29 Best Bars in Oslo, Norway

If you're more partial to lounging than drinking, Hotel Bristol's Library Bar and Winter Garden is a stylish hangout with old-fashioned leather armchairs, huge marble columns, and live piano music. Politicians, musicians, and journalists have come here for nearly 100 years for informal meetings, quiet chats, or just to enjoy the tempting afternoon tea.

Vines and other botanical wonders grow across the ceiling at this bar known for its creative cocktail selection. The nature-centric vibe is a welcome breath of fresh air as you step inside from one of the busiest downtown streets. The ingredients come from the bar's own greenhouse.

The name means "Second to the Right," and that's basically a roadmap to finding this bar up the stairs at Håndslag. It's a sumptuously decorated space, a self-confessed "mad house," designed like an elegant living room fit for entertaining glamorous guests at all hours. Lavish seating and heavy curtains make for a wonderful setting to explore Burgundy and sparkling wines.

Surprisingly cozy yet lively, this bar has brightly colored walls, neon lights, and repurposed wood furniture, as well as a spacious backyard area for weekend parties. The quirky ambience and reliably good music mean there's a queue on weekends, so get here early if you're in the mood to party.

The unusual name refers to the address of this stylish spot with four different bars that cater to your every mood. The Terrassebaren has a light breezy feel, while the scarlet stools of Inkognito make it feel a bit clandestine.

This is one of the most happening clubs for jazz, electronica, hip-hop, and related sounds. The patio, along the Akerselva River, is popular in summer.

Diana Krall has played at this club, as have Angelique Kidjo, Cheb Khaled, Chick Corea, Bo Diddley, Mulatu Astatke, and many other beloved musicians. The calendar usually includes an eclectic mix of world music, jazz, and soul.

A fine selection of whiskies and a warm atmosphere give this Irish pub an authentically cheery vibe. There are sports on the television throughout the week.

With a sophisticated look and a relaxed atmosphere, this intimate nightspot features regular concerts with rock and jazz musicians.

Though renowned for its hangover cure breakfast, this laid-back spot definitely feels more suited for after hours than the morning after. The tasty pub grub just seems to be more befitting to the purple neon lights that come out at night.

At Herr Nilsen, some of Norway's most celebrated jazz artists perform. There's live music most nights, jam sessions on Tuesday, and jazz on Saturday afternoon. Other than jazz, the focus is New Orleans--style music and bluegrass.

If natural wines are your thing, slip into this small and low-key bar with a robust selection from around the world. It's a great place to talk grapes with the knowledgeable staff over some salty charcuterie, creamy cheeses, and an ever-changing selection of bar snacks. They also do strong cocktails, and at night the mood is decidedly more divey than your average wine joint.

This is the place for proper pints, an unpretentious air, and plenty of camaraderie. Open since 1979, this gay bar-club is huge and welcomes everyone with open arms.

Behind the Royal Palace, this funky spot has stuffed wildlife and century-old sketches of famous Norwegians adorning the walls. It's actually a resto but is such a winner of a boozing retreat---it advertises 180 different types of beer, and the mountain trout and other dishes are surprisingly good additions. It's a local institution that's hugely popular during the julebord season (mid-November to Christmas).

This atmospheric Art Deco–style movie house has been converted into a fun and funky venue for live music. Concerts are held in the converted cinema, which has room for 500 people. The old projection booth is a recording studio. To get a sense of the laid-back Grünerløkka lifestyle, chill out here with a cocktail.

Commonly referred to as Torggata Bad because the building used to be a public bathing facility, this club has a lineup that includes internationally known hard-rock, alternative, and hip-hop acts—Nick Cave, Blondie, and Fetty Wap have all appeared. Drink prices are steep.

A fixture on Oslo's gay scene since the 1970s, London Pub has a piano bar on the top floor, a quiz night on Wednesday, karaoke on Tuesday, and Happy Sunday parties on ... Sunday