Few Norwegian cities embrace winter as playfully as Kristiansand, and its Ice Hall (Ishallen) is where that playful spirit lives on ice. Locals often simply call it the Ice Hall, but you may also hear it referred to as the Ice Skating Hall (Skøytehallen). Located a short ride from the city center and close to sports facilities like The Aquarama (Aquarama), it’s an easy addition to any visitor’s itinerary—whether you want to glide under bright arena lights, catch a hockey game, or watch children learning their first careful steps on skates.
The Ice Hall has been a community hub since the late 20th century, reflecting Kristiansand’s growing love for winter sports on the south coast—an area better known for beaches than blizzards. Over the years it has hosted regional competitions, youth tournaments, figure skating galas, and countless public sessions. The hall’s calendar often includes matches for local hockey teams and training times for The Figure Skating Club of Kristiansand (Kristiansand Kunstløpklubb), giving visitors a glimpse into the city’s grassroots sports culture. Don’t be surprised if you see multi-generational families sharing the ice; it’s part of the charm.
What makes the Ice Hall especially appealing to travelers is its accessibility. Skates are typically available for rent on-site during public sessions, and staff can point you to the correct sizes and offer beginner tips. Helmets for children are common and sometimes included with rental packages. Public sessions usually run several times a week, especially in the cooler months, though schedules can vary during school holidays and competition days. Check the municipality’s website or the venue’s posted timetables before you go.
If you’re traveling with kids, the Ice Hall is a weatherproof activity that ranks high on the fun-per-euro scale. Look out for family sessions, beginner-friendly hours, and occasional themed events. For sports fans, catching a local hockey match adds a lively night out—expect drums, team scarves, and plenty of youthful energy in the stands. Photographers and content creators will appreciate the clean lines of the rink, the sweep of the boards, and the glow of arena lighting that makes even a casual glide look cinematic.
Getting there is straightforward. From The City Center (Sentrum), local buses or a short taxi ride will bring you to the arena area where parking is usually available for those with a rental car. Combine a morning skate with a stroll at The Fish Market (Fiskebrygga) or a coastal walk at The City Beach (Bystranda) for a perfectly balanced day: winter sport inside, seaside atmosphere outside. Cafés nearby make it easy to warm up with hot chocolate or a light lunch afterward.
Practical tips: wear warm but flexible layers, gloves, and a thin hat or headband that fits under a helmet. If you’re new to skating, hug the boards at first and practice short, controlled strides. Weekday daytime sessions are often quieter than weekends. Card payments are standard across Norway, and many venues are cashless. Finally, Norwegians value rink etiquette—skate in the same direction as the flow, give learners some space, and enjoy the shared rhythm of the ice.
Whether you’re chasing childhood nostalgia, trying a new hobby, or looking for a family-friendly highlight beyond the usual coastal sights, the Ice Hall in Kristiansand delivers. It’s a slice of Norwegian winter culture you can step into any time of year—lace up, push off, and let the south coast surprise you.