Things To Do
in Uppsala
Uppsala is a historic university city just north of Stockholm, renowned for its exquisite cathedral and vibrant academic atmosphere. It blends medieval architecture with a lively student culture, creating a compact, walkable city center full of cafés and museums. The Fyris River threads through green spaces, botanical gardens, and elegant streets, offering scenic views at every turn.
With easy access to Stockholm and abundant nature nearby, Uppsala is a gateway to culture and outdoor exploration alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a gentle walk through central Uppsala toward the cathedral, letting the morning light guide your steps. Find a quiet café nearby for a second coffee while you map out the day’s architecture and history routes.
Step inside Uppsala Cathedral to admire the medieval stonework and soaring spires. Then visit the Gustavianum, the university museum, where ancient artifacts and the Anatomical Theatre spark curiosity.
Dine at a cozy restaurant along the river and sample seasonal Swedish fare. Take a moonlit stroll along the Fyris River to end the day with calm reflections.
Wake with a wander through the Botanical Garden, tracing winding paths between ponds and greenhouses. Let the scents and colors inspire a slower pace before the day’s deeper explorations.
Visit Carolina Rediviva, the university library, to glimpse historic manuscripts and hushed study rooms. Walk through Universitetsparken and the surrounding campus to feel the scholarly atmosphere.
For dinner, try a modern Nordic bistro that highlights local ingredients. Attend a casual evening concert or a bookshop talk if one aligns with your interests.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🚆Transit day pass | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with rich academic heritage
- Stunning cathedral and historic sites
- Vibrant student culture and cultural events
- Clean, safe, and easy to navigate
- Can feel crowded around main sights during peak season
- Prices higher in central areas than rural Sweden
- Nightlife isn’t as dense as in larger cities
- Weather can be chilly and changeable year-round
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Ursäkta, var är toaletten?" - Excuse me, where is the bathroom?
- "Kan jag få notan, tack?" - Can I have the bill, please?
- "Hur mycket kostar detta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Jag pratar lite svenska" - I speak a little Swedish
- "Talar du engelska?" - Do you speak English?
- "Till vänster och till höger" - To the left and to the right
- "Var ligger tågstationen?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Uppsala
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand Gothic cathedral with a commanding spire and detailed façade; sunrise or golden hour provides dramatic light.
Ancient burial mounds and a historic landscape offering a sense of Viking-era heritage and sweeping views.
Classical landmark with a tower that yields panoramic views of the city on clear days.
Lush grounds with diverse plant collections, seasonal color, and glasshouses for varied photography.
Scenic riverside walks and bridges ideal for sunset and reflective water photography.
Food in Uppsala
Uppsala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic Swedish meatballs served with lingonberries, potatoes, and cream sauce—widely available in local restaurants.
Must-Try!
Cured salmon with dill and mustard sauce, commonly offered on rye bread or with boiled potatoes.
Potato pancakes often paired with fried pork and lingonberries for a hearty, traditional bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market hall offering fresh seafood, meat, cheeses, and ready-to-eat bites; a great spot to sample local produce.
Seasonal stalls with berries, pastries, and local snacks during the warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Take time to enjoy coffee and pastries with others; a friendly, relaxed social ritual.
Be on time for appointments and meetings; keep conversations considerate in public spaces.
Quiet behavior in public areas and a respectful, polite demeanor in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Uppsala
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not obligatory; service charges are often included in larger restaurants. Rounding up at cafés or bars is common.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash use is decreasing.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, outdoor festivals, and vibrant street life; perfect for riverside strolls and patios.
Golden foliage and harvest events; great for moody landscapes and cozy cafés.
Snowy scenes and Christmas markets; dress warmly and rely on city lights for photos.
Blooming gardens and university events; comfortable weather for outdoor exploring.
Uppsala at Night
Hiking in Uppsala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and wetlands with well-marked trails suitable for easy to moderate hikes.
Riverside tracks offering scenic walks and views of the city from different angles.
Airports
How to reach Uppsala by plane.
Major international gateway; about 30-60 minutes by fast train to Uppsala.
City-area airport with domestic and some European flights; shorter transfer to Uppsala.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of residents are affiliated with Uppsala University, contributing to a lively, youthful city vibe.
Residents who live in central and suburban neighborhoods, with parks and markets appealing to families.
A growing community of international students and expats shaping a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at local clubs and university facilities; matches can be watched in regional stadiums.
Seasonal games and indoor rinks; a favorite winter pastime.
Accessible on local trails when snow conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Uppsala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian options; many use seasonal vegetables and plant-based proteins. If needed, request substitutions or lactose-free options when applicable.