Jordal Amfi

For fans of dynamic sports and modern architecture, there is a remarkable landmark in the heart of the Jordal district — Jordal Amfi. This ultra-modern indoor ice arena in Oslo is the country's premier venue for ice hockey. Built on the site of the historic 1952 stadium, the new arena (known as Nye Jordal Amfi) embodies cutting-edge technology and a deep respect for the sporting heritage that Norway carefully preserves.

Jordal Amfi. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The complex impresses with its functionality: spread across four floors with a total area of 14,500 m², it houses not only the ice rink but also 22 VIP boxes, modern lounge areas, and training facilities. The stands have a capacity of 5,300 spectators. The architects paid special attention to the design — steep, asymmetrical stands ensure an excellent view from any seat, creating a feeling of closeness to the action on the ice, reminiscent of the atmosphere of classical ancient amphitheatres.

Beyond its sporting purpose, the building stands out for its environmental sustainability. It is one of the most energy-efficient arenas in the world: thanks to innovative heat exchange and temperature control systems, energy consumption here is significantly lower than in similar-sized structures. The arena is surrounded by a renovated park featuring the restored Hovinbekken stream, making it a popular spot not only for sports fans but also for locals choosing it for a stroll.

You can contact the sports complex administration or find information about upcoming events using the details provided below.

The main reason to visit Jordal Amfi is the incredible energy of ice hockey matches. The arena is the home ice for the famous Vålerenga Ishockey team. Attending an Eliteserien league game allows you to see professional hockey at its highest level and enjoy the perfect acoustics and light shows that accompany every major competition.

Even if you aren't a hockey fan, the arena might surprise you with its variety of other events. It hosts major basketball games, concerts, and cultural activities. Thanks to the venue's versatility, spectators always enjoy maximum comfort: modern food courts, easy navigation zones, and excellent sightlines allow you to fully immerse yourself in the event.

For those who prefer active recreation, public skating hours are available. You can try out the professional artificial ice, which is kept in perfect condition year-round. After your workout or a match, be sure to take a stroll through the adjacent Jordal Sports Park — it's a great place to appreciate the landscape design and feel the rhythm of life in the Norwegian capital's sporting community.

Getting to the arena from the city centre is easy, as it is located in the Jordal district, just a couple of kilometres east of Oslo Central Station (Oslo S). The most convenient way is to use public transport. Trams No. 13 and No. 19 stop right next to the sports complex (at the Jordal Amfi or Jordalgata stops).

If you prefer the metro (T-bane), take Line 5 to Ensjø station, from where the arena is about a 10-minute walk. You can also take Lines 3 or 4 to the St. Hallvard kirke stop, which is about a 15-minute walk. A taxi ride from the city centre is quick and comfortable, and for those who enjoy walking, the route from the centre takes about 25–30 minutes through picturesque city blocks.

For those travelling by car, parking is available at Jordal Idrettspark. However, it's worth noting that on major match days, spaces fill up instantly, so it's better to arrive early or opt for a bicycle — there are convenient bike paths leading to the arena, and dedicated parking areas are provided nearby.

The history of this site began in 1951 when the first arena was built specifically for the 1952 Winter Olympics. The project by architects Frode Rinnan and Olav Tveiten was unique: the stadium was integrated into the landscape of a former brick quarry, allowing for the creation of steep asymmetrical stands reminiscent of an ancient theatre. At the time, it was the first artificial ice rink in all of Scandinavia.

For decades, the old arena was the "home" of Vålerenga Ishockey, a club that won 26 national titles here. It hosted the IIHF World Championships in 1958 and 1999, as well as numerous boxing matches and concerts by world-class stars. In 1971, the complex gained a roof, making it an all-weather venue, but over time the structure became technically outdated.

A new chapter began in 2017 when the old building was completely demolished to make way for the ultra-modern Nye Jordal Amfi. The new arena opened in September 2020, preserving the spirit of its predecessor and its famous asymmetry, while becoming one of the most energy-efficient sports facilities in the world. Today, it is not just a stadium, but a symbol of the continuity of sporting traditions in the Norwegian capital.

The time you spend here largely depends on the purpose of your visit. If you plan to attend a hockey match, you should allow about 2–3 hours. This is enough time to comfortably go through security, find your seat, enjoy the game, and soak up the atmosphere during intervals.

For those who just want to see the architecture of the renovated arena and stroll through the adjacent Jordal Idrettspark sports park, 1 hour will be sufficient. If your plans include public ice skating (during designated hours), plan to spend at least half a day here to fully enjoy the quality of the ice and the facilities.

The operating hours of Jordal Amfi depend directly on the schedule of sporting events, training sessions, and cultural activities. There is no fixed schedule for general public entry, as the arena operates as a multi-functional space.

To attend a match or find out when public skating sessions take place, it is recommended to check the current schedule on the official Oslo municipality website or the resources of the Vålerenga hockey club. As a rule, doors open to spectators one hour before the event begins.

The area around the sports arena offers many opportunities to continue your journey. Exploring the surroundings will help you learn more about the city's culture and nature, switching from sporting excitement to the contemplation of art or architecture.