Anker Hostel

Anker Hostel Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to Anker Hostel on Storgata, you immediately get that this isn’t your typical backpacker crash pad. The building has character — it’s got this solid, welcoming presence that feels more like a boutique guesthouse than a hostel. I mean, the three-star rating should tell you something right there. The entrance is clean and well-maintained, and honestly, the whole vibe just feels more grown-up than what you’d expect.

The Grünerløkka Advantage

Here’s what I love about staying in Grünerløkka — you’re in Oslo‘s coolest neighborhood without the tourist circus of the city center. This area is where locals actually hang out, with vintage shops, independent cafés, and that relaxed Scandinavian energy you came to Norway to experience. The hostel sits right on Storgata, which is basically the main artery through the district, so you can walk to everything. Plus, getting downtown takes maybe 15 minutes on foot, or you can hop on the tram that runs right outside.

The Room Experience

The room I stayed in was surprisingly spacious — and I’ve been in enough hostels to know that’s not always a given. The beds are actually comfortable (not those rock-hard bunks that leave you aching), and there’s decent storage space for your stuff. What really impressed me was how quiet it stays at night, even though you’re on a busy street. The windows do their job, and the other guests tend to be a mix of young professionals and mature travelers rather than party-hard backpackers.

Practical Perks

You know what’s genuinely useful? They have parking on-site, which in Oslo is basically like finding gold. If you’re doing a Scandinavian road trip, this saves you both money and the headache of street parking in the city. The common areas include a kitchen where you can actually cook — and trust me, with Oslo’s food prices, you’ll want to use it. There’s also a decent common area where people hang out without it feeling forced or overly social.

Why Guests Love It

The location really is the star here — couples especially seem to get it, rating the area 8.5 out of 10. It makes sense because Grünerløkka has this romantic, village-within-the-city feel that’s perfect for exploring together. You’re close enough to hit the major sights but far enough from the crowds to feel like you’re experiencing the real Oslo. The hostel strikes this nice balance between being social when you want it and giving you space when you don’t, which honestly is exactly what you need when you’re trying to make the most of an expensive city like this one.

Facilities