Also known as: Upsala
Uppsala, a city in Sweden often overlooked in favor of its larger sister Stockholm, is an absolute must-visit destination. It's a place where history isn't just in books but lives in every stone and every alleyway. If you're wondering what to do in Uppsala, exploring its rich past and vibrant present is highly recommended. This city, steeped in royal grandeur and academic wisdom, offers a unique blend of impressive architecture, green oases, and charming local tales.
Royal Splendor and Ecclesiastical Power
Your journey of discovery through Uppsala begins at the imposing Uppsala Cathedral. This brick cathedral towers like a fortress above the city and has been a central point for centuries. It witnessed countless coronations and royal burials and houses the remains of important kings, including Gustav Vasa. The grandeur of this building is a lasting reminder of the city's deep historical roots.
From here, it's a short walk to Uppsala Castle, a pink edifice towering high above the city. This castle served as a royal residence for centuries and witnessed crucial moments in Swedish history. It offers a regal view of the surroundings. The castle's history is dramatic, with tales of sieges, fires, and reconstruction. The remains of the original walls, now partly castle ruins, still whisper of these times of royal power and the knights and kings who once roamed here. High in one of the castle towers hangs the legendary Gunilla Bell, Sweden's largest bell. Its deep, resonant sound has echoed over Uppsala for centuries, a constant reminder of time passing and history vibrating in the air. A silent witness to bygone eras is also the Obelisk, an impressive monument symbolizing the grandeur of Swedish history, erected in honor of King Gustav III, who played a significant role in the city's development. It feels as if you have a direct line to the royal past here.
A Center of Knowledge and Culture
Uppsala is inextricably linked with knowledge and science, and its university is world-renowned. The Gustavianum, Uppsala's oldest preserved university building, is a beautiful example of this. Look up at the iconic dome, which once housed an anatomical theater where students studied the secrets of the human body. It's a place where centuries of knowledge and discovery converge, and where you feel connected to scientific history.
Nearby, you'll find the lush Botanical Garden, a living museum of plants and a tribute to the famous botanist Carl Linnaeus. Wander through thematic gardens and admire exotic species in this serene setting. It's a paradise for nature lovers, where you can feel like an explorer in a green world.
To further deepen your understanding of the region's rich history, a visit to the Upplands Museum on the banks of the Fyrisån river is a must. Here, the history of Uppland unfolds, from prehistoric finds to the daily life of yesteryear. It's like traveling through time and truly feeling the stories of the people here, a fascinating dive into the past.
Charming Corners and Green Lungs
Besides the major historical sights, Uppsala also has its charming, more intimate places that reflect local culture. Take some time to relax in Stadsträdgården, Uppsala's green oasis. Here you can escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the tranquility and beautiful floral splendor. It's a peaceful place to catch your breath and enjoy nature.
An interesting place of technology is the Pumphuset, a modest building that was once vital for Uppsala's water supply. Now it's a museum that tells the history of hydropower and industrial development. It's fascinating to see how such a small building had such a big impact on the city.
For a touch of local folklore and childlike wonder, seek out the statues of Pelle och Maja, hidden in a charming alleyway. These famous cat figures, created by Gösta Knutsson, are icons of Uppsala and symbolize kindness and courage. It's heartwarming to see these statues and recall the stories, a magical place for young and old. In the same playful spirit, you can be carried away by 'Ostmysteriet och Forsränningen i Mus-sala' (The Cheese Mystery and the Rafting in Mouse-sala), an attraction that takes you on an adventure through Uppsala's history, told by mice. It's a playful nod to the Pelle Svanslös stories and the city's rich culture, and a unique way to discover the city that even excites children about history.
This selection of sights gives you a taste of Uppsala's unique charm. However, the city has much more to offer than what is described here, with countless hidden details and riddles waiting to be discovered. For a complete and immersive experience, including all the stops and surprises this historic city has to offer, you can choose the full Uppsala walking tour in the CityWalkGems app.
- 12 stops
- Start anywhere
- ~3,2 km route length
- ~645 m longest stretch
- about 1,5–2 h duration
- Free
