Uppsala

Uppsala, Sweden: History, Culture & Modern Travel Guide

  • Sweden

Plan Your Trip to Uppsala

Basic Information

Location

Sweden

Time Zone

GMT+1 (GMT+2 during daylight saving time)

Language

Swedish

Currency

Swedish Krona (SEK)

Uppsala Weather & Climate: A Monthly Guide

Uppsala has a typical Scandinavian climate, with distinct seasons. January and February are the coldest months, averaging -5°C to -1°C, and snowfall is common. Temperatures slowly rise in March and April, from 0°C to 10°C. May and June are pleasant, with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C and long daylight hours. July is the warmest month, averaging around 20°C. August remains warm. September marks the start of autumn, with cooler temperatures around 10°C to 15°C. October and November become colder, between 0°C and 10°C. December brings back the winter chill.

Discover Uppsala: City Overview

Uppsala, Sweden’s fourth-largest city, seamlessly blends historical grandeur with vibrant modern life. As home to Scandinavia’s oldest university (founded in 1477), Uppsala exudes an intellectual atmosphere, with stunning historical architecture. The skyline is dominated by Uppsala Cathedral, a towering Gothic masterpiece. The Fyrisån River flows through the city center, offering picturesque views. Uppsala’s cultural heritage is showcased in its numerous museums, theaters, and art galleries. From Uppsala Castle to the Linnaeus Garden, the city caters to every visitor. The large student population contributes to a youthful energy. With its friendly locals, efficient public transport, and green spaces, Uppsala offers a memorable Swedish experience. Consider purchasing a city card for discounts on attractions and transportation.

Best Time to Visit Uppsala: Season by Season

  • Summer (June-August):
    • Pros: Warm weather, long daylight hours, numerous festivals and outdoor events.
    • Cons: Higher accommodation prices, larger crowds.
  • Spring (April-May):
    • Pros: Blooming flowers, pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists than summer.
    • Cons: Occasional rain, somewhat unpredictable weather patterns.
  • Autumn (September-October):
    • Pros: Beautiful fall foliage, fewer tourists, comfortable temperatures for walking and sightseeing.
    • Cons: Shorter daylight hours, increased possibility of rain.
  • Winter (November-March):
    • Pros: Christmas markets, opportunities for snow activities, cozy atmosphere.
    • Cons: Cold weather, very short daylight hours, some attractions may have limited hours.

Getting to Uppsala & Visa Information

The closest airport is Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN), approximately 35 kilometers south of Uppsala. A direct train from Arlanda to Uppsala Central Station is the easiest option (about 20 minutes). Buses and taxis are also available. Many nationalities can enter Sweden visa-free for tourism for up to 90 days. Check specific visa requirements based on your citizenship before your trip. Airport transfer options include train, bus and taxi.

Uppsala Facts & Figures

Fun Fact: Old Uppsala and Norse Gods

Uppsala was once the pagan religious center of Sweden. Before Christianity, Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala) was a key site for Norse religious practices, marked by large burial mounds believed to hold ancient kings. Legend describes a temple at Old Uppsala, richly adorned with gold and housing statues of Thor, Odin, and Freyr. Guided tours are available to explore the history.

Famous Uppsala Personalities

Uppsala has been home to prominent figures in science and academia:

  • Carl Linnaeus (botanist, physician, and zoologist)
  • Anders Celsius (astronomer, physicist, and mathematician)

Top Things to Do in Uppsala: Attractions & Activities

Top 10 Uppsala Attractions

  • Uppsala Cathedral: Scandinavia’s largest church, a Gothic masterpiece and burial place of Swedish royalty.
    • Address: Domkyrkoplan 1, 752 05 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Uppsala Castle: A 16th-century castle with city views, art exhibitions, and museums.
    • Address: Slottsgränd 6, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Gustavianum Museum: The University Museum, featuring the Augsburg Art Cabinet and a historical anatomical theater.
    • Address: Akademigatan 3, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Linnaeus Garden: A botanical garden created by Carl Linnaeus, showcasing plants from around the world.
    • Address: Svartbäcksgatan 27, 753 32 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala): An ancient burial ground and historical site, formerly Sweden’s religious center.
    • Address: Disavägen, 755 91 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Carolina Rediviva: The Uppsala University Library, housing rare manuscripts and collections.
    • Address: Dag Hammarskjölds väg 1, 752 20 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Bror Hjorths Hus: The home and studio of Swedish artist Bror Hjorth, displaying his sculptures and paintings.
    • Address: Norbyvägen 26, 752 39 Uppsala, Sweden
  • The River Fyrisån: Enjoy scenic boat trips along Uppsala’s central river.
    • Address: Along the central part of Uppsala
  • Stadsträdgården (City Garden): A park along the river, perfect for peaceful walks.
    • Address: Hamnplan 1, 753 12 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Museum Gustavianum: The University Museum, home to the Augsburg Art Cabinet and a historical anatomical theater.
    • Address: Akademigatan 3, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden

Uppsala’s Hidden Gems

  • The Botanical Garden: A serene oasis with plant collections, greenhouses, and a relaxing atmosphere.
    • Address: Villavägen 8, 752 36 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Uppsala Konsert & Kongress: A venue for concerts and events.
    • Address: Vaksalagatan 2, 753 31 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Svandammen: A scenic pond, particularly beautiful in the fall.
    • Address: In the central part of Uppsala

Uppsala Festivals & Events

  • Walpurgis Night (Valborg): Celebrated on April 30th, with bonfires, singing, and student festivities.
  • Uppsala Reggae Festival: An annual reggae music festival in late July.
  • Kulturnatten Uppsala (Culture Night): A night in September when cultural institutions offer free events and performances.
  • Uppsala International Guitar Festival: Showcases guitar music every October.

Day Trips from Uppsala

  • Sigtuna: Sweden’s oldest town, with historical ruins and lake views (30-minute drive).
  • Stockholm: Sweden’s capital, with museums and a lively cultural scene (1-hour train ride). Consider a Stockholm Pass for entry to multiple attractions.
  • Skokloster Castle: A baroque castle on Lake Mälaren (45-minute drive).

Uppsala Photography Spots

  • Uppsala Cathedral: Capture its grandeur, especially during sunrise or sunset.
  • Uppsala Castle: Photograph its facade and the views from its ramparts.
  • Linnaeus Garden: Capture the colorful flowers and landscapes.
  • Gamla Uppsala: Capture the burial mounds and historical atmosphere.
  • Fyrisån River: Photograph the river and reflections of buildings.

Uppsala Hotels & Transportation

How Many Days to Stay in Uppsala?

3-4 days is ideal for exploring Uppsala’s main attractions.

Where to Stay in Uppsala: Accommodation Guide

Budget Hotels in Uppsala

  • Uppsala City Hostel:
    • Address: Bangårdsgatan 25, 753 20 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Hotel Uppsala:
    • Address: Kungsgatan 27, 753 21 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Uppsala Vandrarhem & Hotell:
    • Address: Stationsgatan 13, 754 30 Uppsala, Sweden

Mid-Range Hotels in Uppsala

  • Clarion Hotel Gillet:
    • Address: Dragarbrunnsgatan 23, 753 20 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Elite Hotel Academia:
    • Address: Stationsgatan 1, 753 40 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Park Inn by Radisson Uppsala:
    • Address: Storgatan 30, 753 31 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Hotel von Kraemer:
    • Address: von Kraemers allé 26A, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden

Luxury Hotels in Uppsala

  • Radisson Blu Hotel Uppsala:
    • Address: Stationsgatan 4, 754 30 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Grand Hotel Hörnan:
    • Address: Bangårdsgatan 1, 753 20 Uppsala, Sweden

Getting Around Uppsala

  • Public Transport: Uppsala has an efficient bus network. Purchase tickets at kiosks or via the UL app (Uppsala Lokaltrafik).
  • Taxis: Taxis are available but can be expensive. Use reputable companies.
  • Bikes: Uppsala is bike-friendly with dedicated lanes. Rent a bike for exploration.
  • Walking: The city center is compact and walkable.

Uppsala Travel Tips & Essentials

What to Pack for Uppsala

  • Comfortable Walking Shoes: For exploring attractions.
  • Layers of Clothing: The weather is unpredictable.
  • Rain Gear: An umbrella or raincoat is essential.
  • Adapters: Sweden uses European standard plugs (Type C and F).

Useful Apps for Visiting Uppsala

  • UL (Uppsala Lokaltrafik): For bus schedules and tickets.
  • Google Maps: For navigation.
  • TheFork: For restaurant reservations.
  • Google Translate: For translating Swedish.

Uppsala Safety & Cultural Etiquette

  • Do: Be punctual, respect personal space, learn basic Swedish phrases.
  • Don’t: Be overly loud in public, litter, assume everyone speaks English.
  • Safety: Uppsala is generally safe. Be aware of your surroundings at night.
  • Scams: Be cautious of unsolicited offers, avoid sharing personal information.

Uppsala Food & Entertainment

Top Restaurants in Uppsala

  • Drysen: Serves international food with views of the main street.
    • Address: Bredgränd 6, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Hambergs Fisk: Offers seafood in a cozy atmosphere.
    • Address: Fyristorg 4, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Aaltos: Serves high-quality lunch options.
    • Address: Östra Ågatan 9, 753 22 Uppsala, Sweden

Must-Try Swedish Dishes in Uppsala

  • Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar): Served with mashed potatoes, cream sauce, and lingonberry jam.
  • Gravlax: Cured salmon with dill and mustard sauce.
  • Semla: A sweet cardamom bun filled with almond paste and whipped cream.
  • Kanelbulle (Cinnamon Bun): A classic Swedish pastry.

Uppsala Nightlife & Entertainment

  • Birger Jarl: A popular nightclub.
    • Address: Kungsgatan 27, 753 21 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Katalin and all that Jazz: A live music venue for jazz, blues, and rock.
    • Address: Svartbäcksgatan 19, 753 32 Uppsala, Sweden
  • Flustret: A historical venue with a restaurant, bar, and outdoor terrace.
    • Address: Svandammen, 753 11 Uppsala, Sweden

Uppsala Souvenirs & Shopping

  • Dalahäst (Dala Horse): A traditional Swedish wooden horse.
  • Swedish Glassware: Beautifully crafted glass items.
  • Uppsala Saluhall (Market Hall): A food hall with local produce, cheeses, and meats.
    • Address: Stora torget 1, 753 20 Uppsala, Sweden

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