Bastard Bar

If you are looking for a place with real character in the city of Tromsø, then you should definitely drop by Bastard Bar. It is not just a nightclub, but a cult establishment for fans of rock music, live performances, and a laid-back atmosphere. Located in the very center, it is a point of attraction for both locals and tourists wanting to see the rough, driving side of the north.

The interior of the venue is designed in a classic rock bar style: dim lighting, posters of music legends on the walls, and a stage that is rarely empty.

The main feature of Bastard Bar is its music program. Concerts by local and visiting bands playing everything from classic rock and blues to metal and punk take place here regularly. Even if there is no concert, the DJ playlist will impress every music lover.

To immerse yourself in the atmosphere of real northern rock, you need to get to the city center. The main landmark is the physical address of the establishment, located on one of the main streets.

The main reason people come to Bastard Bar is the music. Be sure to check the schedule: if you are lucky enough to catch a live concert, you will have an unforgettable experience. The small hall creates a sense of intimacy and unity with the musicians, which is hard to achieve at large venues. Here, it is customary not just to listen, but to actively support the performers.

Besides concerts, it is worth paying attention to the bar menu. Order a pint of local or imported beer, choose one of the signature cocktails, and enjoy the conversation. The atmosphere here is conducive to meeting people: stern fishermen, university students, or travelers just like you might be sitting at the next table.

Also, in the bar, you can often play darts or simply observe the colorful crowd. This is a great place to "switch gears" after long walks through the fjords or hunting for the northern lights, plunging into the warm and noisy nightlife.

Getting to Bastard Bar is very simple, as it is located in the very heart of the city. The establishment is located on Strandgata street, which runs parallel to the waterfront. If you are staying in one of the hotels in the center, the walk to the bar will take you just a few minutes on foot. This is the most convenient and pleasant way to get around, allowing you to enjoy views of the city at the same time.

If you are coming from more remote areas, you can use city buses running to the central terminal, which is within walking distance of the bar. Taxis in Norway are not cheap, but if you prefer comfort, ask the driver to take you to Strandgata 22. The trip from the airport will take about 10–15 minutes.

Although Bastard Bar may seem like just another drinking establishment, it has cult significance for the local scene. This place has become a real stronghold for fans of heavy music and alternative culture above the Arctic Circle. While many bars cater to the mass tourist, Bastard has preserved its authenticity and rebellious spirit.

Historically, this is where many local rock bands began their journey, getting a chance to perform before a live audience. The bar's stage has seen not only local talents but also touring musicians from different corners of Europe who value this place for its honest atmosphere and excellent sound.

It is interesting that, despite its brutal name and interior, the bar is famous for a very friendly and inclusive environment. This is a place where history is written every evening — whether it be an improvised jam session or an unforgettable party to the sounds of classic rock.

The time worth setting aside for visiting Bastard Bar depends on your plans for the evening. If you stopped by just to drink a glass of beer and appreciate the interior, one hour will be quite enough for you. This is sufficient to soak up the atmosphere and perhaps make a couple of acquaintances.

However, if you have arrived for a live concert or a themed party, you can easily spend the entire evening here — from 3 to 5 hours. Music, socializing, and energy draw you in, so many guests stay until closing time.

The opening hours of Bastard Bar may vary depending on the day of the week and planned events. As a rule, such establishments open their doors closer to the evening and work until late at night, especially on weekends when the fun is in full swing.

To avoid finding yourself in front of a closed door, we strongly recommend checking the current schedule on the bar's official website or on their social media pages before your visit.

A visit to the bar can be successfully combined with a walk around the city center, as there are many interesting sights around. The location on Strandgata makes it easy to get to key attractions, whether they are historical buildings or entertainment centers.

Within walking distance, you will find both educational museums and picturesque corners for photos. Here is a list of places worth paying attention to while nearby: