Östersund

Destination:

Östersund

Country:

Region/State:

Jämtland

Nearest major city:

Trondheim, Norway (230 km), Sundsvall, Sweden (190 km)

Official website:

https://visitostersund.se

Social media handles:

Travel seasons

Best time to visit:

Summer (June to August)

Second season:

Winter (December to February)

Less crowded season:

Fall (September to November)

Average weather per season:

Spring: 0°C to 10°C, mild with occasional snow
Summer: 10°C to 22°C, pleasant and sunny
Autumn: 0°C to 10°C, cool and crisp
Winter: -10°C to 0°C, cold with snow

Unique selling points

What makes this place stand out compared to other amazing places?

  • Östersund is a charming town known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and unique winter activities, including the famous Storsjöodjuret, Sweden's Loch Ness Monster.

What locals are proud of:

  • The rich cultural heritage and traditions.
  • The beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • The friendly and welcoming community spirit.

Top 5 attractions

  • Storsjöbadet: A popular water park with pools, slides, and a relaxing spa.
  • Jamtli Museum: Showcases the rich history and culture of Jämtland, featuring interactive exhibits and historic buildings.
  • Frösön: An island with beautiful views, historic churches, and hiking trails.
  • National Biathlon Arena: Hosts international biathlon competitions and offers skiing facilities.
  • Storsjöyran: One of Scandinavia's oldest music festivals held annually in Östersund.

Top 3 hidden gems

  • Andersön Nature Reserve: A serene area with hiking trails and scenic views of Lake Storsjön.
  • Locknekratern: An ancient meteorite crater with fascinating geology and a small museum.
  • Pilgrimstad Brewery: A local brewery offering tours and tastings of traditional Jämtland beer.

Top 5 instagrammable spots

  • View from Frösöberget: Stunning panoramic views of Östersund and Lake Storsjön.
  • Badhusparken: A picturesque park along the lake, perfect for sunset photos.
  • Rådhuset (Town Hall): Beautiful architecture with seasonal decorations.
  • Gamla Teatern: A historic theater with a charming exterior.
  • Lake Storsjön: Capture the magic of Sweden's fifth-largest lake.

Culture and heritage

Most famous historical sites:

One annual local festival/event that stands out:

Storsjöyran: A week-long music festival featuring local and international artists, parades, and cultural events.

Traditional foods and must-try dishes:

- Surströmming: Fermented herring, a unique and traditional Swedish delicacy. - Jämtland Renkött: Reindeer meat, often served in stews or as steaks. - Hällakakor: Traditional flatbread, often served with butter and cheese.

Cultural etiquettes and tips for visitors:

- Respect local customs and traditions, especially during festivals. - Greet people with a friendly "hej" (hello). - Be mindful of nature, follow "Allemansrätten" (the Right of Public Access).

Activities and experiences

Top outdoor activities:

- Hiking on Frösön and in nearby nature reserves. - Cycling along scenic routes around Lake Storsjön. - Winter sports such as skiing and ice skating.

Top indoor activities:

- Visiting the Jamtli Museum for interactive exhibits. - Watching performances at Gamla Teatern. - Shopping at Mittpunkten and Kärnan indoor markets.

Best places for families:

- Storsjöbadet water park. - Multi Challenge Adventure House with activities for all ages. - Moose Garden for wildlife experiences.

Best places for couples:

- Romantic walks in Badhusparken. - Dining at Jazzköket, a cozy and intimate restaurant. - Relaxing at the Frösö Park Spa.

Unique experiences:

- Traditional Swedish baking classes at local bakeries. - Sami culture experiences including reindeer herding. - Biathlon lessons at the National Biathlon Arena.

Practical information

How to get there:

Airport: Åre Östersund Airport (OSD), with domestic and some international flights. Highways: E14 connects Östersund to Trondheim and Sundsvall.

Public transportation options:

Local buses operated by Länstrafiken. Train services by SJ connecting to major cities.

Local currency and exchange rate information:

Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK) Exchange Rate: Approximately 10 SEK to 1 USD (check current rates for accuracy).

Languages spoken:

Swedish (official) English widely spoken.

Travel tips and safety advice:

  • Always check weather conditions before outdoor activities.
  • Use insect repellent during summer months to avoid mosquito bites.
  • Be aware of local wildlife when hiking.

Media and marketing

Promotional videos and photos:

Länk

Recent awards and recognitions:

- Awarded "Sweden's Winter City" multiple times. - Recognized for sustainable tourism practices.

Famous personalities or influencers from the area:

- Biathlete Magdalena Forsberg. - Singer Annika Norlin (Säkert!).

Additional information

Sustainable tourism practices:

- Emphasis on eco-friendly transportation options. - Promotion of local and organic foods. - Conservation efforts in natural reserves.

Community involvement and support initiatives:

Local events supporting cultural preservation. Volunteer opportunities in environmental conservation.

Contact information for further inquiries:

  • info@visitostersund.se
  • 004663144000