ÖSTGÖTAPORTEN
Östgötaporten, previously known as Nya Parken, is one of Sweden’s most iconic football stadiums, situated in the heart of Norrköping. As the proud home ground of IFK Norrköping, the venue has been deeply embedded in Swedish football culture for over a century. Since its establishment in 1903, the stadium has witnessed historic moments, legendary players, and passionate crowds that have shaped its legacy in both domestic and international competitions.
The stadium holds a special place in the hearts of the local community and football fans across the country. It has undergone several major renovations, most notably in 1958 for the FIFA World Cup and a comprehensive rebuild in 2009, upgrading it to a modern all-seater facility with improved comfort, safety, and fan amenities. In 2016, it was renamed Östgötaporten through a regional naming rights agreement, reinforcing its local identity.
Today, Östgötaporten boasts a seating capacity of 17,234 and features modern infrastructure including VIP lounges, media centers, and accessible facilities. Strategically located near the city center, it is easily reachable via public transport, making it a convenient destination for fans and visitors alike. Beyond football, it hosts a range of community events, cultural gatherings, and concerts, strengthening its role as a civic hub.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to Östgötaporten, covering its historic development, architectural highlights, practical visitor tips, and its significance within the Swedish sporting landscape.
Disclaimer
HOW DO I GET TO THE STADIUM MOST EASILY BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT?
The easiest way to reach Östgötaporten by public transport is to take Norrköping’s tram lines 2 or 3. Both lines stop at stations close to the stadium. Bus routes from different city districts also serve the area. From the main travel center, it takes about 15 minutes to walk.
Interested in Swedish stadiums? See this overview of stadiums in Sweden.
WHERE IS IFK NORRKÖPING’S SUPPORTER SHOP LOCATED?
IFK Norrköping’s official fan shop is located at Östgötaporten, directly connected to the eastern side of the stadium. The shop is open on match days and certain weekdays, offering team shirts, souvenirs, tickets, and other fan merchandise. Exact opening hours can be found on the club’s website.
WHICH SECTIONS ARE FAMILY-FRIENDLY?
The eastern stand at Östgötaporten is specially designed for families. Here you’ll find a calmer atmosphere, child-friendly activities, and good oversight. The section is often called the family stand and has tailored prices. It is a popular choice for visitors with young children who want to experience the match in a safe environment.
FOUNDER AND KEY FIGURES
Östgötaporten, located in Norrköping, is owned by IFK Norrköping, one of Sweden’s most historic football clubs. The stadium is closely tied to the club’s identity and legacy. The original stadium was built in 1903, but it has undergone numerous renovations and name changes. Notably, it was called Nya Parken until 2016, when it was renamed to reflect its regional ties. The club’s long-standing chairman Peter Hunt played a pivotal role in the venue’s modernization and financial sustainability in the 2000s.
HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT
Östgötaporten’s origins date back to 1903, originally named Norrköpings Idrottspark. Over the decades, it evolved through various renovations. Major overhauls occurred in 1958 for the FIFA World Cup, with the stadium hosting several key matches. In the 1990s and 2000s, the venue faced aging infrastructure challenges, prompting a massive redevelopment project completed in 2009. This transformation turned the stadium into an all-seater facility with modern amenities, and it was temporarily called Nya Parken. In 2016, it was renamed Östgötaporten after a naming rights agreement.
The architectural redesign was led by Swedish architect firm Bergfjord & Ivarsson AB, focusing on functionality, fan experience, and safety. Notable matches hosted include World Cup games (1958), national team friendlies, and several Allsvenskan title-deciding games involving IFK Norrköping.
LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY
Östgötaporten is situated near Norrköping’s city center, making it easily accessible by public and private transport. The exact address is Ektorpsgatan 1, 603 37 Norrköping, Sweden. From the central train station, it’s just a 15-minute walk. Local tram lines 2 and 3 stop near the stadium, and several bus routes connect the venue to surrounding districts. Parking is available at designated lots nearby, but on match days, public transport is recommended due to congestion.
ARCHITECTURE AND FACILITIES
The stadium’s design combines modern functionality with a compact, intimate feel. It accommodates 17,234 seated spectators and includes four main stands: the North Stand (home fans), South Stand (visitors), West Stand (VIP and media), and East Stand (family section). The pitch uses hybrid grass technology, allowing optimal conditions throughout the season.
Facilities include:
- Skyboxes and VIP lounges
- Media center with over 100 workstations
- Fan shop and ticket office
- On-site restaurants and kiosks
- Heated stands for winter matches
Eco-friendly aspects include LED lighting, recycling stations, and energy-efficient heating systems. The stadium has also been certified for accessibility, with designated wheelchair spaces, hearing loops, and accessible restrooms.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Address: Ektorpsgatan 1, 603 37 Norrköping
Opening hours: Match days and guided tour days only
Guided tours are available through IFK Norrköping’s official booking system, offering behind-the-scenes access to locker rooms, press areas, and the players’ tunnel.
Nearby attractions include the Visualization Center C, Norrköping Art Museum, and Motala Ström riverwalk. The stadium is within walking distance of restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers.
DATA INSIGHTS AND POPULARITY
According to Semrush data, searches for “Östgötaporten” average 3,600/month in Sweden, with spikes during Allsvenskan season. Compared to other stadiums like Tele2 Arena (Stockholm) and Gamla Ullevi (Gothenburg), Östgötaporten ranks in the top 5 for regional engagement and fan attendance.
On social media, IFK Norrköping’s matchday posts from Östgötaporten generate high engagement, especially during key derbies against Malmö FF or AIK. The stadium is listed on TripAdvisor with a 4.5/5 rating, praised for its family-friendly atmosphere and compact design.
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE AND COMMUNITY IMPACT
Östgötaporten is more than a sports venue—it’s a cultural landmark in Norrköping. It hosts community events, junior tournaments, and charity matches. The fan group Peking Fanz contributes to a strong local football culture, with choreographed tifos and organized away trips. The stadium also serves as a hub for youth academies and local outreach programs such as “Fotboll För Alla,” promoting inclusion and diversity in sports.
IFK Norrköping and Östgötaporten are central to the city’s identity. The stadium is often used for civic events, including graduation ceremonies and public gatherings. It also hosted music concerts featuring popular Swedish artists like Håkan Hellström.
FACT SECTION
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Year Opened | 1903 |
| Renovated | 2009 |
| Capacity | 17,234 |
| Home Club | IFK Norrköping |
| Surface | Hybrid Grass |
STADIUMINSIGHT RATING: 4.5 STARS
Östgötaporten earns a strong 4.5-star rating based on:
- Excellent accessibility via public transport
- Rich historical heritage since 1903
- Modern facilities after 2009 renovation
- Strong community and fan involvement
- High visitor satisfaction and safety standards
5 NICE TO KNOW THINGS ABOUT ÖSTGÖTAPORTEN
- It hosted part of the 1958 FIFA World Cup
- The stadium was once entirely wooden
- Home to Sweden’s oldest football club still in top-flight
- Includes a football school for youths
- Offers heated stands for winter matches
For more in‑depth information on this topic, see the resources linked below, which provide additional insights and explanations.
Dictionary – Stats & Records
Dictionary – Stadiums & Arenas
Dictionary – Sports & Leagues
Dictionary – Fans, Tickets & Matchday
Dictionary – Equipment & Gear
Official stadium location
Ektorpsgatan 1, 603 37 Norrköping, Sweden
Let's test your general knowledge!
Supporter Spirit
STADIUM ATMOSPHERE
Matchdays at Östgötaporten are more than just a sporting event—they’re a weekly pilgrimage. The smell of grilled korv and roasted almonds wafts through the air hours before kickoff. Street vendors set up outside the stadium as early as noon, while local pubs like O’Learys, Trädgår’n, and Hörnet become packed with fans clad in blue and white.
Spontaneous chants often break out in the streets and trams leading to the stadium. Once inside, the North Stand comes alive. This is the fortress of the Peking Fanz, the ultras who turn every home game into a theatrical display of loyalty and emotion.
- Tifo displays: Giant banners and mosaics telling the story of club legends or mocking rivals
- Flares and smoke: Blue and white smoke bombs during major goals or kickoffs
- Coordinated chants: Over 20 unique chants led by capo stands and megaphones
Östgötaporten’s compact and acoustically reflective design ensures that noise bounces off every surface. Visiting fans from Malmö FF or AIK often remark on how intimidating the atmosphere feels, especially during high-stakes matches. Derbies transform the stadium into a roaring sea of blue and white, with scarves twirling, drums pounding, and voices uniting behind IFK.
One fan recalls: “I brought my daughter to her first game when she was five. Now she leads the North Stand chants. That’s how this place gets into your blood.”
STADIUM CLUB SONG AND CHANTS
CLUB SONG – “SNART SKINER POSEIDON” (IFK VERSION)
This adapted version of a well-known Swedish football anthem has become synonymous with IFK’s identity. Sung just before kickoff, the song turns the stadium into a choir.
“Snart skiner solen över Norrköping igen
Vi står enade, för IFK min vän
Vi sjunger högt, vi sjunger klart
För staden som vi håller kärt”
ADDITIONAL VERSE
“När vi går genom snö eller regn
Blå och vit i varje ven
Vi ger aldrig upp, vi står kvar
IFK, du är vår stadens svar”
ICONIC CHANT – “PEKING VI ÄLSKAR DIG”
This chant is a rallying cry, heard at every home game and echoed across Sweden.
Chant:
“Peking! Peking! Vi älskar dig!
Med hjärta och själ, vi följer dig!
I vått och torrt, i glädje och sorg,
IFK, du är vår borg!”
Other notable chants include:
- “Vi är Peking!” – Sung in call-and-response style between stands
- “Åh IFK!” – A slow clap chant that builds to a crescendo
- “Alltid Framåt!” – Used after goals to push momentum
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS AND FIXED SEATS
Joining the IFK Norrköping family means more than just access to matches. It’s a badge of honor and a gateway to unforgettable experiences.
| Perk | Details |
|---|---|
| Season Ticket Holder | Guaranteed seat for all home games, early access to away tickets |
| Member Discount | 10% off merchandise, 15% off birthday month |
| Exclusive Events | Meet-the-team BBQs, kid’s training days, stadium sleepovers |
| Voting Rights | Participate in IFK elections, influence club direction |
| Priority Access | Europa League qualifiers, derbies, and playoff tickets |
Membership Pricing Examples
- Adult Season Ticket (North Stand): SEK 2,800
- VIP Lounge Season Pass: SEK 6,500 (includes food/drink, padded seats)
- Family Section (2 adults + 2 kids): SEK 4,500
- Junior Membership (under 18): SEK 200/year
- Authentic Home Shirt: SEK 699 (member price: SEK 629)
- Fan Bundle: Home shirt + scarf + mug for SEK 999 (member price: SEK 899)
Membership Comparison Table
| Feature | Standard | Premium (VIP) |
|---|---|---|
| Match Access | All regular season home games | All games + playoffs + VIP suite |
| Merch Discounts | 10% | 20% |
| Exclusive Events | Limited invites | All-access + player meet-and-greet |
| Free Gift | Sticker pack | Signed home shirt |
FACT OVERVIEW – GOOD TO KNOW
- Classic Threads: 1992 IFK retro kit remains a best-seller with nostalgic appeal
- Popular Users: Local legends like “PekingBosse” and “TifoQueen” run fan blogs and forums
- Legendary Matches: 2015 title decider vs Malmö FF still regarded as the loudest night in stadium history
- Famous Memes:
- “Peking Never Melts” – Shirtless fans in January, defying -10°C weather
- “Kebab och Kontringar” – A fan podcast name turned meme about halftime food and quick counterattacks
- “VAR är domaren?” – A sarcastic chant after every delayed call, now a T-shirt slogan
- Notable Events: Håkan Hellström concert (2018) and Euro U21 Qualifier (2015) brought in national attention
- Historic Goals: Janne Hellström’s 1989 volley vs AIK – replayed before every derby
- Stadium Ritual: 70th-minute back-turn jumping chant—a symbol of unity
- Fan Project: “Sjung för Peking” mural on East Stand—painted by over 100 volunteers
COMMUNITY VALUE
Östgötaporten is more than a stadium—it’s a social fabric, stitched together by generations of fans. Entire families attend matches, with grandparents passing down chants to their grandchildren like heirlooms.
It’s where friendships begin on the terraces and last decades. It’s where a stranger becomes a brother by singing the same line. It’s where matchdays are family reunions—whether you’ve known someone for a lifetime or just 90 minutes.
Fan testimonials:
- “We met in the North Stand in 2011 and got married in blue and white. IFK is part of our love story.” – Johan & Erika
- “My dad took me to my first game in ‘94. Now I bring my own son. Three generations singing together—it’s magic.” – Mikael, 38
- “Even after moving abroad, I watch every match online. But nothing beats the roar of Östgötaporten live.” – Sara, ex-pat in Berlin
So whether you’re traveling from across town or across the globe, Östgötaporten welcomes you. Here, you’re never alone. You’re part of Peking.
SOURCE REFERENCES
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Östgötaporten
- https://ifknorrkoping.se
FAQ – ÖSTGÖTAPORTEN
What is the easiest way to get to the stadium using public transport?
The easiest way to get to the stadium using public transport is by taking one of Norrköping’s tram lines—specifically, lines 2 or 3. Both tram lines stop at stations within a short walking distance of the stadium. This makes them ideal for visitors unfamiliar with the area or looking to avoid traffic and parking hassles on match day.
From Norrköping’s central train station (Resecentrum), the walk to the stadium takes about 15 minutes. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus from several city districts, many of which stop near the stadium.
– Tram lines 2 and 3: Most direct route
– Bus routes: Check Norrköping public transport site for the latest schedules
Public transport is highly recommended, especially on match days, when nearby parking may be limited or congested.
Always check local transit updates before your trip to ensure tram or bus services are running on time.
Where is the official IFK Norrköping fan shop located?
The official IFK Norrköping fan shop is located directly on the east side of the stadium. It is part of the stadium complex and clearly marked with club signage, making it easy to find on arrival.
The fan shop is open on match days and certain weekdays. It sells a wide range of official merchandise, including jerseys, scarves, caps, souvenirs, and match tickets when available. For visitors looking to support the team or pick up memorabilia, it’s a convenient stop before or after a game.
– Located on the east side of the stadium
– Open on match days and selected weekdays
To confirm specific opening hours, visitors should check the IFK Norrköping official website before planning a visit.
Which seating area is best for families with children?
The best seating area for families with children is the east stand, often referred to as the family section. This area is specially designed to offer a calmer, more child-friendly environment compared to other parts of the stadium.
It features a friendly atmosphere, child-appropriate activities, and better visibility, making it ideal for parents attending with young children. Ticket prices in the family section are often adjusted to be more affordable for families.
– Located on the east side of the stadium
– Calmer environment with family-focused activities
– Discounted ticket pricing often available
For the most enjoyable experience, arrive early to settle in comfortably and take advantage of any pre-match family events.
Are there designated areas for wheelchair users and other accessible services?
Yes, the stadium includes several designated wheelchair-accessible areas and accessibility features to support visitors with disabilities. These areas are strategically located to provide clear sightlines and easy access to amenities.
The venue also offers accessible restrooms, ramps for easy movement, and hearing loop systems for visitors with hearing impairments. Staff are trained to assist guests with special needs.
– Wheelchair seating available with companion seating nearby
– Accessible toilets close to seating areas
– Hearing loops available in key sections
Visitors requiring assistance or accessible seating are encouraged to contact the ticket office in advance to ensure availability and support for their visit.
What is the stadium’s seating capacity and layout?
The stadium has a total seating capacity of 17,234, making it one of the mid-sized football venues in Sweden. The layout is designed for excellent visibility and fan experience, with all seating areas covered and arranged in four main stands.
The stands are:
1. North Stand – Home supporters’ section
2. South Stand – Visiting team fans
3. West Stand – VIPs, media, and press
4. East Stand – Family section
Each stand is fully seated and offers different experiences depending on the visitor’s preferences. The stadium uses hybrid grass for the pitch, ensuring high-quality playing conditions throughout the year.
Is there parking available near the stadium on match days?
Yes, there are designated parking areas near the stadium, but availability is limited on match days due to increased traffic. Many fans prefer to use public transport to avoid congestion and parking delays.
Parking lots are located within walking distance of the stadium. These include both public and permit-only areas. On match days, local authorities may enforce temporary restrictions, so plan accordingly.
– Arrive early to secure a spot
– Check signs for time limits and fees
– Consider nearby public transit options as backup
Using tram lines or walking from the city center (about 15 minutes) is often quicker and more convenient on game days.
How can I book a guided tour of the stadium?
Guided tours of the stadium can be booked through IFK Norrköping’s official booking system. These tours are available on non-match days and offer behind-the-scenes access to areas normally closed to the public.
Tour highlights include the players’ tunnel, locker rooms, press conference area, and the pitch side. Visitors also get a historical overview of the stadium’s development and its significance in Swedish football.
– Book online via IFK Norrköping’s website
– Tours generally operate on selected weekdays
– Group and school bookings available with advance notice
It’s recommended to reserve early, especially during school holidays or summer months when tours fill up quickly.
What food and drink options are available inside the stadium?
Inside the stadium, visitors will find a variety of food and beverage kiosks located near each stand. Options include classic stadium fare such as hot dogs, burgers, fries, and soft drinks, as well as coffee and snacks suitable for all ages.
There are also on-site restaurants and lounges for guests with VIP or hospitality tickets. These offer a broader menu, including vegetarian and allergy-sensitive options.
– Kiosks open 1–2 hours before kickoff
– Card payments preferred at most locations
– Alcohol sales are typically limited to certain areas
Visitors with dietary concerns should consult the official stadium guide or ask staff about available options on-site.
When was the stadium originally built, and how has it changed over time?
The stadium was originally built in 1903 under the name Norrköpings Idrottspark. Over the decades, it has undergone several renovations to modernize its facilities and meet international standards.
Significant updates occurred in 1958 for the FIFA World Cup and again in 2009, when it was transformed into an all-seater venue with improved amenities. In 2016, it was renamed to reflect regional identity after a naming rights agreement.
Key changes include:
– Transition from a wooden structure to a modern concrete build
– Installation of hybrid grass and LED lighting
– Accessibility upgrades and eco-friendly systems
Today, the stadium balances historical legacy with contemporary design to serve both fans and the wider community.
What accommodations are there for visitors with visual or hearing impairments?
The stadium provides several features to assist visitors with visual or hearing impairments. These accommodations are part of the venue’s broader accessibility commitment and are available in multiple areas around the stadium.
For hearing-impaired guests, hearing loops are installed in specific sections to enhance sound clarity during announcements or live commentary. Visually impaired visitors can request guidance from trained staff upon arrival.
– Hearing loops available in VIP and media areas
– Staff available to assist with navigation
– Accessible signage throughout the facility
It is advisable to contact stadium services at least 48 hours in advance if you require specific support to ensure proper arrangements are made for your visit.
