Uppsala

Uppsala, Sweden's fourth-largest city, is home to Scandinavia's oldest university and largest cathedral. In this city, you can walk through millennia of human achievement. Visit ancient Viking burial mounds, explore the former residence of Carl Linnaeus (father of modern taxonomy), and see cutting-edge research facilities. Uppsala's rich past and vibrant present offer experiences for history enthusiasts, science buffs, and culture seekers alike.

Uppsala Cathedral

Uppsala Cathedral's twin spires reach 118.7 meters high, making it the largest church in Scandinavia. Built in the 13th century, this Gothic structure has been the site of royal coronations and burials. Inside, you'll find the tomb of King Gustav Vasa and a modern statue of the Virgin Mary. The cathedral's historical significance and architectural details make it a key landmark in Uppsala.

Uppsala University

Founded in 1477, Uppsala University is the oldest center of higher education in Scandinavia. You can visit Gustavianum, the university's oldest building, now a museum featuring an anatomical theater and Anders Celsius' original thermometer. At Carolina Rediviva, the university's main library, you can see some of the over 5 million volumes and rare manuscripts, including the 6th-century Silver Bible.

Gamla Uppsala

Five kilometers north of the city center, you'll find Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala), a pre-Christian settlement. Large royal burial mounds dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries dot the landscape. The on-site museum teaches visitors about the area's role during the Viking Age and offers virtual reality reconstructions of ancient life.

Linnaeus Garden and Museum

Carl Linnaeus, who developed the system of naming organisms, left his mark on Uppsala. You can explore the Linnaeus Garden, Sweden's first botanical garden, where Linnaeus studied and cataloged around 3,000 plant species. His former residence, now a museum, displays his personal belongings and professional equipment, allowing you to learn about the life and work of this renowned scientist.

Uppsala Castle

Uppsala Castle, situated on a hill overlooking the city, has been part of Swedish history since the 16th century. This former royal residence was the site of several key events, including Queen Christina's abdication in 1654. Today, you can visit art exhibitions in the castle and enjoy panoramic views of Uppsala from its grounds.

Cycling in Uppsala

Uppsala is known for being bicycle-friendly, having won awards for its extensive network of bike lanes and well-maintained trails both within the city limits and beyond. You can rent a bicycle to explore Uppsala's sights and surrounding nature areas at your own pace.

Getting to Uppsala

You can reach Uppsala easily from Stockholm, just 71 kilometers to the south. Trains depart frequently from Stockholm Central Station and arrive in Uppsala in about 35 minutes. If you're landing at Stockholm Arlanda Airport, you can take a direct train to Uppsala, which takes only 18 minutes.