5 best budget hotels in Oslo

1. Citybox Oslo

One of the most popular budget-friendly hotels in Oslo, Citybox Oslo stands out for its central location, modern design and affordable pricing. abcnyheter.no+2NorgeGuide+2 The hotel is located at Prinsens gate 6, only a few minutes walk from Oslo Central Station (Oslo S) — which makes it ideal for travelers arriving by train or Flytoget, and for those who want easy access to city sightseeing. abcnyheter.no+1

What you get is basic but comfortable accommodation: simple but clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, self-service check-in and no unnecessary extras — which helps keep the price low (often around 700–1000 NOK per night if booked early). For solo travelers or couples who just need a place to sleep and a quick connection to the city center, Citybox is hard to beat.

Because of its central location, you'll be within walking distance or a short tram ride from major attractions like Karl Johan street, the Royal Palace, the Opera House and the main museums.

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2. Smarthotel Oslo

Another top pick among budget hotels is Smarthotel Oslo. Located  close to the city core and fairly near the Royal Palace, it offers compact, efficient and modern rooms — perfect for travelers who spend most of their time out exploring. Startsiden.no+1

Smarthotel emphasizes simplicity: small but functional rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour reception desk. You can usually add breakfast for a small fee if you want — but even without breakfast, the room rates remain competitive. 

Because of its location and price point, Smarthotel is particularly suited for solo travelers or couples who want a central base without spending much. It's also a good choice if you arrive late or depart early, thanks to the flexible reception and walkable proximity to central transport hubs.

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3. Anker Hotel

If you want a bit more space and perhaps a more "hotel-like" experience at an affordable price, Anker Hotel is a solid compromise. Located in Storgata 55 — in the area between Grünerløkka and central Oslo — Anker Hotel gives you longer, functional stays without breaking the bank. 

Rooms here tend to be more spacious than typical budget-hotel boxes, and many include access to a communal kitchen, which helps cut costs if you prefer to cook instead of always eating out. Startsiden.no+1 In addition, there is usually a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere, and for longer stays, you get a better value compared to hostels or private lodging.

Anker Hotel is especially good if you're traveling for several days (or even a week), or if you value convenience — easy public transport links, access to local shops and a bit more comfort than a no-frills hotel.

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4. Comfort Hotel Xpress / Comfort Xpress Youngstorget

For those who want budget-conscious accommodation but also like convenience and a youthful vibe, Comfort Hotel Xpress (often Comfort Xpress Youngstorget) is worth checking out. Located in Møllergata, near Youngstorget, you'll be within easy reach of Oslo's nightlife, restaurants and public transport. 

Comfort Xpress offers a no-frills but functional stay: simple rooms, free Wi-Fi, self service check-in, and often a rooftop bar or common spaces. The pricing tends to be competitive for the area, making it great for travelers — especially younger ones — who want to be close to social life, yet keep accommodation costs down.

This hotel works well if you value flexibility, easy access to the city's central offerings, and don't mind compact rooms. It's a very convenient base for exploring Oslo's vibrant food and nightlife scene while saving money.

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5. PS:Hotell / Other Affordable Alternatives

While many people look directly at the big names above, it's worth noting that there are numerous smaller and lesser-known hotels, hostels, or guesthouses that offer solid value in Oslo. According to recent guides, several of these "hidden gems" can cost less than €65–100 per night (when booked early and off-season). NorgeGuide+1

Examples might include smaller pensionats, guest houses, or budget hotels in outlying but well-connected neighborhoods — especially in areas like Grünerløkka or St. Hanshaugen, which still have good transport connections to downtown. NorgeGuide+1

Choosing one of these alternatives often means modest rooms and fewer hotel-style conveniences, but they compensate with low cost, proximity to local life and good transport access. For travelers on a tight budget, or those who plan to spend most of their time outside the hotel anyway, this can be a smart strategy.

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Tips for Booking Budget Hotels in Oslo

• Book early: Prices rise considerably during peak months, large events, or weekends in Oslo. By booking several weeks ahead — and maybe choosing midweek dates — you increase your chances of getting a good rate. NorgeGuide+1

• Be flexible on dates: Shifting your stay by just a night or two can make a big difference in price.

• Check if breakfast or extras are included: Sometimes a slightly more expensive room with breakfast and Wi-Fi ends up being more economical than a cheap room plus extra food costs.

• Consider small and lesser-known hotels or guesthouses: They often represent the best value if you just need a place to rest and plan to spend your days exploring the city.

• Look at location and transport: Even a slightly cheaper hotel can cost more in time and transport if it's far from the city or poorly connected.

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