Looking for things to do in Östersund? This lakeside city in central Sweden combines outdoor adventure, regional food, museums, island escapes and a lively cultural scene. Set beside the vast waters of Lake Storsjön and surrounded by the landscapes of Jämtland, Östersund is a rewarding destination in every season. Use this guide to discover the best Östersund attractions and plan memorable Östersund activities, whether you are visiting for a weekend or using the city as a base for exploring the wider region.
Explore the city centre
Östersund is compact enough to explore on foot, making a walk through the centre one of the easiest things to do in Östersund. The city has a relaxed atmosphere, attractive public spaces and a good selection of cafés, restaurants, independent shops and galleries.
Begin around Stortorget, the main square, and follow the surrounding streets towards Lake Storsjön. Along the way, you will find local boutiques, design shops and places serving food from Jämtland. The centre is particularly enjoyable in summer, when outdoor seating fills the pavements and the long northern days make it easy to continue exploring into the evening.
Östersund is also known for its public art. Look out for sculptures and creative installations in squares, parks and along the waterfront. The city rewards visitors who slow down and explore beyond the main shopping streets. A short walk can take you from an urban café to a quiet viewpoint over the lake.
Visit Jamtli open-air museum
Jamtli is one of the most popular Östersund attractions and an excellent place to learn about the history, traditions and everyday life of Jämtland. The museum combines indoor exhibitions with a large open-air area featuring historic buildings, farmsteads and cultural environments from different periods.
During the warmer months, the open-air museum becomes especially lively. Staff and interpreters may demonstrate traditional crafts, farming methods and local customs. Historic houses give an impression of how people lived in the region, while exhibitions inside the museum provide more detail about art, archaeology and regional history.
What to see at Jamtli
- Historic farm buildings and homes from Jämtland
- Exhibitions about local life, culture and archaeology
- Traditional crafts and seasonal demonstrations
- Family-friendly activities and historical characters in summer
- Regional art and displays connected to northern Sweden
Allow at least two to three hours for a visit, especially if you are travelling with children. Jamtli is close to the city centre, so it is easy to combine with a walk along the lake or a visit to another nearby attraction.
See the exhibitions at the Nationalmuseum Jamtli
Art lovers should make time for the Nationalmuseum Jamtli, which brings selections from Sweden’s national art collection to Östersund. The exhibitions change, so there is often something new to see even for returning visitors. The museum presents Swedish art and design in an accessible setting and forms part of the wider Jamtli experience.
The displays can include paintings, decorative arts and objects connected to Swedish cultural history. It is a good choice on a rainy day or whenever you want a quieter break from outdoor sightseeing. Check current opening times and exhibitions before visiting, as schedules vary throughout the year.
Walk beside Lake Storsjön
Lake Storsjön is central to the character of Östersund, and spending time by the water is one of the simplest and most enjoyable Östersund activities. The shoreline offers open views towards the mountains, peaceful walking routes and plenty of places to pause with a coffee or picnic.
Take a stroll from the harbour area and continue along the waterfront paths. The views change with the weather and season. On a clear day, the lake reflects the surrounding hills, while winter brings a completely different atmosphere with snow, ice and pale northern light.
The waterfront is also a good place for an evening walk. In summer, daylight lasts late into the night, creating ideal conditions for relaxed sightseeing after dinner. Bring a warm layer even in summer, since the breeze from the lake can be cool.
Discover Östersund’s harbour and Badhusparken
The harbour is one of the liveliest areas in town during the warmer months. Boats connect Östersund with destinations around Lake Storsjön, and the area has restaurants, cafés and places to sit outdoors. It is a convenient starting point for boat trips and a pleasant area for an unhurried walk.
Nearby Badhusparken is a green waterfront park with open views across the lake. It is popular with both residents and visitors, particularly in summer. You may see people enjoying picnics, playing games or simply watching boats move across the water. The park is also close to the city centre, making it easy to include in a walking tour.
Take a boat trip on Lake Storsjön
A boat trip offers a different perspective on Östersund and the surrounding landscape. Depending on the season and timetable, cruises may travel across Lake Storsjön to nearby communities and islands. Some services are designed as sightseeing trips, while others function as practical connections for residents and visitors.
One popular destination is Frösön, the large island located just across the water from Östersund. A boat journey can make the trip feel like a small adventure, while road and bridge connections provide a convenient alternative. Check departure times in advance, since services can be seasonal and less frequent outside summer.
On the lake, you can appreciate the scale of the landscape more clearly. The city, wooded shores and distant mountains create a memorable setting, particularly in calm weather. Pack a jacket, sunscreen and water, as conditions can change quickly on open water.
Cross to Frösön
Frösön is one of the best places to visit near Östersund. The island has a rural character, scenic roads, historic sites and broad views across Lake Storsjön. It is close enough for a short outing but offers a noticeable change of pace from the city.
Visit Frösö Church
Frösö Church is a historic stone church in a beautiful setting. The churchyard and surrounding area provide views over the lake and towards the mainland. Even if you do not spend long inside, the location is worth visiting for its atmosphere and scenery.
See the Frösö Runestone
The Frösö Runestone is one of the most important historical sights in the region. Dating from the Viking Age, it provides a link to the early history of Jämtland and reflects the area’s long cultural connections. Combine the runestone with Frösö Church and a drive or cycle around the island for a rewarding half-day excursion.
Enjoy the view from Frösöberget
Frösöberget is a popular viewpoint overlooking Östersund, Lake Storsjön and the surrounding landscape. The view is attractive in every season. In summer, the green hills and blue water create a classic Jämtland scene. In winter, snow-covered forests and frozen water give the area a more dramatic appearance.
Try local food from Jämtland
Food is an important part of the Östersund experience. The region is known for distinctive ingredients and traditional products, including game, mountain dairy products, local berries, fish, bread and artisan cheeses. Exploring restaurants, bakeries and food producers is among the most rewarding things to do in Östersund for visitors interested in regional culture.
Look for menus featuring reindeer, elk, trout, char and locally gathered berries. Traditional dishes may be presented in a modern way, while smaller cafés often offer pastries, sandwiches and coffee made with local ingredients. Ask restaurant staff about seasonal specialities, since the menu may change with the availability of produce.
Östersund has also gained recognition as a food destination. The city and wider Jämtland region have a strong network of small producers, farmers and craft food businesses. If you have access to a car, consider visiting a farm shop or producer outside the city. These stops can add flavour and context to your trip.
Enjoy outdoor activities in summer
Summer brings long days and easy access to nature. Hiking, cycling, swimming, kayaking and fishing are some of the most popular Östersund activities during the warmer season. You do not need to travel far from the centre to enjoy the outdoors, although the wider region offers more demanding routes and wilderness experiences.
Hiking and walking
Short walking routes around Frösön and the lake are suitable for visitors who want scenery without a full-day hike. For a longer outing, explore trails in the forests and hills around the city. Wear sturdy shoes and check the weather forecast, especially if you are heading into less developed areas.
Cycling
Cycling is a practical way to explore Östersund and Frösön. Quiet roads, cycle paths and scenic routes make it possible to create anything from a gentle waterfront ride to a longer island excursion. Bike rental availability changes by season, so arrange equipment in advance if cycling is a central part of your itinerary.
Swimming and paddling
On warm summer days, locals head to beaches and swimming spots around Lake Storsjön. The water can remain cool, but a swim is refreshing after a hike or bike ride. Kayaking and canoeing are also possible in suitable conditions. Always check local advice, wind conditions and water temperature before setting out.
Experience winter in Östersund
Winter transforms the city and creates a new set of things to do in Östersund. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating and winter walks are all accessible, while nearby ski areas offer downhill skiing and family-friendly slopes.
Östersund is well known for cross-country skiing, and trails are prepared in and around the city when conditions allow. The national biathlon stadium at Östersund is an important winter sports venue and may host competitions and events. Check the calendar if you would like to watch elite athletes or experience the atmosphere during a race weekend.
Ice skating can be available on prepared outdoor surfaces or indoor rinks, depending on the season. A walk along the frozen lake can be beautiful, but never go onto natural ice without checking its safety and following local guidance. Snow and ice conditions are changeable, so use marked routes and ask for advice if you are unfamiliar with the area.
Visit the regional museums and galleries
In addition to Jamtli, Östersund has smaller galleries, cultural venues and museums that provide more insight into local life. Temporary exhibitions may focus on art, photography, design, Sami culture or the history of Jämtland. These venues are useful additions to a city itinerary, particularly during poor weather.
Check local event listings before your visit. Concerts, theatre performances, lectures, markets and exhibitions take place throughout the year. Summer often brings outdoor events, while winter programming provides an opportunity to enjoy the city’s cultural side between outdoor activities.
Plan a day trip from Östersund
Östersund works well as a base for exploring central Jämtland. With more time, you can travel into the surrounding countryside for mountain scenery, villages, local food experiences and outdoor adventures. Åre is farther west and is known for skiing, hiking and mountain activities, while smaller destinations closer to Östersund offer a quieter experience.
Consider visiting a local nature reserve, travelling to a lakeside village or following a scenic road through the countryside. Public transport can cover some destinations, but a car gives you much greater flexibility, particularly outside the summer season. Check travel times carefully, since distances in northern Sweden can be deceptive on a map.
When is the best time to visit Östersund?
The best time depends on the activities you want to enjoy. Summer is ideal for walking, cycling, boat trips, outdoor museums and long evenings beside the lake. Late spring and early autumn are quieter, with changing scenery and fewer visitors, although some seasonal attractions may have reduced opening hours.
Winter is the right choice for snow sports, cross-country skiing and a classic Scandinavian winter atmosphere. Days are shorter, but the snow can brighten the landscape and create excellent conditions for outdoor activities. Pack clothing in layers and include waterproof outerwear whatever time of year you visit.
Practical tips for visiting Östersund
- Wear comfortable shoes because many central attractions are easy to reach on foot.
- Check seasonal opening hours for Jamtli, boat services and outdoor activity providers.
- Carry an extra layer, since weather around Lake Storsjön can change quickly.
- Book accommodation and popular restaurants ahead of time during summer and major sporting events.
- Use local travel information when planning trips to Frösön and destinations outside the city.
- Respect nature by staying on marked trails and taking all rubbish with you.
- In winter, follow local advice about ice safety and make sure you have suitable clothing.
How to make the most of your Östersund visit
For a first visit, combine the city centre, Jamtli and the waterfront on your first day. On the second day, cross to Frösön for the church, runestone and viewpoints, adding a boat trip if the timetable allows. If you are staying longer, reserve a day for hiking, cycling or winter sports, depending on the season.
The variety of Östersund attractions is part of the city’s appeal. You can spend the morning learning about regional history, enjoy local food at lunch, walk beside the lake in the afternoon and finish the day with a cultural event or a quiet view across the water. With its combination of nature, heritage and everyday Swedish city life, Östersund offers plenty to discover at a comfortable pace.