Uppsala

Top sights to visit

• Uppsala Cathedral The massive twin spires of this grand red-brick cathedral dominate the city skyline and can be seen from miles away. Inside, the high gothic arches and gold-leaf details create a space that feels both holy and incredibly grand. It is the final resting place of many Swedish kings and is the tallest church building in the Nordic region.
• Gustavianum Museum Located right across from the cathedral, this historic building features a famous anatomical theater built under a grand sundial dome. You can explore a vast collection of Viking swords, ancient Egyptian mummies, and the early tools of famous scientists. It is the oldest standing building of the university and serves as a bridge to the town’s smart past.
• Linnaeus Garden Step into the peaceful world of Carl Linnaeus, the man who gave names to thousands of the world’s plants and flowers. This botanical garden is arranged exactly as it was in the 18th century and is filled with rare and beautiful species. It is a quiet green oasis in the middle of the city that is perfect for a slow, thoughtful walk.
• Uppsala Castle This bright pink palace sits high on a hill and was once the center of power where many dramatic events in Swedish history took place. You can walk the old ramparts to get a panoramic view of the cathedral and the surrounding university buildings. The castle now houses several museums and offers a deep look into the royal life of the past.
• Gamla Uppsala Mounds Drive a few minutes north to see three giant grass-covered mounds where the powerful kings of the Viking age were buried. This ancient site was once the religious heart of the north and still carries a very mysterious and old energy. There is a great museum nearby that explains the myths and the real history of the people who lived here.
• Fyris River Path A long and beautiful path follows the river as it winds through the very center of the city under many historic bridges. You will see students on bikes and locals sitting at the edge of the water with coffee and snacks. It is the most relaxing way to navigate the city and leads you past many of the best shops and cafes.
• Carolina Rediviva This grand university library is the home of the world-famous Silver Bible, which was written over 1,500 years ago with silver ink. You can visit the exhibition hall to see this rare treasure along with old maps and handwritten music by famous masters. The building sits at the end of a long green avenue and is a true temple of knowledge.
• Biotopia Center This family-friendly nature center is located in a classic brick building and uses creative displays to show the wildlife of the local region. You can hear the sounds of the Swedish forest and see the animals that live in the deep woods and cold lakes. it is an interactive and fun stop that teaches you about the nature you will see on your drive.
• Botanical Garden Located right next to the castle, this large park features a grand tropical greenhouse and a massive collection of plants from all over the world. The grounds are designed with wide avenues and perfectly trimmed hedges that make it a beautiful place for a summer stroll. It is one of the oldest and most important scientific gardens in the whole country.
• Svartbäcksgatan Street This is the main walking street of the city where you can find everything from modern Swedish fashion to traditional local crafts. The lane is lined with historic houses and is always full of life thanks to the large student population. It is the best place to stop for a "fika," the famous Swedish break for coffee and sweet buns.
• Wiks Castle Take a scenic drive to the shore of Lake Mälaren to see this stunning stone castle that looks like it belongs in a storybook. It is surrounded by a large nature park with ancient oak trees and quiet paths that lead right down to the water. The castle is a popular spot for local events and is one of the most photographed sites in the region.
• Disagården Open Air This open-air museum features a collection of traditional red wooden farmhouses and old barns moved from across the local countryside. You can walk through the old rooms to see how Swedish peasants lived, worked, and stayed warm during the long winters. It is a quiet and beautiful site that shows the simple, rural history of the Swedish people.