Welcome to Uppsala, a charming Swedish city that seamlessly blends history, academia, and natural beauty. As a frequent visitor to this enchanting destination, I'm excited to share my insider tips for making the most of your day in Uppsala. From its iconic cathedral to its picturesque botanical gardens, Uppsala offers a unique glimpse into Swedish culture and heritage. Join me as we explore the city's top attractions, savor local cuisine, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere that makes Uppsala a must-visit destination in Sweden.
Best Time to Visit Uppsala
For an optimal Uppsala experience, plan your visit during the summer months, from May to August. This period offers long, sun-filled days with up to 20 hours of daylight, perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions. The moderate temperatures draw both locals and tourists out in full force, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the city.
If you're lucky enough to be in Uppsala around Midsummer (usually in late June), you'll witness one of Sweden's most beloved celebrations. It's a magical time when the city comes alive with traditional festivities and an infectious joy that's truly unforgettable.
Fascinating Facts About Uppsala
- Uppsala is home to the oldest university in Scandinavia, Uppsala University, founded in 1477.
- The Celsius temperature scale was invented here by Anders Celsius, a local astronomer.
- Uppsala Cathedral serves as the final resting place for Gustav Vasa, often considered the father of modern Sweden.
- Nobel Prize winners traditionally give their lectures at Uppsala University.
- The city boasts beautiful botanical gardens dedicated to Carl Linnaeus, the renowned Swedish biologist and Uppsala University scholar.
- In the student area of Flogsta, you might hear the peculiar "Flogsta Scream" - a nightly tradition where students release stress by screaming at 10 pm.
Your Perfect Day in Uppsala
Start with a Cozy Breakfast at Café Linné
Begin your Uppsala adventure at the charming Café Linné. I absolutely adore this place for its cozy atmosphere and delectable assortment of cakes. What's even better is that they serve breakfast all day during the week. So, if you're like me and can't resist a good breakfast no matter the time, this is your spot!
Explore Stadsparken and Svandammen
After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through Stadsparken, Uppsala's central park. It's a beautiful green space along the Fyris River that I never tire of visiting. The well-maintained grounds are perfect for a morning walk or a quick picnic.
Next, head to nearby Svandammen, a small lake that's home to a flock of ducks. It's always amusing to watch people feeding the ducks, no matter the time of day. In winter, this lake transforms into a free public ice-skating rink - a magical experience if you're visiting during the colder months.
Dive into History at Gustavianum
No visit to Uppsala is complete without exploring Gustavianum, the Uppsala University Museum. As a history buff, I'm always fascinated by the archaeological and medical artifacts on display here. The highlight is undoubtedly the Anatomical Theater, the world's second-oldest, dating back to the 1660s. It's a haunting yet captivating glimpse into the past.
Lunch with a View at Stationen
For lunch, I highly recommend Stationen. This restaurant-bar-café combo is uniquely situated right by the train tracks of Uppsala Central Station. On a sunny day, grab a table outside for some excellent people-watching. If it's chilly, opt for a seat in the back room where you can watch trains whiz by as you enjoy your meal. The food selection is great, and the atmosphere is always lively.
Panoramic Views from Gotlandsparken
After lunch, head to Gotlandsparken for some of the best views in Uppsala. This small park area along the Fyris River offers stunning panoramas of the city skyline, with Uppsala Cathedral as the star of the show. I find it's least crowded during working hours, making it a peaceful spot for reflection or photography.
Embrace 'Fika' at Güntherska Hovkonditori & Schweizeri
No day in Sweden is complete without partaking in 'fika', the cherished tradition of coffee and a snack with friends. My go-to spot is Güntherska Hovkonditori & Schweizeri. This award-winning bakery serves everything from heavenly cardamom buns to savory salmon bagels. Trust me, their pastries are to die for!
Marvel at Uppsala Cathedral
As the day progresses, make your way to Uppsala Cathedral. This towering structure is impossible to miss and is a true architectural marvel. As the tallest church in Scandinavia at 118.7 meters, it never fails to take my breath away. Inside, you can pay respects to Gustav Vasa and Carl Linnaeus at their final resting places.
Wander Through Linneanum
Next, take a peaceful stroll through Linneanum, located just across from Uppsala Castle. This well-manicured botanical garden is a tribute to Carl Linnaeus. Every time I visit, I discover something new among its diverse plant life. The greenhouse, once an orangery, is particularly fascinating.
Dinner at 60 Kvadrat
For dinner, I can't recommend 60 Kvadrat enough. This intimate restaurant offers a small but perfectly curated menu of Scandinavian-inspired dishes. The chef's focus on quality over quantity really shines through in every bite. Plus, its location near the Fyris River makes for a lovely post-dinner stroll.
Sunset at Uppsala Castle
End your day with a visit to the iconic Uppsala Castle. Its unique pink hue makes it stand out, especially during sunset. Built in 1549, this castle has played a crucial role in Swedish history. If you plan ahead, you can book a special tour that takes you to the roof for a breathtaking bird's-eye view of Uppsala.
Nightcap at Miss Voon
Cap off your perfect day in Uppsala with a cocktail at Miss Voon. Located on the top floor of Elite Hotel Academia, this swanky bar offers panoramic views of Uppsala as it transitions from dusk to night. It's the perfect spot to reflect on your day and raise a glass to this beautiful city.
Where to Stay in Uppsala
Uppsala offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler. Here are my top picks:
Elite Hotel Academia
Suttungs gränd 6, 753 19 Uppsala
With its central location and rooftop bar offering spectacular city views, Elite Hotel Academia is hard to beat. The rooms are bright and modern, ensuring a comfortable stay. Don't miss the Asian restaurant on the 11th floor, and be sure to indulge in their delicious breakfast spread.
Radisson Blu Hotel Uppsala
Stationsgatan 4, 753 40 Uppsala
Another centrally located gem, Radisson Blu Hotel Uppsala offers an amazing breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients. The sauna and gym are available from 6 AM to 11 PM, perfect for early risers or night owls. The rooms are comfortable and filled with natural light.
Akademihotellet
Övre Slottsgatan 5, 753 10 Uppsala
For a touch of history, consider staying at Akademihotellet. Dating back to 1930, this hotel is ideally located near main attractions. Some rooms offer stunning cathedral views. After a day of sightseeing, you can relax in the sauna or take a stroll in the nearby park.
Vandrarhem Uppsala Kungsängstorg
Kungsängstorg 6, 75320 Uppsala
If you're on a budget or prefer a more social atmosphere, Vandrarhem Uppsala Kungsängstorg is an excellent choice. Located in a 19th-century building, it offers a unique historical touch. The hostel features a great kitchen and helpful staff, and its central location is perfect for exploring the city.
Day Trips from Uppsala
If you're staying in Uppsala for a while, consider these fantastic day trip options:
Stockholm
Just a short train ride away, Sweden's capital is a must-visit. Spread across 14 islands, Stockholm offers a wealth of attractions, from the Royal Castle in Gamla Stan to museums like Fotografiska and Vasamuseet. One day might not be enough to see it all, but it's a great start!
Skokloster Castle
This Baroque-style castle on Lake Mälaren is a treasure trove of history. Built in the mid-1600s, it now houses a fascinating collection of paintings and historical artifacts. In summer, you can reach it by boat from Uppsala city center.
Grönsöö
For a unique experience, tour Grönsöö Castle with a member of the von Ehrenheim family, who still live and manage the property. The surrounding area also offers great hiking opportunities for those seeking an active day out.
Sigtuna
Known as Sweden's first town, Sigtuna is just 30 minutes from Uppsala. It's a charming destination filled with runestones, old churches, and fascinating ruins. It's perfect for a relaxed day of exploration and souvenir shopping.
Extra Tips for Visiting Uppsala
- If you're visiting on April 30th, don't miss the Valborg celebrations. Uppsala hosts one of the biggest in the country, featuring student-built rafts racing down the Fyris River - it's hilarious and entertaining!
- For a truly Swedish experience, try to catch a Bandy game at Studenternas. This unique sport, played on ice with rules similar to field hockey, is a spectacle you won't forget.
- Uppsala is very bike-friendly. Consider renting a bicycle to explore the city like a local.
- Don't be shy about striking up conversations with locals. Swedes in Uppsala, especially students, are often happy to chat and share tips about their city.
With its rich history, vibrant student life, and beautiful surroundings, Uppsala offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and Swedish charm. Whether you're here for a day or longer, you're sure to fall in love with this captivating city. Enjoy your visit to Uppsala!
