Things To Do
in Östersund
Östersund sits on the eastern shore of Lake Storsjön and is the cultural and administrative heart of Jämtland county in central-northern Sweden. The town blends lakeside promenades, a compact stone-and-wood centre, and easy access to wild, fjäll-like landscapes west of the city. Östersund is known for outdoor sports (especially cross-country skiing and biathlon), local food traditions that include reindeer and cloudberries, and the lively summer festival Storsjöyran.
With a university presence and a strong regional identity, it feels both relaxed and active year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of Östersund's quaint cafés, enjoying local pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic center, where you can admire the charming wooden architecture that dates back to the 19th century. Don’t forget to visit the Jämtli Museum, which offers a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local art scene by visiting the Östersund Art Gallery, showcasing contemporary works from both established and emerging artists. Afterward, take a scenic walk along Storsjö, the beautiful lake that surrounds the city, and enjoy the serene views of the water and the distant mountains. Stop by a local bistro for a traditional Swedish lunch, sampling dishes like gravlax or köttbullar.
As evening falls, head to the city's vibrant waterfront area for a delightful dinner with fresh fish from the lake. Consider trying a local favorite, such as the trout, paired with a glass of Swedish wine. End your day by experiencing the lively atmosphere at a nearby pub or café, where you can enjoy live music or simply relax with the locals.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Frösö Park, located on the nearby Frösön Island. Enjoy a refreshing walk through the park's lush greenery, taking in the stunning views of the Storsjö and the surrounding mountains. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, as the park is home to various birds and other animals.
In the afternoon, visit the Frösö Church, a beautiful stone church that dates back to the 13th century, and take a moment to appreciate its historical significance. Afterward, find a cozy spot in the park for a picnic lunch, surrounded by nature's beauty. If you're feeling adventurous, take a guided kayaking tour on the lake to explore the area's stunning shoreline from the water.
As the sun sets, return to Östersund for dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can enjoy local delicacies while gazing at the shimmering water. After your meal, take a leisurely evening stroll along the lake promenade, soaking in the tranquil ambiance. End your night with a visit to a local ice cream shop, indulging in unique flavors inspired by Swedish ingredients.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (cafe) | $3-5 |
| 🍺Beer (pint at a bar) | $6-10 |
| 🚕Taxi start / short ride | $6-15 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range per night) | $80-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to outdoor activities year-round (skiing, hiking, fishing).
- Compact, walkable city centre with lakeside scenery and strong regional culture.
- Good infrastructure for winter sports and an internationally known biathlon venue.
- Authentic northern Swedish and Sámi food traditions and seasonal produce.
- Long, dark winters with very short daylight can be challenging for some visitors.
- More limited nightlife and cultural offerings compared with larger Swedish cities.
- Fewer direct international flight options—may require connection via Stockholm or seasonal routes.
- Mosquitoes in some lakeside/wetland areas during summer evenings.
- "Hej" - Hi / Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Ursäkta, kan du hjälpa mig?" - Excuse me, can you help me?
- "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Jag är vegetarian/vegansk" - I am vegetarian/vegan
- "Var ligger busstationen/tåget?" - Where is the bus station/train?
Places to Visit in Östersund
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour and winter-sun vistas across the lake with reflections of Frösön island; good for sunrise/sunset and lake panoramas.
Historic church set against open landscapes and a short hike up Frösöberget for sweeping views over Östersund and Lake Storsjön.
Photogenic wooden buildings, reenactors (in season), and cultural exhibits that capture regional history and traditional architecture.
Action shots in winter—skiers and biathlon training—plus dramatic winter light for sports photography.
Stone fountains, pedestrian streets and cafés that are lively during summer markets and festivals like Storsjöyran.
Food in Östersund
Östersund Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lean, tender reindeer served as steaks or stews; often accompanied by lingonberries and mashed potatoes. Available at traditional and upscale restaurants such as PM & Vänner and regional bistros.
Must-Try!
Cold-cured or smoked freshwater fish from local rivers and lakes, commonly served with dill mustard sauce and crispbread; find it at market stalls and many cafés.
A prized amber berry used in desserts, jams, and sauces—try cloudberry cream or cloudberry jam on pancakes and with local cheeses.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets and weekend stalls around Stortorget and by the harbour sell local cheeses, cured meats, fish, pastries and preserves—perfect for sampling cloudberry products and local breads.
During events like Storsjöyran and winter markets you’ll find food trucks and stalls offering grilled game sausages, fish sandwiches, and warming soups; check seasonal schedules for the best street-food moments.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Being on time is expected for appointments and tours; public transport runs reliably and adheres to schedules.
Allemansrätten (the right of public access) allows free roaming in nature but requires respect—leave no trace, don’t disturb wildlife and follow local rules for campfires and foraging.
Swedes value personal space and quiet public behaviour—keep voices moderate on public transport and queuing is orderly.
In private homes, hosts may ask guests to remove shoes; it’s polite to accept and follow their lead.
Safety
Tipping in Östersund
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill, adding 5–10% for excellent restaurant service, or leaving small change for café/bar service is common.
Cards are widely accepted (chip and contactless). Swish (mobile bank payment app) is ubiquitous for small payments between people and sometimes used by small vendors. Carry a small amount of cash only if you expect to use remote stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours and mild temperatures (often 15–25°C) make it ideal for hiking, boating, cycling and festivals (especially Storsjöyran). Mosquitoes can be an issue near wetlands and lakes—bring repellent.
Crisp air and vivid foliage, good for short hikes and mushroom/berry foraging. Weather can change quickly—pack layers and waterproofs.
Cold and snowy with short daylight—ideal for cross-country skiing, biathlon, snowmobiling and ice-fishing. Temperatures often drop below freezing; wear thermal layers and sturdy boots for icy conditions.
Variable conditions as snow melts—muddy trails and late freezes are possible, but spring birdlife and emerging greenery make for pleasant walks; some mountain roads may still be closed.
Östersund at Night
Hiking in Östersund
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, accessible hill on Frösön with well-marked trails and panoramic views over Östersund and Lake Storsjön—suitable for families and sunset photography.
Easy lakeside trails and beaches close to the city that are good for gentle walks, birdwatching and summer swims.
About an hour’s drive west, offering fjäll-style hiking, marked trails, mountain huts and opportunities for longer multi-day treks in varied terrain.
A network of trails in the nearby low mountain areas suited to day hikes, berry/mushroom foraging and quieter mountain experiences.
More remote and rugged hiking terrain for experienced hikers seeking solitude and classic Swedish mountain landscapes; check weather and route conditions before setting out.
Airports
How to reach Östersund by plane.
The local airport ~10–15 km from Östersund with regular connections to Stockholm and some seasonal routes; ground transport includes shuttle buses, taxis and car rental.
An international airport in Norway roughly a 2–3 hour drive away (distance ~200 km depending on route) offering additional international connections—useful if combining with a Norway trip.
Major international hub about 6–7 hours by car or a short flight from Åre Östersund Airport—common connection for international travellers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-term inhabitants with strong regional identity and traditions tied to rural life, farming and foraging.
Mid Sweden University campuses bring students from across Sweden and abroad, energizing cultural life and nightlife.
Indigenous Sámi people live in the broader region—Sámi culture influences local cuisine, crafts and festivals.
Seasonal visitors and outdoor enthusiasts who come for skiing, hiking, fishing and festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Östersund hosts international biathlon events and has a major stadium and training facilities—spectator-friendly and central to the town’s sports identity.
Extensive groomed tracks and local enthusiasm make cross-country skiing a dominant winter activity for both recreation and competition.
Local clubs such as Östersunds FK have raised the city’s profile in recent years; football is widely played at community and youth levels.
A popular winter pastime across Sweden including in Östersund, with local clubs and rinks for amateur and youth play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Östersund.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in cafés and modern restaurants, but traditional fare is meat- and fish-forward. Ask for vegetable-based dishes or modified plates; many places will accommodate requests if you explain your needs.
Vegan choices are growing (plant-based mains, salads, and dairy-free milks for coffee) but less ubiquitous than in major cities—plan ahead and check menus or call restaurants if you have strict needs.
Restaurant staff typically speak good English and can help with common allergies (gluten, nuts, dairy). For certified halal or kosher options, offerings are limited—self-catering or specialty shops in larger cities may be necessary.