Uppsala is the fourth-largest city in Sweden and has a rich history perfect for those who are looking for an enriching experience. The city has a lot of historic sites that visitors could explore while learning more about the old Sweden. The best time to visit is from June to August when the place is warm and perfect for outdoor activities. Whether you are traveling alone or with a group, there’s always something to explore on a fine day. With all the castles and cathedrals, what is not to love right? Take your camera with you and capture this town’s mesmerizing beauty. Read more about the 10 best things to do in Uppsala, Sweden.
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1. Surround yourself with the town's panoramic view at Uppsala Castle (from USD 58.0)
Dubbed one of the world’s greatest castles, Uppsala Castle is not only nice to look at but it also played a big role in Sweden’s history. This castle was built during the Renaissance period. By joining the tour, you get to experience walking on the roof of this historic architecture as well as get treated to great views of the surrounding area. Since it’s completely guided, you will be equipped with high-quality helmets and safety gear. This activity is best done with a small group. Also, you can include participants as young as 12 years old.
Roofwalking on the worlds greatest pink castle!
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
2. Visit the magnificent Uppsala Cathedral
This French Gothic-inspired cathedral was built in 1272 and houses the Archbishop of Uppsala. The remains of Sweden’s patron saint, King Eric IX, were buried in this cathedral along with a few more notable people in the history of the country. This is also the traditional venue for the coronation of new kings of Sweden. Inside, there are chapels, amazing stained-glass windows, and artifacts. It’s open to visitors who would like to know more about the religious history of Sweden’s prime cathedral.
Uppsala Cathedral
Address: Domkyrkoplan, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden
Website: Uppsala Cathedral
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
3. Explore nature at Botanical Garden
If you decide to visit Uppsala Castle, you might as well pay Botanical Garden a visit. You just need to head west from Uppsala Castle to get there. This garden is open to visitors who would like to see a Baroque garden. A 200-year old orangery in the garden is filled with different kinds of plants. If you’re lucky, you might see exhibitions and event being held at Botanical Garden. It’s open all year round so whatever season of the year you happen to visit Uppsala, there’s always a highlight to look forward to in this principal botanical garden.
Botanical Garden
Address: Villavägen 6-8, 752 36 Uppsala, Sweden
Website: Botanical Garden
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
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4. Look at the restored wall paintings at Heliga Trefaldighets kyrka
Another religious place to visit that is very close to Uppsala Cathedral is Helga Trefaldighets kyrka. It is worth visiting due to its walls adorned with beautiful paintings by Albertus Pictor, a German-Swedish church painter. Although the paintings were covered with whitewashed in 18th century, these masterpieces have been restored. You may also want to take a look at the massive church organ inside the church.
Heliga Trefaldighets kyrka
Address: Nathan Söderbloms plan, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden
Website: Heliga Trefaldighets kyrka
Uppsala (County) Tour Guide
Stefan Maurbakken Den Gröna Guiden
Welcome to Stockholm, my city! Born and raised in Västerås, 94 km from Stockholm, my journey to the capital began at the age of five, and the love affair with this vibrant metropolis has only deepened since then. Following my schooling, I embarked on a career as a tour guide, leading me across Europe and Asia for 25 enriching years. At the age of 49, I found myself drawn to the allure of Stockh... Read more
Tours by Stefan
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Uppsala (County) Tour Guide
Fayez Tabbaa
As an authorised guide for Stockholm, I am enthusiastic about imparting my expertise and excitement for this stunning city to tourists from all over the globe. I provide customised tours that are suited to your interests and needs. I have a degree in biology from the University of Stockholm and a strong interest in the natural and cultural legacy of the city. I can assist you in Finnish and Dut... Read more
Tours by Fayez
5. Travel back in time at Church of Old Uppsala
Also called Gumla Uppsala, Old Uppsala has a church that barely survived the test of time during the 12th century. After the incident of fire in the 1240s, parts of the said stone church were demolished. Following the construction of Uppsala Cathedral, this old church was relegated from being a cathedral to a parish. Today, this church serves as a venue for religious activities such as baptism and pilgrimage.
Church of Old Uppsala
Address: Disavägen 8, 754 40 Uppsala, Sweden
Website: Church of Old Uppsala
Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)
6. Admire the art collection at Uppsala Art Museum
If you’re an art lover, don’t think twice about visiting Uppsala Art Museum. This museum has exhibits that feature different art masterpieces such as paintings and sculptures with themes for a specific period. Aside from the artistic display, the museum also has a bar and café where visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee, some light snacks, and even ice cream! While here, you will never get hungry while enjoying art.
Uppsala Art Museum
Address: Drottning Christinas väg 1E, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden
Website: Uppsala Art Museum
7. See different plants at The Tropical Greenhouse
Uppsala doesn’t limit its gardens to homegrown plants. In this greenhouse, you also get to see plants that are usually grown in tropical countries. While here, surround yourself with plants that were brought in from different environments like deserts, rainforests, and even savannahs. Whether you are interested in beautiful blooms or exotic plants, the Tropical Greenhouse has all this. They have large plants such as Victoria amazonica and something as small as Wolffia arrhiza.
The Tropical Greenhouse
Address: Villavägen 8, 752 36 Uppsala, Sweden
Website: The Tropical Greenhouse
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 11am - 3pm; Sat - Sun: 12pm - 3pm (closed on Mon)
8. Take a selfie at Gunilla Bell
Right across Uppsala Castle’s northern wing, you will see a tall structure called Gunilla Bell. Built to serve as a bastion in 1588, the bell was ordered by Gunilla Bielke, the second wife of King John III. Due to the bastion’s location, it has the best view of Uppsala Cathedral so you may use this opportunity to take a selfie with it in the background.
Gunilla Bell
Address: Slottet, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden
9. Roam around Linnaeus Garden
Linnaeus Garden was named after Carl Linnaeus, a Swedish botanist known as the “father of modern taxonomy.“ The garden was reconstructed based on Linnaeus’ plans with plants that were known to be grown by him. There is also a museum located at the botanist’s home. Inside the garden, you will find coffee shops and restaurants where you can dine after a nice stroll. There is also a souvenir shop where you can buy goodies to remind you of your visit.
Linnaeus Garden
Address: Svartbäcksgatan 27, 753 32 Uppsala, Sweden
Website: Linnaeus Garden
10. Check out multiple exhibits at Gustavianum - Uppsala University Museum
Part of Uppsala University Museum, Gustavarium is a museum that is composed of five exhibits. It has the Anatomical Theatre, the Augsburg Art Cabinet, the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Nile, Uppsala University History, and the Vendel Period. This museum is also the oldest standing building in the university compound.
Gustavianum - Uppsala University Museum
Address: Akademigatan 3, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden
11. Gather ancient knowlege at Carolina Rediviva Library
Contributed by Tour Guide, Stefan Maurbakken - den gröna guiden
Nestled in the heart of Uppsala, Sweden’s historic university city, lies a treasure trove of wisdom and wonder waiting to be explored—Carolina Rediviva Library. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by row upon row of shelves, each laden with volumes of knowledge waiting to be discovered. From ancient manuscripts and medieval codices to modern scholarly works, the library’s collection spans the breadth of human intellectual achievement. Highlights include the Codex Argenteus, a priceless 6th-century manuscript of the Gothic Bible, and the Silver Bible, one of Sweden’s most cherished national treasures. From literary enthusiasts to history buffs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this iconic institution.
Whether you’re a bibliophile eager to explore its literary treasures or simply a curious visitor looking to soak in its rich history and architectural beauty, Carolina Rediviva Library offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit. The library invites you to embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment unlike any other.
A trip down memory lane
It’s always a breath of fresh air to visit ancient places that have a lot of stories to tell. Uppsala has destinations for people who love art, nature, and history. Though usually cold, this country would surely give you a warm welcome. Visit Uppsala and see for yourself.
History
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