Essential Östersund Travel Guide: What to See & Do

Östersund is the cultural heart of Jämtland, located beside the broad waters of Lake Storsjön in central Sweden. Founded in 1786 by King Gustav III, the city combines a relaxed lakeside atmosphere with a strong regional identity shaped by forests, outdoor life, and centuries of northern history.

Things to Do in Östersund

Explore Jamtli

Jamtli is one of the best places to visit in Östersund. This museum complex brings Jämtland’s past to life through a combination of indoor exhibitions and an open-air section.

The open-air museum features traditional wooden buildings and historically dressed interpreters. Inside, visitors can explore displays covering prehistoric life, Viking heritage, local wildlife, and modern regional culture. The grounds also include pleasant green spaces, making Jamtli both a cultural attraction and a place to linger.

Visit Östersund Cathedral

Östersund Cathedral adds another layer to the city’s history. Its origins are linked to the medieval period, and archaeological evidence points to an earlier sacred site on the same ground.

A major fire damaged the building in 1898, but the cathedral was reconstructed with care for its historic appearance.

Enjoy Nature Around Östersund

Nature is central to the Östersund experience. Lake Storsjön provides open views and peaceful waterfront settings, while nearby Rannåsen Nature Reserve offers woodland trails, hills, and routes popular with walkers, runners, and cross-country skiers.

These landscapes make outdoor recreation one of the most appealing things to do in Östersund.

Why Visit Östersund?

For travelers wondering what to see in Östersund, the city’s appeal lies in its balance of cultural heritage and access to nature. Its compact setting, local history, and calm, spacious character make Östersund a distinctive gateway to Jämtland and Sweden’s northern interior.