Wondering how to get to Östersund? The city is well connected to the rest of Sweden by train, plane, bus and road, making it a practical gateway to Jämtland and the mountain resorts near Åre. Your best option depends on where you are travelling from, how quickly you want to arrive and whether you plan to explore the surrounding countryside.
Where is Östersund?
Östersund is located in central Sweden on the eastern shore of Lake Storsjön. It is the regional capital of Jämtland and an important transport hub between the Swedish coast, the mountains and the Norwegian border. The city sits roughly halfway between Stockholm and Trondheim, although the journey from either capital still takes several hours.
Östersund is compact and easy to navigate once you arrive. The central railway station is close to the city centre, while Åre Östersund Airport is located on the island of Frösön, around 10 kilometres from central Östersund. Long distance buses also arrive close to the centre, and the main roads make the city accessible by car throughout the year.
How to get to Östersund by plane
Flying is usually the fastest way to reach Östersund, particularly if you are travelling from Stockholm or another part of Sweden. Åre Östersund Airport is the main airport for the region and is commonly identified by the airport code OSD. Despite its name, the airport serves both Östersund and the popular ski destination of Åre.
Flights from Stockholm
There are normally direct flights from Stockholm Arlanda Airport to Åre Östersund Airport. The flight takes approximately one hour, although you should allow extra time for check in, security and the journey to and from each airport. Frequency varies by season and day of the week, so check the current timetable before booking your trip.
Flying can be especially convenient for a short visit, a business trip or a journey with limited connections. Stockholm Arlanda has frequent international arrivals, but passengers connecting from abroad should leave enough time between flights. A domestic connection may require collecting baggage and passing through the relevant airport procedures.
Getting from the airport to Östersund
Åre Östersund Airport is a short drive from the city. Taxis are available at the airport, and the journey to central Östersund usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic and your destination. Pre booking is sensible if you arrive late, travel with a large group or need a child seat.
Rental cars are also available at the airport. This can be a useful choice if you are continuing to Åre, exploring the mountain villages or visiting attractions around Lake Storsjön. Public transport options can vary according to the flight schedule, so check local services before relying on a bus connection.
How to get to Östersund by train
For many travellers, trains to Östersund offer the best balance between comfort, scenery and convenience. The railway station is centrally located, and you can avoid airport transfers and much of the waiting time associated with flying. Rail travel also gives you more space to read, work or sleep during the journey.
Trains from Stockholm
Östersund is connected with Stockholm by long distance rail services. The journey generally takes between five and seven hours, depending on the service and any changes. Some trains run during the day, while overnight services can be useful for travellers who want to save on one night of accommodation.
Day trains provide views of central Sweden as the landscape changes from more populated areas around Stockholm to forests, lakes and open countryside farther north. If you prefer a quieter journey, consider reserving a seat in advance, especially during weekends, school holidays and the winter ski season.
Night trains to Östersund
Night trains to Östersund can be a practical option from Stockholm and other Swedish cities. Depending on the timetable, you may be able to book a reclining seat, couchette or sleeping compartment. A private sleeping compartment costs more, but it can make a long journey considerably more comfortable.
Night train schedules and carriage types change, so check the operator’s website for the current route and booking conditions. If you are travelling overnight, bring a small bag with toiletries, a phone charger, water and clothing suitable for sleeping. Not every service offers the same onboard facilities.
Trains from Sundsvall and other cities
Sundsvall is an important connection point for travellers arriving from the east coast of Sweden. Depending on the timetable, you may travel by train for part of the route and change for a service towards Östersund. Travel times vary, but the connection is often convenient for visitors combining Östersund with the High Coast or coastal cities.
From Gothenburg and Malmö, the journey usually involves one or more changes, often in Stockholm or another major railway hub. It is possible to travel by rail from these cities, but the total journey is long. Compare the complete train itinerary with flights before deciding which transport to Östersund suits your plans.
Inlandsbanan
Inlandsbanan is a seasonal railway running through the interior of Sweden. It is best known as a scenic travel experience rather than a fast connection. Depending on the route and season, it can connect Östersund with places such as Mora, Sveg, Vilhelmina and Gällivare.
This option is attractive if you want to explore northern Sweden at a relaxed pace. Services usually operate more frequently in summer, and some departures may require advance planning or an overnight stop. Check the current timetable carefully because seasonal routes do not operate in the same way as regular year round rail services.
How to get to Östersund by bus
Long distance buses can be cheaper than trains and may offer useful connections from cities where rail travel is less convenient. Bus journey times are usually longer, but modern coaches often have comfortable seats, toilets and Wi Fi. Prices can be competitive when you book early.
Services to Östersund may be operated by national coach companies or regional transport providers. Routes and departure points can change, so search for the exact date of travel rather than relying on an old timetable. The main bus station is close to the centre, making it easy to reach hotels, restaurants and local attractions on foot or by city bus.
Bus travel from Stockholm
A bus from Stockholm to Östersund takes considerably longer than a flight and can also be slower than a direct train. However, it may be useful if you are travelling on a tight budget or if train tickets are sold out. Compare the arrival time with your accommodation check in, particularly when travelling overnight.
Some routes may involve a change in another Swedish city. Check the baggage rules and connection policy before booking. If you have skis, a bicycle or other bulky equipment, confirm whether it must be reserved separately.
Regional buses from Åre and nearby towns
If you are combining Östersund with Åre, regional buses can provide an alternative to the train. The journey between the two destinations takes several hours by road, and the frequency depends on the season. Buses may also connect Östersund with smaller communities around Lake Storsjön and elsewhere in Jämtland.
Regional transport in Jämtland is coordinated through local public transport services. Timetables can be less frequent outside the main towns, especially in the evening and on Sundays. Plan rural journeys in advance and check whether tickets can be purchased onboard or must be bought through an app or online system.
How to get to Östersund by car
Driving gives you the greatest freedom to explore Jämtland. It is a good choice if you want to visit lakeside villages, hiking areas, ski resorts or attractions outside Östersund. Roads are generally well maintained, but winter conditions can make journeys slower and more demanding.
Driving from Stockholm
The drive from Stockholm to Östersund is approximately 550 kilometres, depending on your chosen route. It usually takes around six to seven hours without long stops, although traffic, roadworks and weather can increase the journey time. Allow additional time for breaks and fuel, particularly if you are travelling with children.
The route takes you through central Sweden and across long stretches of forest and open countryside. There are towns along the way where you can stop for food, fuel and accommodation. In winter, check the road forecast before leaving Stockholm and make sure the car has suitable winter tyres.
Driving from Gothenburg and Malmö
From Gothenburg, Östersund is roughly 850 kilometres away, while the journey from Malmö is more than 1,000 kilometres. These drives can take a full day or longer and are best treated as road trips with an overnight stop. Travelling by train or plane may be more practical if you only plan to visit Östersund itself.
Driving becomes more attractive when you intend to continue into the mountains or travel around northern Sweden. A rental car can save time on rural journeys, where public transport may be infrequent. Compare the total rental, fuel and parking costs with the price of train tickets before making a decision.
Driving from Norway
Östersund is connected to Norway by European route E14. The road passes through the mountain region near Åre and continues towards Trondheim. From Trondheim, the drive to Östersund takes approximately three to four hours, depending on road and weather conditions.
Travellers crossing the border should check current requirements for identification, rental car permissions and insurance. Mountain roads can be affected by snow, strong winds and temporary closures in winter. Keep your fuel tank reasonably full and check official traffic information before setting off.
Which road routes lead to Östersund?
Two major roads are particularly important for reaching Östersund. E14 approaches from Sundsvall in the east and continues west towards Åre and Norway. E45 runs north and south through inland Sweden, connecting Östersund with destinations such as Sveg, Vilhelmina and further north.
Road 87 provides another connection towards the east, while smaller regional roads lead around Lake Storsjön and into the surrounding countryside. Satellite navigation is useful, but do not rely on mobile coverage everywhere. Download an offline map if you plan to drive through remote areas.
Getting around Östersund after you arrive
Central Östersund is easy to explore on foot. The railway station, main shopping streets, restaurants and many hotels are within a manageable walking distance. The city also has local buses serving residential areas, the university, Frösön and other parts of the urban area.
Taxis are available for direct journeys, including trips between the railway station, airport and accommodation. If you are visiting during winter, allow more time for walking because snow and ice can affect pavements. Comfortable shoes with good grip are useful from late autumn through early spring.
Car hire in Östersund
Renting a car is worthwhile if your itinerary includes places outside the city. You can collect a vehicle at Åre Östersund Airport or arrange collection in town, subject to availability. Book early for summer holidays and the winter ski season, when demand is higher.
Before collecting the car, check the insurance terms, mileage allowance, fuel policy and rules for driving across the Norwegian border. In winter, confirm that the vehicle has approved winter tyres. It is also sensible to ask about roadside assistance and how to handle driving on unpaved or remote roads.
Which transport to Östersund is best?
- Choose a flight if you are travelling from Stockholm, have limited time or are connecting from an international flight at Arlanda.
- Choose a train if you value comfort, want to avoid airport procedures or are interested in a scenic journey through central Sweden.
- Choose a night train if you want to travel while sleeping and reduce the need for a hotel night.
- Choose a bus if price is your main priority and you are comfortable with a longer journey.
- Choose a car if you plan to explore Jämtland, visit remote areas or continue to the mountains and Norway.
The best transport to Östersund also depends on the season. Summer brings long daylight hours and good conditions for road trips and scenic rail travel. Winter often increases demand for flights, trains and rental cars because visitors are heading to Åre and other snow destinations. Booking early is particularly important around Christmas, New Year, school holidays and major winter events.
Tips for planning your journey to Östersund
- Compare the full journey time, including transfers and airport travel, rather than comparing flight time with train time alone.
- Book trains and flights early when travelling during holidays or peak ski season.
- Check baggage rules if you are bringing skis, a bicycle or outdoor equipment.
- Confirm the final departure and arrival points, as some services use Åre Östersund Airport while others arrive at the central railway or bus station.
- Allow extra time for winter travel, especially when driving on E14, E45 and smaller regional roads.
- Check local public transport times if your accommodation is outside central Östersund.
- Keep your booking details, identification and travel insurance information accessible during the journey.
With direct air links, reliable rail connections, long distance buses and accessible roads, reaching the city is straightforward for most visitors. Whether you travel overnight by rail, fly from Stockholm or arrive by car from Norway, planning around your route and the season will help you make the most of your time in Östersund.