Everything You Need to Know About Drinking Age in Svalbard: Exploring the Arctic Paradise of Spitsbergen

What is the drinking age in Svalbard?

Are you planning a trip to Svalbard and wondering what the drinking age is? Well, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will answer your question and provide you with all the information you need to know about legal drinking age in Svalbard.

The Legal Drinking Age in Svalbard

In Svalbard, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. This means that you need to be at least 18 years old to purchase alcohol and consume it in public places.

However, it is important to note that Svalbard is an archipelago that is part of Norway but is governed by a special treaty. The laws in Svalbard are slightly different from those in the rest of Norway.

For example, in Norway, the legal drinking age is also 18. However, the sale of alcohol is restricted after certain hours. This is not the case in Svalbard. You can purchase alcohol from a store at any time of the day or night.

Alcohol Prices in Svalbard

Alcohol in Svalbard can be more expensive than in mainland Norway due to the extra costs associated with shipping it to the archipelago. However, it is still possible to find reasonably priced alcohol in certain stores.

If you want to save money on alcohol, we recommend purchasing it from the state-owned liquor store, Vinmonopolet. This store is located in Longyearbyen, the main town in Svalbard.

Drinking Culture in Svalbard

The drinking culture in Svalbard is similar to that in other Nordic countries. People tend to drink in bars or at home with friends.

It is worth noting that alcohol is often served in hotels and restaurants in Svalbard. However, the prices for alcohol in these establishments can be high.

Conclusion

Svalbard is a unique place where the legal drinking age is 18 years old. Although alcohol can be more expensive than in mainland Norway, it is still possible to find reasonably priced alcohol at certain stores.

If you are planning a trip to Svalbard and want to purchase alcohol, make sure you are at least 18 years old. Drinking in public places is also legal, but remember to do so responsibly and in moderation.