Five Days in Uppsala: A Swedish Adventure

Discover the heart of Sweden in Uppsala.

22 April 2023

Uppsala, Sweden, is a charming university town north of Stockholm, known for its stunning cathedral and historic university. Visitors can explore picturesque streets lined with colorful buildings, museums, and lovely parks. From touring the baroque palace of Uppsala Castle to experiencing the city's vibrant food scene, Uppsala offers a delightful trip for tourists seeking a unique taste of Swedish culture.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Old Town Delight

  • Check into the centrally located Hotel Villa Anna, a charming 19th-century mansion turned hotel.
  • Explore the picturesque Old Town district with its cobblestone lanes and colorful buildings.
  • Visit the imposing Uppsala Cathedral and learn about its history and legends.
  • Wander through the lush Linnaeus Garden, once the playground of famous botanist Carl Linnaeus.
  • Stop by Café Linneaus for a fika (Swedish coffee break) and a slice of kladdkaka (sticky chocolate cake).
Day 2

Academic Pursuits

  • Delve into the world of academia at Uppsala University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe.
  • Take a guided tour of the enchanting Gustavianum Museum, showcasing the university's history and treasures.
  • Visit the impressive Carolina Rediviva Library and marvel at its rare manuscripts and books.
  • Wander along the scenic Fyris River and watch the swans swim by.
  • Grab a bite to eat at funky student hangout Kalmar Nation and mingle with the locals.
Day 3

Royal Wonders

  • Step into the opulent world of Swedish royalty at the regal Uppsala Castle.
  • Admire the palace's grand halls and collections of art and historical artifacts.
  • Take a leisurely stroll in the idyllic Botanic Garden, with its world-class plant collections.
  • Head to Gamla Uppsala, the site of ancient burial mounds and the legendary home of Swedish kings.
  • Enjoy a traditional Swedish meal at the cozy Fyris Mat och kultur restaurant, featuring local produce and flavors.
Day 4

Shop Till You Drop

  • Shop like a local at the lively Fyristorg Market, featuring fresh produce, crafts, and snacks.
  • Browse the trendy boutiques and vintage shops of Svartbäcksgatan street.
  • Check out the innovative exhibitions and events at the Uppsala Art Museum.
  • Take a refreshing break at the tranquil Botaniska café, serving organic and vegetarian delights.
  • Catch a movie or a live show at the arty Slottsbiografen cinema.
Day 5

Nature Escape

  • Escape to the serene countryside surrounding Uppsala and go hiking, horseback riding, or kayaking.
  • Visit the charming village of Sigtuna, the oldest continuously inhabited town in Sweden.
  • Explore the historic ruins and castle of Skokloster, overlooking scenic Lake Mälaren.
  • Indulge in a sauna and spa session at the luxurious Skansen Hotell.
  • Finish the trip with a festive dinner at the elegant Bank Hotel restaurant, featuring Scandinavian cuisine and local wines.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Uppsala by plane is to fly into Arlanda Airport, which is about 30 minutes away by train. There are many airlines that fly into Arlanda, including SAS, Norwegian, and Ryanair.

Car

You can reach Uppsala by car via the E4 motorway. The journey from Stockholm takes about 1 hour, depending on traffic. There is plenty of parking in Uppsala, including several paid parking lots.

Train

You can take a train to Uppsala from Stockholm Central Station. Trains run frequently and the journey takes about 40 minutes. There are also trains that go directly to Uppsala from Arlanda Airport.

Boat

There are no direct boat services to Uppsala, but you can take a boat from Stockholm to Uppsala via the picturesque waterways. The journey takes about 2.5 hours and tickets can be purchased online.

Bus

The best way to get to Uppsala by bus is to take the Flixbus from Stockholm. The journey takes about 1 hour and buses run frequently throughout the day.

More travel plans

A Romantic Long Weekend in Uppsala, Sweden

Uppsala, Sweden is a picturesque university town located just 40 minutes outside of Stockholm, offering a charming and romantic atmosphere for couples. Visitors can stroll through the botanical gardens or climb the 13th century Uppsala Cathedral for breathtaking views of the city. With cozy cafes, candlelit restaurants, and historic architecture, Uppsala is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway.

2 Days in Uppsala: History, Art, and Nature

Experience the charming old town of Uppsala and marvel at its impressive cathedral dating back to the 13th century. Enjoy a boat ride along the Fyris River and explore the botanical gardens at Uppsala University. Immerse yourself in the city's fascinating Viking history and learn about the scientific achievements made by its famous scholars.

Uppsala Unleashed: A Whimsical 2-Day Family Adventure

Uppsala, Sweden is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Uppsala offers a wide range of attractions suitable for all ages. From exploring the picturesque Uppsala Cathedral and the fascinating Gustavianum museum to enjoying the beautiful botanical gardens and scenic parks, this charming city has something to offer for every member of your family.

Uppsala in 4 Days: Fun, Budget-Friendly Guide

A trip to Uppsala, Sweden on a limited budget is still possible and worth it. Start by exploring the city on foot and visit the stunning Uppsala Cathedral. Take advantage of the free admission to the city's museums, such as the Gustavianum and the Museum of Nordic Antiquities.