Things to do in Uppsala
Uppsala, located in the heart of Sweden, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.
As one of the oldest cities in the country, there are lots of interesting and exciting things to do in Uppsala.
One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the Uppsala Cathedral, a magnificent 13th century Gothic structure. The cathedral is known for its stunning architecture and the panoramic views from its tower. Visit the adjoining Gustavianum museum, which houses a diverse collection of historical artifacts.
Uppsala University, founded in 1477, is the oldest university in Scandinavia. Visit the University Library, the Carolina Rediviva, home to a vast collection of books, including the famous Silver Bible as well as the museums and botanical gardens that are located on the picturesque campus.
Uppsala is surrounded by lush landscapes. It is bordered by the Fyris River and boasts several parks, including Linnaeus Garden, the oldest botanical garden in Sweden, named after the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus. These green spaces provide a tranquil escape from urban life, and the interactive exhibits are engaging for every age. The Hågadalen-Nåsten nature reserve, located just outside the city, offers hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and breathtaking views of the Swedish countryside.
Uppsala's vibrant culinary scene is another highlight. Savor the local specialties as well as international flavors in the city’s many restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Don’t miss the fika (the Swedish tradition of coffee and pastry), and wander through the lively food markets to immerse in the sights, tastes, and smells of regional specialties.
There is a variety of family-friendly things to do in Uppsala, as well, offering a mix of educational and recreational experiences for kids.
Explore Sweden’s ancient history by visiting Gamla Uppsala, where you can see Viking burial mounds. The Fyrishov Water Park and Sports Complex are a large recreational facility that include a water park with slides, pools, and water play areas as well as sports facilities like indoor ice skating and a mini-golf course.
The Uppsala Biologiska Museum is a natural history museum with interactive exhibits, live animals, and hands-on activities, and the Navet Science Center, located in nearby Örebro, also has interactive exhibits and activities designed to spark children's interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Stadsskogen, Uppsala's city forest, is a great place for nature walks and picnics, and it features a playground for children.
The best time to visit Uppsala depends on personal preferences and the type of activities you enjoy. Sweden experiences distinct seasons, each offering a unique atmosphere and set of activities. During the spring and summer, the weather is generally mild and pleasant. The summer, with its longer daylight hours, allows for more outdoor activities, yet it is also attracts larger crowds. Fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn colors to Uppsala – a great time for nature walks in the surrounding forests. If you enjoy winter sports and a festive atmosphere, visiting Uppsala in the winter can be magical, but keep in mind that the days are short and the temperatures can be quite cold.
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Looking for some interesting things to do in Uppsala? Here are some recommended attractions and sights for you.
tours, sightseeing & cruises
art & culture
Attractions in Uppsala
- Carolina Rediviva, Uppsala
- Uppsala Cathedral
- Historic Center, Uppsala
- Linnaean Garden, Uppsala
- Uppsala Castle
- University Hall, Uppsala
- Gustavianum Museum, Uppsala