Shopping

Buying alcohol can be a somewhat tricky business in Norway, so here’s a little guide to make sure you don’t miss out on that very important Saturday night bottle of wine.

You’ll have to buy all your wine and liquor at the special government operated Vinmonopolet, while beer is available at the supermarket. The Vinmonopol has limited opening hours, and stays open until 18:00 on weekdays, while it closes as early as 15:00 on Saturdays. At the supermarket you can buy beer until 20:00 during the week, or until 18:00 on Saturdays. It’s not possible to buy alcohol on Sundays, except in bars – of course.

While there are several Vinmonopol’s scattered around town, my go to Vinmonopol is the Grunerløkka branch; it has a good location, a decent (not great) selection of wines and the employees are always happy to help with questions or recommendations.

Fun fact, Norwegians usually just say “Polet”.

Freudian Kicks might just be the coolest boutique Oslo has to offer, stocking French labels such as A.P.C., Surface to air and Carven. But the creative people behind the store also design their own line, which is slightly more affordable. I also like flicking through the racks for the local label F W S S.

Located in the old Posthallen, it’s got that trendy brick vibe going on. But all the while this part of town has been rumoured to take off as the next big thing, it has never seemed to happen. There are a few other cool spots near by, like a Henrik Vibskov boutique, but all in all Freudian Kicks stands out as a lone wolf in a half dead part of town.

The store is divided into a ladies wear section on your left, and a guys section on the right. But you’ll also find some sweet accessories, such as headphones, beanies and wallets that would suit both genders equally well.

If you’re a fashionista looking to burn some money, there’s no better place than Freudian Kicks!

In this Spotify-age there’s nothing more satisfying that putting on a record, whether an old classic or the latest Pitchfork recommendation. For the latter, Big Dipper is my go to record store. But I can also easily get lost in browsing their selection of old releases, picking up records that fill gaps in my collection.

I like to pop by this Møllergata spot for free weekend mini-concerts. I find that these events are an important contributor in making Big Dipper more of an institution, rather than just a store. The sweetest moment for me was definitely seeing Anna Jarvinen perform, although that’s now a couple of years ago – it was a stand out.

Another great thing about this store is the prices, which are very competitive. It’s rarely cheaper to order the records online, which of course, makes it easy to “shop local.” Which is something we all should do more.

And perhaps ask the knowledgeable staff about the hottest Oslo bands? It would make the perfect souvenir to take home.

Frøken Dianas Salonger is a small gem of a vintage boutique, it oozes charm and femininity, and is the perfect place to find a breezy outfit for the summers many festivals.

In this Markveien shop you’ll find one off earrings and other pieces of jewellery from bygone areas, you’ll also find an amazing selection of frocks and blouses, as well as fun interior items for your apartment. I even bought a guitar and an old school typewriter here.

The shop has just moved location, and more space means more vintage fun. 

If the long Scandinavian summer nights makes you chilly past 22:00, you should look out for the characteristic Scandinavian woollen jumpers, a great souvenir – for ladies and gents alike. Especially since they appear to be all the hipster rage lately.

I hardly walk down Markveien without popping into Babel to see what’s new. Here I find some of my favourite labels, such as Whyred and Athé by Vanessa Bruno. Fashion lovers might also recognise dresses from Ganni and quality basics from James Perse, and a garment from the Norwegian label FWSS serves as the perfect souvenir. 

I also really appreciate that they only stock a limited number of every garment, taking away the risk of seeing every other girl wearing the same outfit when walking down the street.

Buying designer clothing is never cheap, but in the back of the store you’ll find a large designer vintage section. This is a real gem, and prices are reasonable. Babel will even sell your old clothing for a commission, at least if they fit with the feel of the store.

A day of shopping at Grunerløkka is not complete without stopping by Babel, and the superb service of the girls working here makes it a great experience – even when you don’t end up buying anything.