Uppsala

Scandinavia's oldest university, a mighty cathedral, castle and Viking history

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Uppsala, Sweden’s fourth-largest city, is a historic seat of learning and religion, home to Scandinavia’s oldest university and its tallest cathedral, set on the Fyris river a short train ride north of Stockholm. Beyond the soaring cathedral and pink castle lie the ancient Viking mounds of Gamla Uppsala, Linnaeus’s botanical garden and a lively student life. Our local picks run from riverside restaurants and historic student pubs to museums and markets. Filter by category and budget below to plan your visit.

Uppsala at a glance

Ideal stay: 1 to 2 days
Best time to visit: May to September
Highlights: the cathedral, Gamla Uppsala and the Linnaeus Garden
Where to stay: the compact old centre by the river
Local picks: a growing set of hand-chosen tips
Getting around: a compact, walkable centre plus fast trains to Stockholm

Where to stay in Uppsala

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Centre

O’Connor’s Irish Pub

★ 4.3

Centre

Radisson Blu Uppsala

★ 4.5

$$$

Centre

S:t Per Gallerian

★ 4.3

The English Shop

This odd little shop has everything we find quirky and cute about the English gastronomy. We love shopping for gifts here getting a selection of peculiarities. We also stock up on high…

Centre

Uppsala Castle

★ 4.5

Centre

Uppsala Cathedral

★ 4.8

Centre

Uppsala Old Town Walking Tour

★ 4.7

Granby

Uppsala Stadsmission Second Hand

Why it matters: every krona from Uppsala Stadsmission’s second-hand shops funds the charity’s work with people facing homelessness and social vulnerability in the city, and the shops double as work-training placements that help people back toward employment. The flagship inside the Granby shopping centre is a big, well-sorted store – it is their premium branch, so donated designer and vintage pieces tend to be pulled aside here. Browse the clothing and homeware racks, bring a card for the small finds, and know your purchase is funding local social work rather than shareholder profit.

Centre

Uppsala Student Nations

★ 4.6

Centre

Uppsala University

★ 4.7

Centre

Villa Anna

★ 4.5

$$$

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Find hotels in Uppsala Book tours and experiences

Uppsala travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Uppsala?

One to two days covers the cathedral, castle, Gustavianum and Linnaeus Garden, with time for Gamla Uppsala and an easy day trip from Stockholm.

Where is the best area to stay in Uppsala?

The compact old centre by the Fyris river keeps you within walking distance of the cathedral, university and old town.

What are the best things to do in Uppsala?

Browse the local picks above, from the cathedral, castle and Gustavianum to the Linnaeus Garden, Carolina Rediviva and the Viking mounds of Gamla Uppsala.

What is the best time to visit Uppsala?

Late spring to early autumn brings the best weather and long days; the city stays lively year round thanks to its large student population.