Things To Do
in Östersund

Östersund is a charming city located in central Sweden, situated by the shores of Lake Storsjö. Known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant cultural scene, it serves as a gateway to the beautiful wilderness of Jämtland. The city is famous for its rich history, including the annual Storsjöyran festival and its unique food culture.

With a blend of urban amenities and access to outdoor activities, Östersund is an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Jamtli Museum to learn about the region's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the city center and enjoy lunch at a local café before heading to the beautiful Storsjöbadet for some lakeside relaxation.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Swedish restaurant and then enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront to take in the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast and then head to Frösön Island for a hike to the top of Öjangen for spectacular views.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to sample regional specialties and then try your hand at canoeing on Lake Storsjö.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a trendy bistro and explore the nightlife at one of the local pubs or bars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Local beer$6-$10
🚍Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel night stay$100-$200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be quite cold in winter, which may deter some travelers.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent in rural areas.
  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Var ligger...?" - Where is...?
  • "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Jag förstår inte" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Östersund

Visit one of these nice places.

Storsjö Lake

A stunning spot for capturing sunrises and sunsets over the water.

Frösö Church

A historic church with beautiful architecture, perfect for architectural photography.

Jamtli Museum

The outdoor exhibitions provide a picturesque backdrop for photos showcasing local history.

Culinary Guide

Food in Östersund

Östersund offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing local flavors and traditional Swedish dishes.

Östersund Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Jämtländsk älgstek

A traditional elk roast served with lingonberry sauce and root vegetables.

Must-Try!

Rökt sik

Smoked sik (a local fish) often enjoyed as an appetizer or in salads.

Kroppkakor

Potato dumplings filled with pork and served with butter and lingonberries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Storsjömarket

A lively market held on weekends featuring local produce, crafts, and street food.

Food trucks at Storsjöyran

Various food trucks offering a range of international and local street food during the festival.

Climate Guide

Weather

Östersund experiences a humid continental climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are mild to warm, with long daylight hours and average temperatures around 20°C (68°F). Spring and autumn are transitional, offering cool temperatures and beautiful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Personal Space

Swedes value personal space and may stand further apart in conversations.

Punctuality

Being on time is very important in Sweden, so always try to arrive promptly.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Generally, people speak in low voices in public transport and other shared spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Östersund is considered a safe destination for travelers. However, as in any city, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services are efficient, with local police and medical facilities readily available.

Tipping in Östersund

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A service charge is usually included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving a 10% tip is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments are popular in Sweden.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather and long days are perfect for exploring the lakes and hiking trails.

Autumn

Beautiful fall colors transform the landscape, ideal for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold, snowy winters provide opportunities for skiing and other winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Östersund at Night

Östersund has a vibrant nightlife that caters to a variety of tastes, with numerous bars, pubs, and clubs. The city often hosts live music events, especially during the summer. Popular spots include the local craft breweries and the lively dance clubs that attract both locals and visitors. Enjoying a drink by the waterfront is also a favorite pastime.

Hiking in Östersund

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Vättaberget

A popular hiking destination with well-marked trails and stunning views of Östersund and the lake.

Skäckerfjällen

Offers a range of trails from easy walks to challenging hikes, set in a beautiful national park.

Airports

How to reach Östersund by plane.

Östersund Airport (OSD)

Located about 10 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Östersund is a generally walkable city with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. The city center is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. However, certain attractions may be spread out, so planning is advisable for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Predominantly Swedish, with a growing number of immigrants contributing to the cultural diversity.

Students

A significant student population due to the presence of local universities, adding vibrancy to the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A beloved sport in Östersund, with local teams playing in regional leagues.

Cross-Country Skiing

A popular winter sport, with many trails and competitions held in the area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Östersund is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transport includes buses that connect the city center with surrounding areas, but service may be less frequent in the evenings. Biking is also a popular option during the summer months.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Östersund.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to confirm with the staff.

Gluten-Free Options

Some establishments provide gluten-free meals, but always check for cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Östersund is of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are efficient, and pharmacies are well stocked. For travelers, EU citizens should carry an EHIC card for access to healthcare, while others may need travel insurance.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide