Written by Elsa Holm, Graham Smith, Julien Lambert
05/09/2025
Aliaksei Semirski, Pexels
Oslo's bar scene is notably diverse and sophisticated, featuring a range of venues from award-winning cocktail establishments to intimate wine bars and vibrant craft beer spots.
Entertainment and Music:
Oslo presents a vibrant and diverse music and entertainment scene, catering to a range of tastes from intimate jazz to energetic club nights, often found in unique cultural spaces.
For those seeking live music, the city offers quality experiences. One might find themselves at Nasjonal Jazzscene - Victoria, a central and classic jazz club on Karl Johans gate, known for its intimate atmosphere and showcasing top local and international jazz artists. Alternatively, Blå, nestled by the Akerselva river, provides a more eclectic mix, hosting live jazz, experimental music, and electronic acts, often transitioning into lively club nights during the weekends.
1. Himkok
Type: Cocktail Bar & Distillery
Himkok stands out as a world-renowned cocktail bar, crafting inventive drinks with house-made spirits, including aquavit, gin, and vodka. The atmosphere feels like a hidden speakeasy, with dark interiors and an intimate, welcoming vibe. It is known for its focus on Norwegian ingredients and flavors.
Getting There: Located on Storgata, it is a short walk from Oslo Central Station (Jernbanetorget). Alternatively, various trams and buses stop nearby, with a single Ruter ticket costing 42 NOK if purchased via the app.
2. Svanen/D.G.Æ Cocktailbar
Type: Cocktail Bar
Nestled within a beautifully preserved former pharmacy, Svanen offers a truly unique and elegant setting. Guests are enveloped by neoclassical architecture, marble columns, and antique apothecary drawers. The cocktail menu creatively reflects this history, providing meticulously prepared drinks in a sophisticated and timeless atmosphere.
Getting There: Situated on Karl Johans gate, it is easily reachable on foot from most central Oslo attractions and hotels.
3. Crow Bar & Brewery
Type: Craft Beer Bar & Microbrewery
Crow Bar & Brewery is a vibrant spot for craft beer enthusiasts, boasting an impressive selection of beers from its in-house microbrewery and other top Norwegian producers. The atmosphere is relaxed and lively, spread across two floors, making it a great place to sample fresh, unique brews and enjoy hearty pub food.
Getting There: Found in the heart of Oslo on Torggata, it is within walking distance of many central areas. Public transport options, including trams and buses, are readily available, with a single Ruter ticket costing 42 NOK via the app.
4. Territoriet
Type: Wine Bar
This intimate wine bar in Grünerløkka offers a cozy and unpretentious experience, feeling much like a comfortable living room. Territoriet is celebrated for its extensive and diverse wine list, featuring hundreds of selections by the glass, catering to both connoisseurs and casual drinkers looking to explore new tastes.
Getting There: Located in the lively Grünerløkka district, it is accessible by a short tram or bus ride from the city center, or a pleasant walk from central Grünerløkka. A single Ruter ticket purchased through the app is 42 NOK.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
