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.
