Oslo Spektrum

Oslo Spektrum is a multi-purpose indoor arena in the heart of Oslo. Since December 1990 it has hosted concerts, sports events, fairs and conferences, and for many visitors it is the first major building they notice after stepping out of the main railway station.

Where is Oslo Spektrum and how do you get there?

The arena sits in east central Oslo, right beside the Central Station (Oslo S). Nearby are the long- and medium-haul bus terminal, the Jernbanetorget public transport hub and the international ferry terminals. That means you can arrive by train, bus, tram, metro or ferry without a car and without a long walk. The venue lies at roughly 59.913 N, 10.755 E.

When was it built and what was it meant for?

The arena opened in December 1990 under the ownership and operation of Nova Spektrum, formerly known as Norges Varemesse, the Norwegian trade fair organisation. It was originally intended to be the home hall of the ice hockey clubs Vålerenga and Furuset, but both stopped using it after a few years. The building was designed as a flexible venue from the start, so the absence of permanent tenants did not change its role in city life.

What events take place at Oslo Spektrum?

The hall welcomes concerts by Norwegian and international artists, musicals, sports events, conferences and trade fairs. It is also known as a host of the annual Nobel Peace Prize Concert, held in connection with the award in Oslo. In 1996 the arena staged the Eurovision Song Contest. This mix of cultural, sporting and business events makes the calendar varied, so it pays to check the programme before you plan a visit.

How many people does it hold?

Figures differ slightly by source and by hall layout. In concert mode with seating, the arena holds roughly 9,700 to 10,000 people. With part of the audience standing, capacity reaches about 11,500. For sports the number of seats is lower, at around 6,500. The exact layout depends on the event, so check the organiser's or ticket seller's page.

Is the arena being rebuilt?

The operator has announced an expansion that includes a new congress and cultural stage. According to the owner, work should finish at the end of 2028. An earlier rebuild in 2018 and 2019 added about 1,500 places. Before travelling for an event, look for current notices, as construction may affect entrances and the area around the building.

Frequently asked questions

Is Oslo Spektrum easy to reach from the airport? Yes. The hall stands next to the Central Station, a key interchange in the city, so public transport from many parts of Oslo is straightforward.

Is it just a sports hall? No. Although it was planned with ice hockey in mind, today it works mainly as a concert arena and a venue for conferences, fairs and other large events.

Can you visit it outside events? The building is aimed mainly at ticketed or registered events. Information about any access outside them comes from the operator.

How early should you arrive for a concert? Because the arena is in a busy central spot beside a transport hub, leave some extra time for the journey and entry, especially for big shows.

Are there other sights nearby? Yes. Central Oslo has plenty to see within a short distance, and the closeness of the station makes it easy to combine an event with sightseeing.