary structures.
Aass Brewery
Aass Brewery, which claims to be Norway's oldest active brewery, occupies historic waterfront factory buildings. While you need to book tours in advance, you can try their products in many of Drammen's bars and restaurants.
Hiking and Skiing
The hills surrounding Drammen have numerous hiking and skiing trails. In summer, adventurous hikers can explore Kjøsterudjuvet gorge, a challenging two-hour hike featuring ladders and rock-hopping. In winter, you can go alpine skiing in Strømsø or Åssiden.
Local Sports
Soccer fans can catch a game at Marienlyst Stadium, home to Strømsgodset, Drammen's biggest soccer club. Matches typically take place every other Sunday between April and November. For a unique experience, you can also watch Mjøndalen, known for their unusual brown shirts, play at the nearby Consto Arena.
