Uppsala Svealand, Sweden Travel Guide
Sweden's main mobile providers include Telia, Telenor, Tele2, and Tre (3), offering wide coverage. MVNOs like Comviq, Hallon, and Vimla often feature competitive prepaid packages. Purchase SIM cards at convenience stores, electronics shops, or directly from provider stores. Registration with your passport is typically needed. Many providers feature eSIM options for compatible phones, allowing online activation without a physical SIM. If you hold an EU/EEA SIM card, use it in Sweden without extra roaming charges, subject to fair usage limits.
Internet access is widely available and reliable throughout Uppsala. Free Wi-Fi in the majority of hotels, cafes, restaurants, and many public buildings. Libraries, including Uppsala University Library, offer free Wi-Fi. Uppsala Central Station provides free Wi-Fi. With a local SIM or eSIM, mobile data coverage is excellent throughout the city. Sweden's national postal service is PostNord. Postal services are often handled by agents within supermarkets or convenience stores. Look for the PostNord sign. Purchase stamps at PostNord agents or convenience stores. Yellow post boxes are throughout the city for mail.
The official language is Swedish. English is exceptionally widely spoken in Sweden, especially by younger generations. You will find it commonly spoken in service industries such as hotels, restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions. Significant language barriers in Uppsala are uncommon.
Learning a few basic Swedish phrases demonstrates respect and may enhance interactions.
Staying connected and navigating language are easy in Uppsala. Most services have English speakers, and digital tools are readily available.
Weekdays 10 AM-6/7 PM. Saturdays 10 AM-4/5 PM. Sundays 11 AM-4 PM, some closed.
Lunch 11 AM/12 PM-2/3 PM. Dinner 5/6 PM-9/10 PM (kitchens close earlier).
Museums/attractions 10 AM-5 PM, often closed Mondays. Hours vary by season.
Traditional bank branches maintain limited hours, typically weekdays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Many banking services are now digital. ATMs (Bankomat) are available at banks, shopping centers, and some convenience stores. Given Sweden's cashless society, ATM use might be less frequent than expected. Consider using Priority Pass for airport lounges.
Sweden observes several public holidays, "röda dagar" (red days), when most businesses, banks, and public services are closed or operate on reduced hours. Plan accordingly. Many attractions, especially outdoor ones, feature reduced hours or close entirely in the off-season (late autumn/winter). University-related facilities may maintain limited hours or close during university breaks.
Embrace the local customs by being polite, respecting personal space, and participating in orderly queuing. These tiny gestures contribute greatly to positive interactions.
Travel with awareness of community standards and a commitment to inclusivity.
Generally, no restrictions apply to photography in public spaces. Be respectful. Ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially children. Avoid taking photos of people without their consent. Some museums or churches may prohibit flash photography. Avoid highly contentious political discussions with strangers. Swedes often practice modesty about wealth; avoid overt displays of extravagance. Avoid overly personal questions. Public drinking is not allowed outside licensed areas. Drunkenness is generally frowned upon.
Sweden leads globally in gender equality. Respectful and equal treatment of all genders is expected. Sweden is very progressive and inclusive. LGBTQ+ rights are strong, and Uppsala welcomes all visitors. Discrimination is rare. Assistance dogs are generally permitted in public places.
Uppsala usually provides good accessibility. UL buses are typically low-floor and with ramps for wheelchair access. Major train stations are accessible with lifts and ramps. Pavements are generally well-maintained, though some historical areas feature cobblestones. Newer buildings and public facilities typically feature ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms. Older buildings may vary, however feature adaptations for access.
Uppsala Cathedral is largely accessible with ramps and lifts. Uppsala Castle grounds are generally accessible; museum access varies. Museum Gustavianum has adaptations for access. Botanical Garden paths are generally wheelchair-friendly. Gamla Uppsala Museum is generally accessible. Public transport buses and trains provide audio announcements. Some stations feature tactile paving. Websites and public information generally adhere to accessibility guidelines.
Uppsala offers good accessibility. Confirm specific details about attractions and transport before your visit for a hassle-free experience.
