Forget Oslo, Norway's Fast-Growing Port City Is A Less-Touristy Gem With Culture, Parks, And Scenic Walks

Norway is a country widely known for its breathtaking natural beauty. When searching for photos of the Scandinavian nation, you'll often come across images of tiny, colorful villages nestled along the shores of fjords surrounded by towering mountains. You may also think about Oslo — a gem in its own right — but forget about the capital for a moment and venture to the fast-growing port city of Drammen. Far less touristy, Drammen is a hidden gem filled with just as much culture, parks, and scenic walking paths as Oslo.

Just a stone's throw from Oslo, Drammen showcases everyday Norwegian life. Set along the Drammen River at the foot of the Drammensfjord, the city sits off the beaten path, with scenic riverside walks and peaceful parks. Spend an early morning walking along the river, followed by a stop at one of the city's many parks, before heading to a museum that allows visitors to get a glimpse into Drammen's industrious history, which dates back to the 13th century.

Located just a short distance from the capital, Drammen can be reached by car in around 35 to 40 minutes, while public transit makes the journey even quicker, taking around 30 minutes. This makes Drammen an ideal option for a day trip or a change of scenery without having to travel far from Oslo.

Oslo may have an enchanting medieval castle that inspired a Disney film, but Drammen also has a lot to offer visitors. Local shops sell unique housewares, while flower market stalls offer colorful bouquets. Drammen's municipality is Norway's seventh most populous, with 104,109 residents. For many years, the Drammen River was left in a polluted state. After a major cleanup of the river, Drammen slowly started to transform itself from an overlooked industrial port city into an appealing option for a day trip from Oslo. Drammen also hosts an annual River Festival called Elvefestivalen, which was first noted as a celebration of their successful river cleanup. 

 The Drammen Museum of Art and Cultural History showcases the rise of Drammen from its industrial roots to the thriving community it is today. The museum houses traditional Norwegian textiles, Baroque silver, and folk art from Norwegian history, and over at the Marienlyst Manor, visitors can peruse the vast collection of Nøstetangen glass. 

Drammen's culture doesn't stop at its museums, and its maritime history can also be seen within its restaurant menus. At the highly rated Café Bragernes, fish soup (Fiskesuppe) is a popular local dish made with fresh-caught fish, potatoes, carrots, onions, and creamy broth, which is often enjoyed with fresh bread. Beer drinkers can enjoy a cold pint of Aass beer, which, despite the smirk-inducing name, is a long-standing part of Drammen's history. Aass Brewery — the oldest brewery in Norway — offers brewery tours that teach visitors about Drammen's beer culture, which dates to the mid-19th century.

While one of Europe's most awe-inspiring parks and epic hiking destinations can be found in western Norway, you don't have to travel that far to experience beautiful scenery. Some of the region's most scenic walks, green spaces, picturesque parks, and hikes can be found right in the heart of Drammen. 

From Bragernes Square— Norway's largest square — there are plenty of inviting parks to visit. Take a stroll along the Elvepromenaden. In 2014, Drammen won the Green Park of the Year award for its outstanding parks situated along the Drammen River. If you fancy another scenic walk, cross the Ypsilon Bridge, for sprawling views over the Drammen River. The bridge acts as a connector from the Elvepromenaden to the picturesque Drammen Park. The park features manicured lawns, a large fountain, and vibrant flower gardens that add a burst of color to the city during the summer months. 

Located 10 minutes outside Drammen, Kjøsterudjuvet is a scenic hike through an ancient gorge dating back 10,000 years. The 4,265-foot-long gorge features 196-foot-high rock walls and requires some scrambling over rocks and through streams. Water levels can rise significantly after rain, so check the weather before setting out. Another option for hiking in Drammen can be found hidden just above the city center. Head up to Spiraltoppen by car through a unique, glowing spiraling tunnel or hike along the trails for epic views over Drammen. Still searching for more places to explore beyond Oslo? Check out Kristiansand — a sleepy canal town that transforms into a magical winter wonderland.