Drøbak, Norway - Drøbak Travel Guide

Drøbak

Drøbak, Norway (cc)

Photo:

Drøbak Travel Guide

Introduction

Drøbak is a popular little seaside resort on the Oslofjord, just south of Oslo, where the principal draw is a mid-19th-century fortress, Oscarsborg Castle. The castle sits at the narrowest point on the fjord and was significant in its role in the sinking of the German warship Blücher in 1940 during World War II, effectively delaying the German occupation of Oslo and thus of Norway. The town, in any case, is quite pleasant to discover, with an atmospheric old town center that has retained much of its century-old character and charm. There are also several interesting art galleries here, and a handful of old ferries that now serve as floating restaurants. What's more, Drøbak has mild summers to add to its tourist allure, and is within firing distance of Oslo.

Location

Drøbak is situated along the Oslofjord, some 18 miles (30 km) south of Oslo. It can be reached from Oslo by either taking the ferry that departs from Aker Brygge on weekdays during summer, or by hopping on the bus that leaves from the Oslo bus terminal every hour year-round.

How to Get There

Sightseeing

Neighborhoods

How to Get Around

Where to Stay

Where to Eat

Where to Party

Essential Information

Nearby Destinations

How to Get There

Sightseeing

Drøbak's chief attraction is of course Oscarsborg Castle, built in the 1850s to replace an earlier 17th-century fortress. During summer there are concerts and other events staged at the castle, although it is open to the public all year, and offers an excellent day excursion from Oslo. Another place of interest is Husvik by the harbor, the site of the sinking of the German warship Blücher, where you can also see the Husvik batteri, the cannons of Husvik, strategically placed in the hills of Husvik. And finally there's Drøbak's city center, or Sentrum, wonderfully preserved in its original state, where you can search out Julehuset, or Christmas House, a one-of-a-kind shop that receives its fair share of letters to Santa from all across Europe around Christmastime.

Main Neighborhoods