Latitude: 63.1 degrees north
Population: 50,000
Östersund Municipality
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Östersund
Jamtli is one of Sweden’s most impressive regional museums and combines indoor exhibitions with a large open-air historical park. Visitors can explore traditional farmhouses, historic town buildings and interactive exhibits focused on the culture and history of Jämtland. During summer, actors in historical clothing recreate life from different time periods, creating an immersive atmosphere throughout the museum grounds. Jamtli also hosts seasonal markets, concerts and cultural festivals throughout the year.
Östersund City Hall is one of the city’s architectural landmarks and a striking example of Nordic Art Nouveau design. Built in the early 20th century, the building overlooks the city centre and Lake Storsjön. Visitors can admire the detailed tower, elegant stonework and surrounding public square. The area around the city hall is especially lively during festivals and winter events.
Badhusparken is a scenic lakeside park located beside Lake Storsjön and one of the city’s most popular gathering places. Walking paths, public art and open green spaces provide beautiful views towards the lake and surrounding mountains. During summer, locals gather for swimming, picnics and outdoor concerts, while winter transforms the area into a snowy lakeside landscape. Sunsets over Storsjön are especially spectacular from the park.
Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are my recommendations!
Åre is Sweden’s most famous ski resort and lies only a short journey west of Östersund. During winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding and alpine scenery across one of Scandinavia’s premier mountain destinations. Summer brings hiking, mountain biking and outdoor adventures surrounded by lakes and rugged peaks. The lively mountain village atmosphere makes Åre a popular year-round excursion.
Lake Storsjön surrounds much of Östersund and offers year-round outdoor activities including kayaking, fishing, sailing and ice skating. Boat tours during summer provide scenic views towards mountains, islands and lakeside villages throughout Jämtland. During winter, parts of the frozen lake become accessible for skating and snow activities. The lake plays a central role in both local culture and daily life.
Frösön is the large island connected directly to Östersund and known for its scenic landscapes, historical sites and panoramic lake views. Visitors can explore walking trails, churches, cafés and cultural landmarks while enjoying peaceful surroundings overlooking Storsjön. The island is also associated with composer Wilhelm Peterson-Berger, whose former home remains a popular attraction. Frösön is especially beautiful during autumn and summer evenings.
Östersund was founded relatively late compared with many Scandinavian towns, officially becoming a city in 1786. The Swedish government established the settlement to encourage trade and administration in the inland Jämtland region, which had long relied on agriculture, hunting and local markets. Its location beside Lake Storsjön made it an important transport and commercial centre connecting inland Sweden with Norway and surrounding mountain regions.
During the 19th century, Östersund grew rapidly due to improved transport connections, military presence and expanding trade. The arrival of the railway transformed the city into an important regional hub and encouraged tourism connected to mountain recreation and winter sports. Jämtland’s strong regional identity and traditions remained central to the city’s development.
Throughout the 20th century, Östersund became increasingly known for outdoor recreation, winter sports and cultural institutions. Today, traces of traditional Jämtland culture remain visible alongside modern Scandinavian design and urban development.
Modern Östersund combines small-city charm with strong outdoor culture and regional identity. Residents enjoy close access to forests, mountains and lakes while still benefiting from cafés, restaurants, universities and cultural venues within the city centre. Outdoor recreation is deeply integrated into daily life, particularly cross-country skiing, hiking and cycling.
The city is internationally recognised for winter sports and has hosted numerous biathlon and skiing competitions. Sporting culture remains highly visible throughout the year, while tourism connected to Åre and Jämtland’s mountain regions continues to grow. Sustainability, access to nature, and quality of life are important aspects of the city’s identity.
Östersund also has a creative and culinary side, with local food traditions, artisan producers and cultural festivals contributing to a lively atmosphere. Despite its northern location, the city feels energetic and modern while remaining closely connected to the surrounding wilderness.
Fly: Åre Östersund Airport offers domestic flights from Stockholm and seasonal international connections. The airport is located only a short drive from the city centre.
Drive: Östersund is connected by major highways linking central Sweden, northern Sweden and Norway. Scenic drives through forests, lakes and mountain landscapes make road travel particularly enjoyable.
Train: Östersund is well connected by Swedish rail services, including overnight trains from Stockholm. Train journeys through forests, lakes and mountain regions are among the most scenic in Sweden.
Ferry: Although inland, boat services operate on Lake Storsjön during summer and form part of local sightseeing experiences around the lake and nearby islands.
Östersund’s compact centre is easy to explore on foot, while cycling paths connect much of the city and lakeside areas. Public buses provide efficient transport throughout the region, including connections to Frösön and nearby villages. Rental cars are useful for exploring mountain regions and national parks further outside the city. During winter, many outdoor areas are also accessible via ski trails and snow routes.
There’s a nice guide for shopping: https://visitostersund.se/en/shops/
Cafes & Bakeries
Café Jazzköket – a popular café known for brunch, locally sourced ingredients and cosy atmosphere with regular cultural events and live music.
Wedemarks Konditori – Traditional Swedish bakery and café serving pastries, cakes and classic fika in the centre of Östersund.
Restaurants
Arctura Restaurant – Located inside the city’s iconic thermal tower, offering panoramic views across Östersund and Lake Storsjön.
High End & Unique Eats
Camping & Hostels
STF Östersund Ledkrysset – centrally located accommodation popular with backpackers, skiers and outdoor travellers.
Cabins & B&Bs
Leopold Boutique Hotel – accommodation offering cosy interiors and personalised service in the city centre.
Chains & Mid-Range
Clarion Hotel Grand Östersund – Modern hotel with spa facilities, lake views and convenient access to restaurants, shopping and transport.
High End & Unique Properties
Frösö Park Hotel – Stylish resort hotel surrounded by forests and lake scenery with spa facilities and outdoor adventure access.