Östergötland – a coastal region with a rich cultural identity

Whether you're into historic architecture, biking adventures or wellbeing in the shape of a reinvigorating coastal holiday, Östergötland delivers. Sweden's second largest county has a compelling past as an industrial hub and is home to the country’s iconic Göta Canal – one of Sweden's most popular attractions.

Linköping, the capital of the region, is studded with notable museums and historic buildings, including a medieval cathedral and castle. Further north, you'll find the city of Norrköping, where industrial heritage and beautiful nature coexist. It's also home to Kolmården, the largest wildlife park in the Nordic region.

A beauty spot on the coastline of Sweden, the Östgöta archipelago is one of the county's many highlights, attracting bathers and adventure-seekers alike.

Unforgettable outdoor activities on water and land

A good way to discover Östergötland's stunning scenery is to set off along the Birgittaleden pilgrimage route (St. Birgitta's Trail). This 145-kilometre, 7-section trail begins in Söderköping, winding its way through meadows and forest all the way to Vadstena. Idyllically set on the shores of Lake Vättern, this is the very spot in which 14th century St. Birgitta of Sweden founded her convent and order, still there today.

Flowing into Lake Vättern, north of Vadstena, you'll find Sweden’s famous Göta Canal. This 190-kilometre national icon was inaugurated in 1832, connecting Stockholm and Gothenburg via lakes and elaborately constructed canals with a total of 58 locks. Take a cruise and learn about the canal's fascinating history and beautiful surroundings. Choose between short excursions around Östergötland or longer trips, lasting for nearly a week and taking you across Sweden.

Göta Canal is also an ideal biking destination. Rent a bike in Borensberg and cycle along the 20-kilometre path, which will take you to the locks of Berg. Göta Canal's old tow paths stretch on for a total of 87 kilometres, so you might be tempted to extend your two-wheel adventure. Along the way, you'll find plenty of picnic spots, eateries and accommodation.

Discover the Östgöta archipelago

Don't miss the opportunity to spend some time in the Östgöta archipelago and its many islands off the Baltic coast. These are divided into three archipelagos – Arkösund, St. Anna and Gryt. Collectively, they consist of some 8,888 islands, allowing for some proper island hopping.

As for the identity of each archipelago, the island cluster connected to the lively village of Arkösund is a popular summer destination, with public boats departing from the dock. Canoeists and hikers will find the many quiet islands of St. Anna highly appealing – pick your favourite and pitch a tent for the night (Sweden's right to roam policy allows anyone to do so).

Gryt is a natural wonderland, known for its beautiful rocks and cliffs – the ideal setting for picnics and bathing. Outdoor company Ostkustenkajak offers kayak tours suitable for couples and small groups. Some of these excursions include an overnight island stay in cabin, guest house or ‘tree tent’.

Östergötland's city life – a varied, cultural experience

The historic city of Linköping is known as the capital of the region and has much to offer culturally, not least in terms of its historic architecture. The medieval cathedral, whose main building was completed in 1520 in Romanesque style, is a must-see landmark – and hard to miss with its 107-metre spire. Another highlight is Linköping Castle, parts of which date back to the 12th century, making it the oldest secular building in Sweden. Today, it houses Linköpings Slotts- & Domkyrkomuseum (Linköpings’s Castle & Cathedral Museum).

As you navigate the charming streets of Linköping, you'll come across a number of other quality museums, like the Flygvapenmuseum (Swedish Airforce Museum). Voted a top museum by the Tripadvisor community, it boasts an impressive collection of 300 aircrafts from Sweden and beyond. The Swedish DC-3 model – shot down in the 1950s and salvaged fifty years later – is one of many star attractions.

The city of Norrköping also has its fair share of cultural establishments. Many are located within the city’s well-preserved industrial district – visit Arbetets museum (The Museum of Work), housed in a former cotton mill, and Norrköpings stadsmuseum (Norrköping City Museum), much celebrated for its innovative exhibitions. A tuneful destination, Norrköping has served as a UNESCO City of Music since 2017 and is home to the Louis De Geer Concert and Congress Hall.

Natural eats – enjoy the pantry of Östergötland

Sustainable in its approach, the culinary profile of Östergötland centres on local ingredients foraged in nature or sourced from nearby farms and food artisans. You'll find a cluster of these along Kinda Canal, selling everything from locally farm-reared meat to freshly harvested vegetables and homemade ice cream. At Fresons Bageri & Trädgård (Fresons Bakery and Garden) you can have a coffee while you pick up some fresh bread.

In Linköping, restaurant Stångs Magasin will give you a rounded flavour of Östergötland's foodie scene. With fresh, organic produce on the menu, it focuses on European and Swedish fare.

Restaurang Jord in Linköping also makes the most of mother nature's gifts, with delicious tasting menus that are prepared using seasonal ingredients.