Best 20 things to do in Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to Uppsala, where history and quirkiness meet like two long-lost Swedish siblings! While roaming this delightful city, be prepared to tick off some truly unique experiences. Delve into Uppsala Cathedral, a towering masterpiece that will make you question whether you're visiting a place of worship or Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Don't forget to channel your inner Viking at Gamla Uppsala, home to ancient burial mounds and a chance to conquer your fears of longship-related seasickness. Finally, wrap up your adventure with a visit to the Linné Garden, where you can traipse through beautiful grounds while pondering the fact that a Swedish botanist had an entire botanical kingdom named after him. In Uppsala, the unexpected is just waiting to delight you!

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1. Uppsala Konsert & Kongress

4.1 (1552)

Vaksalagatan 1, 753 31 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to Uppsala Konsert & Kongress, a fantastic venue that epitomizes the phrase "classy with a twist"! This architectural marvel seems to have taken inspiration from a buttoned-up professor, but decided to let its hair down and embrace a more avant-garde style. Prepare to be impressed by the grand spaces that make you feel both sophisticated and ready for a spontaneous jazz hands performance. Inside Uppsala Konsert & Kongress, you'll find a concert hall that boasts perfect acoustics and is rumored to be a secret romantic hideout for opera-loving squirrels. From classical symphonies to toe-tapping rock concerts, this hall can handle it all with ease, providing a truly memorable experience for zany conductors and banjo-wielding musicians alike. Don't forget to explore the splendid Kongress section, where intellectuals from around the world gather to debate important matters. Whether you enjoy swirling your brandy snifter while discussing quantum physics or prefer to engage in heated debates about the best way to eat a meatball, this is your place to shine, dear traveler. So grab your thinking cap and unleash your inner philosopher while savoring their deliciously innovative coffee that's guaranteed to awaken your taste buds and your dormant genius!

www.ukk.se

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2. Grisen, Uppsala University's Pub

4.2 (466)

S:t Olofsgatan 9, 753 21 Uppsala, Sweden

Nestled within the vibrant city of Uppsala, Grisen, also known as Uppsala University's Pub, is a whimsical watering hole that boldly combines academia with a pinch of cheekiness. Stepping inside, you'll be greeted by walls adorned with ancient maps, which wisely remind visitors of the importance of knowing where the exits are in case things take a particularly wild turn. With its rustic wooden furniture that's seen enough spilled pints to make even the toughest Viking blush, Grisen promises an intimate atmosphere where conversations are not only encouraged, but heavily rewarded with uproarious laughter and newfound wisdom.

www.pubenuppsala.se

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3. Celsius Garden

3.8 (37)

12,, Svartbäcksgatan 8, 753 20 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to Celsius Garden, where Uppsala's beloved botanic oasis merges effortlessly with the mischievous spirit of a secret enchanted forest. As you stroll through this whimsical wonderland, prepare to be dazzled by an enthralling display of flora that is sure to make any self-respecting green thumb green with envy. Whether you're an enthusiastic plant admirer or just desperately seeking a bewitching backdrop for your latest Instagram post, Celsius Garden has you covered - just remember to water yourself occasionally with a refreshing beverage from one of their charming outdoor cafes!

www.uppsala.se

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4. Uppsala City Park

4.4 (9)

Kungsgatan 59, 753 21 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to Uppsala's little slice of green paradise - Uppsala City Park! Picture a place where locals juggle picnics, yoga mats, and the occasional frisbee; a hub of leisurely activities and a welcome escape from the frenzy of Uppsala's student life. Nestled comfortably amongst majestic trees and enchanting flowerbeds, this park is practically begging you to stretch out under the sun and embrace your inner sloth. Saunter through the park's winding paths, where joggers are few but prancing squirrels are aplenty. Marvel at the impressive display of statues that seem to play an enormous game of hide-and-seek with each other - your mission: find the dancing bronze nymph or the sneaky stone cherub. And if you're feeling particularly daring, why not channel your inner explorer and venture into the mystical forest area, where rumors circulate of mystical creatures and the tastiest wild mushrooms (Disclaimer: please don't eat any questionable fungi!). Seek refuge from exhaustion at the picturesque café that has somehow sprung up in the heart of the park, serving coffee that promises to transform you into an enlightened being capable of solving world peace. Unwind on a charming bench, the perfect spot for people-watching; witness the delicate balance between discreet couples sharing secrets and slightly overexcited toddlers chasing pigeons in search of eternal friendship. So, grab a book, a blanket, and perhaps a cheeky ice cream cone because Uppsala City Park is where tranquility meets mischief - an oasis of amusement nestled in the heart of the city.

destinationuppsala.se

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5. Gamla Uppsala

Gamla Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to Gamla Uppsala, the historical gem that’s not just old, but older than your oldest pair of socks! This quaint little village, full of Viking charm, brings out the warrior in everyone. With its rolling hills and ancient burial mounds, you can practically hear the whispers of medieval legends urging you to perfect your axe-throwing skills. As you wander the streets, prepare to stumble upon Uppsala's best-kept secret – the Gamla Uppsala Church. This rustic beauty will transport you back in time, and if you close your eyes and listen carefully, you might catch a glimpse of the long-lost Vikings discussing battle strategies over a frothy pint of ale. For a truly unique experience, make sure to visit the spectacular Gula Huset, a striking yellow house that oozes charm and Scandinavian quirkiness. Here, you can learn all about the legendary Swedish kings and queens, and believe me, their outrageous tales will have you questioning if Game of Thrones was actually a documentary. So, grab your horned helmet, embrace your inner Viking, and embark on an adventure to Gamla Uppsala – where history meets hilarity!

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6. Brunnsviken

4.5 (52)

Brunnsviken, Sweden

Welcome to Brunnsviken in charming Uppsala, a destination that will make you feel like you've stepped into a picturesque Bob Ross painting. This delightful body of water is like the lovechild of Poseidon and a calming cup of chamomile tea. With its serene atmosphere and stunning views, Brunnsviken is the perfect spot to escape the everyday hustle and pretend you're living inside a postcard. So put on your sunniest smile, grab a picnic blanket, and prepare to soak in the majesty of Brunnsviken, where stress goes to take a permanent vacation.

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7. Dome of Uppsala

4.7 (4843)

Domkyrkoplan, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to Uppsala, the land of quirky traditions and stunning architecture! Marvel at the Dome of Uppsala, a magnificent cathedral that proudly boasts a unique blend of Gothic and Nordic styles. As you step inside, prepare to be dazzled by its soaring ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and a strange sense of déjà vu that might make you wonder if you've accidentally wandered onto the set of a Harry Potter movie. Don't forget to keep an eye out for Uppsala's famous "Dome Ducks" who have made it their mission to leave no pew unexplored - they might just quack you up with their audacious antics!

www.uppsaladomkyrka.se

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8. Dag Hammarskjöld's Square

4.3 (3)

Övre Slottsgatan 2, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to Dag Hammarskjöld's Square, the bustling heart of Uppsala - a place where history reigns supreme and pigeons have perfected their synchronized flying routine. Here, you'll find the beloved statue of Dag Hammarskjöld, Uppsala's very own superstar, seemingly orchestrating the chaos of pedestrians and bicycles with a discreet wink. Settle down on one of the vibrant benches and immerse yourself in the mélange of historical grandeur and everyday commotion, like a spectator at the world's quirkiest theater performance.

www.daghammarskjold.se

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9. Uppsala University

4.5 (584)

Uppsala, 752 36 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to Uppsala University, where brainiacs run amok! This lively academic kingdom sits proudly in Uppsala, a charming little town that does its best to keep up with all the ridiculously smart folks wandering around. With captivating historic buildings and an impressive botanical garden, Uppsala University is like a giant nerd wonderland—just don't be surprised if you end up spontaneously breaking into a debate about quantum physics while waiting in line for coffee.

www.uu.se

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10. The Linnaeus Museum

4.3 (61)

Svartbäcksgatan 27, 750 15 Uppsala, Sweden

Nestled in the charming city of Uppsala, The Linnaeus Museum offers more than just dusty old exhibits - it's like stepping into the eccentric world of the legendary Carl Linnaeus himself! Prepare for a botanical extravaganza, as you explore Linnaeus' quirky collections, including his prized collection of garden gnomes (yes, you read that right!). With its quaint architecture and enchanting gardens, it's no wonder this museum is a favorite among both aspiring scientists and gnome enthusiasts alike!

www.linnaeus.uu.se

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11. Kungshögarna - Royal Mounds

4.5 (1079)

Disavägen, 754 40 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to Uppsala, home to the hilarious Kungshögarna - aka the Royal Mounds! These mysterious mounds are like the Kardashians of ancient burial sites, except instead of luxurious mansions, they're hiding dead kings! Take a leisurely stroll through these humps and let your imagination run wild as you wonder if there's a hidden entrance to a secret underground disco club. Just make sure you don't accidentally wake any royal spirits while practicing your worm dance moves!

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12. The Uppland Museum

4.3 (582)

S:t Eriks torg 10, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to The Uppland Museum, where history comes to life like a Viking popping out of a time-traveling longship! Nestled in the charming city of Uppsala, this museum is like an amusement park for the brain, without the long queues or vertigo-inducing roller coasters. As you enter these hallowed halls, be prepared to embark on a knowledge quest that’ll make Indiana Jones jealous - except here, the only treasure you'll find is an overwhelming appreciation for Uppland's rich cultural heritage!

www.upplandsmuseet.se

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13. Botanical Gardens of Uppsala University

4.6 (2185)

Villavägen 6-8, 752 36 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to the Botanical Gardens of Uppsala University, where nature and science collide in the most uproariously beautiful way! Get ready to embark on a green wonderland adventure that will leave you giggling in botanical bliss. Marvel at the flora from around the globe, ranging from majestic trees to dainty plants that could audition for a fairy's garden. Don't be alarmed if you find yourself speaking in hushed tones; the tranquility here can turn even the most talkative traveler into a botanical whisperer.

www.botan.uu.se

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14. Fyris River

4.6 (28)

Fyris, Sweden

Welcome to Uppsala, where the Fyris River reigns as the slightly shy diva of the city! This charming river meanders through the heart of Uppsala, like a fancy ribbon on a hat, lazily showing off its picturesque views and historic landmarks. If you're lucky, you might even catch the Fyris River trying to impress the locals by doing a clumsy little flip—it's a showstopper!

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15. Linnaeus Garden

4.4 (480)

Svartbäcksgatan 27, 753 32 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to the Linnaeus Garden in charming Uppsala, a horticultural sanctuary fit for botany enthusiasts and avid flower-power seekers alike. As you wander through this leafy haven, prepare to be astonished by the sheer botanical brilliance that awaits. From its eclectic assortment of plants to the occasional surprise sighting of an overzealous squirrel or two, this garden is truly the place to grow your appreciation for all things green while tickling your funny bone.

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16. Uppsala Castle

4.3 (2851)

Slottet, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to the whimsical wonder that is Uppsala Castle in Uppsala! This eccentric fortress, perched proudly atop a hill, boasts an air of elegance mixed with a dash of quirkiness. With its striking red brick walls and imposing turrets, this castle gives off major fairytale vibes that will leave you half-expecting Snow White to appear and invite you in for tea.

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17. Museum Gustavianum

Museum Gustavianum, Akademigatan 3, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to the Museum Gustavianum in Uppsala, where history meets quirkiness in the most delightful way! Step inside this venerable establishment and brace yourself for a whirlwind adventure through time. As you wander through its hallowed halls, be prepared to enter a world where ancient artifacts rub elbows with bizarrely fascinating curiosities, making you wonder if the museum's curators have a secret affinity for the unconventional. Keep your eyes peeled for the ornate anatomical theater, where you can channel your inner Doctor Frankenstein (minus the actual reanimation, of course) or head upstairs to admire the peculiar collection of ancient Egyptian mummies, guaranteed to give you a spine-tingling experience.

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18. Uppsala Cathedral

4.7 (4843)

Domkyrkoplan, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to Uppsala Cathedral, where the architecture is so grand, it makes even the pigeons feel small and insignificant. As you wander through its majestic halls, prepare to bask in the glory of ornate sculptures—just be careful not to get mesmerized and start conversations with the inanimate stone figures; they have a tendency to be quite the quiet bunch. Oh, and don't forget to keep an eye out for the legendary Uppsala Tunnel – a secret passage rumored to lead directly to a never-ending supply of Swedish meatballs. Happy exploring!

www.uppsaladomkyrka.se

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19. Carolina Rediviva - Uppsala University Library

4.6 (111)

Carolina Rediviva, Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 1, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to Carolina Rediviva, the Uppsala University Library, where knowledge resides amidst charming corridors and towering bookshelves. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring collections, which are so vast that even bookworms seem tiny in comparison. Prepare to be bewitched by breathtaking manuscripts, as if written by wizards themselves, while the famous Gustavianum building next door might leave you wondering if the Swedish king had aspirations of becoming a librarian.

ub.uu.se

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20. Gustavianum - Uppsala University Museum

4.5 (304)

Akademigatan 3, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden

Welcome to Gustavianum - Uppsala University Museum, a place where history comes alive and professors can't resist showing off their quirky discoveries. Step inside this whimsical antique building and prepare for a journey through time and knowledge. Marvel at the peculiar artifacts, from ancient Egyptian mummies with a dry sense of humor to fossilized dinosaur eggs that still refuse to hatch.

www.gustavianum.uu.se

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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 guides

Escape to Uppsala: An Idyllic Day Trip

Uppsala is a romantic destination in Sweden that captivates visitors with its charming beauty steeped in history and Nordic culture. The city's gothic cathedral and picturesque gardens make for perfect strolls with loved ones, while the quaint cafes and restaurants offer the ideal setting for an intimate meal. Couples can also explore the vibrant nightlife scene or take a boat ride on the nearby lake, creating unforgettable moments in this enchanting Swedish town.

Uppsala, Sweden: A Family-Friendly Adventure Worth Taking

Uppsala, Sweden is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. Explore the enchanting Uppsala Cathedral, the largest church in Scandinavia, and learn about the city's Viking heritage at the fascinating Gamla Uppsala archaeological site. Make unforgettable memories while strolling through the picturesque botanical gardens or enjoying a relaxing boat ride on Fyris River.

Escape for a Dreamy 3-Day Weekend in Uppsala

Uppsala in Sweden makes for a perfect romantic getaway, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Stunning architecture and picturesque sights abound, along with an incredible history and heritage, making it a must-visit location for couples. Visit the Uppsala Cathedral, explore the Botanical Gardens, and take a stroll along the river Fyrisån, Uppsala will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Experience Romance in Uppsala: A 2-Day Escape

Uppsala, one of the oldest university towns in Europe, is a perfect destination for a romantic trip with your significant other. With its stunning architecture, quaint cafes and charming cobblestone streets, Uppsala offers a magical atmosphere that is sure to ignite the flames of love. The breathtaking views of Lake Mälaren, the medieval castle, and the magnificent cathedral will mesmerize you and make your romantic getaway unforgettable.