Things to do in Jämtland – 25 tips, attractions and experiences

Text: Peter Bergström

Updated May 2026 | Looking for things to do in Jämtland? Here you will find the best sights, nature experiences and our best tips for a holiday in Jämtland – from mountains and hiking to small towns, views and local food experiences. Jämtland is one of Sweden's most magnificent landscapes, with open spaces, high mountains, deep forests and large lakes that attract visitors all year round.

Quick guide – best things to do in Jämtland

• Hiking in the Åre Mountains and around Storulvån
• Ski in Åre all year round
• Paddle and fish in Storsjön and the mountain lakes
• Visit Vemdalen for cycling and outdoor activities
• Experience mountain nature, waterfalls and Sami culture in western Jämtland

1. Experience Åre all year round

Åre is Jämtland's most famous destination and attracts visitors both in winter and summer. It offers world-class skiing, but also hiking trails, downhill cycling, restaurants, spas and beautiful views. It is an obvious base if you want to combine activity with comfort.

2. Climb up Åreskutan

Åreskutan is one of the most classic mountains in Sweden and offers expansive views of the mountain world. In winter, slopes and off-piste attract, while summer is perfect for hiking and lift-borne excursions. The view from here is one of the most memorable in Jämtland.

3. Visit Tännforsen

Tännforsen is Sweden's largest waterfall and one of the most impressive natural destinations in Jämtland. Here you can follow footpaths through the forest to the roar of the water and several fine viewpoints. It is an easily accessible excursion destination that suits most people.

4. Stroll in Östersund

Östersund is the largest city in Jämtland and a natural stop during a trip to the countryside. It has a charming city center, restaurants, small shops and nice walking paths along Lake Storsjön. The city also works well as a base for excursions to both the mountains and nature.

5. Enjoy the views of Storsjön

Storsjön leaves its mark on large parts of Jämtland and creates open views that feel almost endless. Around the lake there are swimming areas, small communities, viewpoints and nice roads to drive if you want to experience the landscape at a leisurely pace. For many, this is the very feeling of Jämtland.

6. Take a trip to Frösön

Frösön is located just outside Östersund and is one of the most classic places in Jämtland. Here you get both views of Storsjön and the mountains in the distance, but also cultural history and nice walking environments. It is a perfect stop if you want to combine nature with short distances.

7. See Frösö Church and the view from there

Frösö Church is not only a beautiful church but also a place with one of the finest views over Lake Storsjön. From here you can see the water, the islands and the mountains when the weather is clear. It is a simple but very atmospheric stop during a tour of the area.

8. Discover Jamtli in Östersund

Jamtli is a popular open-air museum and museum that tells the story of Jämtland's history, culture and everyday life. It is particularly suitable if you want to combine nature experiences with something more lively and educational. For families with children and history enthusiasts, it is often a safe bet.

9. Drive a beautiful road around Storsjön

Driving around parts of Storsjön is a nice experience in itself. The road offers open landscapes, small villages, water views and many natural stops along the way. For those of you traveling by motorhome, this is a stretch that often feels extra pleasant.

10. Visit the Winter Park in Östersund (winter)

The winter park in Östersund is a popular winter concept that usually attracts both locals and visitors. Here you can enjoy winter activities, walks on the ice and a wonderful feeling of a real Norrland winter town. If you travel here during the winter season, it is a fun and easily accessible feature.

11. Try skiing in Åre

For many, skiing is the main reason to travel to Jämtland. Åre is Sweden's most well-known ski resort, with everything from family-friendly slopes to more advanced skiing. Even if you don't ski to the fullest, the environment and mountain feeling are worth the trip.

12. Discover Vemdalen

Vemdalen is a popular area for winter holidays but also works well during the bare-ground season. Here you will find mountain-like nature, a calmer pace than in some larger towns and good opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. It is a good option for those looking for mountains without too much activity.

13. Hiking in the Jämtland Mountains

Jämtland is one of Sweden's best landscapes for hiking and nature experiences. There are both shorter trails and longer tours through mountains, forests and open spaces. It is precisely the combination of accessibility and magnificent nature that makes the area so appreciated.

14. Go on a short mountain hike near Åre

You don't have to go on a multi-day hike to get a real mountain experience. Around Åre there are several trails that are suitable for a half-day or day trip, with views, mountain air and the feeling of quickly getting out into nature. Perfect if you want a lot of experience with little planning.

15. Visit the Dead Falls

Döda fallet is one of Sweden's most fascinating natural and industrial monuments. There was once a mighty waterfall here that disappeared after a dramatic event in the 18th century, and today you can experience the dried-up ravine and learn about its history on site. It is a different excursion destination that stands out in Jämtland.

16. Fishing in lakes and streams

Jämtland is a dream landscape for those who like fishing. There are many lakes, flowing water and mountain fishing waters where nature is often at least as great an experience as the fishing itself. Even for beginners it can be a great reason to get out into the quiet.

17. Go kayaking or canoeing

With all the lakes and calmer waterways, there are great opportunities to experience Jämtland from the water. Paddling here is often as much about the silence, views and feeling of nature as it is about the activity itself. During the summer, it can be one of the most relaxing ways to see the landscape.

18. Taste Jämtland's culinary experiences

Jämtland is known for its strong food traditions and local ingredients. Here you can find everything from farm shops and food crafts to restaurants that highlight cheese, cold cuts, game and other local specialties. For many, the food becomes an unexpectedly large part of the experience.

19. Visit local farm shops and food artisans

If you like genuine stops along the way, farm shops and small producers are a nice touch during a trip in Jämtland. They often have local cheese, charcuterie, pastries and other products with a clear connection to the region. This gives the trip more variety than just nature and views.

20. Go on a winter holiday in Jämtland

Jämtland is one of Sweden's best regions for those who love winter. In addition to skiing, there is snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, winter walks and the special feeling of a real mountain winter. If you travel here at the right time, you will have a holiday that feels very different compared to southern Sweden.

21. Experience cross-country skiing in a mountain environment

For those who prefer trails to alpine skiing, there are plenty of opportunities in Jämtland. Many areas offer nice cross-country trails in beautiful nature, where the pace is slower and the experience is more natural. It's a great way to really get close to the winter landscape.

22. Look out for the Northern Lights during the winter

On clear winter nights, you may be lucky enough to see the Northern Lights even in Jämtland. It's never a promise, but when the sky plays over the mountains and snow, it often becomes a memory for a lifetime. Just the possibility makes the evenings extra exciting during a winter trip.

23. Take a road trip through mountains and forests

Jämtland is very suitable for car holidays and motorhome trips. The roads take you through open landscapes, past lakes, mountains and small towns where the journey itself is often at least as beautiful as the destination.

24. Stay at a spa in Åre

If you want to combine nature and relaxation, spas in Åre are a great option, for example at fine Copperhill Mountain Lodge. The area has several accommodations where you can enjoy views, mountain surroundings and peace after an active day. It is especially suitable if you want to make Jämtland a little more enjoyable than just adventurous.

25. Just enjoy the tranquility of Jämtland

Sometimes the best thing about Jämtland isn't a specific attraction, but the feeling of the place itself. The vast views, the silence, the mountain air and the open landscapes make it easy to slow down. That's why many people return here again and again.

READ MORE: Here you will find all our reports about Jämtland.

Best areas to live and explore in Jämtland

Åre: Best suited for those who want the most activities, mountain feel and a good selection of restaurants, hotels and experiences all year round. It is the most obvious choice for a first trip to Jämtland.

Ostersund: Perfect if you want to combine city, culture and nature. Here you live comfortably and are close to Storsjön, Frösön and several great day trips.

Vemdalen: A good option for those who want a mountain holiday at a slower pace. It is particularly suitable for nature, skiing and relaxation.

Around Storsjön: If you are traveling by car or camper, the area around Storsjön can be very pleasant. Here you will find locations close to the water, nice views and several small stops along the way.

Tips in Jämtland – our best advice for your trip

• Plan by season: Jämtland is almost two different destinations depending on whether you go in winter or summer.
• Use the car as a base: Distances can be longer than you think, and a car or camper makes the journey much smoother.
• Book Åre in time during high season: Especially during winter weeks, accommodations can become fully booked quickly.
• Dress in layers: The weather can change quickly, especially in mountainous environments.
• Leave time for spontaneous stoppage: In Jämtland, the views, roads and nature are often a big part of the experience.

FAQ – frequently asked questions about Jämtland

What is Jämtland known for?

Jämtland is primarily known for its mountains, skiing, Åre, Östersund and great nature experiences all year round. The landscape attracts both those who want an active holiday and those who just want to enjoy peace and space.

What can you do in Jämtland in the summer?

In summer, Jämtland is perfect for hiking, road trips, canoeing, fishing and excursions to waterfalls, mountains and lakes. It is also a good time to discover smaller towns, farm shops and viewpoints.

When is the best time to visit Jämtland?

It depends on what you want to experience. Winter is best for skiing and winter holidays, while June to September is best for hiking, nature and car holidays.

Is Jämtland good for motorhomes?

Yes, Jämtland is very suitable for motorhomes thanks to the long distances, beautiful roads and all the nature experiences along the route. It is a landscape where the journey itself is often as beautiful as the destinations.

More landscape guides nearby

Want to discover more of Sweden? Here are more guides to nearby landscapes that are perfect for more excursions, road trips and holidays at home.

• Things to do in Harjedalen
• Things to do in Ångermanland
• Things to do in Lapland
• Things to do in Medelpad
• Holidays in Sweden