Having a drink while traveling isn’t essential, but it’s a fun way to pass the time. Not all countries make it easy to get a drink, though. Let’s be honest: buying alcohol in Norway, Sweden, and other Nordic countries can be surprisingly complicated if you don’t know the rules.
Whether you’re roaming around the fjords or joining the Oslo street photography festival, understanding the local alcohol laws will save you a lot of time and frustration. Just like waiting for the perfect light on the streets, grabbing a drink here requires a bit of anticipation.
Here is everything you need to know about buying alcohol in Norway.
What is the legal drinking age in Norway?
As in many countries, not everyone is allowed to buy a beer or wine. Norway splits its drinking age into two categories depending on the strength of the alcohol:
- 18 years old: You can buy beer and wine containing less than 22% alcohol by volume.
- 20 years old: You must be at least 20 years old to buy hard liquor or spirits containing more than 22% alcohol.
To buy a drink in bars and clubs, you usually have to be over 20 to 21 years old. They have their own restrictions, so be sure to inform yourself at each venue. The state-run stores strictly enforce these age restrictions, so you must always present valid identification when making a purchase.
Where to buy alcohol in Norway?
Norway operates under a strict state monopoly on stronger alcohol. Where you buy your drink depends entirely on its alcohol percentage.
Buying Beer in Supermarkets
In regular grocery stores, you can buy beers and ciders. However, you will only find low-alcohol versions, as all of these drinks must be under 4.7% in alcohol content.
The rules on when you can buy them are incredibly strict, and checkout systems will actually reject your alcoholic beverages after the cutoff times. You can only buy alcohol in supermarkets during these hours:
- Weekdays: Before 8 PM.
- Saturdays: Before 6 PM.
- Sundays: You cannot buy alcohol in supermarkets all day on Sundays.
Vinmonopolet: The State-Run Store for Wine and Spirits
Can you buy wine in supermarkets in Norway? No. Anything stronger than 4.7%, like liquor, wine, and stronger beers, must be bought at the Vinmonopolet.
Established in 1922 to regulate alcohol sales and reduce the negative health effects of excessive drinking, Vinmonopolet is a unique institution. The stores offer an extensive range of wines from around the world, local craft beers, and premium spirits, but their hours are very limited.
They typically open from 10 AM to 6 PM on weekdays, 10 AM to 3 PM on Saturdays, and are completely closed on Sundays. Always check the opening times for your nearest outlet before planning a visit.
Do the alcohol laws change in Oslo?
If you are spending your trip in the capital, you might wonder if Oslo has different rules. The short answer is no. The national laws, such as the 18 and 20-year-old age limits and Vinmonopolet’s exclusive right to sell wine and spirits, apply uniformly across Oslo and the rest of the country.
The only minor difference is in the local bar scene. The time at which bars and clubs must stop serving alcohol is set at the local level. In most of the country, it is 2 AM, but pubs, bars, and clubs in Oslo can serve alcohol until 3 AM. Be aware that there are also local restrictions; for example, spirits cannot be served in bars and restaurants in Oslo before 1 PM.
How much does alcohol cost in Norway?
Norway’s alcohol prices will likely make your eyes water. The government imposes high taxes on all alcoholic beverages with more than 0.7% ABV to discourage excessive consumption.
For example, drinks between 4.7% ABV and 22% ABV are subject to a specific volume tax of NOK 5.11 per volume percent and liter. Because of this, prices at Vinmonopolet are generally higher than those found in many other countries.
- Supermarket Beer: A standard can of beer in a grocery store will cost significantly more than the European or American average.
- Bars and Restaurants: Expect to pay a heavy premium for a pint of beer or a cocktail. Also, keep in mind that cost-based promotions on alcohol (like “Happy Hour” discounts) are generally not permitted.
Can you drink in public in Norway?
Technically, drinking in public spaces like parks or on the street is illegal under Norwegian law. However, if you visit during the summer, you might see locals enjoying a quiet beer or a glass of wine in public parks.
The police often turn a blind eye to this as long as people are well-behaved and not causing a disturbance. Even so, remember that you are technically breaking the rules, so use your best judgment and always clean up after yourself.
Conclusion
While the regulations might seem a bit overwhelming at first, navigating Norway’s alcohol landscape is just a matter of timing and knowing where to look. Grab your drinks early in the day, explore the fantastic selection at the Vinmonopolet, and don’t forget to toast with the locals: Skål!