Uppsala Day Trip: The Perfect Escape from Stockholm (A Complete Guide)

Looking for the perfect day trip from Stockholm? Let me introduce you to Uppsala. Just a short journey north, this city offers a complete change of pace from the capital's bustle. Having visited Uppsala many times, I can tell you it’s more than just a destination; it’s an experience that blends Sweden's ancient soul with a vibrant, youthful energy.

Uppsala is home to the oldest university in the Nordics, founded in 1477. This academic legacy infuses the city with a palpable intellectual buzz. As you walk its streets, you'll feel the seamless mix of centuries-old religious history, royal grandeur, and the lively chatter of students heading to class.

While I've often driven the quick 45-minute route from Stockholm, I'll let you in on a secret: the train is hands-down the best way to go for a day trip. It's fast, efficient, and drops you right in the heart of the city, saving you the hassle of finding and paying for parking.

High-speed SJ or Mälartåg trains from Stockholm Central will get you to Uppsala in about 35-40 minutes. For a more budget-friendly option, the SL commuter train takes just under an hour and is a steal if you have a travel card that covers Zone C.

The best way to experience Uppsala's charm? On your own two feet. The city's core is wonderfully compact and pedestrian-friendly. I love spending hours just wandering the cobblestone streets around the Cathedral, the Castle, and along the picturesque Fyris River.

Most of the main attractions are clustered together, making for an easy and enjoyable walking tour. If you plan to visit Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala), which is a few kilometers north, you'll need to hop on a city bus run by UL (Upplands Lokaltrafik). A 24-hour pass is a great value if you plan on making multiple bus journeys.

On my trips, a few key landmarks have always stood out. Here are the places that truly define the Uppsala experience and should be at the top of your list.

• Uppsala Cathedral (Domkyrkan): You can't miss this Gothic masterpiece—its twin spires dominate the skyline. It’s the largest church in the Nordic countries, and stepping inside is a truly humbling experience. The sheer scale, the serene atmosphere, and the tombs of historical figures like King Gustav Vasa make it a must-see. Best of all, entry is completely free.
• Uppsala Castle (Slottet): Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this striking pink castle is a sight to behold. While the interior houses museums, the real reward for me has always been the walk up to the castle grounds. The panoramic view of the city and the Cathedral below is absolutely breathtaking and the perfect photo opportunity.
• The University & its Surroundings: The university isn't just a single building; it's the city's heartbeat. Take a stroll through the park near the Cathedral to admire the grand main university building, Gustavianum, and the impressive Carolina Rediviva library. It's here you can feel the city's intellectual pulse.
• Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala): If you're a history buff, you cannot skip this. A short bus ride away, this ancient site features massive burial mounds from the Iron Age, where legendary Viking kings are said to rest. Walking among these silent giants and visiting the museum feels like stepping back in time.

No trip to Sweden is complete without participating in "fika"—the cherished tradition of a coffee and pastry break. And in a university city like Uppsala, you're spoiled for choice.

My advice? Skip the main square and find a cozy café along the Fyris River. There's nothing better than watching the world go by with a warm coffee and a classic kanelbulle (cinnamon bun). It's the perfect way to recharge and soak in the local atmosphere.

I've been lucky enough to see Uppsala in every season, and each holds a unique charm.

• Spring & Summer: The city is buzzing with life. The botanical gardens are in full bloom, and outdoor cafés line the streets. Long daylight hours mean more time for exploring.
• Autumn: The city is draped in gorgeous fall colors, and the return of students brings a fresh wave of energy.
• Winter: Colder days and a blanket of snow transform Uppsala into a quiet, magical wonderland. It's the perfect time to explore its cozy museums and the grand Cathedral.

From my experience, Uppsala isn't just a checklist of historical sites; it's a feeling. It’s the awe you feel inside the massive cathedral, the intellectual energy around the university, and the peace you find walking by the river.

If you have even one spare day in the Stockholm area, do yourself a favor and hop on a train to Uppsala. It's a journey into the heart of Swedish history and culture, and I promise you won't be disappointed.

Ready to plan your visit? Here are the essential links:

• 🔗 UL (Uppsala Public Transport)
• 🔗 SJ (National Rail)
• 🔗 Mälartåg
• 🔗 SL (Stockholm Public Transport)