Oslo
Cheap hotels in Oslo: the good-value city centre hotels we recommend
You do not need to pay a lot to stay centrally in Oslo. These are the good-value hotels we recommend, from smart self-service hotels by Oslo Central Station to hostels in the heart of the city, and the tips that get you a lower price.
Oslo has a reputation for being expensive, but there are plenty of good, affordable hotels right in the city centre. Most are within walking distance of Oslo Central Station (Oslo S), Karl Johans gate and Bjørvika, and several have modern rooms, self check-in and breakfast that make the stay simple.
Short answer: cheap hotels in Oslo
Good-value hotels by Oslo S: The area around the central station is the most practical for a short trip.
Citybox Oslo: A good-value hotel for families with simple self check-in, within walking distance of Karl Johans gate and Oslo S.
Thon Hotel Astoria: A good-value hotel in the centre, a short walk from Oslo S and the Opera House.
Thon Hotel Spectrum: A good-value hotel with a bar, near Oslo Spektrum, the Opera House and Grønland.
Our hotel tip: Citybox Oslo. See rooms at Citybox Oslo
These are the good-value hotels we recommend, sorted by what you need, and the tips that mean you pay less for the same night.
The hotel links are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Prices vary with date and season, so always check the current price on the hotel page.
Good-value hotels by Oslo S
The area around Oslo S is the most practical for a short trip. The airport express train, the regional trains and the metro are right outside, and Karl Johans gate, Bjørvika and the Opera House are within walking distance.
Citybox Oslo: smart self-service
A good-value hotel for families with simple self check-in, within walking distance of Karl Johans gate and Oslo S.
Book your stay: See rooms at Citybox Oslo
Thon Hotel Astoria: central by Oslo S
A good-value hotel in the centre, a short walk from Oslo S and the Opera House.
Book your stay: See rooms at Thon Hotel Astoria
Thon Hotel Spectrum: by Oslo Spektrum
A good-value hotel with a bar, near Oslo Spektrum, the Opera House and Grønland.
Book your stay: See rooms at Thon Hotel Spectrum
Comfort Hotel Grand Central: inside the station
A hotel inside Oslo S, for anyone who wants to walk straight from the train to their room.
Book your stay: See rooms at Comfort Hotel Grand Central
Good-value hotels in the centre and around Youngstorget
Around Youngstorget and Karl Johans gate you will find several modern hotels with simple rooms and a good location, right between the restaurants, the nightlife and the shopping streets.
Comfort Hotel Xpress Youngstorget: urban and simple
A hotel with a bar, near Youngstorget and Oslo Spektrum, for anyone who wants the city right outside the door.
Book your stay: See rooms at Comfort Hotel Xpress Youngstorget
Smarthotel Oslo: simple and central
A good-value hotel with a bar, near Karl Johans gate.
Book your stay: See rooms at Smarthotel Oslo
Comfort Hotel Karl Johan: on the main street
A modern, more affordable hotel right on Karl Johans gate.
Book your stay: See rooms at Comfort Hotel Karl Johan
Anker Hotel: by the Akerselva river
A good-value hotel by the river with a restaurant, between the centre and Grünerløkka.
Book your stay: See rooms at Anker Hotel
Hostels and budget stays
If you are travelling alone, with friends or on a tight budget, a hostel is a good option. Many offer both dormitories and private rooms.
Saga Poshtel Oslo Central: a hostel with style
A hostel with both private rooms and dormitories, central and within walking distance of the Nobel Peace Center.
Book your stay: See rooms at Saga Poshtel Oslo Central
HI Oslo Haraldsheim: a classic hostel
A hostel outside the centre, with simple rooms and the tram and bus into town close by.
Book your stay: See rooms at HI Oslo Haraldsheim
Bjørvika with the MUNCH museum. Photo: Picolo
How to get a cheaper hotel in Oslo
Travel at the weekend: Many hotels in Oslo are cheaper from Friday to Sunday, when the business travellers have gone home.
Book early: Prices rise as the hotels fill up, especially during concerts, sporting events and the Christmas markets.
Avoid the big events: Check the calendar before you settle on dates. The same room can cost considerably more on the night of a big concert.
Choose self-service: Hotels like Citybox keep prices down with simple check-in and fewer services.
Check whether breakfast is included: Breakfast in Oslo can be expensive. A hotel with breakfast included can work out cheaper overall.
Stay a little outside the centre: With good public transport, a hotel a few minutes from the centre can mean a lower price without being impractical.
Free and cheap things to do in Oslo
If you save on the hotel, the money can go on experiences. Many of the best things in Oslo are free: walk on the roof of the Opera House, see Vigeland's sculptures in Frogner Park, stroll along the Akerselva river or take the tram up towards Holmenkollen. Read our tips for the nine best things to do in Oslo.
Which neighbourhood is cheapest?
The areas around Oslo S, Grønland and Youngstorget have more good-value hotels than Frogner and Aker Brygge. Read our guide to where to stay in Oslo, neighbourhood by neighbourhood to find the right area for you.
Frequently asked questions about cheap hotels in Oslo
Where can you find a cheap hotel in Oslo city centre?
Around Oslo S, Youngstorget and Grønland there are several good-value hotels, such as Citybox Oslo, Thon Hotel Spectrum and Comfort Hotel Xpress Youngstorget.
When are hotels in Oslo cheapest?
Weekends are often cheaper than weekdays, and prices are usually lower when there are no big events in the city.
Are there hostels in Oslo?
Yes, Saga Poshtel Oslo Central is in the city centre, and HI Oslo Haraldsheim is a classic hostel outside the centre.
Is it worth staying outside the centre?
Often, but allow for travel time and tickets. With good public transport, a hotel slightly outside the centre can still be a good choice.