Östergötland County Travel Guide

Sweden
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On your historical holiday in Ostergotland you will see everything from castles and churches to convents and museums.

The county of Ostergotland covers just under 10000 square kilometres. The nature is varied, with large open landscapes, a stunning archipelago and seemingly endless forests. A wonderful way to discover the nature in Ostergotland is through a hike along Ostgotaleden, but there are of course also many interesting towns and villages in the county.

The largest town in the county is the university town of Linkoping. Learn more about Linkoping's history by visiting its medieval Cathedral which is the second largest church in Sweden. Right next to the cathedral you find Linkoping Castle which houses the Castle and Cathedral Museum. During the darkest months of the year the town organises a glimmeringly beautiful art walk called Vinterljus. Take a tour amongst glowing installations in public space.

During your holiday in Ostergotland you might also choose to visit the second largest town, Norrkoping. This old industrial town offers attractions like Arbetets Museum (the museum of work) which is located in the architecturally noted building Strykjarnet, the Iron in Swedish. Visit the Cactus Garden in Karl Johans Park, which has been a recurring feature of the park ever since 1926. Some 30kilometres from Norrkoping you find the zoo Kolmarden which is not only the largest zoo in Scandinavia, but also offers an array of attractions like a spa, rollercoasters and an adventure hotel.

Motala is famous as the starting point of the river Motala Strom, and Gota Kanal also flows through here. Take a guided walk around town to learn more about its modern and prehistoric history, or visit the educational Motala Industrial Museum which houses everything from vehicles and everyday objects to weapons. Charlottenbergs Castle from the 17th century houses Motala Museum which has objects like art, dolls houses and birds in its fascinating collection.

Another famous and historic spot in Ostergotland is Vadstena. Take a tour of Vadstena Castle which was commissioned by famous Swedish king Gustav Vasa during the 16th century or follow in the footsteps of Saint Bridget of Sweden, who was the founder of the famous Vadstena Convent.

Ostergotland is located south of Stockholm and east of Gothenburg, and you can choose to fly to either of the two cities. There are two small, domestic airports in Linkoping and Norrkoping, and you can also get here by train or bus from Sweden's larger cities.

Popular cities in Östergötland County

Linkoping
Linkoping
Known for Universities, Historical and Castle
Find modern shopping next to ancient ruins, take the children to see sweets being made and watch boats navigate through a fascinating flight of locks.

Reasons to visit

  • Swedish Air Force Museum
Norrköping
Norrköping
Known for Museums, Natural parks and Theatres
Norrkoping's heritage as an industrial city can still be seen in the well preserved old factories, given a new lease of life by modern businesses.

Reasons to visit

  • Norrkoping Art Museum
Vadstena
Vadstena
Known for Lakes, Temples and Castle
Book a holiday in Vadstena to see unique buildings and relax in a town and country atmosphere.

Reasons to visit

  • Vadstena Castle
Kolmården
Kolmården
Known for Skiing and Historical
Escape to Kolmården! Enjoy its skiing and history.

Reasons to visit

  • Kolmarden Zoo
Motala
Motala
Known for Sandy beaches, Adventure and Ports
The historical town of Motala is situated right on Gota Kanal, the most famous waterway of western Sweden.
Mantorp
Mantorp
Head to sights like Mantorp Park and Mantorptravet as you discover Mantorp.