Travel Tips for Enjoying Uppsala: From Transportation to Cuisine

Uppsala, Sweden’s fourth-largest city, is a vibrant destination that combines historical charm with modern-day innovation. Located just 70 kilometers north of Stockholm, Uppsala offers visitors an eclectic mix of academic history, cultural landmarks, and Swedish traditions. Whether you’re exploring its ancient university grounds or sampling local cuisine, Uppsala is a city that truly has something for everyone.

To help you make the most out of your time in Uppsala, here are some travel tips to guide you through everything from getting around to savoring the best of Swedish food.

Getting Around Uppsala

Uppsala is a relatively compact city, making it easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. However, there are several options for getting around, each with its own convenience depending on where you’re staying and the time you have.

Public Transportation: Uppsala has an excellent and reliable public transport system operated by UL (Uppsala Lokaltrafik). You can easily get around by bus or commuter train. The buses are frequent and cover the city extensively, with routes extending to nearby towns. If you plan on using public transport multiple times, it’s worth purchasing a UL Travel Card, which provides unlimited travel for a set period of time.

For trains, Uppsala is well-connected to Stockholm and other major cities via the SL commuter trains. The Uppsala Central Station is the main hub, offering easy access to Stockholm’s central stations and beyond. The train journey is swift and comfortable, with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and plenty of space for luggage.

Bicycles and Walking: For a more eco-friendly and leisurely experience, consider renting a bicycle. Uppsala is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycling paths that connect all the major attractions. Cycling is one of the best ways to see the city while also enjoying the beautiful Swedish nature. There are plenty of bike rental stations scattered around the city, and most offer daily or weekly rates.

Walking is also a great way to explore Uppsala. With its charming streets, historic buildings, and picturesque parks, taking a stroll through the city center is an absolute must.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are readily available, although they can be a bit expensive. Alternatively, you can use ride-sharing apps like Uber, which operates in Uppsala. However, be aware that public transport is generally the most economical choice for getting around.

Must-Visit Attractions in Uppsala

Uppsala is rich in history, and there are plenty of attractions that provide a deep dive into the city’s cultural and academic significance.

Uppsala University: Founded in 1477, Uppsala University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. The university campus is spread throughout the city, and many of its buildings are open to the public. The Gustavianum, the university’s museum, is a fantastic place to explore the history of the institution. Don’t miss the chance to see the famous “Anatomy Theater,” where students once studied anatomy by dissecting cadavers.

The university is also home to Uppsala Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that dates back to the 13th century. The cathedral’s grandeur, with its soaring spires, makes it one of the most iconic landmarks in Sweden.

Botanical Gardens (Botaniska Trädgården): Located close to the university, the Uppsala Botanical Gardens are a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The gardens cover an area of over 13 hectares and boast an impressive variety of plants, including native Swedish species and exotic plants from around the world. During the summer months, the gardens are in full bloom, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing walk.

Uppsala Castle (Uppsala Slott): Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, Uppsala Castle offers magnificent views of the surrounding area. The castle dates back to the 16th century and is now home to several museums, including the Uppsala Art Museum and the Uppsala University Coin Cabinet. The castle’s gardens are also a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll.

Carolina Rediviva: This is Sweden’s oldest and largest university library, and it houses several historical treasures, including the famous “Codex Argenteus,” an ancient manuscript of the Gothic Bible. If you’re a history or literature enthusiast, a visit to this library is a must.

Best Time to Visit

While Uppsala is a great destination year-round, September is an excellent time to visit. The weather is still mild, and the city is less crowded than during the summer months. This means you can enjoy the attractions without having to deal with the high season crowds. Moreover, Uppsala’s parks and gardens start to change color as autumn sets in, providing a stunning backdrop to your visit.

Swedish Cuisine: What to Eat in Uppsala

Uppsala offers a variety of local and traditional Swedish foods that are sure to satisfy any foodie. From savory meat dishes to delightful desserts, here are some culinary delights you should try while in Uppsala.

Köttbullar (Swedish Meatballs): Köttbullar, or Swedish meatballs, are a classic Swedish dish and can be found in most restaurants in Uppsala. Typically served with lingonberry jam and creamy mashed potatoes, this hearty dish is the perfect introduction to Swedish cuisine. For an authentic experience, head to one of Uppsala’s cozy traditional restaurants like Smålands for a delicious plate of köttbullar.

Gravad Lax (Cured Salmon): Another popular dish in Uppsala is gravad lax, or cured salmon. This dish is made by marinating salmon in sugar, salt, and dill for several days, creating a tangy and flavorful treat. It’s often served with mustard sauce and accompanied by rye bread, perfect for a light lunch.

Prinsesstårta (Princess Cake): If you have a sweet tooth, you must try prinsesstårta, a traditional Swedish dessert. This iconic cake is made from layers of sponge cake, whipped cream, and vanilla custard, all wrapped in a layer of green marzipan. It’s a decadent and delightful treat that’s perfect for an afternoon coffee break.

Fika: Fika is more than just a coffee break; it’s an integral part of Swedish culture. The practice involves taking a pause during the day to enjoy a coffee or tea along with pastries, such as cinnamon buns (kanelbullar). You’ll find plenty of charming cafes around Uppsala where you can indulge in a traditional fika experience. Cafés like Vezzo and Café Kardemumma are popular choices, offering both sweet and savory options to pair with your drink.

Swedish Herring: Herring is a staple of Swedish cuisine, and you’ll find it served in various forms throughout Uppsala. Whether pickled, smoked, or fried, it’s a delicacy that Swedes take great pride in. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the “sill,” a pickled herring served with mustard, onions, and boiled potatoes.

Shopping and Souvenirs

If you’re looking to bring home a piece of Sweden, Uppsala offers a variety of shops that sell Swedish crafts, fashion, and souvenirs. Uppsala’s central shopping district is home to both local boutiques and international brands. For a unique Swedish souvenir, look for items made from Swedish design houses, such as ceramics, glassware, and textiles. Uppsala’s Handicraft Shop (Hantverksbutiken) is an excellent place to find handcrafted goods, including leather items and wooden products.

Uppsala is a destination that offers a rich blend of history, nature, and culture, making it an ideal stop for anyone visiting Sweden. Whether you’re admiring the stunning architecture, cycling through its charming streets, or indulging in Swedish delicacies, Uppsala will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. The city’s compact size makes it easy to explore at your own pace, and its blend of old-world charm with modern amenities offers a perfect balance for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

One of the standout features of Uppsala is its excellent public transport system. Buses and trains run frequently, making it easy to get around the city and explore its surroundings. For those who prefer a more active mode of transport, Uppsala’s bike-friendly infrastructure offers plenty of cycling paths that weave through the city’s picturesque parks and along the banks of its tranquil rivers. Whether you’re hopping on a bus to visit Uppsala Cathedral or riding a bike to the famous Botanical Gardens, the city’s transport options make it accessible to everyone.

The city is also home to several green spaces, such as the Botanical Gardens and the Uppsala University Botanical Gardens, where visitors can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Uppsala’s parks offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, and they’re perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet afternoon picnic.

In addition to its natural beauty, Uppsala has a thriving cultural scene with a variety of museums, galleries, and historical landmarks. From the ancient Uppsala University to the majestic Uppsala Castle, the city’s cultural offerings are diverse and rich, providing an in-depth look at Sweden’s past and present.

By taking advantage of these travel tips, you can ensure that your trip to Uppsala is as enjoyable and memorable as possible. With its combination of smooth transportation, mouthwatering cuisine, and vibrant culture, Uppsala is a destination that will captivate you from the moment you arrive.