Five Nordic bars have secured a place among the continent’s elite in the inaugural edition of Europe’s 50 Best Bars. From Oslo to Copenhagen and Stockholm, Scandinavia once again proves why it remains one of the world’s most exciting cocktail destinations.
Europe’s bar scene has a new benchmark. On 30 June, the inaugural edition of Europe’s 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, was unveiled during a glamorous awards ceremony in Amsterdam, bringing together some of the continent’s most influential bartenders and hospitality figures.
Compiled through the votes of the Europe’s 50 Best Bars Academy – an expert panel of bartenders, drinks writers and cocktail specialists from across the region – the new ranking celebrates the diversity and creativity of Europe’s cocktail culture, from long-established cocktail capitals to emerging destinations.
Scandinavia delivered an impressive performance in the inaugural ranking, with five bars from Oslo, Copenhagen and Stockholm earning coveted spots among Europe’s top 50.
Leading the Nordic contingent is Himkok in Oslo, which secured an outstanding No. 4 ranking, making it not only the highest-placed Nordic venue but also The Best Bar in Norway 2026. The Norwegian capital celebrates another success with Svanen, which landed at No. 15, giving Oslo two bars in the Top 15.
Copenhagen is represented by Bird, which debuts at No. 24 and takes home the title of The Best Bar in Denmark 2026.
Stockholm, meanwhile, claims two places on the list. Tjoget ranks at No. 37 and is named The Best Bar in Sweden 2026, while fellow Stockholm bar Röda Huset rounds out the Nordic representation at No. 43.
With five bars featured in the inaugural ranking, Scandinavia once again demonstrates the strength and diversity of its cocktail scene, with Oslo emerging as the region’s standout performer.
The evening’s highest honour went to Line in Athens, which was named The Best Bar in Europe 2026 and claimed the No. 1 position on the list.
Located in a former art gallery in the Kato Petralona district of Athens, Line has earned international acclaim for its fermentation-led approach to cocktails and its commitment to circular hospitality. Created by bartenders Vasilis Kyritsis and Nikos Bakoulis, the venue produces its own fruit wines, beers and sourdough on site, transforming by-products into both drinks and dishes as part of a highly innovative and sustainable concept.
The win further cements Athens’ reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting cocktail destinations and marks a fitting debut for the newly launched Europe’s 50 Best Bars ranking.
