Things to do in Östergötland – 36 tips, attractions and experiences

Text and photo: Peter Bergström

Updated July 2026 | What can you do in Östergötland and which sights should you not miss? Here you will find our best tips on everything from Göta Canal, Vadstena Castle and Omberg to Söderköping, Kolmården and the archipelago. We have collected the best experiences in Östergötland for those of you who want to plan a wonderful trip by car, camper or a longer holiday in Sweden.

Östergötland

Östergötland offers so many experiences and we have our favorites like Göta Canal and idyllic Söderköping,

1. Take a boat trip on the Göta Canal

We did a fantastic boat trip with the M/S Wilhelm Tham from 1912 for 2 days called "”The Little Canal Trip”". What an experience starting in Söderköping and going to Motala through many locks with full board and very good food.

2. Discover the industrial landscape in Norrköping

The industrial landscape in Norrköping is an impressive attraction. Here, historic industrial buildings, rushing water, bridges, a cultural center and a museum meet in an environment that is both beautiful and unique. It is fantastic to just stroll around, but be sure to also visit the Museum of Work or the Visualization Center while you are here.

3. Visit Kolmården – the largest zoo in the Nordic region

Kolmården is one of the biggest reasons why many people travel to Östergötland, and it's easy to understand why. Here you'll find a zoo, safari, roller coasters and experiences for the whole family. This is an obvious stop for families with children, but also for those who want to combine nature experiences with one of Sweden's most classic destinations.

4. Stroll through Old Linköping

Old Linköping is one of Sweden's coziest open-air museums and a must when visiting Östergötland. Here you can stroll among cobblestone streets, old wooden houses, small shops, cafes and museum environments that give you a feeling of traveling back in time. It is just as nice for a short walk as for a half-day of coffee, shopping and nostalgia.

5. See Berg's locks on the Göta Canal

Berg's locks is one of the most classic sights in Östergötland and one of the best places to experience Göta Canal. There are 11 locks here, and it is fascinating to watch the boats go up and down the mighty lock stairs. There are also restaurants, cafes, mini golf and nice walking paths, making the place perfect for both families with children and camper van travelers.

6. Be impressed by Vadstena Castle

Vadstena Castle is one of Sweden's most beautiful Renaissance castles and a must-see attraction in Östergötland. The castle was started by Gustav Vasa in the 16th century and is located fantastically on the shores of Lake Vättern. Here you can go on a tour, walk around the moats or just enjoy the historical environment in one of Sweden's most charming small towns.

7. Experience Omberg and the views over Lake Vättern

Omberg is a spectacular natural area and a must for those who enjoy hiking and scenic views. The mountain rises beautifully above Lake Vättern and offers hiking trails, beech forests, cliffs and several fantastic views of the lake. Here you can do everything from a short walk to a full day in nature, and Omberg is just as suitable for active travelers as for those who just want to enjoy beautiful views.

8. Be fascinated by the Alvastra monastery ruins

Alvastra monastery ruins is one of Östergötland's most fascinating historical sites. There was a Cistercian monastery here from the 12th century, and the ruins are still both atmospheric and impressive to visit. The location at the foot of Omberg also means that you can easily combine the monastery ruins with other attractions in the area.

9. See the Rökstenen – the world's longest runic inscription

The Rökstenen is one of Sweden's most famous ancient monuments and is often described as the world's longest runic inscription. It was probably erected in the 9th century and is still a place that fascinates both history buffs and ordinary visitors. This is an attraction that is perfect for those who want to combine cultural history with a road trip through Östergötland.

10. Visit Vreta Monastery

Vreta Monastery is one of Sweden's most important medieval sites and an obvious stop for those who like history. There are both monastery ruins and a very beautiful church here, and the site is usually considered one of the country's oldest monastery areas. It is also easy to combine with Bergs sluissar and other attractions around Linköping.

11. Discover Söderöping – one of Sweden's coziest small towns

Söderköping is one of the most charming cities in Östergötland and a perfect destination for those who like small-town feel, history and the Göta Canal. Here you will find picturesque neighborhoods, cozy cafes, beautiful walks and several classic attractions. This is a place where you will be happy to stay longer than you first thought.

12. Eat ice cream at Smultronstället in Söderköping

The Smultronstället in Söderköping is almost an attraction in itself and an obvious stop for many who visit Östergötland. It serves enormous ice cream creations that attract both children and adults, and the location next to the Göta Canal makes the experience even better. During the summer there can be a queue, but for many it is almost part of the experience.

13. Go up Ramunderberget in Söderköping

Ramunderberget offers one of the finest views of Söderköping and is well worth the short walk up. From here you can see the city's rooftops, Göta Canal and the surrounding landscape from above. It is a perfect stop if you want to combine nature, exercise and views with a visit to the city centre.

14. Check out Stegeborg Castle Ruins

Stegeborg is one of Östergötland's most atmospheric historical environments. Here the castle ruins are beautifully situated at the entrance to Slätbaken, and the place has had great importance for both defense and trade throughout history. Today it is a fantastic excursion where you can combine history with a harbor environment, food, views and parking for a camper van.

15. See Mem – the gateway to the Göta Canal

Mem is the place where the Göta Canal meets the Baltic Sea, and this is where many people choose to start or end their journey along the classic canal. The small town is quiet, beautiful and historically interesting, and here is the very first lock seen from the sea. For those traveling by camper or car along the Göta Canal, this is a very nice stop.

16. Discover Motala – the capital of the Göta Canal

Motala is an important city in Östergötland. and a must-see stop for those who want to truly experience the Göta Canal. Here you will find harbor environments, locks, promenades, museums and several pleasant stops along the water. The city is particularly suitable for a day trip or as a base if you want to combine canal experiences with swimming, history and a small-town feel.

17. Swim at Varamon – the largest lake in the Nordic region

Varamon in Motala is often described as the largest lakeside resort in the Nordic countries, and it's easy to see why it's so popular. The long sandy beach by Lake Vättern is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and enjoying the summer vibe, and there's plenty of space here even on hot days. This is a great stop for families, campers and anyone who wants to combine sightseeing with beach life.

18. Be impressed by the Swedish Air Force Museum outside Linköping

The Air Force Museum is an exciting museum outside Linköping. Here you can experience Swedish aviation history through real aircraft, exciting exhibitions and interactive environments that suit both adults and children. The museum is also unusually easy to appreciate even if you are not particularly interested in aviation to begin with.

19. Discover visualization centers in Norrköping

Visualization Center in Norrköping is a modern and exciting science center that is perfect for both families with children and curious adults. It features interactive exhibitions, a dome cinema and experiences that combine technology, space and science in a fun way. It is an excellent complement to the Industrial Landscape and makes Norrköping even stronger as a tourist destination.

20. Go to Tåkern – a fantastic bird lake

Tåkern is one of Sweden's most famous bird lakes and a fantastic destination for those who like nature, bird life and peaceful environments. There are nice walking trails, viewpoints and Naturum Tåkern where you can learn more about the area's animals and nature. This is a perfect excursion for families with children, nature lovers and those who want to combine several attractions around Omberg and Vadstena.

21. Discover Vadstena – a truly charming small town

Vadstena is not only famous for its castle, but also for the monastery church and the city center itself. Here you will find cobblestone streets, medieval environments, small shops, cafes and a quiet atmosphere by Lake Vättern that makes many people happy to stay longer than planned. This is a perfect place for those who want to combine history, small-town charm and beautiful walks in one of Östergötland's finest environments.

22. Hemestra in Borensberg by the Göta Canal

Borensberg is a charming little town on the Göta Canal and a very nice stop on a trip through Östergötland. Here you can see the locks, walk along the canal, have a coffee, eat well or just enjoy the classic canal idyll. For those traveling by camper or car, this is a perfect stop between Linköping and Motala.

23. Be inspired by Löfstad Castle – outside Norrköping

Löfstad Castle is a really nice excursion destination just outside Norrköping. Here you can experience a well-preserved historic castle, walk in the beautiful park, visit the market garden and have a coffee or lunch in the peaceful environment. This is a stop that is perfect for those who like cultural environments, history and a little quieter experiences during the trip.

24. Visit Finspång Castle Park and Mill Environment

Finspång Castle is beautifully situated by the water and surrounded by a very nice castle park, orangery and historic mill environments. Although the castle is not always open for visits, the surrounding environment is definitely worth a trip. This is a good choice for those who like manor houses, history and a little quieter sights beyond the most classic tourist routes.

25. Discover Trollegater – a different nature experience

Trollegater is an exciting nature reserve outside Rimforsa that offers one of Östergötland's more unusual experiences. Here you can hike among prehistoric caves and fissures that give the place an almost fairytale feel. For those who want something a little more unexpected than the classic sights, this is a really good excursion destination.

26. Take the archipelago boat to Harstena

Harstena in the Gryts archipelago is one of the finest island experiences in Östergötland. Here you can enjoy a genuine archipelago environment, beautiful walks, history, small-scale experiences and a tranquility that many people really appreciate. This is a perfect choice for those who want to experience the Östergötland archipelago for real and take a full-day excursion by boat.

27. Stop at Fyrudden on the coast

Fyrudden is a really nice stop for those who want to experience the coastal feeling without necessarily taking the boat out into the archipelago. There is a marina, restaurant, view and a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for the summer. It is also a good starting point if you want to continue out towards the islands in the Gryts archipelago.

28. Visit Medevi Well – the oldest health well in the Nordic region

Medevi well is one of Östergötland's most classic summer attractions and is often described as the oldest health well in the Nordic region that is still in use. The area is charming, historic and perfect for a quiet excursion with a walk, coffee or overnight stay. It is especially suitable if you are already planning to visit Motala, northern Vättern or the Göta Canal.

29. Venture into Ekenäs Castle – the haunted castle outside Linköping

Ekenäs Castle is one of Östergötland's most famous castles and usually attracts both history buffs and families with children. The castle is known for its ghost stories, its guided tours and its popular events during the season. This is a really good attraction if you want to combine a castle environment with something a little more playful and different.

30. Check out the rock carvings at Himmelstalund

The rock carvings at Himmelstalund in Norrköping are one of Östergötland's most fascinating ancient remains and a really strong stop for those who like history. Here you can see hundreds of rock carvings from the Bronze Age, with motifs such as ships, people, animals and symbols carved into the rock.

This is an attraction that feels both unique and easily accessible, and it is perfect for combining with the Industrial Landscape and other experiences in Norrköping.

31. Discover the Arkösund archipelago

Arkösund is one of the best stops for those who want to experience the archipelago feeling in Östergötland without taking a long boat trip. Here you will find a marina, sea views, cliffs, swimming and a relaxed summer atmosphere that makes the place perfect for a day trip. Arkösund also works very well as a starting point if you want to continue out into the archipelago or just enjoy the sea, the restaurants and the beautiful coastal environment.

32. Experience St Anna archipelago – one of Sweden's most beautiful archipelagos

The St. Anna archipelago is one of Östergötland's greatest nature experiences and a perfect destination for those who like the sea, islands and beautiful views. Thousands of islands, islets and skerries await you here, which together form one of Sweden's most spectacular archipelago environments. You can discover the area with your own boat, kayak or archipelago boat, but there are also several fine viewpoints, swimming spots and nature experiences from the mainland.

33. Discover the Gryts archipelago from the mainland

Gryt and the area around the Gryt archipelago are one of the big reasons to travel to the Östergötland coast. Here you will find small roads, bays, boating, cliffs and several nice stops where you can get an archipelago feel even without going far out to the islands. This is a perfect area for those who want to combine coast, peace, nature and a classic summer in the Östergötland archipelago.

34. Discover Linköping – Östergötland's largest city

Linköping is Östergötland's largest city and a natural stop when exploring the landscape. Here you can visit the impressive cathedral, stroll through cozy neighborhoods, discover Old Linköping, shop in the city center and enjoy restaurants, cafes and a vibrant city life. Thanks to its proximity to attractions such as Bergs slussar, the Swedish Air Force Museum and Vreta Monastery, Linköping also serves as a perfect base for excursions throughout the region.

35. Discover Knäppingsborg – Norrköping's most charming neighborhood

Knäppingsborg is one of the nicest areas to stroll through when you visit Norrköping. Here, historic environments, cozy courtyards, small shops, restaurants and cafés meet in a neighborhood that feels both alive and personal. This is a perfect complement to the Industrial Landscape and is especially suitable for those who want to get a little city feel, lunch or coffee during the day.

36. Take a road trip along the Göta Canal through Östergötland

If you were to choose just one way to experience Östergötland a little more cohesively, this would be it. road trip along the Göta Canal one of the very best. Here you can combine Mem, Söderköping, Bergs slussar, Borensberg and Motala in a classic Swedish trip filled with locks, small towns, cafes and waterside stops. For those of you traveling by motorhome, this is almost an obvious favorite.

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

Best areas to live and explore in Östergötland

Which part of Östergötland should you choose as your base? It depends on what you want to experience, of course, but here are our best tips depending on the type of trip you are planning.

• Söderköping and the coast: Perfect for those who want to combine small town charm, Göta Canal, Stegeborg, Mem and the archipelago. A very nice base during the summer months.
• Linköping and surrounding area: Perfect for those who want to be close to Old Linköping, the Air Force Museum, Bergs slussar, Vreta Monastery, Ekenäs Castle and several classic attractions.
• Motala, Borensberg and Göta Canal: Good for those who want to focus on Göta Canal, Varamon, Medevi Brunn, Motala and northern Vättern.
• Vadstena and Omberg: One of the very best areas for those who want to combine history, nature, castles, monastery environments, Omberg, Alvastra and Tåkern.
• Norrköping and Kolmården: Perfect if you want city, culture, science center, zoo and proximity to Bråviken.

Our best tips for your trip to Östergötland

• Invest in at least 3 days: Östergötland is larger and more varied than many people think, and it's easy to underestimate how much there is to see.
• Combine city and nature: The great strength of Östergötland is precisely the mix of city life, history, coast, canal and nature.
• Feel free to travel during May to September: That's when most attractions are open, archipelago traffic works best and the Göta Canal is at its most vibrant.
• Don't plan too much per day: The distances are reasonable, but it's easy to want to squeeze too much in. Fewer stops often provide a better experience.
• Perfect for motorhomes: Östergötland is very suitable for motorhome trips, especially around the Göta Canal, the coast and several of the smaller towns.

FAQ – frequently asked questions about Östergötland

What is Östergötland most famous for?

Östergötland is best known for the Göta Canal, Kolmården, Vadstena, Omberg, Söderköping, Bergs locks and several strong historical attractions.

What are the biggest attractions in Östergötland?

Some of the biggest sights are Kolmården, the Industrial Landscape in Norrköping, Old Linköping, Bergs slussar, Vadstena Castle, Omberg, Alvastra monastery ruins and Rökstenen.

How many days do you need in Östergötland?

We think 3 days is a good start if you want to see the best. If you have 4–5 days, you can also take in the archipelago, more small towns and more nature experiences.

When is the best time to visit Östergötland?

The best time is usually from May to September, when nature is at its most beautiful and most attractions, cafes, boat trips and tourist attractions are open.

Is Östergötland suitable for motorhomes?

Yes, absolutely. Östergötland is very good for motorhomes, especially around the Göta Canal, Söderköping, Motala, the coast and several of the smaller towns.

More landscape guides nearby

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

• Things to do in Sodermanland
• Things to do in Småland
• Things to do in Västergötland
• Things to do in Gotland
• Holidays in Sweden