Category: Oslo

Norway is no longer part of the FIFA World Cup, but that does not mean football has disappeared from Oslo. If you are visiting the city, you will still find plenty of people gathering to watch the biggest matches together.

If you want to watch Spain vs France or England vs Argentina during your stay, these are three of the best places to consider. They offer different atmospheres, so it helps to know what to expect before you head out.

Where should you watch the matches?

Fotball i Sentrum (Spikersuppa) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

For many visitors, this is the easiest and most enjoyable choice. Spikersuppa is right in the city centre, within walking distance of Oslo Central Station, Karl Johans gate and many hotels.

The atmosphere is usually lively, especially for major international matches. Expect large crowds if you arrive close to kick-off. If you want a good view of the screen, arrive early rather than just before the match starts.

There are plenty of restaurants, cafés and convenience stores nearby if you want food or drinks before or after the game. Public transport is excellent, with trams, buses, trains and the metro all stopping within a few minutes’ walk.

Fotball i parken (Lille Slottsparken) ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

If you prefer watching football outdoors in a greener setting, Lille Slottsparken is another good option. It is close to the Royal Palace and easy to reach on foot from the city centre.

The atmosphere is often a little more relaxed than at Spikersuppa, although popular matches can still attract many spectators. Because you are outdoors, check the weather forecast before leaving your hotel. Even during summer, evenings in Oslo can feel cool, particularly if you are visiting from a much warmer climate. Bringing a light jacket is usually a good idea.

Carls (Carl Berners plass) ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Carls is a popular sports venue at Carl Berners plass, a few stops from the city centre by tram or bus. If you prefer watching indoors with food and drinks available throughout the match, this can be a comfortable alternative.

As with many popular sports bars, tables may fill up well before kick-off for high-profile matches. If you are travelling with a group, arriving early gives you a much better chance of sitting together.

How do you get there?

All three locations are easy to reach using Oslo’s public transport network.

• Spikersuppa: a short walk from Oslo Central Station.
• Lille Slottsparken: around 10 to 15 minutes on foot from the city centre.
• Carls: accessible by tram and bus to Carl Berners plass.

If you are staying centrally, you may not need public transport at all for Spikersuppa or Lille Slottsparken.

What should you wear?

Weather is the biggest factor. Summer evenings in Oslo are often pleasant, but temperatures can drop noticeably after sunset. If you have been travelling in southern Europe or another hot destination, Oslo may feel much cooler than you expect.

For outdoor screenings, comfortable shoes and a light waterproof jacket are sensible choices. Rain showers are always possible, even on days that start with sunshine.

What about toilets, food and waiting times?

The city centre locations have cafés, restaurants and shops nearby, although queues become longer before the match starts and during half-time. Public toilets are generally easier to find around central Oslo than in smaller parks, but you may still have to wait if attendance is high.

If you want to avoid missing part of the match, consider buying food and drinks before kick-off instead of waiting until the interval.

Can you still follow the matches online?

If you cannot get a place at one of the public screenings or you prefer watching from your accommodation, you can also check this guide on how to watch Spain vs France online. It explains available viewing options and can help if you are travelling during match day.

Is it worth joining the crowds?

Even without Norway in the tournament, international football still brings together locals and visitors across Oslo. If you enjoy watching major matches with other fans, these venues provide a good atmosphere without requiring much planning. Just arrive early for the biggest games, dress for changing weather, and expect some queues around kick-off and half-time.

Norway takes on England in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals on Saturday, July 11, with kick-off at 23:00 (CEST). For Norwegian football fans, this is one of the biggest matches in modern history. A victory would send Erling Haaland, Martin Ødegaard and the rest of the squad into the World Cup semi-finals, something that would rank alongside Norway’s legendary win over Brazil at the 1998 World Cup.

If you’re spending Saturday evening in Oslo, expect an unforgettable atmosphere. Tens of thousands of supporters are expected to fill the city centre, and the best places to watch the match will reach capacity well before kick-off.

1. Rådhusplassen – Oslo’s Biggest Football Party

The official place to watch the match is Rådhusplassen (City Hall Square), where the City of Oslo will once again show the match on four giant screens after the huge success of the Brazil game.

Around 50,000 supporters gathered here for the round-of-16 victory over Brazil, and at least as many are expected for the England match.

What to expect

• Free admission
• No tickets required
• Four giant screens
• Incredible atmosphere with thousands of Norwegian supporters
• Family-friendly event
• Live NRK studio before and after the match

Good to know

There are security checks at the entrances, so expect queues if you arrive late.

There are no seats, so most people will stand throughout the evening. You’re welcome to bring a sitting pad (sitteunderlag) if you want to sit before kick-off, but chairs are not permitted.

Alcohol is not allowed, and visitors may not bring alcoholic drinks or glass bottles into the event area.

Water stations and hundreds of portable toilets will be available, while food trucks will operate close to the square.

How to get there

The easiest way is to walk from Nationaltheatret or Stortinget stations.

Because of the huge crowds, expect temporary road closures and changes to tram and bus services around City Hall. Public transport operator Ruter is running additional late-night services after the match.

2. Sports Bars Around the City Centre

If you prefer a roof over your head and easier access to food and drinks, Oslo has plenty of excellent alternatives.

Popular venues include:

• Carls – Norway’s largest football pub with multiple giant screens.
• HOBO Bar – A relaxed city-centre venue showing selected World Cup matches.
• Posthallen Drinkhub – One of Oslo’s most popular sports viewing venues.
• Haandtryk – Indoor viewing plus a courtyard with outdoor screens.
• Chicago Pizza & Brew – Sports bar inside the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel.

For most sports bars, arriving early is highly recommended. Many will either accept reservations or fill up several hours before kick-off.

3. Outdoor Football Viewing

If you enjoy watching football outdoors but want alternatives to Rådhusplassen, Oslo offers several excellent options.

Fotball i Sentrum (Spikersuppa)

Located just off Karl Johans gate, this popular outdoor football area shows all World Cup matches on large screens.

• Free entry
• Age limit: 18+
• Great city-centre atmosphere

Fotball i Parken (Lille Slottsparken)

A slightly more relaxed outdoor setting close to the Royal Palace.

• Outdoor giant screen
• Age limit: 20+
• Food and drinks available
• Booking options available

Prefer Watching From Home?

If you’d rather skip the crowds, the queues, and Oslo’s expensive beer prices, streaming the match from your hotel, apartment, or home is an excellent option.

The match is broadcast in Norway, and if you’re staying in the country with a Norwegian internet connection, watching online is straightforward.

If you’re visiting Norway but are still connected through a foreign mobile provider or another country’s internet service, you may encounter regional restrictions. In that case, using a Norwegian IP address can solve the problem.

You can find a complete streaming guide here:

The guide explains exactly how to watch the match from Norway or from abroad, including step-by-step instructions for viewers who need a Norwegian IP address.

Final Tips

• Arrive at least 2–3 hours before kick-off if you’re heading to Rådhusplassen.
• Use public transport instead of driving.
• Bring an extra layer of clothing—Oslo evenings can become chilly, even in July.
• Charge your phone before leaving, as mobile networks may become congested around the city centre.
• Most importantly, enjoy what could become one of the greatest nights in Norwegian football history.

Whether you choose the electric atmosphere at Rådhusplassen, a lively sports bar, or the comfort of your own sofa, Norway vs England promises to be a World Cup quarter-final to remember.

If you are visiting Oslo for the first time, it can be difficult to know which places belong on your sightseeing checklist. Cities such as Paris, London, and Rome have landmarks that almost everyone recognizes immediately. If you need inspiration for those cities, you can see similar first-visit checklists from guidetoparis.net, guidetolondon.net, and rometourist.net.

Oslo is different. It is not a city filled with monumental architecture on every corner, and many of its best-known places are parks, waterfront areas, and viewpoints rather than famous buildings. Even so, there are a few locations that most first-time visitors should see before deciding what else to add to their itinerary.

The seven places below give you a good introduction to Oslo. They are easy to combine with other sightseeing, and together they show different sides of the city.

Which places should you prioritize?

1. Vigeland Sculpture Park

Vigeland Sculpture Park is probably Oslo’s most recognizable attraction. Hundreds of granite and bronze sculptures fill a large public park that you can visit free of charge, and you should expect to spend at least one to two hours walking around. Wear comfortable shoes, as the park is bigger than many first-time visitors expect, and remember that it is completely outdoors, so the weather matters.

2. Akershus Fortress

Akershus Fortress sits above the Oslo Fjord and offers a combination of old stone buildings, open grounds, and good views of the harbor. It is an easy walk from the city center, but some paths are uphill and paved with uneven stones, so comfortable footwear is helpful. Even if you do not enter the museums, the fortress grounds are worth visiting.

3. Aker Brygge

Aker Brygge is Oslo’s modern waterfront promenade, lined with restaurants, cafés, and places to sit by the water. It is especially busy on warm days and summer evenings, while winter visits are much quieter. Food and drinks here are generally more expensive than in many other parts of the city, but walking along the waterfront costs nothing.

4. City Hall

Oslo City Hall is one of the city’s most important public buildings and is known internationally as the place where the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony is held. The building is within walking distance of both Aker Brygge and the National Theatre area, making it easy to include in the same day. The exterior is simple, but many visitors find the decorated interior more interesting than they expected.

5. Parliament

The Norwegian Parliament stands along Karl Johans gate, the main street connecting the Central Station with the Royal Palace. Most visitors stop here while walking through the city center, making it one of the easiest landmarks to see without any extra travel. It is a good reference point as you move between several of Oslo’s central attractions.

6. The Oslo Opera House

The Oslo Opera House is the city’s most striking modern building and is one of the few landmarks that immediately stands out in photographs. You can walk onto the sloping white roof for views across the fjord and the surrounding neighborhoods, but the surface can become slippery in rain, snow, or ice. It is only a short walk from Oslo Central Station, making it an easy first stop after arriving by train.

7. Holmenkollen

Holmenkollen is best known for its famous ski jump and for offering one of the best panoramic views over Oslo and the fjord. Reaching it takes longer than the central attractions because you need to travel into the hills by public transport, but the journey is straightforward and worth planning into your schedule. The temperature is often lower here than in the city center, so bring an extra layer if you visit on a cool day.

What about the museums?

Many visitors also plan time for the Munch Museum, the National Museum, and other museums around Oslo. They are excellent choices if you have extra time or particular interests, but if your goal is to see the places most closely associated with the city on a first visit, the seven locations above are a practical starting point.

Most of these attractions can be combined over one or two days using public transport and walking. Oslo’s city center is relatively compact, although Holmenkollen requires additional travel. If you leave with memories of Vigeland Sculpture Park, Akershus Fortress, Aker Brygge, City Hall, Parliament, the Opera House, and the view from Holmenkollen, you will have seen the places that many visitors associate with their first trip to Oslo.

Most summer days in Oslo are comfortable rather than hot. But every now and then, the temperature climbs above 30°C. If you have arrived from another warm country, you might think the water will also be warm. It usually is not.

Whether you choose the Oslofjord or a forest lake, the water is often much colder than beaches around the Mediterranean. That can be a welcome relief after walking around the city in the sun. If you are unsure what weather to expect during your visit, have a look at our guide to Oslo’s weather.

The places below are all easy to reach without a car. If you are unfamiliar with the local transport system, our guide to public transportation in Oslo explains how to use the metro, trams, buses and ferries.

Should you choose the sea or a lake?

The Oslofjord offers salt water, small beaches, rocks for sunbathing and plenty of space along the shoreline. Forest lakes are surrounded by trees, often feel quieter, and the fresh water is popular with families. Neither the sea nor the lakes become very warm, even after several hot days. If you jump straight in, expect the first few seconds to feel surprisingly cold.

Huk Beach on Bygdøy

Huk is one of Oslo’s best-known places for swimming in the fjord. You will find both sandy areas and smooth rocks where people spread out towels. On very hot weekends it gets busy, so arriving before midday gives you a better chance of finding a comfortable spot.

How do I get there?

Take bus 30 towards Bygdøy and get off at Huk. The journey from the city centre takes around 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. During the summer season you can also use the passenger ferry to Bygdøy and walk from the pier, although the walk takes around 20 minutes.

There are toilets, seasonal kiosks selling ice cream and drinks, and mobile phone coverage is good. Bring water, as queues at the kiosk can become long on the hottest days.

Sørenga Seawater Pool

If you are already in the city centre, Sørenga is the easiest place to cool down. It is a modern waterfront area with swimming ladders, floating platforms and a protected seawater pool. There is very little natural shade, so sunscreen and a hat are useful if you plan to stay for several hours.

How do I get there?

Walk about 15 minutes from Oslo Central Station, or take a bus to the Bjørvika area. The water is clean, but the area can become extremely crowded on hot afternoons. If you prefer a quieter place, choose one of the forest lakes instead.

There are public toilets nearby, several cafés and grocery shops within walking distance, and drinking water is available.

Sognsvann

Sognsvann is a large freshwater lake surrounded by forest, making it a popular escape when the city feels too hot. The atmosphere is relaxed, and there is plenty of space even when many people visit.

How do I get there?

Take Metro line 5 to Sognsvann. The lake is only a couple of minutes’ walk from the station, making it one of the easiest natural swimming areas to reach by public transport.

There are toilets near the entrance to the recreation area. You can walk all the way around the lake on a wide gravel path of about 3 kilometres if you feel like stretching your legs after your swim. Bring your own food if you plan to stay, as there are limited places to buy refreshments.

Nøklevann

If you would rather avoid the biggest crowds, Nøklevann in eastern Oslo is a good alternative. The lake has several swimming spots, including small beaches and rocky areas. The surrounding forest makes it feel much further from the city than it really is.

How do I get there?

Take Metro line 3 to Bogerud or Metro line 1 to Ulsrud. From either station, expect a walk of around 15–20 minutes through residential streets and forest paths before reaching the water. Wear comfortable shoes rather than flip-flops for the walk.

Facilities are more limited than at central beaches, so bring water, snacks and anything else you need for the afternoon. Mobile coverage is generally good.

What should you bring?

Even on Oslo’s hottest days, it is worth packing a light towel, swimwear, sunscreen, drinking water and something warm to put on afterwards. After swimming in cold water, especially if there is a breeze, you may cool down faster than expected.

If you are only visiting Oslo for a few days and happen to experience one of those rare 30°C afternoons, joining the locals at the beach or a forest lake is one of the simplest ways to stay comfortable. Just don’t expect tropical water temperatures. The cool water is exactly why these places are so popular when the city heats up.

If you are in Oslo on July 5 and want to watch Norway play Brazil together with thousands of local fans, you have a couple of very good options. Whether you prefer a ticketed event with other supporters or a free public screening in the city center, you can be part of the atmosphere.

If Norway wins, you can also expect celebrations around the city afterward. Large crowds often gather in central Oslo after major sporting victories, so be prepared for busy streets and public transport later in the evening.

Where can you watch the match?

There are two main places to watch the game with other supporters in Oslo.

Ullevaal Stadium

If you want a more organized event, you can watch the match at Ullevaal Stadium.
Update: Those tickets were quickly sold out (Ullevaal Stadium tickets), so no more tickets left for that event. But there is a similar event at Rockerfeller/Sentrum Scene (concert venues in the center of Oslo. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, with prices starting at around 150 NOK.

Since this is a ticketed event, it is a good idea to buy your ticket in advance rather than expecting availability on the day. Arriving early also gives you more time to get inside before the crowds build up.

Free screening at Oslo City Hall

If you would rather watch the match outdoors without buying a ticket, head to the large screens outside Oslo City Hall (Rådhuset). This is one of the biggest public viewing areas in the city and is expected to attract a large number of supporters.

The atmosphere here can become very lively before kick-off and especially if Norway scores. If you want a good view of the screen, arrive well before the match starts. Standing for the entire game is likely, so wear comfortable shoes.

What should you expect?

Both locations are likely to be busy. Public transport around central Oslo and Ullevaal Stadium may also be more crowded than usual before and after the match.

Weather in Oslo can change quickly, even during summer. If you choose the outdoor screening at City Hall, check the forecast before leaving. Bringing a light waterproof jacket is often a good idea if rain is possible.

If you are watching outdoors, remember that you will be standing outside for the duration of the match. Bring water if it is a warm day, and dress according to the weather rather than the calendar.

What happens if Norway wins?

No one can predict exactly where supporters will celebrate, but if Norway wins you should expect spontaneous gatherings in central Oslo.

After previous victories, fans gathered near the Royal Palace to celebrate together. Similar celebrations could happen again, although the exact locations will depend on how the evening develops.

If you plan to stay out after the match, be prepared for crowded streets and possible delays on buses, trams, and the metro as many people leave at the same time.

Can you watch the match online?

Yes. The match will also be available through the Norwegian broadcaster NRK.

If you are visiting Norway or are trying to watch from another country, you can read Oslo Guide’s instructions on how to watch NRK live from abroad.

If you would like additional streaming alternatives, you can also read this guide explaining how to watch Brazil vs Norway online.

Which option is best?

If you want the biggest public celebration without spending money, the free screening at Oslo City Hall is the obvious choice. Expect large crowds, plenty of noise, and a festive atmosphere throughout the match.

If you prefer a more structured event and do not mind paying for admission, Ullevaal Stadium is another excellent option with tickets starting at around 150 NOK.

Whichever option you choose, arrive early, expect plenty of fellow supporters, and be ready for a memorable evening if Norway delivers a strong performance against Brazil.