Örebro was founded in the late 1200s: the city's castle and St Nicolai church both date from that time. Today, the lively and charming city is the seventh largest in Sweden. The river Svartån (the Black River) that bisects the city has historically provided the town with its role as a travel and trading hub, and has been the subject of intense renovation and regeneration in recent years.

Örebro is an active cultural centre, with a wealth of exhibitions, theatre and music. Bicycle rental is cheap and easy, and it is a popular way of getting around.