How Does Alcohol Rules Work in Norway?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Europe
1The Quick Answer
The legal age is 18 for beer and wine, 20 for spirits; wine and spirits for off-premise consumption are only sold at Vinmonopolet state shops, which are closed on Sundays.
2What You Need to Know
Vinmonopolet is Norway's state-controlled alcohol retail monopoly — the only legal outlet for buying wine and spirits to take home or to accommodation. Vinmonopolet shops are found in most towns but are closed on Sundays, all public holidays, and have limited hours on Saturdays (typically closing at 3pm or 6pm depending on location). Beer above 4.7% ABV is also restricted to Vinmonopolet; supermarkets stock beer up to 4.7% only. Alcohol is extremely expensive in Norway — a glass of wine in a restaurant typically costs NOK 100–150 (€9–14). Aquavit (akvavit) is Norway's traditional spirit, flavoured with caraway or dill. Drink-driving rules are the strictest in Europe at 0.02% BAC.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Shop at Vinmonopolet before Sunday or late Saturday — it is the only place to buy wine and spirits and is completely closed on Sundays and public holidays
- 2Buy wine and spirits at Vinmonopolet for pre-dinner drinks in your accommodation — restaurant prices are 3–4 times higher than shop prices for the same bottle
- 3Try Norwegian aquavit (akvavit) while here — Linie Aquavit (aged in sherry casks on a ship crossing the equator twice) is the most famous variety and a genuine Norwegian tradition
Important Warning
Vinmonopolet closes early on Saturday (3pm or 6pm depending on location) and is completely closed on Sundays and public holidays — plan your purchases in advance or you will have no access to wine or spirits.
How does this compare?
Alcohol Rules rules in nearby and similar countries:
Drinking in public is legal. Beer and wine from age 16, spirits from 18. Germany has a vibrant beer culture with no real restrictions on public consumption.
Drinking age is 18. Alcohol is sold at supermarkets, off-licences, and pubs. Drinking in public is legal in most areas. Pub last orders typically at 11pm.
Drinking age is 18. Alcohol is freely available in shops 24/7. Wine with meals is culturally embedded. Drink-driving limit is 0.05% BAC.
Traveling to Norway?
You might also need:
More About Norway
Tipping is not obligatory in Norway — service is included in prices and there is no social pressure, though rounding up or leaving 10% for genuinely good service is appreciated.
Updated 2025-06
Norway's public transport combines Vy trains, Ruter metro and buses in Oslo, Bybanen light rail in Bergen, Hurtigruten coastal ferries, and essential domestic flights for reaching remote fjord regions.
Updated 2025-06
EU EHIC cards are valid in Norway as it is an EEA member, covering emergency treatment at public hospitals, but travel insurance is still strongly recommended for mountain rescue and repatriation.
Updated 2025-06
Norway's Friluftsloven gives everyone the right to roam, camp, and pick berries on uncultivated land, but drink-driving limits are extremely strict at 0.02% BAC and cannabis remains illegal.
Updated 2025-06
Police: 112. Ambulance: 113. Fire: 110. Medical advice line: 116 117. Road assistance: 12 19. Non-emergency police: 02800.
Updated 2025-06
Norway has no formal dress requirements — the culture is entirely practical and outdoor-focused, with the national philosophy being 'there's no bad weather, only bad clothing.'
Updated 2025-06
🍺 See Alcohol Rules rules in all countries
Compare all countries →