Where to Find Cheap Beer in Oslo? A Guide to the Cheapest Bars and Pubs (2025/2026)
Planning a trip to Norway's capital and worried about your budget? It's no secret that Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world, and alcohol prices can make your head spin. But thanks to data from PilsPosten, we've found places where a "pils" won't ruin your wallet.
Here is our ranking of the places with the cheapest beer in Oslo, plus practical tips on how to drink for less in the land of the fjords.
Average beer prices in Oslo – what to expect?
Before we get to the specific venues, it's worth knowing a reference point. The average price for a 0.5 L beer in Oslo currently hovers around 116 NOK. If you find a place offering beer under 100 NOK, you can consider it a bargain.
The cheapest beer in Oslo: a ranking of bars
1. Samfunnet Bislet (the cheapest student option)
This is the absolute leader of the list. Although it's a student bar, it's usually open to everyone.
Price: approx. 60 NOK for 0.5 L. Atmosphere: Relaxed, student-y, perfect for a budget evening.
2. Chateau Neuf
Another legendary spot on Oslo's map, home to a student association.
Price: approx. 64 NOK for 0.5 L. Why it's worth it: Lots of space and very affordable prices by Norwegian standards.
3. Under Brua Bar (Gamle Oslo)
If you're after something with a "brown pub" vibe (a traditional, slightly dim but authentic Norwegian pub), this place is for you.
Price: approx. 69 NOK for 0.5 L. Location: Close to the centre, in the Gamle Oslo district.
4. Bar Royal
A place that proves you can drink cheaply in pleasant surroundings in Oslo.
Price: approx. 69 NOK (during happy hour the price can drop to as low as 59 NOK*).
5. Wembley Fotballpub (Carl Berner)
The perfect spot for fans of sport and low prices. Statistically, the Carl Berner district is one of the cheapest for beer in the whole city (average approx. 87 NOK).
Price: approx. 69 NOK* for 0.5 L.
What's actually in the glass
Most budget venues in Oslo pour the big national lagers – Ringnes, Hansa and Frydenløw – all light pilsner-style beers that make up the bulk of what's on tap across the city. Aass, Norway's oldest brewery (founded 1834, based in Drammen), also shows up widely. If you want to go beyond the standard lager, look for Nøgne Ø or other Norwegian craft names on the menu – they cost more, but the gap has narrowed as craft beer has become mainstream in Oslo bars over the last decade.
Neighbourhoods to target – and avoid
Instead of drinking at Aker Brygge or Karl Johans gate (where prices regularly exceed 130 NOK), head to districts such as:
Grønland – close to the centre, well connected, and priced for locals rather than tourists. Carl Berner – consistently one of the cheapest areas in PilsPosten's data. Sagene – a bit further out, but worth it for the price difference. Grunerløkka – mixed, but wander off the main strip (Thorvald Meyers gate) and prices drop.
How to save on beer in Oslo
Look for happy hour
Many bars in Oslo offer promotional prices at set times, usually before 20:00. One example is London Pub, where between 15:00 and 20:00 you can buy a beer for around 48 NOK.
Use a student venue if you can
If you have any kind of student ID – Norwegian or international – it's always worth asking whether a student bar like Chateau Neuf or Samfunnet will honour it. Norway's student societies run on volunteer staff and no tourist markup, which is why they consistently top the cheapest-beer rankings.
Check before you go
Prices in Norway change dynamically. PilsPosten tracks up-to-date beer prices, glass sizes and happy hour times across the city – check the live map before you head out so you're working from current numbers.
Practical tips
Cash or card? Card and Vipps are standard everywhere; carrying cash isn't necessary in Oslo bars.
Tipping. Not expected in Norway. Rounding up is appreciated but entirely optional.
Getting around. Oslo's tram and metro network makes it easy to bar-hop between the cheaper eastern neighbourhoods without a car or taxi.
Frequently asked questions
Why is beer so expensive in Norway? High alcohol taxes and general cost of living, not the bars themselves gouging customers – margins on beer in Oslo are often thinner than in cheaper countries.
Is 100 NOK a normal price? It's close to the city average. Above 120–130 NOK is on the high side; under 70–80 NOK is a genuinely good deal.
Are student bars really open to non-students? Often yes, especially for casual drinks rather than club nights – but it varies by venue and event, so it's worth checking ahead.
Summary
Cheap beer in Oslo is possible, as long as you know where to look. Avoid the tourist traps in the very heart of the city and head to where the locals and students go. Remember that in Norway, drinking in moderation isn't just healthy — it's also very economical.
Prices above are tracked from PilsPosten data and user submissions, and can shift with the season or without notice — check the live Oslo listings for current figures before heading out. Please remember to drink responsibly.