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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Svealand, Sweden

Iconic Landmarks

Discover Uppsala Cathedral, Scandinavia's largest Gothic structure and seat of the Archbishop, holding tombs of significant Swedish figures like King Gustav Vasa and Carl Linnaeus.

Uppsala Castle, built by King Gustav Vasa, offers panoramic city views and houses museums. Uppsala University, the oldest in Nordic countries, presents historic buildings like Universitetshuset and Carolina Rediviva.

Visitor & Insider Tips

  • Hours vary by season for landmarks and museums; check official websites prior to visits.
  • Entry to Uppsala Cathedral is free; donations are welcome. Castle grounds are generally accessible without charge, but museums inside may have fees.
  • Audio guides are often available. Guided tours may be offered seasonally or by arrangement.
  • Attend a service or choral performance at the Cathedral. Explore Universitetshuset and Carolina Rediviva at the University.

More Landmark Details

Uppsala Cathedral & Castle

  • Cathedral: Scandinavia's largest, Gothic architecture.
  • Cathedral: Seat of Archbishop, tombs of Swedish figures.
  • Castle: 16th-century Renaissance, on a hill overlooking the city.
  • Castle: Houses Peace Museum and Uppsala Art Museum.
  • Castle: Grounds offer panoramic views.
  • Botanical Garden is located nearby.

Uppsala University

  • Oldest university in Nordic countries, founded 1477.
  • Historic buildings throughout the city.
  • Universitetshuset: Main university building, impressive architecture.
  • Carolina Rediviva: University Library, striking interiors.

Many university buildings are active premises; some areas open to the public during specific hours.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Museum Gustavianum: History of Uppsala University, Anatomical Theatre, Augsburg Art Cabinet, Viking artifacts.
  • Uppland Museum: Cultural history of Uppland county, local life, crafts, historical events.
  • Uppsala Art Museum: Swedish contemporary art, Uppland artists, located within Uppsala Castle.
  • Peace Museum: Themes of peace, conflict resolution, human rights, also within Uppsala Castle.

Specialized & Performance Venues

  • Linnaeus Museum:

    Former residence of Carl Linnaeus, insight into his life and work.

  • Uppsala Båtmuseum:

    Historical boats and maritime history of the region.

  • Uppsala Konsert & Kongress:

    Modern venue for concerts, conferences, diverse cultural events.

  • Reginateatern:

    Historic theater with diverse program of plays, concerts, debates.

  • Student Nations:

    Each nation has its own cultural program, including pubs, clubs, and performances.

Historical Sites

Uppsala's deep historical roots are evident in its archaeological sites, ancient churches, and well-preserved historical districts.

Archaeological & Historical Districts

  • Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala)

    A highly significant archaeological site, a powerful reminder of Sweden's pre-Christian past.

  • Royal Mounds (Kungshögarna)

    Three large burial mounds from the 6th century, thought to be graves of early Swedish kings.

  • Old Uppsala Church

    A medieval church built on a former pagan temple site, marking the transition from paganism to Christianity.

  • Uppsala City Center

    Features many historic buildings around the Cathedral, University, and Fyrisån river.

  • Fjärdingen District

    Around the university, with picturesque streets and old academic buildings.

  • Gamla Uppsala Museum

    This museum prior to mound exploration deepens one's appreciation of historical findings.

Religious Sites

Uppsala Cathedral is the main religious site. Old Uppsala Church is historically significant as a pre-Christian and early Christian site. Many smaller churches exist city-wide.

Memorials & Monuments

The Linnaeus Museum acts as a monument to Carl Linnaeus's scientific legacy. Various statues and monuments commemorate historical figures throughout the city.

Industrial/Military

Industrial and military heritage sites are less prominent. The city's focus has historically been education and church governance.

Natural Attractions

Uppsala has serene parks, beautiful gardens, and waterways for refreshing escapes within and near the city.

Parks & Gardens

Botaniska trädgården (Botanical Garden), Linnaeus Garden, and Stadsskogen (City Forest) all offer beautiful natural settings for exploration and relaxation.

Scenic Viewpoints

Uppsala Castle's elevated position gives excellent city views. Höganäs Backar, a hill outside the city, has panoramic landscape views, specifically at sunset.

Wildlife & Geology

Stadsskogen and Fyrisån River offer birdwatching opportunities. Uppsala itself lacks significant unique geological formations.

Waterways & Aquatic Centers

Fyrisån River Activities

The river flowing through the city is popular for kayaking, canoeing, and small boat trips during summer. Rent a kayak or canoe for an unique perspective.

Explore water activities on GetYourGuide

Lake Mälaren & Swimming

Sweden's third-largest lake, south of Uppsala, has swimming spots like Lilla Ullevifjärden or Fyrishov. Boat tours connect Uppsala to Mälaren for scenic cruises.

Discover Lake Mälaren tours on GetYourGuide

Fyrishov Aquatic Center

Known for its water park, Fyrishov also has outdoor swimming areas near the Fyrisån river, popular in summer.

Hidden Gems

Beyond main attractions, Uppsala holds less-explored spots with unique charm.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

  • Gamla Kyrkogården (Old Cemetery): Peaceful, historic resting place for distinguished Swedes.
  • Uppsala University Coin Cabinet (Myntkabinettet): Impressive collection of coins and medals.
  • The Museum of Evolution (Evolutionsmuseet): Zoological and paleontological collections, including dinosaur skeletons.

Local Favorites & Emerging Spots

Discover genuine local experiences.

Local Favorites

  • Local Cafes: Explore cafes off main shopping streets for an authentic fika.
  • Student Nations' Public Events: Many host pubs or clubs open to the public on specific nights.

Emerging Destinations & Photo Ops

Emerging Destinations

  • Lake Mälaren Surrounds: Charming small towns and nature reserves.
  • Sigtuna: Sweden's first capital, a historical and picturesque day trip.
  • Ancient Viking rune stones: Further exploration opportunities.

Unique Photo Opportunities

  • Uppsala Cathedral and Castle: Capture stunning photos from the hill, especially at sunset.
  • Fyrisån River: Picturesque views with small bridges and green banks.
  • Linnaeus Garden & Gamla Uppsala: Beautiful floral arrangements and ancient mounds for evocative shots.

Booking Attractions

For attraction tickets or guided tours, consider platforms like GetYourGuide.

This can streamline your planning and enhance your sightseeing experience.