Published on
December 30, 2025
As Norway gets ready to bid farewell to 2025 and welcome the New Year, the country prepares for a mix of closures, reduced services, and celebrations, with businesses and attractions affected across major cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Tromsø. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, here’s everything you need to know about what’s open and what’s closed on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in Norway.
Shops and Retail: Early Closures on New Year’s Eve and Full Closures on New Year’s Day
In line with Norway’s tradition of treating New Year’s Day (1 January) as a public holiday, most retail businesses across the country will be closed on January 1, 2026. This includes major shops, shopping malls, and local convenience stores, which generally remain closed for the entire public holiday.
However, New Year’s Eve (31 December) isn’t officially a holiday in Norway, though businesses tend to close earlier than usual. On New Year’s Eve, most retail outlets in cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Tromsø will close by 6:00 PM. This early closure is standard practice for New Year’s Eve, as locals and visitors alike prepare for the evening’s celebrations. Supermarkets and smaller shops in tourist areas may remain open a little longer, but again, most shops will begin winding down by the evening.
Vinmonopolet: Limited Hours on New Year’s Eve
For those looking to purchase alcohol, Vinmonopolet, the government-run alcohol retailer, will close early on New Year’s Eve. Officially, the store is expected to remain open until around 3:00 PM, which is much earlier than normal operating hours. On New Year’s Day, Vinmonopolet will be completely closed, so make sure to plan your purchases accordingly.
Public Services and Banks: Closed on New Year’s Day
Public services, including government offices, banks, and postal services, will be closed for New Year’s Day across Norway. These closures are consistent with the country’s holiday schedule, as January 1st is considered an official public holiday. For those needing to conduct any financial transactions or administrative work, it’s important to plan ahead. On New Year’s Eve, many public services will close early, usually by 3:00 PM.
Restaurants, Cafés, and Hospitality: Open on New Year’s Eve, Closed on New Year’s Day
If you’re looking to celebrate the New Year in style, restaurants, bars, and cafés in Norway will be open on New Year’s Eve but often with limited hours. Expect a lively atmosphere in cities like Oslo and Bergen, where many restaurants offer special menus or events for the occasion. Reservations are highly recommended, as many of the best venues tend to book out quickly for the New Year’s Eve dinner service.
However, New Year’s Day (January 1) will see most dining establishments closed. While some tourist-friendly cafés in popular destinations might remain open with limited service, most restaurants and bars will take the day off, giving staff a chance to rest after the celebrations.
Attractions and Museums: Largely Closed on New Year’s Day
Like many public places, museums, galleries, and tourist attractions will be closed on New Year’s Day in Norway. If you’re planning to visit any cultural venues, it’s best to plan your visit for New Year’s Eve, when most attractions remain open for the majority of the day. On New Year’s Eve, many museums may offer reduced hours, but they are generally open until around 4:00 PM.
For those interested in outdoor activities, however, Norway’s natural beauty remains accessible. Outdoor destinations like the fjords, parks, and mountains will be open for those who enjoy winter hiking, skiing, or just exploring the serene snowy landscapes. If you’re in Oslo or Bergen, you can enjoy the city’s outdoor spaces, which are open year-round, even on public holidays.
Public Transport: Reduced Service on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
Both local and national public transport services will operate on a reduced schedule. On New Year’s Eve, public transportation in cities like Oslo and Bergen will run until around midnight, after which services will be minimal. On New Year’s Day, expect significantly reduced services. Some train lines and buses may not operate at all, while others may run on holiday timetables.
It’s advisable to check local transport websites for up-to-date timetables for any long-distance travel plans. For tourists arriving in Norway over the holiday period, check the Norwegian State Railways (Vy) website for up-to-date information on train schedules.
Healthcare Services: Limited Availability
As for healthcare, non-urgent services, such as regular medical clinics, GP offices, and pharmacies, will be closed on New Year’s Day. Emergency medical services remain available 24/7, but for routine healthcare, be sure to visit before the public holiday begins. Pharmacies may open for limited hours on New Year’s Eve but close on New Year’s Day. If you need medication or prescriptions, it’s best to stock up ahead of time.
Summary Table of What’s Open and Closed on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in NorwayService31 December (New Year’s Eve)1 January (New Year’s Day)Shops and RetailOpen (reduced hours, most close by 6:00 PM)ClosedVinmonopolet (Alcohol)Open until 3:00 PMClosedBanks and GovernmentOpen (reduced hours)ClosedRestaurants and CafésOpen (many offer special events)ClosedMuseums and AttractionsOpen (reduced hours, close by 4:00 PM)ClosedPublic TransportReduced service (operates until midnight)Limited service (holiday schedule)Healthcare and PharmaciesLimited hours (closed by 4:00 PM)ClosedPlan Ahead for Your New Year’s Eve in Norway
With this comprehensive breakdown, you’re ready to experience New Year’s Eve in Norway, whether you’re planning to explore the vibrant city life in Oslo, enjoy a quiet holiday in Bergen, or explore the rugged beauty of Tromsø. Just be sure to check ahead for any changes to services or special events in the cities you’ll be visiting.