Things To Do
in Uppsala
Uppsala, Sweden is a historic university city just north of Stockholm, renowned for its grand cathedral and academic heritage. It blends medieval charm with a vibrant student culture, anchored by Uppsala University and a wealth of museums and gardens. The city is compact and bike-friendly, making it easy to reach sights along the scenic Fyris River.
Visitors can enjoy fika, riverside walks, and day trips to nearby Gamla Uppsala and nature reserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by strolling through the cobblestone streets of Uppsala's historic center, taking in the stunning architecture of the Cathedral and the Gustavianum museum. Enjoy a traditional Swedish breakfast at a cozy café, where you can sample local pastries and coffee. After breakfast, visit the Uppsala University Botanical Garden and marvel at the diverse plant species amidst beautiful landscapes.
In the afternoon, head to the Uppsala Castle, where you can explore the museum and enjoy panoramic views of the city from its towers. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Fyris River, stopping at quaint shops and boutiques along the way. Don't forget to taste some local street food for lunch at one of the riverside vendors.
As the sun sets, find a lovely restaurant offering traditional Swedish cuisine for dinner, where you can savor dishes like meatballs or herring. Post-dinner, take a relaxing stroll around the city center to experience Uppsala's vibrant nightlife, perhaps stopping at a local bar for a drink. Finally, end your day with a visit to the Uppsala Concert and Congress Hall if there’s a performance scheduled.
Begin your day with a bike ride or walk to Gamla Uppsala, the ancient site of Swedish kings, where you can explore the burial mounds and learn about Viking history. Visit the nearby Gamla Uppsala Museum to delve deeper into the rich heritage of this historic area. Enjoy a picnic breakfast amidst the serene surroundings, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the historical sites, including the impressive Uppsala Cathedral, which is the largest in Scandinavia. Explore the quaint village of Gamla Uppsala with its charming houses and gardens, stopping to chat with locals and learn more about their way of life. Grab a light lunch at a local café before heading back to Uppsala.
As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a local tavern that specializes in traditional Swedish dishes. After dinner, consider attending a local event or concert for a taste of Uppsala's cultural scene. Wind down with a leisurely walk back to the city center, perhaps stopping for dessert at a charming ice cream parlor.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/latte | $3-5 |
| 🎟️Museum entry | $10-15 |
| 🚌Public transit fare (1-ride) | $3-4 |
| 🍺Beer in bar | $6-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city with a rich university culture
- Historic sites and easy access to nature
- Smaller nightlife scene than Stockholm
- Prices can be higher in peak tourist seasons
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Ursäkta" - Excuse me
- "Var ligger toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kan jag få menyn, tack?" - Can I have the menu, please?
Places to Visit in Uppsala
Visit one of these nice places.
A Gothic landmark with a striking façade; best photographed from the surrounding gardens or from nearby elevated viewpoints.
Historic stone building with a grand interior staircase and vaulted halls, ideal for architectural shots.
Ancient royal burial mounds and expansive plains offering dramatic horizons at sunrise or sunset.
Serene river scenes with charming bridges and reflections, especially during golden hour.
Food in Uppsala
Uppsala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small beef and pork meatballs served with potatoes, lingonberries, and creamy sauce; widely available in traditional and modern restaurants.
Must-Try!
Cured salmon often served on crisp bread with dill and mustard sauce.
Potato pancakes typically topped with fried pork and lingonberries.
A classic fika pastry found in cafes across Uppsala.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market hall on Stora torget offering fresh fish, produce, cheeses, and Swedish snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Take time for coffee and cake as a social ritual; it’s a common daily habit.
Swedes value courtesy, punctuality, and orderly queues; a handshake is common when meeting.
Safety
Tipping in Uppsala
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; many bills include a service charge, especially in larger restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days return; gardens begin to bloom and outdoor cafes reopen; pack a light jacket for chilly mornings.
Long daylight hours, comfortable temperatures, outdoor markets, and bike-friendly exploration along the river.
Cooler weather with colorful fall foliage; great for city walks and harvest-inspired meals.
Cold, with the possibility of snow; festive lights and indoor cultural events dominate, daylight is limited.
Uppsala at Night
Hiking in Uppsala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and wetland trails northwest of Uppsala, popular for day hikes and birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Uppsala by plane.
Major international gateway; about 40-45 minutes by train from Uppsala with direct services.
Smaller airport closer to central Stockholm; limited international flights; transfers by rail or taxi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large and active student population due to Uppsala University.
Local families and international residents; many neighborhoods are family-friendly.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
IK Sirius Fotboll is the local club and hosts matches in or near Uppsala.
Ice skating and winter sports are popular in the colder months in local arenas and outdoor rinks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Uppsala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for veggie plates, plant-based substitutes, and ask for mushroom or lentil dishes as alternatives to meat-based meals.