Campus cities and our region

Linköping University's three main campuses are located in the region of Östergötland (East Sweden) in the cities of Linköping and Norrköping. The two cities are in the process of developing into one integrated urban region – Sweden’s fourth metropolitan area or the Twin Cities region.

Linköping and Norrköping are situated 200/160 km south-west of Stockholm in Östergötland, which has been trademarked in English as East Sweden by regional government. Our foundation campus is Campus Valla, which is located in Linköping, about three kilometres from the city centre. This is where the majority of students and researchers study and work.

The University Hospital Campus is also located in Linköping, at a hospital of national importance Linköping University Hospital. The University Hospital Campus houses the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Campus Norrköping is located in the centre of Norrköping and nearly a quarter of all LiU students study there. There is also a small campus in Stockholm, but no international programmes or courses are currently taught there.

LiU runs a free bus service for our students between Linköping and Norrköping. Read more about the ccampus bus here.

Picture of poppy. — Photographer: Teiksma Buseva

Why Östergötland?

Rich history

Östergötland is historically significant, with a heritage that dates back to the Viking Age. The region was once the political and religious center of Sweden.

Unique nature

The region is characterised by its diverse landscapes, from rolling plains and forests to the archipelago at the coast. Some of Sweden's most popular nature areas are located here.

Innovative

Östergötland is an important growth engine in Sweden and a region with advanced research and new innovations. Several international companies have their offices here.

Östergötland (East Sweden)

The fourth largest county in Sweden

Our region has about 450,000 inhabitants. The region offers not only famous tourist attractions, such as Kolmården Zoo (the largest zoo and safari park in the Nordic region), Göta canal and Astrid Lindgren’s World, but is also one of Sweden’s most interesting counties from a historical point of view.

There are numerous ancient fortresses, rune stones and prehistoric rock carvings in the area. Churches, castles and manors from the Middle Ages and later periods have also been well preserved. Not to mention the stunning landscape of pristine lakes and rivers, forests, and bright yellow and purple fields.

Read more about our county:

Visit Östergötland

East Sweden

One university, two cities

A view of a church through the trees. — Linköping Cathedral

Linköping

Linköping, is one of Sweden’s oldest cities with a long cultural tradition. Over the past 50 years, Linköping has grown to become Sweden’s fifth-largest municipality, with 160,000 inhabitants. It is home to industries specialising in many different sectors, ranging from aircraft manufacturing to emerging technologies. Several international companies such as Saab, Ericsson, IFS, Autoliv, Sectra and Cloetta have offices in Linköping.

Despite its rapid growth, Linköping still has the charm of a small town. The city centre is easy to reach from Campus Valla, about a ten-minute bike ride, and the University Hospital Campus is located centrally. The inner city offers plenty of entertainment opportunities: theatre plays, museums, concerts and student skits locally called “spex”. Cafés, bars, restaurants and nightclubs located downtown will cater to all tastes.
Linköping is also ideally located and will make it easy for you to travel around Sweden.

Read more about what Linköping has to offer:
Visit Linköping, www.visitlinkoping.se/en/

A river running through a city next to tall buildings. — Norrköping Industrial landscape

Norrköping

Norrköping, home to about 141,000 people, has a history as an industrial centre dating back to the 17th century. The old industrial area on the waterfront of Motala River in the heart of Norrköping was once famous for its cotton and paper mills. Today it has been carefully restored into a unique area that hosts, among other things, Campus Norrköping and the student union building Trappan, where students usually study, eat and socialise. The campus and student housing are in the middle of Norrköping, at comfortable walking distance from shops, restaurants, clubs and bars, as well as the renowned Östgötateatern Sweden’s largest regional theatre.

The city is known internationally for its diverse music scene and has been recognised as one of UNESCO’s creative cities. The city hosts several free outdoor concerts and festivals every summer. Norrköping is also the only city besides Gothenburg to host a public tram network, which has been in use since 1904 and is a great way to get around.

Read more about what Norrköping has to offer:
Experience Norrköping, www.visit.norrkoping.se

Experience Östergötland

Both cities, Linköping and Norrköping, have a rich life for the outdoorsy type and the best thing is that you do not need a car to go hiking! Rather, the bus or a student’s favourite vehicle of transportation, the bike, is recommended.

Hiking in Linköping

The trails in Linköping that just need a bike to reach, are diverse in scenery and have everything from a beautiful walk around Stångån, to walking a trail in Tinnerö Eklandskap. The trails reachable by bus, offers a variety of experiences with opportunities for fika, visiting castles and wonderful landscapes.

Hiking in Norrköping

The trails in Norrköping consists of the beautiful landscape that exists in Östergötland. Rent a bike and go on a tour around the countryside, see old Swedish petroglyphs, visit beautiful castles, like Löfstad Slott or have a coffee and some fika. You can also take a walk around beautiful Motala ström.

Popular student day trips

It is very easy to explore beyond campus when you study att LiU. Many students use weekends to discover new places.

Day trips from Linköping

Berg's Locks and the Göta Canal

Just outside Linköping, Berg's Locks is one of the most popular destinations in the region. Here, you can watch boats travel through the impressive lock system of the Göta Canal, often referred to as Sweden's Blue Ribbon. During spring and summer, students visit the area to enjoy lakeside walks, cycling routes, cafés and picnic spots. The combination of water, nature and traditional Swedish scenery makes it a perfect day trip.

Vadstena

Situated on the shores of Lake Vättern, Vadstena is one of Sweden's best-preserved historic towns. The town is known for its medieval streets, charming cafés and the impressive Vadstena Castle. Walking through the town feels like stepping back in time and offers a glimpse into Sweden's rich history. During the summer, the waterfront and harbour become popular gathering places for visitors and locals alike.

Omberg Nature Reserve

For students who enjoy outdoor adventures, Omberg is one of the region's most spectacular nature destinations. The reserve offers hiking trails through forests, scenic viewpoints overlooking Lake Vättern and opportunities to experience Swedish wildlife and nature up close. Whether you are an experienced hiker or simply looking for a peaceful walk, Omberg provides an unforgettable escape from city life.

Day trips From Norrköping

Söderköping

This picturesque town is famous for its colourful wooden houses, cosy atmosphere and location along the Göta Canal. It is also home to one of Sweden's most well-known ice cream cafés, making it a favourite summer destination among students. Strolling through the town centre, sitting by the canal and watching boats pass by creates the perfect relaxed Swedish summer experience.

Kolmården Wildlife Park

Located between Linköping and Norrköping, Kolmården is the largest wildlife park in the Nordic region. Visitors can see animals from across the world, enjoy beautiful views over the Baltic coastline and experience attractions inspired by the surrounding nature. It is a popular destination for students who want to spend a full day exploring one of Sweden's most famous attractions.

Arkösund and the East Sweden Archipelag

When the weather gets warmer, many students head towards the coast to experience the East Sweden archipelago. The coastal village of Arkösund offers swimming spots, rocky shorelines, boat trips and stunning views of the Baltic Sea. It is an excellent place to enjoy a sunny day, relax with friends or discover a different side of Sweden.

Löfstad Castle

Löfstad Castle is one of the region's best-preserved manor houses and offers a fascinating insight into Swedish history. Surrounded by beautiful parkland and forests, it is a great destination for a peaceful day trip. Visitors can explore the historic interiors, enjoy traditional Swedish fika and walk through the surrounding countryside.

A couple of people that are walking down a path.

Our campuses

Campus Valla

Valla is the oldest and largest campus of Linköping University with students from many programmes and research in many fields. Campus Valla is located about three kilometres from Linköping city centre.

Campus Norrköping

Campus Norrköping is centrally located next to the town’s old industrial precinct, alongside the Motala River. Old buildings have been filled with new contents, and the waterway adds an atmosphere to the area.

University Hospital Campus

At Campus US, education and research are conducted in medicine, health care, public health and biomedical engineering. The campus is within walking distance of central Linköping, close to the University Hospital and Trädgårdsföreningen park.

Maps

Maps and guides help you to find your way when visiting us or looking for specific buildings or locations on campus.

Student sitting on a couch watching in to the camera

Essential information

On this page you'll find all the important information about studying at Linköping University. Everything from what it is like to live in Sweden, to study information, FAQ and services.

Student life

There is a lot more to do as a student than attending lectures and studying. Here you can find out about your life as a student including leisure and sports, our campus cities and student associations at LiU.