Sweden is a beautiful country to visit. I’m sure you must have heard all about the country’s capital, Stockholm. Stockholm is an amazing place to visit as there are lots of fun things to do. But what if I tell you that just an hour away from Stockholm lies Sweden’s most elegant city? Yes!, I’m talking about Uppsala. So in this article, I am going to tell you about all the fun places to visit in Uppsala.
Uppsala is a great place. It’s old-school European architecture and the whole vibe just takes your breath away. You literally feel as though you are walking on some movie sets as the buildings speak for themselves of their ancient history.
We went there a few months back and one can never tire of being there and lounging around in one of its many cafes or restaurants. Well, with that being said let me tell you all the fun and amazing places to visit in Uppsala:
Uppsala Castle
This castle, enriched with history was built in the 16th century during the Vasa dynasty. The surroundings are filled with lush green trees and floor tiles that are baby pink in color. Gives off a very soothing vibe. But wait! In the years before, this place was not as calm as it is now.
Many of the historic events that shaped Sweden happened here. It is said that in the year, 1567, a king named Eric XIV ordered the execution of some noblemen without any probable cause. He was deemed deranged and insane after this.
The insides of the castle had some very impressive paintings which were displayed as part of the Uppsala Konstmuseum (Art Museum). This is a perfect place if you want to stroll around and enjoy the spring weather. Do not forget to pack a picnic basket when you visit the Botanical garden located just opposite the castle.
Gamla Uppsala
Gamla Uppsala which means Old Uppsala is one of the most important archeological sites to have ever been discovered in Sweden. Walking around this place will make you realize how the city looked during the pre-Viking times. Another surprising fact, the place consists of more than 300 burial mounds. It is the last resting place of Viking Kings, Queens, and martyrs who defended the country.
The place has an ancient and holy cathedral also known as the (Gamla Uppsala Kyrka). In the 12th century when Christianity was at its peak, the people of Gamla Uppsala constructed this church which is now a major place of attraction for tourists.
If you are someone who loves history and its artifacts, then I must recommend you to visit “Gamla Uppsala Museum” which is a mere 4 km walk from the cathedral.
Gamla Uppsala Museum
Well, as mentioned in the previous paragraph, this place is a must-visit for newcomers. At this museum, you can learn about the history of Vikings, myths, truths, and legends of that era all while exploring the interesting artifacts that were uncovered from the grounds.
This history-rich place is an attraction for all the family and is worth the short ride from the Gamla Uppsala. This museum is open to the people every day between April and September. For the remaining months, it is open only on selected days i.e. Monday, Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Holy Trinity Church
Just at some mere walking distance from the cathedral lies the fascinating Holy Trinity Church (Helga Trefaldighets Kyrka). This Roman empire-like place was established in the year 1302. Many renovations have taken place over the years to preserve this place. It is very evident from the colored stained glass windows that are from the 19th century.
The walls are painted with murals that date back to the medieval times. It is said to have been painted by the famous painter named Albertus Pictor, commonly known as Albert the Painter. Besides the paintings, there is a stone wall with an inscription about the painter saying that Pictor was German by birth and settled in Sweden after his work was recognized throughout the country.
Bror Hjorths House
This colorful and unique house was built by the modernist sculptor and painter Bror Hjorth (1894-1968). The Bror Hjorths House is the artist’s former home and studio where he used to spend his time painting canvases. He lived out his final decades at this house.
Some of his sculptures, paintings, and sketches are still on display for the audience. There is a small cafe as well, where you can go get a coffee after admiring all of his paintings and relax in the gardens.
Don’t forget to check out his famous statue of a young couple dancing among the flowers while Nacken plays the fiddle. This statue is about six meters in height. The house is open from Thursday to Sunday all year round.
Sigtuna
Just about a 30-minute drive from Uppsala, Sigtuna is located on the shore of Lake Malaren in the Uppland. This location provides picture-perfect views of the typical local Swedish village. Sigtuna is one of the oldest towns in Sweden where you can see brick stones and the remains of ancient churches around the town.
There is a beautiful small boutique located there where we tried on a few dresses and a craft store for kids as well. Do not forget to visit St. Olaf’s Church while strolling around the Sigtuna Broadwalk.
Uppsala Cathedral
If you are someone who loves to see the hustle and bustle of the city then Uppsala Cathedral should be the first place on your list. It was built around 1270 and completed in 1435. Yes, this magnificent cathedral took more than 150 years to be constructed.
This cathedral has been renovated numerous times throughout the centuries. It is quite evident from the twin tall-pointed spires, colored stained glass, and very pretty murals. The building is visible from a mile away due to its bright red-toned color and French gothic style architecture.
Uppsala Cathedral is the largest church in the whole of the Scandinavian region. Inside the building, you will feel as though you are transported to another dimension as you will get insights into the rich history of the museum.
For those who are not familiar with the Swedish language, English language tours are available. If you are visiting for the first time then you must attend “maas” or any regular choral concert to soak up the complete ambiance of this place.
Halls of Uppsala University
Uppsala University is one of the oldest universities in Sweden. It is among the top 100 colleges in the world. It is an out-of-the-world experience to walk through the halls of this prestigious university. This building was constructed during the Renaissance era in 1879 and 1886, as is quite evident as well from its Roman architecture.
Walls are decorated with posters and pictures of royalty, renowned university professors, and many of the cultural figures. You must not forget to visit the Museum of Evolution, which includes basically everything related to the dinosaurs discovered in China.
Another thing which is not to be missed is the University library. This library holds the title of being the largest library in Sweden. The building is home to around 5,000,000 volumes and 30,000 manuscripts. Another thing that has been on permanent display and is the library’s greatest treasure is the world-famous Codex Argenteus (Silver Bible). It is said to be dating back to the 6th century.
And like for everything else, the university offers guided tours to tourists in various languages so that they can enjoy and get educated without any language barrier.
The Linnaeus Museum
Approximately 10 miles to the northwest of the Stora Torg is located the Linnaeus Garden. Just as the name suggests, this garden was thought and built entirely by a botanist named Carl Linnaeus. In these gardens is located the Linnaeus Museums, which were once his home.
In the museum, you can find his personal belongings, scriptures, furniture, and other household items that were the earnings of his lifetime. These gardens have been run by the Linnaeus Society since 1937 which has maintained these gardens religiously and has also conducted various exhibitions dedicated to Linnaeus’ achievements.
Make sure you spare enough time to explore the entire museum and gardens because it took a whole day to do that. The garden is open to the public from the beginning of May through September, however, the museum is open all year round. So remember to pre-book the tour beforehand.
City Park
Sweden is home to all seasons and it is safe to say that during all of this, Uppsala is magnificent to witness. Swedes love to witness the outdoors and tend to stay in the sun as much as possible. As the dark cloud of the winter disperses and the bright sun emerges, people want to experience the warmth of the sun. For this exact reason, Uppsala’s city was developed in the late 19th century and is the perfect place to unwind after a long day.
So, cook some sandwiches, pack a picnic basket, and carry an old bedsheet with you to soak up the sun, stroll through the trees, and admire the different kinds of flowers. If you visit this park, you will be able to spot a small lily pond in the park. Inside the pond, just in the middle of it is the “Island of Bliss”. Here, you will find the exact replica of the work table and chair constructed by the botanist Carl Linnaeus.
There are plenty of other things to enjoy in the park. It includes a playground for children, a summer cafe, and an open-air theatre. So basically, you can have fun in the park no matter the age group.
Uppland County Museum
This museum was once an old water mill in the 1760s. This mill obtained its water from the Fyrisan River with origins dating back to the 13th century. This place has only gotten more attractive and better with time.
According to the scriptures inside, it is said that this mill was in complete usage till World War II. It was after that, the mill was converted into a museum in 1959. The museum contains all the information and documents regarding the matters from ancient times to the present day Sweden
This mill is also famous for being featured in the opening scene of the movie “Fanny and Alexander” in 1982. There are many facilities developed by the government for visitors such as a children’s corner, a cafe, and a souvenir shop.
Relax at Fyrishov
Fyrishov is one of the largest arenas in Uppsala and according to statistics, it is the fourth most visited place in Sweden. The place specializes in swimming, sports events, meetings, and recreation. Children and young adults love it for their huge indoor swimming pool as well as the large outdoor sports complex.
If you plan to visit in the summer season, then this place is worth your money. You can spend your whole day inside the aquatic adventure center. At Fyrishov, you have access to accommodation as well. You can find campsites with chalets and a holiday village in the complex grounds. Some people even prefer to spend their entire stay at this place due to it being so accessible.
The facility is open all year round and a large number of meetings and events are held here annually. We had our lunch and our dinner at this place as the restaurant had the most delicious food.
Wrapping Up
Well, this was all that I could fit into an article my friends. Uppsala is not just like any other city but is a place full of ancient history. The place is full of museums and scenic beauty for the right eye. It is one of those destinations where one goes and does not want to come back.
Uppsala is not only just about history, you can even find some of the best restaurants and bars in the city as well. If you are in Sweden, then I must recommend you to add Gothenburg to your itinerary as well. you will find some of the best restaurants in Gothenburg as well. So book your tickets and visit this seriously underrated city and relax on the charming aura this place offers.
