Uppsala Travel Guide
Relaxed, walkable and blissfully green, Uppsala is the spiritual heart of Sweden and a tonic for the frantic pace of modern life. Those who visit will delight in its charming, historical streets, and its unforgettable academic spirit.
This small, ancient city lies just north of Stockholm and is dominated by the Uppsala University, which provides the town with an energetic nightlife and cultural institutions such as the Museum Gustavianum. The exuberant population throws itself into festivals and parties alike, and Uppsala has many bars and clubs, as well as a variety of cafes and restaurants.
However, there's far more to this destination, as its history stretches back to the Bronze Age. The original settlement was founded on the west bank of the Fyris River, with the more modern and commercial city taking shape across the water to the east.
Uppsala's long past means it has many historical sites and beautiful buildings, including the Uppsala Cathedral, which is Scandinavia's largest church, and the Gustavianum, which contains the Museum of Nordic Antiquities, the Victoria Museum, and the University's cultural history collections. Another site of architectural interest is Uppsala Castle. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this iconic landmark offers a glimpse into Sweden's royal history, and has stood for centuries as a symbol of power, learning and transformation. It's also home to several more museums.
Uppsala has a number of botanical gardens and parks, including the tranquil Linnaean Gardens, where the legacy of Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, still flourishes. Pedestrian walkways such as Svartbacksgatan are pleasant to stroll along, amid shops and cafes.
Most of Uppsala's attractions are within walking distance of the city centre, though there are several interesting places to visit further out, including Hammarby Estate and the beachside town of Alvkarleby. Three miles (5km) north of the city is Gamla Uppsala, the remains of an ancient town of great importance, which is accessible by bus.