The best bars and cafés Norway

Timetable

Most cafés open around 8am and close between 4pm and 6pm. Bars open from around noon until midnight or 1am.

Budget & Tips

Count €3 for a single coffee. Pints of beer start at €8. Happy hours are not common practice, but there are a few bars where they do exist.

Age restrictions

To buy wine or beer in Norway, you must be at least 18. For alcohol, you must be at least 20. You must be at least 18 to order alcohol in a bar. You will frequently be asked for your ID.

You won't find alcohol (except beer and cider) in supermarkets. For this, go to the various Vinmonopolet stores, which close at 6 p.m. on weekdays and at 3 p.m. on Saturdays. You won't be able to buy beer or cider after 6pm in supermarkets, by the way.

Please note that it's essential to have your ID with you when you enter the Vinmonopolet, otherwise you'll be in serious trouble once you've passed through the checkout.

What's very local

Norwegians don't drink much during the week... but at the weekend, you might be able to party with them. That's usually when they're most affordable!

Kids

Children are welcome everywhere, and there's usually no problem bringing them with you to a place that serves alcohol (of course, no alcohol will be served).

Smokers

Smoking is prohibited in public places in Norway. On the terrace, you'll find Norwegians eating snus: small portions of moist tobacco powder placed under the lip... so no passive smoking!