Drinking & Alcohol Policy
Norway's alcohol policy is... unique. Prices are astronomical, sales strictly regulated — and yet (or perhaps because of this?) Norwegians enjoy drinking socially.
Vinmonopolet — The State Monopoly
Alcohol over 4.7% Vol. (wine, spirits, strong beer) is available exclusively at Vinmonopolet — the state alcohol monopoly. The stores have limited opening hours: Mon–Fri 10:00–18:00, Sat 10:00–15:00, closed on Sundays. Before holidays, Norwegians queue up.
What it Costs
| Drink | Supermarket | Restaurant/Bar |
|---|---|---|
| Beer (0.5l) | 35–50 NOK (3–4 €) | 80–130 NOK (7–11 €) |
| Wine (bottle) | 120–200 NOK (10–17 €)* | 400–800 NOK (35–70 €) |
| Aquavit (0.7l) | 350–500 NOK (30–44 €)* | 120–180 NOK (glass) |
* Only available at Vinmonopolet
Norwegian Drinks
- Aquavit (Akevitt): Norway's national spirit — potato-based with caraway, dill, and other herbs. Linie Aquavit is the most famous brand — the spirit crosses the equator twice in sherry casks before bottling. A must for Christmas and festive occasions.
- Craft Beer: Norway's craft beer scene is booming: Nøgne Ø, Ægir Bryggeri (Flåm!), Lervig (Stavanger), and Mack (Tromsø — northernmost brewery) brew excellent beer.
- Coffee: Norway's true passion — the country has one of the highest per capita coffee consumptions in the world. The third-wave scene (Tim Wendelboe, Fuglen, Supreme Roastworks in Oslo) is world-class.
💡 Tipp
The most important tip for saving on alcohol in Norway: make full use of the duty-free allowance at the airport (1l spirits + 1.5l wine + 2l beer OR 3l wine + 2l beer). There is a tax-free shop in the airport hall upon landing — prices are 50–70% cheaper than at Vinmonopolet!
