Discover the city’s hidden gems on two wheels!

Best in class on two wheels

If anyone’s missed that Uppsala is a true cycling city, it certainly isn’t Cykelfrämjandet, Sweden’s national cycling association. For years, the municipality has ranked near the top of the country’s best cycling cities — and in 2018, Uppsala proudly took first place on the Kommunvelometern list. To earn this ultimate two-wheeled honour, the city has invested in expanding its network of fast cycle routes and ensuring bike paths are properly ploughed and sanded during winter.

Below, we’ve listed four great cycling excursions in and around Uppsala. Each one is designed as a day trip, with cycling times ranging from about 30 minutes to just over an hour from the central station, one way. Need to rent a bike? Ski Total on Dragarbrunnsgatan is just a short walk from the station.

1. Ulva Kvarn – a craft haven by the river

Cycling time: 35 minutes

Northwest of central Uppsala, cyclists are rewarded with a scenic retreat at Ulva Kvarn, a creative hub for artisans and craftspeople. Over 30 years ago, a group of local artists dreamed of a shared space where they could work and create together. With support from the municipality, they discovered the charming old mill buildings at Ulva — and just a year later, the first workshop had opened its doors.

Today, Ulva Kvarn is a vibrant mix of creativity and craftsmanship, featuring everything from a Croatian restaurant and a silversmith to the original workshop, Glashyttan Ulven. After browsing the shops and studios, stop for a traditional fika at Café Ulva Kvarn — the perfect treat after a refreshing dip in the beautiful stretch of the Fyris River that flows nearby.

2. Linnaeus’ Hammarby – a breath of fresh air from the 18th century

Cycling time: 40 minutes

About 13 kilometres outside the city lies a blooming oasis far from the noise and fumes of urban life — Linnaeus’ Hammarby. That’s certainly how Carl Linnaeus saw it. He bought the Hammarby estate, located in the small Uppland village of Danmark (yes, that’s really its name), to escape Uppsala’s unhealthy air and constant commotion. Here, he created his own peaceful world, far from the distractions of city life. In addition to a botanical garden, he also built a stone museum — now known as Linnaeus’ Natural History Museum.

In 1879, the estate was purchased by the Swedish state and today serves as both a cultural reserve and museum, offering a unique glimpse into Linnaeus’ life — showcasing him both as a scientist and as a private individual. Spend a lovely spring or summer day here, marvelling at the beautiful estate and Linnaeus’ preserved collections. Wander through the meadows and hop gardens cultivated using historical methods, or simply relax with a slice of cake from the café in the orchard.

3. Fjällnora – the outdoor paradise for adventurers and bon vivants

Cycling time: 1 hour 15 minutes

For the truly energetic, a slightly longer ride out to Fjällnora is well worth the effort. The journey may take a bit of stamina, but after about 75 minutes of pedalling, you’ll arrive at a recreational area that has it all. Dive straight into the lake from the jetty, try your hand at fishing for your own lunch, enjoy a bite at the café, wander along one of the scenic hiking trails, or find a quiet glade to relax with a good book.

Those seeking a challenge can tackle the adventure course, which lets you climb and swing high among the treetops. Prefer water to heights? Canoes are available for rent. Families with young children will love the beautiful nature playground, perfect for play and exploration. And in winter, Fjällnora transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering ski, skate, and kicksled rentals for a perfect day out in the crisp air.

4. Fullerö Backar – a rock-solid excursion destination

Cycling time: 35 minutes

If you take a map of Uppsala and draw a straight line north from the central station, you’ll likely hit Fullerö Backar — that’s how directly north this nature reserve lies. Once you’ve cycled there, you’ll find not only a peaceful, flower-filled green space along the Fyris River, but also an impressive burial field dating back to the Iron Age.

The site features several striking stone formations, most notably around fifty circular stone settings placed along the ridge’s highest points. So pack your picnic basket, take in the scent of lily of the valley and wood anemone, and feel the presence of both history and the beating wings of migrating birds.

Here you’ll find more tips for cycling routes around Uppsala:

• Åstråken
• Cycle around Uppsala