Uppsala Uncovered: A 5-Day Budget Adventure

Uncovering the charm of Uppsala without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Experience the old-world charm of Uppsala without breaking the bank. Take advantage of the city's vast public transport network, which includes buses, trains, and even bicycles. Explore the historic landmarks of Uppsala, including the imposing Uppsala Cathedral and the impressive Botanical Garden.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Uppsala

  • Check into Uppsala City Hostel, a great budget option close to the centre
  • Stroll around the picturesque Gamla Stan neighbourhood, with its colourful wooden houses
  • Visit the impressive Uppsala Cathedral, where royalty are buried
  • Admire the historic university buildings, including the Gustavianum and University Hall
  • Wander through the lush Botanical Gardens, filled with exotic plants and trees
  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at the cosy and affordable Kungsgatan 27 restaurant
Day 2

Viking History and Nature

  • Head to Gamla Uppsala, the ancient Viking settlement and burial ground
  • Learn about Viking history at the Gamla Uppsala Museum
  • Stop by the nearby Disagården Open Air Museum, showcasing traditional Swedish farming life
  • Take a peaceful hike through the stunning Hågadalen nature reserve
  • Have a picnic by the tranquil Hågaån river, surrounded by picturesque meadows
  • Grab some tasty and budget-friendly street food at the popular Grill Uppland food truck
Day 3

Art and Culture

  • Check out the sleek Uppsala Art Museum, featuring contemporary and modern art
  • Visit the playful and interactive Upplandsmuseet, showcasing local cultural history
  • Discover the charming Linnaeus Garden, dedicated to the famous botanist
  • Pop into the grand Carolina Rediviva Library, featuring over 5 million items
  • Catch a show at the intimate and affordable Uppsala City Theatre
  • Indulge in tasty and affordable Thai food at the quirky and colourful Kinnaree restaurant
Day 4

Waterside Fun

  • Hire a kayak or paddleboat from the Uppsala Kayak Centre and explore the Fyris River
  • Admire the stunning Uppsala Castle, located on a hill overlooking the river
  • Relax on the sandy beach at Fjällnora, a beautiful lakeside spot
  • Take a refreshing dip in the clear waters of Vårdsätra Beach
  • Watch the sunset over the river while enjoying a picnic
  • Feast on tasty Mediterranean cuisine at the cosy and affordable Casa Bianchi restaurant
Day 5

Day Trip to Stockholm

  • Take a quick and affordable train to the nearby capital, Stockholm
  • Explore the charming Old Town, filled with cobbled streets and colourful buildings
  • Visit the world-famous Vasa Museum, showcasing a 17th-century warship
  • Enjoy the stunning views from the modern City Hall Tower
  • Experience traditional Swedish cuisine at the lively Ostermalmshallen market
  • Take a relaxing cruise around the beautiful Stockholm archipelago

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.

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