Looking for the perfect escape from the bustling capital? Just a short train ride away lies Uppsala, a city that feels like stepping into a different chapter of Sweden’s story. As the nation’s historic heart and home to Scandinavia’s oldest university, it offers a captivating blend of ancient history, academic energy, and riverside charm. If you’re wondering, is Uppsala worth visiting for a day? The answer is a resounding yes! This guide will show you exactly how to plan the perfect day trip in 2025.
Uppsala Day Trip: Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Stockholm | Approx. 71 km (44 miles) north |
| Travel Time | A quick 38-45 minutes by high-speed train |
| Estimated Day Cost | 540 – 950 SEK per person (transport, food, one attraction) |
| Best Time to Visit | Summer (June-Aug) for long, sunny days; Winter (Dec-Feb) for a cozy, historic atmosphere |
How to Get to Uppsala from Stockholm
Getting from Stockholm to Uppsala is incredibly straightforward, but the train is by far the fastest, easiest, and most scenic option. It’s the method we highly recommend for a stress-free day trip. Here’s a quick comparison of your options:
| Transport Mode | Duration | Average Cost (One-Way) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Recommended) | 38-45 mins | 95 – 250 SEK (~$9-$24 USD) | Most efficient. Departs frequently from Stockholm Central. Book ahead for best prices. |
| Bus | ~1 hr 15 mins | 60 – 120 SEK | A budget-friendly choice, but significantly slower. Check Flixbus for schedules. |
| Car | ~1 hour (no traffic) | Varies (fuel + tolls) | Offers flexibility but parking in central Uppsala is challenging and expensive. |
By Train (The Best Option)
The train journey itself is part of the experience, whisking you from the city buzz to the historic calm of Uppsala in under an hour.
- Operators: You can travel with either SJ (Swedish Rail) or Mälartåg. Both are comfortable and efficient.
- Stations: The route is simple: from Stockholm Central Station directly to Uppsala Central Station, which is a short walk from all the main sights.
- Booking Tickets: The Stockholm to Uppsala train price varies. For the best deals, book your tickets a few days in advance on the SJ.se website or app. You can also buy them from machines at the station on the day of travel.
Top 5 Things to Do in Uppsala
Once you arrive, you’ll find that Uppsala’s core is wonderfully walkable. Here are the must-see sights to build your day around.
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1. Marvel at Uppsala Cathedral (Uppsala Domkyrka)
You can’t miss it! The twin spires of Uppsala Cathedral dominate the skyline. As the largest cathedral in Scandinavia, this Gothic masterpiece has been the site of royal coronations and is the final resting place of notable figures like King Gustav Vasa and the famed botanist Carl Linnaeus. The sheer scale of the interior is breathtaking.
- Cost: Entry to the cathedral is free. A small fee of approx. 60 SEK applies to visit the treasury (Skattkammaren).
- Insider Tip: Walk around the back of the cathedral to find a quiet park and some of the best photo angles.
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2. Step into the Viking Age at Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala)
A short bus ride from the city center takes you back over a thousand years. Gamla Uppsala was the pagan heart of ancient Sweden, a place of sacrifice, burial, and power. Today, you can walk among the three massive Royal Mounds, burial sites of legendary 6th-century kings. The atmosphere here, especially on a misty morning or during sunset, is pure magic.
- Getting There: Take local bus #2 from the city center (about 15 minutes).
- Cost: Exploring the historic mounds is free and accessible 24/7. Entry to the excellent Gamla Uppsala Museum costs approx. 140 SEK.
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3. Explore Uppsala University’s Historic Buildings
As the oldest university in the Nordic countries (founded in 1477), the university is the soul of the city. Stroll through the University Park to admire the grand University Hall (Universitetshuset) and the impressive Carolina Rediviva library, which houses the priceless 6th-century Silver Bible (Codex Argenteus).
- Important Note for 2025: The Gustavianum Museum, known for its anatomical theatre, is closed for extensive renovations until late 2024 or early 2025. Please check the official Uppsala University website for the latest reopening news before your visit.
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4. Wander Through the Linnaeus Garden and Museum
Step into the perfectly reconstructed 18th-century botanical garden of Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy. This beautiful and serene garden is a living museum, arranged exactly as Linnaeus himself designed it. It’s an absolute delight, especially in late spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom.
- Cost & Season: This is a seasonal attraction. Entry to the garden is approx. 100 SEK. The museum has a separate fee, but combo tickets are available.
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5. Enjoy a “Fika” by the Fyris River
You can’t visit Sweden without partaking in fika, the beloved social ritual of a coffee and pastry break. The Fyris River (Fyrisån) flows through the heart of Uppsala, and its banks are lined with charming cafes. It’s the perfect way to recharge and soak in the local atmosphere. For a truly historic experience, head to Güntherska Hovkonditori & Schweizeri, a local institution.
Sample Itinerary for a Perfect Day in Uppsala
Use this schedule as a guide to structure your day and see the best of the city without feeling rushed.
- 9:00 AM: Depart on a train from Stockholm Central Station.
- 9:45 AM: Arrive at Uppsala Central. Take a 10-minute walk towards the river and Uppsala Cathedral.
- 11:30 AM: Explore the University Quarter, including the University Hall and Carolina Rediviva library exterior.
- 1:00 PM: Find a cozy spot for lunch. Look for signs for “Dagens Lunch” (Lunch of the Day) on weekdays for a great value meal (approx. 110-150 SEK).
- 2:30 PM: Catch bus #2 from the city center to Gamla Uppsala to explore the Royal Mounds.
- 4:30 PM: Return to the city for a well-deserved Fika at a riverside café.
- 6:00 PM: Stroll back to the train station for your return journey to Stockholm.
Note: For day trips from Stockholm in winter, we recommend starting your day an hour earlier to make the most of the limited daylight. Always double-check museum closing times, as they are often earlier during the off-season.
Where to Eat: Uppsala’s Best Restaurants and Cafes
From student-friendly bites to classic Swedish cuisine, Uppsala has something for every palate and budget.
Budget-Friendly ($)
Look for kebab and falafel shops for a quick, filling, and affordable meal. For a Swedish fast-food experience, try Max Burgers. If you’re visiting during the academic year, some student nations (clubs) have pubs and restaurants open to the public offering very low prices.
Mid-Range Swedish Classics ($$)
For a proper sit-down meal, try Peppar Peppar for its cozy atmosphere or Hambergs Fisk for some of the best seafood in the city. Remember to ask for the “Dagens Lunch” on weekdays!
The Essential Fika Stop ($$)
You must visit Güntherska Hovkonditori & Schweizeri. This historic bakery and café is an Uppsala icon, serving delicious pastries, cakes, and coffee in a beautiful setting right by the river.
Insider Tips for Your Uppsala Trip
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, and many of the historic streets are charming but uneven cobblestones.
- Book Trains in Advance: For the best prices on SJ trains, try to book your tickets at least a day or two ahead of your trip.
- Dress in Layers: The weather can change quickly. In winter, warm layers, a hat, and gloves are essential. In summer, a light jacket for the evening is a good idea.
- Cards are King: Sweden is a nearly cashless society. Your credit or debit card will be accepted almost everywhere.
- Local Transport: While central Uppsala is walkable, you’ll need the bus for Gamla Uppsala. Download the “UL” app to easily purchase and manage your bus tickets.
What to Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Camera and/or smartphone
- Portable power bank for your devices
- Weather-appropriate clothing (hat/gloves in winter, sunglasses in summer)
- A refillable water bottle
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Return Train Ticket | 200 SEK | 350 SEK |
| Attractions | 140 SEK (Gamla Uppsala Museum) | 200 SEK (Museum + Cathedral Treasury) |
| Lunch & Fika | 200 SEK | 400 SEK |
| Total Estimated Cost | ~540 SEK | ~950 SEK |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Uppsala worth a day trip from Stockholm?
Absolutely. It offers a rich dose of Swedish history, stunning architecture, and a charming small-town university atmosphere that provides a perfect, easy-to-reach contrast to Stockholm.
How long is the train from Stockholm to Uppsala?
The train journey is very quick, typically taking between 38 and 45 minutes, making it an ideal day trip destination.
What is the cool town near Stockholm?
Uppsala is one of the “coolest” and most popular towns for a day trip due to its vibrant student life, deep history, and easy accessibility. Another excellent option is the historic Viking-era town of Sigtuna.
Where to go on a day trip from Stockholm?
Uppsala is a top choice for history and culture. Other fantastic options include visiting Drottningholm Palace (the royal residence), the charming town of Sigtuna, or exploring the beautiful Stockholm Archipelago.
TLDR: Your Uppsala Day Trip Cheat Sheet
- Go by Train: It’s the fastest and easiest way (40 mins from Stockholm Central).
- Must-Sees: Uppsala Cathedral (free), Gamla Uppsala Mounds (free), and the University Quarter.
- Top Activity: Experience a traditional Swedish “fika” at a café by the river.
- Best Value Tip: Look for “Dagens Lunch” on weekdays for an affordable and delicious lunch.
- Best Time: Summer for weather, winter for cozy vibes and Christmas markets.
In just one day, Uppsala delivers an unforgettable journey through Sweden’s past and present. Its combination of monumental history, academic charm, and serene natural beauty makes it a truly essential day trip from Stockholm to Uppsala. Ready to explore?
Have you been to Uppsala? Share your favorite spot or tip in the comments below!
