Oslo is lively at night, mainly fuelled by the fiery local tipple, akevitt (a spirit flavoured with herbs). Many Norwegians go out late on Fridays and Saturdays after a vorspiel (pre-party) involving drinks at home, so the street atmosphere from 2200 on the weekends can be sprightly.
What's more, many live acts that descend on the Norwegian capital with music choices ranging from soothing classical to the maniacal metal that the locals can't seem to get enough of. Conveniently, you can snap up tickets to virtually any performance from the post office.
Bars in Oslo
Champagneria
As the name suggests, Champagneria is dedicated to all things bubbly (including sparkling wine and Prosecco), and as a result it attracts an upmarket crowd with plenty of cash to splash. The interior is minimalist to say the least but when the weather warms up, the outdoor patio is a cheerful spot for a drink.
Address: Frogner, Frognerveien 2, Oslo, 0257Telephone: +47 21 08 09 09.
Website: http://www.champagneria.com
Magic Ice
A curious combination of gallery and bar, the sub-zero Magic Ice is a rather strange place for a drink but a fascinating one. Peppered with ice carvings, everything else, from glasses to chairs, are whittled out of the cold stuff. Surprisingly, the drinks menu includes a selection of hot as well as cold drinks.
Address: Sentrum, Kristian IVs gate 12, Oslo, 0164Telephone: +47 920 31 300
Website: http://www.magicice.no
Summit
Boasting spectacular views and an extensive (if pricey) cocktail menu, Summit is perched on the 21st floor of the Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel and looks out over the Oslofjord. Ultra trendy with chic futuristic décor, this is where the Norwegian capital’s cool crowd come to see, and yes, be seen.
Address: Sentrum, Holbergs gate 30, Oslo, 0166Telephone: +47 23 29 36 00.
Website: http://www.radissonblu.com/en/scandinaviahotel-oslo/bars
Clubs in Oslo
Parkteatret Scene
This early twentieth century cinema is now a thriving music and dance venue. It attracts acts from Norway and all over Europe. When there are no concerts scheduled, there is a varied programme of film events, debates, stand up and club nights.
Address: , Olaf Ryes plass 11, Oslo, 0552Telephone: +47 22 35 63 00
Website: http://parkteatret.no/
Stratos Summer Club
Stratos (or the ‘roof of Oslo’ as it likes to describe itself) turns into a rooftop bar and club in the summer perched atop the 12th floor of the Folketeateret building. The panoramic city views are enough to get you drunk - if the drinks don’t first.
Address: Sentrum, Youngstorget 2A, Oslo, 0181Telephone: +47 2104 6400.
Website: http://www.stratos.as
The Villa
Despite its rather pervy billing (this is the place to go for ‘sexy time dance’), The Villa is actually the best spot in the Norwegian capital for electronic music. Housed deep within a basement, it doesn’t really get going until after midnight, but when it does it dishes up some seriously dirty beats ranging from drum & bass to cheerful electronica.
Address: Sentrum, Møllergata 23-25, Oslo, 0179Telephone: +47 9325 5745.
Website: http://www.thevilla.no
Live music in Oslo
Blå
An ‘eco-lighthouse’ down by the river, Blå is considered by many to be the best jazz club in Oslo. Dedicated to up-and-coming acts from all over Norway, it also hosts many big, international names, mostly indie bands, and also welcomes bands specialising in hip hop, soul and dubstep.
Address: Grünerløkka, Brenneriveien 9, Oslo, 0182Telephone: +47 22 20 91 81.
Website: http://www.blaaoslo.no
Gamle Logen
One of Oslo’s oldest and most beautiful venues, the baroque Gamle Logen was built in 1836 but has been restored to its former glory. Composer Edvard Grieg was the original proprietor and although his work is still played in its hallowed halls, Gamle Logen now hosts classical concerts featuring music from all over the world.
Address: Sentrum, Grev Wedels Plass 2, Oslo, 0151Telephone: +47 2 233 4470.
Website: http://www.gamlelogen.no
Mono
An intimate venue with a reputation for being ahead of the curve for all things indie, Mono is where you find the would-be musicians and arty student types tapping their toes to the sounds of some of Oslo's hottest new acts. Indie doesn't dominate though: Mono's management have also been known to book the odd folk act.
Address: Sentrum, Pløens gate 4, Oslo, 0181Telephone: 2241 4166.
Website: http://www.cafemono.no
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