The Enchanted Lands of Uppland: Sweden's Historic Heart
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.
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.
The Enchanted Lands of Uppland: Sweden's Historic Heart
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.
Explore the best of what Uppland has to offer
When is the best time to go to Uppland?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Uppsala Cathedral
Sweden's grandest Gothic cathedral: royal tombs, soaring spires, and organs that resonate through 700 years of history in Uppsala's heart.
Uppsala Castle
Renaissance fortress atop Uppsala's hill: royal bloodbaths, free history museums, art galleries, and ruins with epic city views.
Skokloster Castle
Unveil Baroque magnificence at Skokloster Castle, where unfinished halls, epic armouries, and lakeside grounds preserve Sweden's 17th-century glory amid Mälaren's serene shores.
Old Uppsala Archaeological Park
Step into Scandinavia's ancient heart at Old Uppsala, where colossal royal mounds guard Viking-era secrets of power, sacrifice, and divine worship amid sweeping Nordic plains.
Wik's Castle
Sweden's finest medieval castle by Lårstaviken bay: tower house fortress turned lakeside retreat with parks, swims, and noble echoes.
Uppsala University
Nordic academia’s oldest university — a compact city-centre campus where centuries of scholarship meet modern research and lively student life.
Church of Old Uppsala
A compact medieval church set among royal burial mounds—quiet, layered with centuries of devotion and visible traces of an earlier cathedral.
Håga mound
Discover Scandinavia's richest Bronze Age mound: a 3,000-year-old chieftain's tomb amid Uppsala's whispering woods and ancient rituals.
Gunilla Bell
Uppsala's resilient 16th-century bell atop the castle bastion, offering history and sweeping cathedral views in a single evocative landmark.
Valsgärde Gravfält
Uncover 1,400-year-old boat burials of Viking elites amid serene Swedish plains at Valsgärde, a pivotal Iron Age necropolis near Uppsala.
Uppsala-Näs kyrka
A compact medieval parish church by the Mälaren inlet, quiet interior vaulting and a tidy churchyard steeped in local history.
Uppsalaåsen
Trace the Ice Age's sinuous path atop Uppsalaåsen, Köping's esker ridge blending hikes, views, and glacial wonders in Västmanland's serene wilds.
Upplands Runinskrifter 999
A modest Viking‑Age granite runestone in Åkerby — a quiet, tactile link to Uppland’s runic past set amid open farmland.
Upplands runinskrifter 922
Viking runestone concealed under Uppsala Cathedral's floor, beside Gustav Vasa's tomb—a hidden bridge from Norse past to Gothic present.
Upplands runinskrifter 898
Viking runes carved by Öpir into Norby bedrock, mourning a man slain in the East—Uppland's ancient saga unfolds on timeless stone.
Unmissable attractions to see
King's Garden
Experience the serene beauty of King's Garden, a lush urban park in Stockholm, ideal for relaxation, cultural events, and scenic strolls.
Uppsala Cathedral
Explore Uppsala Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece rich in history and beauty, nestled in the heart of Uppsala, Sweden.
Uppsala Castle
A hilltop fortress where Renaissance ruins, contemporary art and sweeping city views meet in one historic Uppsala complex.
Skokloster Castle
Experience the enchanting history and stunning architecture of Skokloster Castle, a premier Swedish tourist attraction by Lake Mälaren.
Tyresta National Park and Nature Reserve
Explore Tyresta National Park, a serene escape with stunning hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes just outside Stockholm.
Millesgården Museum
Discover the enchanting Millesgården Museum, a haven of sculpture and art set in lush gardens on Lidingö Island, Sweden.
Stadsträdgården
Discover the tranquility of Stadsträdgården, Uppsala's beautiful park, perfect for families and nature lovers seeking a serene escape.
Botanical Garden
Discover the serene beauty of Uppsala's Botanical Garden, a vibrant paradise filled with diverse plant species and peaceful walking paths.
Arsenalen - Swedish Tank Museum
Explore Sweden's military history at the Arsenalen, a fascinating tank museum with captivating exhibits and educational experiences for all ages.
Vaxholm Fortress
Explore the historic Vaxholm Fortress, a captivating landmark offering rich history, stunning views, and a taste of Sweden's vibrant archipelago.
Uppsala Konsert & Kongress
Experience the vibrant culture of Uppsala at Uppsala Konsert & Kongress, where art, music, and community come together in a stunning venue.
Åberg's Museum
Explore the enchanting world of animation at Åberg's Museum in Bålsta, home to a rich collection of Disney characters and cartoon memorabilia.
Venngarn Castle
A layered baroque estate north of Sigtuna—ancient foundations, an intact 17th‑century chapel and parkland that reward slow exploration.
Old Uppsala Archaeological Park
Explore the ancient burial mounds and rich Viking heritage at Old Uppsala Archaeological Park, a historical landmark in Uppsala, Sweden.
Ulriksdal Palace
Discover Ulriksdal Palace, a stunning 17th-century castle in Solna, Sweden, surrounded by lush gardens and rich royal history.
Essential places to dine
Stationen
A lively brasserie-bar-café in Uppsala’s historic station building — continental menus from coffee to late-night dining beneath vaulted ceilings.
Heat Boländerna
A hearty, dependable lunch buffet and catering hub in Boländerna — home-style Swedish food served with a busy, practical energy.
Bierhuis Ölcafé
A warm, Belgian-inspired beer café in central Uppsala specialising in bottles and rotating taps paired with classic comfort dishes.
Ristorante Villa Romana - Italiensk Restaurang Uppsala
Centrally located Italian kitchen on Gamla Torget — house‑made pasta, stone‑oven pizza and a generous wine list in a warm dining room with terrace views.
Il Forno Italiano - Italiensk restaurang Uppsala
Warm wood‑oven cooking and fresh pasta in a cosy, Tuscan‑style restaurant on S:t Olofsgatan, Uppsala.
Miss Voon
Elevated Asian fusion on Uppsala's highest vantage, where bold flavors, craft cocktails, and city skyline views create unforgettable evenings.
Hambergs Fisk
A compact Uppsala fishmonger–bistro where fresh catch, pared-back cooking and a strong wine focus create a quietly refined seafood experience.
Jay Fu's
America meets Asia atop Uppsala Saluhall: grilled steaks with Pan-Asian flair, river views, and bold fusion flavors inspired by a Kung Fu legend.
Klang Market
Casual, colourful global street-food plates and a lively bar on Uppsala’s historic Gamla torget with terrace seating and vegan options.
Golden China & Aikins Sushi
Bold Sichuan spice and compact sushi — generous portions and vegan options in a relaxed Kungsängsgatan setting.
American Steakhouse Burgers
North American‑style smashed burgers and creative limited editions in Boländerna — casual, generous and rooted in a food‑truck spirit.
Restaurang Sofreh
A cosy Persian restaurant in Uppsala serving saffron-scented rice, charcoal-grilled kebabs and generous, shareable plates throughout the day.
Aaltos
An evening-focused Italian grill in Uppsala where wood-fired flavours, seasonal produce and a wine-led list come together in a warm, modern setting.
Peppar Peppar
A compact, upscale Nordic‑French bistro in central Uppsala offering seasonal Swedish ingredients, refined plates and a curated wine list.
Restaurang Elvira's
Comfort-driven seasonal plates and pizzas in a warm, convivial dining room on Drottninggatan — Elvira's is Uppsala's cosy neighbourhood eatery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
S:t Per Gallerian
Explore the vibrant S:t Per Gallerian in Uppsala, where shopping meets culinary delights in a lively atmosphere.
Albert Thun AB - Thun's
Discover fashion at Thun's in Almunge, where style meets affordability in a welcoming shopping environment.
Uppsala Orienthus
Explore the rich cultural tapestry of the Orient at Uppsala Orienthus, a unique store in the heart of Uppsala, Sweden.
Fullerö Handel
Explore Fullerö Handel: A unique home improvement store with a cozy cafeteria and vibrant garden center in Uppsala, Sweden.
Kupan Red Cross
Explore unique treasures at Kupan Red Cross, a second-hand store in Uppsala supporting local humanitarian efforts.
Akademibokhandeln
Explore the literary charm of Uppsala at Akademibokhandeln, the city's premier book store offering a vast selection of literature and stationery.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
Explore the vibrant and playful world of Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Uppsala, where creativity meets affordability in a delightful shopping experience.
Myrorna
Explore Myrorna in Uppsala, where unique second-hand treasures await in a cozy shopping haven that celebrates sustainability and local culture.
Prisfyndet
Explore Prisfyndet in Uppsala - the ultimate comic book store filled with treasures for every comic lover.
Uppsala Music Workshop
Explore the Uppsala Music Workshop, where music comes alive with a rich selection of instruments and engaging community events in the heart of Uppsala.
Ryskasouvenirer
Authentic Russian groceries, delicacies, chinaware, and souvenirs in Uppsala's heart—taste the Baltic's cultural bounty amid spices and Slavic artistry.
Lush Cosmetics Uppsala
Explore Lush Cosmetics Uppsala for eco-friendly beauty and unique handmade products in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Läslusen
Explore Läslusen in Uppsala: A treasure trove of children's books and unique souvenirs to cherish your Swedish adventure.
HIMLA Concept Store & Inspirationsoutlet, Uppsala
Immerse yourself in Swedish design at HIMLA Concept Store & Inspirationsoutlet, where home improvement meets Scandinavian elegance.
Bergmans Konfektions AB
Discover the best of Uppsala's fashion at Bergmans Konfektions AB, your destination for stylish men's and women's clothing.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Katalin And All That Jazz
Discover Katalin And All That Jazz, Uppsala's vibrant live music hub, where great food meets unforgettable performances.
Churchill Arms
Experience the charm of Uppsala at Churchill Arms, a cozy pub offering delightful drinks and hearty meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bierhuis Ölcafé
Experience the essence of Belgium at Bierhuis Ölcafé in Uppsala, where a vast selection of beers meets authentic Belgian cuisine.
O’Neill’s Traditional Irish Pub
Discover the warmth and vibrancy of Ireland at O’Neill’s Traditional Irish Pub in Uppsala, where great food and drinks await.
Miss Voon
Discover the exquisite fusion of Asian flavors and innovative cocktails at Miss Voon in Uppsala, a must-visit culinary destination.
Iberico Tapas & Bar
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant culture at Iberico Tapas & Bar in Uppsala, where every dish tells a story.
O'Connor's
Experience the charm of an Irish pub at O'Connor's in Uppsala, featuring hearty food, local beers, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Bishops Arms
Experience the heart of Uppsala at The Bishops Arms, where traditional Swedish cuisine meets a vibrant gastropub atmosphere.
Plock
Discover the vibrant flavors of Spain at Plock, Uppsala's premier tapas bar and lounge, perfect for a night out or a cozy dinner.
Interpool
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Interpool, Uppsala's top sports bar, offering delicious food and drinks for sports enthusiasts and social gatherings.
Unico
Discover Unico, a lively bar in Uppsala offering a diverse drink selection and vibrant ambiance—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Taps Beer Bar
Experience the best of local and international brews at Taps Beer Bar in Uppsala, a lively venue for beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Puben Uppsala
Discover the delightful Puben Uppsala, where cozy ambiance meets hearty meals and a vibrant nightlife in the heart of Uppsala.
Williams Pub
Discover Uppsala's vibrant nightlife at Williams Pub, where live music and delicious food create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and enjoyment.
Shotluckan Uppsala
Discover the lively nightlife of Uppsala at Shotluckan, a bar known for its creative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere that invites you to unwind.
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
Trending Landmark in Uppland
Nearby Cities to Uppland
-
Things To Do in Stockholm
-
Things To Do in Västerås
-
Things To Do in Örebro
-
Things To Do in Norrköping
-
Things To Do in Turku
-
Things To Do in Linköping
-
Things To Do in Karlstad
-
Things To Do in Visby
-
Things To Do in Kärdla
-
Things To Do in Tampere
-
Things To Do in Kuressaare
-
Things To Do in Haapsalu
-
Things To Do in Jönköping
-
Things To Do in Espoo
-
Things To Do in Vaasa