Uppsala
Uppsala
Uppsala is a city with a lot of character, sitting about 70 kilometers north of Stockholm. It's Sweden's fourth largest city but still feels really manageable to explore on foot or by bike. The city is famous for housing Scandinavia's oldest university, Uppsala University, which was founded back in 1477 and gives the whole place a vibrant student atmosphere.
The skyline is dominated by the impressive Uppsala Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Scandinavia. It's a massive Gothic building that towers over everything else. The city is actually split by the Fyris River, with the historic part on one side featuring the cathedral and castle, while the other side has more modern development.
The city has some serious historical credentials. It was once the religious center of pagan Sweden and later became an important Christian site. Uppsala was actually Sweden's capital during the Viking era, which is pretty cool to think about while walking its streets. You can explore this history at Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala), an ancient site with burial mounds from the 5th and 6th centuries.
Swedish culture is strong here, from fika (coffee break) traditions in cozy cafés to seasonal festivals. The city comes alive in spring with locals enjoying the outdoors after the long winter. With its combination of student energy, historical significance, and classic Swedish charm, Uppsala offers a more relaxed alternative to Stockholm while still providing plenty to see and do.
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Things to do in Uppsala
Top things to do in Uppsala by www.planetware.com
Where to stay in Uppsala
Best hotels in Uppsala:
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Clarion Hotel Gillet (budget hotel)
The Clarion Hotel Gillet is just a short walk from the city's main sights like Uppsala Cathedral and Stora Torget square. The rooms have a modern Scandinavian style with smart TVs and comfy beds.
One of the best things about staying here is the breakfast - guests rave about the huge spread of options, from fresh pancakes to smoothies. There's also an on-site restaurant and bar called The Social that serves up international dishes with a Swedish twist.
If you need to unwind after a day of sightseeing, the hotel has a spa with hot tubs and saunas. The friendly staff get lots of praise for being helpful. Overall, it's a solid choice if you want a central location and good amenities in Uppsala.
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Hotel Villa Anna (luxury hotel)
Hotel Villa Anna is steps from the cathedral. The 19th century building has been lovingly restored, blending historic character with modern comforts. Rooms are individually designed with Swedish furniture and luxury beds, offering city views.
The on-site restaurant serves up traditional Swedish cuisine with a contemporary twist, using local and organic ingredients when possible. There's also an impressive wine cellar for pairing your meal. With its central location, you can easily walk to Uppsala's main sights and attractions.
While intimate in size, the hotel doesn't skimp on amenities. Free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars come standard in the rooms. The helpful 24-hour front desk staff can provide local recommendations. Overall, it's a stylish and comfortable base for exploring this historic university town.
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Grand Hotell Hörnan (medium range hotel)
Grand Hotell Hörnan is an old building from the early 1900s, just a short walk from the train station and main pedestrian street. The rooms have a classic feel with modern comforts like flat-screen TVs and free WiFi. Some even come with balconies overlooking the city.
The hotel has a cozy lobby bar where you can grab drinks and light bites. Their breakfast buffet gets rave reviews - it's served in a stylish dining room and has lots of options to choose from. Location-wise, it's hard to beat. You're steps away from Uppsala Cathedral and all the main sights.
Overall, it's a great pick if you want a central hotel with character. The staff are known for being super friendly and helpful too. Just keep in mind some rooms can be on the smaller side, which is pretty typical for older European hotels. But the prime location and historic charm more than make up for it.
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Best hostels in Uppsala:
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Vandrarhem Uppsala (hostel)
Vandrarhem Uppsala is a cozy hostel located in a quiet neighborhood, just a short walk from the city center. The rooms are simple but clean and comfortable, with options for both private and shared accommodations.
One of the best things about this place is the well-equipped shared kitchen. It's great for whipping up a quick meal or chatting with other travelers over coffee. The free WiFi is reliable too, which is always a plus when you're on the road.
The staff here are friendly and helpful. They can give you tips on the best local spots to check out in Uppsala. While it's not fancy, Vandrarhem Uppsala offers good value for budget-conscious travelers looking for a convenient home base to explore the city. Just keep in mind it can get a bit noisy at times with shared spaces.