Uppsala, Sweden
Uppsala is a charming university city in central Sweden, famous for its academic atmosphere and stunning historic landmarks like Uppsala Cathedral and the 16th-century Royal Palace. It's a great destination for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers, with plenty of museums, gardens and lakes to explore.
Trip to Uppsala, Sweden
Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration
Upon arrival in Uppsala, head to your accommodation and check-in. After getting settled in, you can start exploring the city on foot or by using public transportation. Visit the famous Uppsala Cathedral, a landmark of the city and one of the largest in Scandinavia. Walk around the main market square in the city center, Stora Torget, and admire the colorful buildings that surround it. You can also get a taste of Swedish culture at the Upplandsmuseet, the regional museum of Uppsala, which houses a collection of traditional Swedish crafts and art displayed in a medieval castle.
Day 2: Gamla Uppsala and Fyris River
Today, visit Gamla Uppsala, one of Sweden’s most significant ancient sites. This area once served as the political and religious center of the Viking era. You can visit the Gamla Uppsala Museum to learn more about the history of the site and its importance to Swedish culture. Next, take a stroll along the Fyris River, which runs through the city and offers scenic views. You can also take a boat ride or rent a kayak to explore the river and its surroundings.
Day 3: Linnaeus Gardens and Museums
Discover the Linnaeus Gardens, named after Carl Linnaeus, the famous Swedish botanist known for developing the modern system of classification of plants. The gardens are located next to his former home, which has been converted into a museum. You can also visit the University Museum, which showcases the history and achievements of Uppsala University, the oldest in Sweden. End the day by exploring the Museum Gustavianum, a museum dedicated to ancient history and archaeology.
Day 4: Day trip to Stockholm
Take a day trip to Stockholm, Sweden’s capital city. Stockholm is just an hour away by train, and you’ll need at least a day to explore the city. Visit Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s old town, which has a fantastic collection of historical buildings, cafes, shops, and restaurants. You can also check out the Royal Palace and the Vasa Museum, which houses a 17th-century ship recovered from the bottom of Stockholm harbor.
Day 5: Strängnäs and Mariefred
Take a day trip to Strängnäs and Mariefred, two charming towns near Uppsala. Visit the Strängnäs Cathedral, another stunning church said to house the remains of Saint Eskil. You can also explore the town and enjoy local delicacies at one of the cafes or restaurants. Mariefred is a picturesque town with a stunning castle, Gripsholm, known for its art collection and beautiful baroque architecture.
Day 6: Upplandsleden Hiking Trail
Today, explore the great outdoors on the Upplandsleden Hiking Trail. The trail, which is around 450 km long, offers breathtaking views of the Swedish countryside. You can hike the trail at your pace, taking in the scenery and enjoying the peace and quiet of nature.
Day 7: Shopping and Nightlife
On your last day, indulge in some retail therapy and check out the various shopping districts of Uppsala. Explore the Kvarnholmen shopping center, featuring stores selling some of the finest accessories and clothing from Sweden. In the evening, experience the nightlife in Uppsala by visiting some of the city’s bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Palema, a cozy bar with some of the best cocktails in the city, is an excellent place to start.
