The Best Bars in Norway

Nothing is left to chance at Himkok, Scandinavia's most award-winning bar, and rightly so. This eclectic establishment, whose name translates as "booze", offers a complete experience: a cozy craft cocktail bar, a lively courtyard with a carefully curated cider menu, a lively cocktail bar with drinks on tap and even an in-house distillery - not to mention a hair salon! The drinks are perfectly balanced, minimalist in style and yet largely composed from local ingredients. If you are near Oslo, the "Himkok" is a must-visit.

A visit to "Svanen" gives you the feeling of traveling back in time. The restaurant is located in a beautifully preserved pharmacy from the late 19th century. The wood-paneled main room and the original interior design create an unagitated, enchanting atmosphere. The bar offers a seamless blend of vintage elegance and modern cocktail artistry, while the staff, in their dapper apothecary-inspired uniforms, add a distinctive charm to the Nordic hospitality. The frequently changing menu is consistently excellent - and the team's dedication extends to making their own bespoke glasses.

With its timeless, regal elegance, the Britannia Bar proves that world-class cocktail culture extends far beyond Oslo. Located in the historic Britannia Hotel in the heart of Trondheim, its menu is inspired by the rich heritage of both the hotel and the city itself. The service is impeccable - almost clairvoyant - and makes every guest feel instantly cared for.

Set within the Amerikalinjen Hotel in Oslo, Pier 42 takes its inspiration from Manhattan’s historic pier, where countless Scandinavians first arrived in America. The bar blends the opulence of a classic American lobby bar with the clean lines of Nordic minimalism. Each thoughtfully curated menu reflects the team’s dedication to craft, from concept and service to the creativity behind every cocktail.

Those who appreciate breathtaking views of the skyline should definitely visit the "Espier Bar". This luxurious bar is located on the roof of the Clarion Hotel in Stavanger and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Its name - which translates as "one who spies" - is playfully echoed by the binoculars placed on each table, inviting guests to take a closer look at their surroundings. Creative cocktails form a beautiful contrast to the sophisticated interior and prove that fun and elegance can go hand in hand.

The bar within the bar. Tucked away in "Svanen", this eye-catching offshoot offers a complete change of scene. Under the name "Den Grimme Ælling" (The Ugly Duckling), the vintage elegance of Svanen gives way to a sleek sci-fi aesthetic with a metallic interior that almost looks like a spaceship. True to its sustainable philosophy, "Den Grimme Ælling" transforms "ugly" ingredients into beautiful, flavorful creations. A study in contrasts, creativity and meticulous detail - a bar that is best experienced in person.

This impressive rooftop restaurant and bar combines the culinary creativity of chef Håvard Klempe with the mixology expertise of Jørgen Dons. With a focus on local ingredients, Kombo combines imaginative cocktails with beautifully prepared dishes, while the carefully curated spirits collection is the ideal accompaniment. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Kombo offers a complete and unforgettable experience high above the city.

Located in the trendy Grünerløkka district of Oslo, this bar exudes the elegance and energy of a New York lounge from the 1920s. It specializes in reinterpreted North American classics made with local ingredients and serves perfectly balanced cocktails with a distinctive Nordic touch. Look forward to one of the warmest and most authentic venues on the Norwegian bar scene.

Since its opening in 2017, "Pjolter & Punsj" has established itself as Stavanger's best-known cocktail bar. This inviting venue combines regional flavors with classic cocktail structure to create drinks that are as distinctive as they are memorable. With its down-to-earth atmosphere and adventurous flavors, it is a place that always delights with surprises.

This versatile Art Deco-style venue combines a cocktail lounge, live events and a dance floor for the late hours under one roof. The first floor is a relaxed lounge, while the upper floor transforms into a club after 10 pm. An additional outdoor area on the opposite side of the street completes the offer and makes this place a worthwhile destination for a varied evening. We recommend taking a look at the event calendar in advance to ensure the best possible experience.

A must-visit in Trondheim, Raus Bar combines a cosy atmosphere with top-tier cocktails and an excellent wine list. Friendly, knowledgeable staff guide guests through a creative, seasonally inspired menu, making every visit feel personal. Approachable, stylish, and full of flavour, it’s the perfect spot for an effortlessly relaxed night out with friends.

Named after the Celtic phrase for “Soul Friend”, Anam Cara captures a spirit of warmth and connection in everything it does. From the genuinely welcoming team to a carefully considered menu, its theme runs through the experience with effortless grace. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and a refined wine selection in a space that feels instantly like home.

An intimate bar led by Håvard Klempe and Jørgen Dons, where curated tasting menus pair inventive cocktails with delicate small bites. Refined and detail-driven, the concept celebrates creativity and craftsmanship, offering a world-class experience that lingers long after the final sip.

Botany in – and out of – the glass. This plant-focused bar celebrates creativity with herbs, spices, and botanicals taking centre stage. Playful, visual, and refreshingly un-Scandinavian, its drinks are fun, approachable, and full of personality – all served in a relaxed setting that favours genuine charm over “Instagram” gloss.

Bettola brings a touch of southern Europe to the north with Italian-inspired dishes and cocktails designed to complement every bite. Warm hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere make it a favourite with both locals and visitors, whether you’re stopping by before dinner, settling in for a meal, or lingering late into the evening.

Named after the classic cocktail, this dimly lit neighbourhood bar strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and lively. It’s all about good energy, great company, and expertly made drinks – no fuss, no pretension. A laid-back haven for unwinding with friends and enjoying quality cocktails without overthinking it.

F6 is a stylish cocktail bar where sleek design meets a fashionable crowd. Known for impeccably made classics and inventive twists, it’s a go-to for excellent drinks in elegant surroundings. The team strikes just the right balance between attentive service and giving guests space to enjoy the moment – effortless sophistication in the heart of the city.

Tucked beneath a comedy club, No Stress lives up to its name with a carefree, good-time atmosphere. Tasty cocktails, friendly staff, and a cosy, dorm-style interior complete with Polaroids and a Nintendo 64 set the tone for easy fun. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, play, and enjoy a light-hearted night out with friends.

This high-energy bar combines colourful, characterful décor with playful cocktails and attentive service. Perfect for larger groups, it’s the kind of place where fun evenings unfold naturally – whether you’re meeting new people or catching up with old friends. Crowd-pleasing drinks, warm hospitality, and a lively atmosphere make it a guaranteed good time.

A cocktail bar meets nightclub in this lively Oslo favourite, where a younger crowd gathers for good music and a high-energy night out. Inside, the mood is dark, buzzing, and electric – a space built for atmosphere as much as for its well-made drinks. Come for the cocktails, stay for the rhythm.