Uppland, Sweden Travel Guide

Discover Uppland, Sweden's historic province, with its mix of vibrant cities, serene countryside, ancient Viking sites, and rich cultural heritage.

Uppland, a province in eastern Sweden, offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and rich history. Home to the vibrant city of Uppsala, with its renowned university and towering cathedral, Uppland invites visitors to explore its charming streets and historical landmarks. The Gustavianum museum and the Linnaeus Garden are must-visit spots to learn about Sweden's scientific heritage. Away from the urban centers, Uppland's countryside is filled with enchanting forests, tranquil lakes, and ancient runestones. The province’s archipelago presents a stunning mix of islands, each offering unique experiences from serene nature walks to thrilling water sports. The Färnebofjärden National Park is a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, showcasing the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Uppland is also a treasure trove for history buffs, with numerous Viking-era sites and medieval castles dotting the landscape. The Old Uppsala burial mounds are a significant archaeological site, providing a glimpse into the Viking Age. The Skokloster Castle, one of the best-preserved baroque castles in Europe, offers a fascinating look into Sweden's past. Regardless of the season, Uppland’s charm and heritage make it a captivating destination for all visitors.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Uppland.

Visit the Uppsala Cathedral early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Explore the archipelago by renting a kayak or joining a guided boat tour.
Head to Färnebofjärden National Park during spring or autumn for the best bird-watching opportunities.
Wear comfortable shoes as Uppland’s historic sites often involve a lot of walking.
Try the local Swedish dishes at small, family-owned restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.

Top City Travel Guides in Uppland

The cities of Uppland, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Stockholm

Uppsala

Västerås

Destinations in Uppland

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Stockholm Archipelago

Explore Uppland: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Uppland

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Skansen

Step into Sweden's living past at the world's first open-air museum, where historic homes, Nordic wildlife, and festive traditions unfold amid island greenery and city vistas.

4.5

Stockholm archipelago

Discover 30,000 islands of pristine Baltic wilderness, from fortress-crowned Vaxholm to the epic Archipelago Trail—Sweden's ultimate nature escape.

4.7

Stockholm Arlanda Airport

Sweden’s primary international airport — a spacious, efficiently built air hub with modern terminals, SkyCity amenities and a steady Scandinavian calm.

3.8

Tyresta National Park and Nature Reserve

Southern Sweden's primeval forest paradise: ancient pines, serene lakes, and 55 km of trails await just 20 minutes from Stockholm's edge.

4.7

Best landmarks in Uppland

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Elite Hotel Carolina Tower

Discover luxury and modern elegance at Elite Hotel Carolina Tower in Solna, Stockholm, your gateway to the best of Sweden's capital.

4.4

Stockholm City Hall

Discover Stockholm's brick-built icon: grand halls, Nobel legacy, and tower views over the archipelago from this waterfront landmark of Swedish pride.

4.7

Uppsala Cathedral

Sweden's grandest Gothic cathedral: royal tombs, soaring spires, and organs that resonate through 700 years of history in Uppsala's heart.

4.7

Haga Palace

Discover neo-classical royal grace at Haga Palace, Crown Princess Victoria's private haven amid Hagaparken's idyllic English landscapes and historic follies.

4.2

Best restaurants in Uppland

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Aifur

Journey to Viking times in Stockholm's Old Town: authentic feasts, mead, and mead in a historic cellar tavern that revives 700-1100 AD Scandinavia with immersive flair.

4.6

Bryggeriet Ångkvarn

Uppsala's original brewpub where historic steam mill vibes meet fresh craft brews, local gastropub fare, and the thrill of watching beer being made live behind the bar.

4.2

Glashuset Restaurant & Bar

Glass-walled brasserie on Stockholm's Strandvägen quay: seasonal Swedish dishes, cocktails, and unbeatable waterfront views in a luminous urban oasis.

4.5

Hard Rock Cafe

Rock your taste buds with legendary burgers, ribs, and live music vibes at Hard Rock Cafe Stockholm—prime city-center spot blending American classics and music memorabilia for unforgettable meals.

4.0

Best bars in Uppland

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Skybar

Discover the Skybar in Stockholm, where breathtaking views meet a vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cuisine, perfect for every occasion.

3.9

Cadierbaren

Stockholm's grandest bar at Grand Hôtel: cocktails, tea, and palace views in timeless elegance.

4.5

ICEBAR Stockholm by ICEHOTEL

World's first permanent icebar: sip cocktails from frozen glasses in a -5°C Arctic wonderland rebuilt yearly with stunning themes.

4.2

Lucy's Flower Shop

Descend through a faux flower shop into Stockholm's purple speakeasy paradise, where foraged cocktails and intimate vibes craft unforgettable nights.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Uppland

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Best Nightclubs

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End Night Club

Sweden's iconic nightclub in historic opera halls: opulent chandeliers, Vicke Andrén frescoes, and house beats until dawn.

2.4

Debaser Hornstulls Strand

Stockholm's waterfront beacon for live gigs, club thrills, and waterside bites—where indie echoes meet harbor vibes in Södermalm's beating heart.

3.9

Huset Under Bron

An adaptable, industrial-scale club and cultural complex beneath Skanstull bridge — summers become garden festivals, winters become electronic music nights.

3.2

Patricia Restaurang & Nattklubb

A moored party boat on Södermalm offering multiple bars, live music, karaoke and a summer terrace with skyline vistas.

3.2

Best shops in Uppland

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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NK Stockholm

Stockholm’s iconic luxury department store — historic architecture, curated design, gourmet food halls and signature window theatre in the city centre.

4.2

Åhléns City

Stockholm’s central, multi-level department store for fashion, beauty, homeware and casual dining on Klarabergsgatan.

4.1

Dala Shop

Discover hand-painted Dala horses and Swedish crafts in Gamla Stan's charming gift shop, where you can even create your own souvenir.

4.8

Gamla Stan Shops

Wander Prästgatan's medieval lanes for boutique treasures, vintage charms, and artisanal Swedish crafts in Stockholm's fairy-tale Old Town.

4.5

Explore Uppland on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Uppland, mapped for you.

Uppland Essentials

Uppland is easily accessible from Stockholm, the capital of Sweden. The nearest international airport is Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN), which is well connected to major cities worldwide. From Arlanda, you can take a train, bus, or taxi to various destinations within Uppland. The journey from Arlanda to Uppsala, the largest city in Uppland, takes approximately 20 minutes by train. Additionally, domestic flights and rail connections are available from other parts of Sweden.
Public transportation in Uppland is efficient and convenient. The region is served by an extensive network of trains, buses, and local commuter services. The main operator is UL (Upplands Lokaltrafik), which connects Uppsala with surrounding towns and villages. Renting a car is also an option and can provide flexibility for exploring rural areas. Biking is popular, especially in Uppsala, which has well-developed cycling paths.
Sweden's official currency is the Swedish Krona (SEK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Mobile payment apps like Swish are also popular. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses and rural areas where card payments may not be accepted. ATMs are readily available in towns and cities throughout Uppland.
Uppland is a generally safe region with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious in crowded areas. Uppsala's city center is safe, but it is always best to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Uppsala University Hospital is the largest medical facility in the region and provides comprehensive care. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual clothing is generally acceptable, but dress more formally for upscale restaurants and events. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. Sweden is generally secular, but it is polite to observe silence in churches. Public Transport: Do be punctual, as Swedish public transport runs on time. Don't talk loudly or play music on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. It is common to address people by their first names. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Surströmming and pickled herring. Don't leave food on your plate, as it is considered wasteful.
To experience Uppland like a local, explore the countryside and visit smaller towns like Sigtuna, known for its medieval history. Attend a 'fika' (coffee break) at a local café to enjoy Swedish pastries and socialize. Take a stroll through Uppsala's Botanical Garden or visit the historic Uppsala Cathedral. Engaging with locals can provide insights into the region's rich history and culture.

When is the best time to visit Uppland?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Uppland

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Uppland. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHej
  [hey]
- GoodbyeHejdå
  [hay-daw]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNej
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeSnälla/Varsågod
  [snel-lah/vahr-shoh-good]
- Thank youTack
  [tack]
- Excuse me/SorryUrsäkta/Förlåt
  [oor-sek-tah/fur-loht]
- How are you?Hur mår du?
  [hoor mohr doo]
- Fine. And you?Bra. Och du?
  [bra. ohk doo]
- Do you speak English?Talar du engelska?
  [ta-lar doo eng-els-kah]
- I don't understandJag förstår inte
  [yog fur-stor in-teh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJag skulle vilja se menyn, snälla
  [yog skool-leh vil-yah seh meh-nyn, snel-lah]
- I don't eat meatJag äter inte kött
  [yog eh-ter in-teh shutt]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [skawl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJag skulle vilja betala, snälla
  [yog skool-leh vil-yah beh-tah-lah, snel-lah]
- Help!Hjälp!
  [yelp]
- Go away!Gå bort!
  [gaw bort]
- Call the Police!Ring polisen!
  [ring poh-lee-sen]
- Call a doctor!Ring en läkare!
  [ring en leh-kah-reh]
- I'm lostJag har gått vilse
  [yog har got vil-seh]
- I'm illJag är sjuk
  [yog air shook]
- I'd like to buy...Jag skulle vilja köpa...
  [yog skool-leh vil-yah shur-pah]
- I'm just lookingJag tittar bara
  [yog tit-tar bah-rah]
- How much is it?Hur mycket kostar det?
  [hoor my-ket koss-tar deh]
- That's too expensiveDet är för dyrt
  [deh air fur deer-t]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du sänka priset?
  [kan doo sen-kah pree-set]
- What time is it?Vad är klockan?
  [vahd air klok-kahn]
- It's one o'clockKlockan är ett
  [klok-kahn air ett]
- Half past (10)Halv (10)
  [halv (ten)]
- MorningMorgon
  [mor-gon]
- AfternoonEftermiddag
  [ef-ter-mid-dahg]
- EveningKväll
  [kvehll]
- YesterdayIgår
  [ee-gor]
- TodayIdag
  [ee-dahg]
- TomorrowImorgon
  [ee-mor-gon]
- 11
  [ett]
- 22
  [två]
- 33
  [tre]
- 44
  [fyra]
- 55
  [fem]
- 66
  [sex]
- 77
  [sju]
- 88
  [åtta]
- 99
  [nio]
- 1010
  [tio]
- Where's a/the...?Var är en/den...?
  [var air en/den...?]
- What's the address?Vad är adressen?
  [vahd air ah-dress-en]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du visa mig (på kartan)?
  [kan doo vee-sah may (poh kar-tahn)?]
- When's the next (bus)?När går nästa (buss)?
  [nair gorr nes-tah (booss)?]
- A ticket (to ....)En biljett (till ....)
  [en bee-yett (till ....)]

History of Uppland

Uppland holds a significant place in Viking history, being one of the most densely populated Viking regions in Sweden. The area is home to numerous Viking-era burial mounds, runestones, and archeological sites. The famous Jarlabanke Runestones, located in Täby, are a collection of stones erected by the Viking chieftain Jarlabanke and offer a glimpse into the life and achievements of this era. Another significant site is the Viking settlement of Birka on Björkö island, which was a major trading hub during the Viking Age and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
During the medieval period, Uppland developed into an influential region with the establishment of the city of Uppsala. The Uppsala Cathedral, built in the 13th century, stands as a monumental piece of Gothic architecture and has been the coronation church for Swedish monarchs. Another significant medieval structure is the Uppsala Castle, which has witnessed many historical events, including the infamous Sture Murders in 1567, during the reign of King Erik XIV.
Founded in 1477, Uppsala University is the oldest university in Sweden and has played a crucial role in the cultural and scientific development of Uppland. The university has been home to many notable scholars, including Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, and Anders Celsius, who invented the Celsius temperature scale. The university's historic buildings, such as the Gustavianum and the Carolina Rediviva Library, house important collections and artifacts from various periods of history.
Uppland played a strategic role during the period of the Swedish Empire (1611-1718). The region was a base for military operations and a center for political power. The city of Sigtuna, one of the oldest towns in Sweden, was an important administrative center during this time. Sigtuna's medieval churches, ruins, and runestones provide insights into the region's significance during the height of Swedish imperial power. The Rosersberg Palace, located near Märsta, also dates back to this era and is one of the royal palaces in Sweden.
In the 19th century, Uppland underwent significant transformation with the advent of industrialization. The establishment of railway lines and the growth of industries in towns like Gävle and Uppsala marked a new era of economic development. The region also saw advancements in education and healthcare, with the Uppsala University Hospital becoming a leading medical facility. Modern Uppland is a blend of its rich historical heritage and contemporary advancements, making it a fascinating destination for visitors.