Buskerud

CountyNorway, Europe

Buskerud is a STATE in Norway, Europe.

Buskerud, nestled in southeastern Norway, is a breathtaking county where dramatic landscapes meet rich cultural heritage. This region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring the iconic Hallingdal valley with world-class skiing at resorts like Geilo and Hemsedal, and the stunning Hardangervidda mountain plateau, Europe's largest high-altitude plateau. The charming town of Drammen offers vibrant cultural scenes and modern architecture, while Kongsberg is famed for its historic silver mines and annual jazz festival. Buskerud's natural wonders include the thundering Vøringsfossen waterfall and serene Tyrifjorden, Norway's fifth-largest lake. Travelers can explore traditional stave churches, experience authentic Norwegian farm life, and enjoy exceptional hiking, fishing, and winter sports. The region's unique blend of majestic fjords, deep forests, and cultural attractions makes it an unforgettable destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility in the heart of Norway.

Best time to visit Buskerud

June to August for hiking, fishing, and festivals under the midnight sun; December to March for exceptional skiing and winter sports; September for autumn colors and fewer crowds. The Kongsberg Jazz Festival in July and various winter sports events make these seasons particularly vibrant.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Cold 0 to 10°C, rain

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

Quiet time

Know before you go

Getting there

OSL

Oslo Airport, Gardermoen

International

100 km away

TRF

Sandefjord Airport, Torp

International

80 km away

RRS

Røros Airport

Domestic

250 km away

Getting around

"Efficient public transport includes trains (Vy) connecting Oslo to Bergen via Geilo and Finse, and local buses (Brakar). Renting a car provides flexibility for exploring remote areas. Taxis are available in towns but expensive. Popular apps include Entur for trip planning, Vy for trains, and Brakar for buses. Cycling is excellent in summer with dedicated paths in valleys."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

50 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cities and accommodations

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $10

Calling code

+47

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe overall. Petty theft possible in crowded areas.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe overall. Petty theft possible in crowded areas.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Buskerud is generally very safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in urban areas like Drammen. When hiking or skiing, always check weather conditions, use marked trails, and inform others of your plans. Avalanche risk exists in mountain areas during winter—follow local advisories. No specific areas to avoid, though remote wilderness requires proper preparation. Common scams are rare, but be cautious of unofficial tour operators. Wildlife encounters (moose, reindeer) are possible on roads; drive carefully, especially at dawn/dusk."

Entry and health

Health information

"Buskerud has excellent healthcare facilities including Vestre Viken Hospital Trust with locations in Drammen, Kongsberg, and Ringerike. Emergency care is widely available. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine travel recommendations. Tap water is safe to drink. Travelers should be prepared for outdoor activities with proper gear to prevent hypothermia and injuries. Tick-borne encephalitis is present in forested areas; consider vaccination if hiking extensively. EU/EEA citizens should bring European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or GHIC."

Culture

Local customs

"Norwegians value punctuality, personal space, and equality. Dress practically for outdoor activities; formal wear is rarely needed. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service (rounding up or 5-10%). Remove shoes when entering homes. Respect 'friluftsliv' (outdoor life) traditions by following marked trails and leaving no trace. Alcohol is expensive and sold only at Vinmonopolet stores."
Norwegian (Bokmål)Norwegian (Nynorsk)English

Costs and practicals

Currency

Norwegian Krone (NOK) · kr

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$20-30 | a mid-range meal costs around $20-30

Hotels

$80-150 | budget hotels range $80-150/night

Local transport

$5-10 | local bus ride ~$5-10

Cost notes

Prices are higher in tourist season. Groceries are cheaper than eating out.

Timezone

Europe/Oslo +01:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

270,000

Area

14,908 km²

Government

County Municipality (Fylkeskommune)

ISO code

NO-04

Type

County

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: بوسكرود, 33, Biuskeriudas, Buskerud megye, NO-33, Բուսքերուդ, 布斯克吕郡, Бюскерю, Buskeruda, Бускеруд, Buskerud, Бускеру, بوسکرود, 06, 부스케루주, Buskerudin lääni, Biskupsruð, ბუსკერუდი, เทศมณฑลบุสเครุด, Buskerud fylke, Buskeruda fylka, ブスケルー県, Vikersund, Vikesund, vuikerusun, Викерсунд, ヴィケルスン

Major HubHistoric CityFamily-FriendlyHikingSkiingFjordsNature