Östhammar Travel Guide

Discover Östhammar with our extensive travel guide including the top places to visit, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Östhammar

Located in Uppsala County, in Svealand, Sweden, Östhammar is a picturesque town known for its rich Viking heritage, stunning landscapes, and thriving seafood industry. The town is situated on the east coast of Sweden, facing the vast Gulf of Bothnia. Östhammar is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a glimpse into Sweden’s fascinating history while enjoying its natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Östhammar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Öregrundsgillet

Öregrundsgillet is a museum located in Öregrund, a charming fishing village just a few kilometers from Östhammar. The museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region from the 17th century to the present. Visitors can explore the museum’s fascinating exhibits, including photographs, paintings, and artifacts, reflecting the daily life of the region’s people.

Östhammar Castle

Östhammar Castle is one of the most significant landmarks in the region, situated in the town center of Östhammar. The castle dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can explore the castle’s extensive grounds, marvel at its beautiful architecture, and learn about the castle’s fascinating history at the on-site museum.

Natural Attractions of Östhammar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Skärgårdsparken

Skärgårdsparken, a national park located on the outskirts of Östhammar, is a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the stunning views of the Gulf of Bothnia. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare bird and animal species, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Gräsö

Gräsö, an island located a short ferry ride from Östhammar, is another must-visit destination in the region. The island is known for its beautiful forests, pristine beaches, and hiking trails. Visitors can rent a bike and explore the island’s many attractions, including the Rududden Nature Reserve and the Gräsö Church.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Östhammar

Bergshamra Trail

The Bergshamra Trail is a popular hiking trail, stretching over 15 kilometers, connecting the town of Östhammar with Bergshamra village. The trail is well-marked, passing several beautiful landmarks, including the Bergshamra Church and the Bergshamra Nature Reserve.

Gräsö Island Trail

The Gräsö Island Trail is a 25-kilometer trail that takes visitors through the heart of Gräsö Island’s rugged landscapes, dense forests, and rolling hills. The trail passes several exciting landmarks, including the Gräso Nature Reserve, the Kloxholmen Beach, and the Rududden Nature Reserve.

Best Things to Do in Östhammar: Activities and Tours

Seafood Falun

Seafood Falun is the perfect place for seafood lovers to indulge in the region’s fresh and delicious seafood. Visitors can sample the local delicacies, including smoked salmon, pickled herring, and scrumptious shrimp, while learning about the unique cooking techniques and traditions of the region.

Guided Viking Tours

Explore the fascinating Viking heritage of the region with a guided Viking tour. Visitors can learn about the region’s Viking past, visit Viking grave sites, and explore the reconstructed Viking village of Fjärdhundra.

Week-Long Itinerary for Östhammar

For visitors looking to explore the best of Östhammar, we recommend the following week-long itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the town of Östhammar, including the Östhammar Castle and Museum.

Day 2: Take a ferry to Gräsö Island and explore its beautiful landscapes.

Day 3: Hike or bike the Bergshamra Trail and enjoy the stunning views of the region.

Day 4: Visit the pristine Skärgårdsparken National Park.

Day 5: Indulge in a seafood feast at Seafood Falun.

Day 6: Take a guided Viking tour and learn about the region’s Viking heritage.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the town’s charming cafes and shopping opportunities.

Food and Drink Scene of Östhammar

Must-Try Dishes

When in Östhammar, don’t miss tasting these traditional dishes:

Smoked Salmon: The region’s smoked salmon is renowned for its exceptional taste and quality.

Pickled Herring: A Swedish specialty, pickled herring is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Boiled Crayfish: Boiled crayfish is a must-try delicacy in the region, especially during the summer months.

Local Beverages

The region is known for its locally-brewed beers and refreshing ciders. Visitors can try the unique flavors of the region’s craft beers and ciders at several local bars and pubs.

Where to Stay in Östhammar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Accommodation options in Östhammar range from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and cozy guesthouses. Some of the most popular places to stay in the region include:

Hotell Havsbaden: A luxurious hotel located on the waterfront, offering stunning views and world-class amenities.

Uppsala Vandrarhem: A budget-friendly hostel in Uppsala, just a short drive from Östhammar.

Gästhuset Osbyhof: A cozy guesthouse in the heart of Östhammar, offering warm hospitality and charming surroundings.

What to Buy in Östhammar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Östhammar, visitors can bring home a piece of the region’s Viking heritage with authentic Viking souvenirs and handicrafts. Visitors can also pick up the region’s locally-produced honey, craft beers, and ciders, and fish products to take back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Östhammar

The people of Östhammar are friendly and hospitable, with a deep respect for nature and tradition. Visitors are expected to embrace the region’s cultural heritage, enjoy its natural beauty, and respect local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Östhammar

Östhammar is a year-round destination, with something to offer visitors throughout the year. The region boasts a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Östhammar is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild, and the region is bustling with activity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Östhammar

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Enjoy the region’s natural beauty
  • Visit the region’s historical landmarks and museums

Don’t:

  • Disturb the region’s wildlife or ecological surroundings
  • Litter the town or the region’s natural areas
  • Disrespect local culture or customs

Safety and Health

Safety in Östhammar

Östhammar is considered a safe destination for travelers. Visitors are advised to exercise caution while exploring the region’s forests and natural reserves, follow safety guidelines, and avoid visiting secluded areas at night.

Health in Östhammar

Health facilities in the region are of excellent quality, and visitors can access medical facilities and pharmacies in the towns and villages. Visitors are advised to carry adequate travel insurance and take necessary precautions, including vaccinations before visiting the region.

Getting to Östhammar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Östhammar

The closest major airport to Östhammar is Stockholm Arlanda Airport, located about 70 km south of the town. The airport connects the region to several national and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Östhammar

Bus services connect Östhammar to several major towns and cities in the region, including Uppsala, Stockholm, and Gavle. Visitors can take the bus to Östhammar from several major bus stations in these regions.

Other Options

Visitors can also access the region via train services, such as the Stockholm-Uppsala network. Taxis and rental cars are also available for hire from major towns and cities in the region, providing visitors with a convenient way of exploring the region.

How to Get Around in Östhammar

Visitors can explore the town of Östhammar on foot, taking in its charming streets and historical landmarks. Visitors can also rent a bike or car to explore the region’s natural beauty and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Östhammar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The region surrounding Östhammar is home to several exciting destinations and attractions, including:

  • Uppsala, a university town and the fourth-largest city in Sweden, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural heritage.
  • Gävle, famous for its Christmas festivities and traditional Swedish culture.
  • Stockholm, the Swedish capital, known for its stunning archipelago, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture.

Conclusion

With its fascinating Viking heritage, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Östhammar is an unforgettable destination for travelers. Whether hiking through its national park, indulging in fresh seafood, or exploring the region’s Viking past, visitors will find an unforgettable experience in Östhammar.

Central Östhammar Central Östhammar Aerial photograph of Östhammar Aerial photograph of Östhammar Car ferries connect Öregrund to the island of Gräsö Car ferries connect Öregrund to the island of Gräsö The locality of Dannemora, like many others in Roslagen, is a historic mining community The locality of Dannemora, like many others in Roslagen, is a historic mining community Forsmark Nuclear Power Plant is located within the municipality, and can be seen from the shores of Öregrund Forsmark Nuclear Power Plant is located within the municipality, and can be seen from the shores of Öregrund Harbour of Öregrund Harbour of Öregrund Historic residential housing in the locality of Gimo Historic residential housing in the locality of Gimo