Uppsala
About Uppsala
Uppsala is Sweden's fourth-largest city and one of Scandinavia's oldest and most important academic centers. Home to Uppsala University, founded in 1477, the city has a youthful energy driven by over 40,000 students. Its magnificent Gothic cathedral, the largest in Scandinavia, dominates the skyline.
Just 40 minutes by train from Stockholm, Uppsala offers Viking heritage, botanical gardens established by Carl Linnaeus, a lively café culture, and a rich intellectual tradition that has shaped Swedish science, culture, and politics for centuries.
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Quick Tips
- Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK). Cards accepted everywhere — Uppsala is as cashless as the rest of Sweden.
- Transport: Uppsala is very walkable and bikeable. UL buses cover the city. The train from Stockholm Central takes just 38 minutes via SJ regional trains.
- Tipping: Not expected. Rounding up at restaurants is appreciated but not obligatory.
- Student nations: Uppsala's 13 student nations (similar to fraternities) have public pubs and restaurants with very cheap food and drinks. Ask a local student for access.
- Linnaeus legacy: Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, lived and worked here. Visit his garden and the Linnaeus Museum for a unique scientific pilgrimage.
Interesting Places to Visit
Uppsala Cathedral (Uppsala domkyrka)
Scandinavia's largest cathedral, standing 118.7 meters tall. Built over 150 years starting in 1273. Contains the tombs of kings, saints, and Carl Linnaeus. The interior is breathtaking with stunning medieval art.
Uppsala Castle (Uppsala slott)
A 16th-century royal castle perched on a hill overlooking the city. Built by Gustav Vasa, it witnessed many dramatic events in Swedish history. Today houses the Uppsala Art Museum with contemporary exhibitions.
Linnaeus Garden (Linnéträdgården)
One of the world's oldest botanical gardens, restored to its 18th-century layout as designed by Carl Linnaeus himself. A peaceful oasis in the city center. The adjacent Linnaeus Museum shows how the great scientist lived and worked.
Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala)
An ancient site of enormous significance in Norse mythology and Viking history. Three great royal burial mounds from the 5th–6th centuries, a medieval church, and an excellent museum. The nearby Odinsborg café serves traditional mead.
Gustavianum — Uppsala University Museum
The university's oldest surviving building, featuring the remarkable Augsburg Art Cabinet, Egyptian mummies, and the Anatomical Theatre from 1663 where dissections were performed before an audience.
Botanical Garden (Botaniska trädgården)
A large university botanical garden near the castle with a tropical greenhouse, rock garden, and baroque garden. Over 9,000 species from around the world. Free admission and perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Fyrisån Riverfront
The river that divides the city into the historic west and the newer east side. Beautiful walking paths, weeping willows, and charming bridges. Locals gather along the banks for picnics on warm days.
When to Visit
Uppsala shares Stockholm's climate but has a distinct academic rhythm that shapes the city's energy:
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Magical awakening. Temperatures rise from 2 to 16°C. The famous Walpurgis Night (Valborg) on April 30 is the biggest event — the entire city celebrates.
- Walpurgis Night (April 30) — Uppsala's biggest event
- Students don their white caps at Carolina Rediviva
- Botanical gardens come to life
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Warm and quiet. Pleasant (17–25°C) with long days, but many students leave. Ideal for peaceful sightseeing and exploring Gamla Uppsala and the gardens.
- Midsummer celebrations nearby
- Biking along Fyrisån river paths
- Outdoor dining along the riverfront
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
Students return and the city buzzes (3–14°C). Fall colors are beautiful around the castle hill and botanical gardens. Rich cultural program begins.
- Student nation pubs and events resume
- Uppsala Short Film Festival (October)
- Autumn colors at the Botanical Garden
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Cold (−5 to 2°C) and dark, but the city is cozy and atmospheric. The cathedral is stunning in snow. Student nation pubs provide warmth and cheap meals.
- Christmas concert at the Cathedral
- Lucia celebrations (December 13)
- Cozy study cafés and fika culture
Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)
Uppsala's large student population means plenty of affordable eating options. Student nation lunches are some of the best deals in Sweden:
Güntherska Hovkonditori$
Uppsala's most beloved bakery and café, operating since 1887. Traditional Swedish pastries, sandwiches, and excellent coffee in a historic setting on Östra Ågatan. Fika from 70 SEK (~€6).
Tzatziki$
Popular Greek restaurant near the river with generous portions and student-friendly prices. Excellent gyros, souvlaki, and mixed plates. Mains from 110 SEK (~€10).
Hambergs Fisk$$ – $$$
Upscale fish restaurant on Fyristorg square. Fresh seafood, creative preparations, and a classic Swedish atmosphere. The lunch menu is excellent value. Lunch from 155 SEK (~€14).
Café Linné$
Charming café near the Linnaeus Garden serving fresh sandwiches, salads, and homemade cakes. A perfect pit stop while exploring the botanical sights. Lunch from 95 SEK (~€8).
Peppar Peppar$ – $$
Asian-fusion restaurant in the city center with creative noodle dishes, curries, and sharing plates. Popular with locals and students alike. Mains from 135 SEK (~€12).
Västgöta Nation Pub$
One of Uppsala's 13 student nations offering affordable pub food and drinks. Hearty Swedish home cooking at unbeatable prices. Open to visitors — just bring student ID. Meals from 80 SEK (~€7).
Storken$ – $$
Classic Swedish restaurant near the cathedral. Traditional dishes like meatballs, herring, and toast Skagen in a warm, welcoming setting. Mains from 155 SEK (~€14).