Day Trips Uppsala

Day Trips in Uppsala: Exploring Sweden’s Historic Gem

Welcome to Uppsala, a city steeped in history and culture! If you find yourself in this vibrant Swedish locale for a day, here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time.

  1. Uppsala Cathedral (Domkyrkan) - A must-visit is Uppsala Cathedral, one of the largest and most beautiful churches in Scandinavia. Its construction began in the 13th century, and it houses the remains of several Swedish monarchs, including Gustavus Vasa, the founder of modern Sweden.

  2. Gamla Uppsala - Just a few kilometers east of the city center lies Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala), an archaeological site rich in historical significance. It was once a religious center for the Scandinavian pagans, and the area is believed to have been a burial ground for Swedish kings. Don’t miss the impressive rune stones scattered across the landscape.

  3. University of Uppsala - Founded in 1477, this is one of Northern Europe’s oldest universities. Take a stroll around its beautiful campus, which includes the Botanical Garden and Carolina Rediviva, the University Library.

  4. Museum Gustavianum - Located within the University complex, this museum showcases various exhibitions related to science, art, and history. Highlights include the Copernicus Room, which houses a first edition of Nicolaus Copernicus’ “De revolutionibus orbium coelestium,” and the Swedish Museum of Natural History.

  5. Uppsala Castle - Situated on the banks of the River Fyrisån, Uppsala Castle has been home to the Archbishops of Uppsala since the 16th century. Today, it serves as a museum, displaying historical artifacts and temporary exhibitions.

  6. Uppsala Art Museum - For art enthusiasts, the Uppsala Art Museum offers an impressive collection of works by Swedish artists from the 18th century to the present day. The building itself is a modern architectural gem designed by Gunnar Asplund.

  7. Linnaeus Garden (Linnéträdgården) - Dedicated to Carl Linnaeus, the father of taxonomy, this botanical garden houses over 4,000 species of plants. It offers a peaceful retreat and is a great place for photography enthusiasts.

  8. Fyrisån River - A walk along the Fyrisån River provides a charming glimpse into everyday life in Uppsala. You’ll pass beautiful buildings, bridges, and parks as you stroll through this picturesque urban landscape.

Enjoy your day trip in Uppsala, and remember to immerse yourself in its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture!