This Östersund travel guide covers the best things to do, places to eat, seasonal activities and practical advice for visiting Östersund. Set beside Lake Storsjön in central Sweden, the city combines outdoor adventure, local food, island scenery and a relaxed cultural scene. It is compact enough to explore without a car, yet surrounded by forests, ski slopes and wide open landscapes.
Why visit Östersund?
Östersund is the main city of the Jämtland region and one of Sweden’s most appealing destinations for travellers who want both urban comforts and easy access to nature. The city centre has pedestrian streets, independent shops, museums, cafés and restaurants, while the lake and surrounding hills are never far away.
The city is especially well known for its connection to winter sports. Östersund regularly hosts international biathlon events, and the nearby trails attract cross-country skiers from across Sweden. Summer brings long, bright evenings, cycling routes, swimming spots and boat trips on Lake Storsjön.
Food is another reason to include Östersund in your plans. Jämtland has a strong tradition of small-scale farming, artisan production and wild ingredients. Local menus may feature mountain cheese, game, trout, cloudberries and other produce from the region. Östersund was also named Sweden’s first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, which reflects the area’s serious approach to food and culinary heritage.
Best things to do in Östersund
Explore the city centre
Begin in central Östersund, where the main shopping streets, cafés and public squares are easy to explore on foot. Prästgatan and the surrounding streets offer a mix of Swedish chain stores, local boutiques and galleries. The city is not large, so you can see much of the centre in a few hours while leaving time for a leisurely coffee or lunch.
Look out for local design, wool products and food gifts, particularly if you want a useful souvenir from Jämtland. The central area also has several parks and viewpoints where you can pause and enjoy the lake atmosphere.
Visit Jamtli open-air museum
Jamtli is one of the highlights of Östersund tourism and one of the best places to understand the history of Jämtland. The museum combines indoor exhibitions with an open-air historical area containing traditional buildings, farmsteads and environments from different periods.
During summer, the museum often has lively activities involving crafts, animals, demonstrations and historical characters. Children usually enjoy the interactive areas, while adults can learn about rural life, regional traditions and the development of the city. The museum also hosts exhibitions and seasonal events, so check the official programme before your visit.
Walk around Frösön
Frösön is an island immediately west of central Östersund, connected to the city by bridges. It is one of the most rewarding places to visit if you want views over Lake Storsjön and the surrounding mountains without travelling far.
Frösö Church stands on a historic site and offers a peaceful stop with attractive views. Nearby, the Frösö Runestone is one of the region’s most important historical landmarks. The stone dates from the Viking Age and is associated with the Christianisation of Jämtland.
For a wider panorama, head towards the Frösöberget area. The views change with the season: summer reveals green shorelines and distant mountains, while autumn adds colour to the forests and winter creates a crisp, snow-covered landscape. You can reach parts of Frösön by local bus, bicycle or car, although walking between all the sights requires some planning.
Relax at Badhusparken
Badhusparken is a popular lakeside park close to the centre. It is a good place for a gentle walk, a picnic or a quiet break between museums and shops. In summer, the waterfront becomes a social meeting point, and you may see people swimming, playing outdoor games or enjoying the long evening light.
The park also provides a useful starting point for exploring the lakeside paths. Bring a jacket even on a sunny day, since weather can change quickly beside Storsjön.
Learn about skiing and outdoor sport
Östersund is a major winter sports destination, and the National Winter Sports Arena is closely linked with the city’s identity. The area has facilities for cross-country skiing, biathlon and other outdoor activities. During the colder months, you can often find prepared trails close to the city, making it possible to experience Swedish winter without arranging a long expedition.
If you are visiting outside winter, the same surroundings are useful for running, hiking and cycling. Local tourism offices and activity providers can advise on current trail conditions, equipment rental and guided tours.
Food and drink in Östersund
Eating well is an important part of visiting Östersund. The local food culture combines traditional Jämtland ingredients with modern Nordic cooking. Restaurant menus change with the seasons, but you may find dishes made with reindeer, elk, freshwater fish, mushrooms, berries and locally produced dairy products.
Try to include at least one meal that focuses on regional ingredients. Small producers around Jämtland make cheeses, breads, preserves, sausages and drinks that are easy to take home. Farmers’ markets and food events can be especially good for discovering products that are not widely available elsewhere.
The city also has a growing café culture. Order Swedish coffee with a cinnamon bun, cardamom bun or a slice of cake, then take your time. If you prefer something stronger, several cafés and restaurants serve locally roasted coffee and craft beer from northern Swedish breweries.
For a special food experience, make a reservation in advance, especially during summer weekends and major winter sporting events. Smaller restaurants may have limited seating, and popular tables can fill quickly.
When is the best time to visit Östersund?
Östersund in summer
Summer is an excellent season for a first trip. Days are long, temperatures are generally comfortable for walking and the region offers a wide choice of outdoor activities. You can cycle around Frösön, take a boat trip, swim in the lake, visit Jamtli and enjoy outdoor dining in the city centre.
June and July provide the brightest evenings, while August can feel a little quieter. Summer is also the season for festivals and cultural events, including the Storsjöyran music festival, usually held in July. Book accommodation early if your dates coincide with a major event.
Östersund in autumn
Autumn brings colourful forests, cooler air and a calmer pace. September is often a good choice for visitors who want to hike or explore the city without peak-season crowds. The days become shorter through October, but museums, cafés and restaurants make Östersund enjoyable when the weather is unsettled.
This can also be a rewarding season for food-focused travel. Regional menus often highlight mushrooms, berries and game, while local shops sell seasonal products from nearby farms.
Östersund in winter
Winter transforms Östersund into a destination for snow activities and atmospheric city breaks. Cross-country skiing is the main attraction, but you can also try snowshoeing, ice skating, winter walking and other guided experiences. The city’s location means you can combine outdoor time with warm cafés, museums and comfortable restaurants.
Pack layers, waterproof footwear, gloves and a warm hat. Daylight is limited in midwinter, so plan outdoor activities around the brightest part of the day. Always check trail and ice conditions before heading out, and use local advice if you are unfamiliar with winter travel in Sweden.
Östersund in spring
Spring is a transitional season. Snow may remain on the ground in March and early April, while conditions become more changeable later in the season. Skiing can still be possible, but some summer attractions may not yet be fully open. May often brings longer days and fresh greenery, although rain and cool temperatures are still possible.
A suggested two-day Östersund itinerary
Day one: city, culture and food
- Start with breakfast at a central café.
- Walk through the main streets and browse local shops.
- Spend several hours at Jamtli, allowing extra time for the open-air sections in summer.
- Take an afternoon walk through Badhusparken and along the lake.
- Have dinner featuring ingredients from Jämtland.
Day two: Frösön and outdoor scenery
- Travel to Frösön by bus, bicycle or car.
- Visit Frösö Church and the Frösö Runestone.
- Enjoy a viewpoint or a short walk around Frösöberget.
- Return to Östersund for lunch or coffee.
- Choose an evening activity, such as a seasonal event, a relaxed restaurant meal or a lakeside walk.
With three or four days, add a longer nature excursion, a guided food experience or a day trip into the wider Jämtland region. The best choice depends on the season and whether you prefer hiking, skiing, wildlife, culture or local food.
Day trips from Östersund
Östersund works well as a base for exploring central Jämtland. Åre, one of Sweden’s best-known mountain resorts, is reachable by train and offers hiking, skiing and dramatic mountain scenery. The journey takes longer than a quick local outing, so check transport times before planning it as a day trip.
Åre is particularly appealing in winter and summer, but some businesses operate on reduced schedules during the shoulder seasons. Another option is to explore smaller villages and food producers around Lake Storsjön. Regional tour operators may offer farm visits, tastings and nature excursions that are difficult to arrange independently.
For serious hiking, look into trips towards the mountains of western Jämtland. These areas require more preparation, especially outside summer, but they provide access to some of northern Sweden’s most impressive landscapes.
How to get to Östersund
Östersund is accessible by train, bus, car and air. The railway connects the city with Stockholm and other destinations in central Sweden. Overnight and long-distance services may be available on some routes, making the train a practical alternative to flying.
Åre Östersund Airport is located outside the city and serves domestic routes, with some seasonal or limited international connections. From the airport, you can continue by airport bus, taxi or rental car. Check current routes and timetables before booking, since services can vary by season.
If you drive, Östersund is a convenient base for a road trip through Jämtland. Summer driving is straightforward, but winter roads can be icy and conditions may change quickly. Allow extra time, use appropriate tyres and check weather warnings before setting out.
Getting around Östersund
The centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. Local buses connect the city with Frösön, the airport area and nearby neighbourhoods. Bicycles are useful in summer, especially if you want to explore the lake or travel between central Östersund and Frösön at your own pace.
A car is not necessary for a short city break, but it can be helpful for remote nature areas, farm visits and longer day trips. If you plan to rent a car, compare prices and availability before arrival, particularly during the summer holiday period and winter sports season.
Where to stay in Östersund
Staying in the city centre is the easiest choice for a first visit. You will be close to restaurants, shops, museums, the railway station and the lakeside. This area suits travellers who want to walk rather than rely on a car.
Accommodation near the waterfront can provide attractive views and quick access to parks and walking paths. Frösön is a good option if you prefer a quieter setting and want to be closer to open landscapes. It may be less convenient for evening dining in central Östersund, so check public transport and taxi options before booking.
Hotels, hostels, guesthouses and self-catering apartments are available, but choice can be limited during large events. Reserve ahead for summer festivals, winter competitions and school holidays.
Practical tips for visiting Östersund
- Pack clothing in layers. Even summer evenings beside the lake can be cool.
- Wear comfortable shoes, since walking is one of the best ways to explore the city and nearby parks.
- Book popular restaurants and event accommodation in advance.
- Check museum opening times, public transport schedules and trail conditions before setting out.
- Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted, but keep a small backup payment option available.
- Respect right of public access rules by leaving no litter, closing gates and avoiding damage to plants or private property.
- Use marked trails and follow local safety advice around water, snow and ice.
Sweden’s daylight changes dramatically through the year. Summer offers long evenings for sightseeing, while winter days can be short. Plan your outdoor activities accordingly and leave flexible time for weather changes.
Making your Östersund trip more sustainable
Östersund is easy to visit with a lower-impact travel style. Consider taking the train instead of flying where practical, then walk or use local buses once you arrive. Choose locally owned accommodation, eat at restaurants that highlight regional producers and buy food directly from small businesses.
Nature is one of the area’s greatest attractions, so travel carefully. Stay on established paths where needed, carry your rubbish with you and avoid disturbing wildlife. Small choices help protect the landscapes that make Östersund such a memorable destination.