Discover Uppsala – completely free

Historical sites and nature experiences

Uppsala Cathedral

Uppsala Cathedral is not only the largest church in the Nordic region but also one of Sweden’s most important historical landmarks. With its 118.7-meter-high towers dominating the skyline, it’s a must-see for any visitor. Here rest Gustav Vasa and several other Swedish monarchs, and the cathedral has served as the seat of the Archbishop of Sweden since the 1430s. Don’t miss Saint Erik’s shrine and the magnificent rose windows! All of this can be experienced – completely free of charge.

Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala)

Gamla Uppsala is one of Sweden’s most fascinating historical sites, known for its great burial mounds and connections to the Viking Age. A walk among the ancient remains feels like stepping back into Norse history. It’s also a perfect spot for a picnic or an educational outing with the family.

The Botanical Garden

Right in the heart of Uppsala lies the Botanical Garden – a green oasis where you can wander among beautiful flowerbeds and greenhouses. In summer, the garden bursts with life and color, while winter offers a peaceful, relaxing landscape for a quiet stroll.

Free Cultural experiences

Biotopia

Biotopia is a natural history museum where visitors of all ages can explore the wildlife of Uppland through interactive exhibitions and fun activities. Children can take part in hands-on crafts, experiments, and sometimes guided nature walks in Vasaparken. During school holidays, themed weeks with extra activities and creative workshops are arranged. And the best part? Admission is always free!

Extend your visit with a picnic in Vasaparken and enjoy the beautiful nature surrounding the museum.

Uppsala Art Museum

Located in Uppsala Castle, the Uppsala Art Museum offers a wide range of exhibitions featuring both contemporary and classical art. The museum spans several floors, with regularly changing displays that include painting, sculpture, installation, and video art. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious to discover something new, there’s something here for every taste. After your visit, don’t miss the stunning panoramic view of the city from the castle grounds.

Uppsala Castle History Museum

The Uppsala Castle History Museum takes you on a journey through the castle’s dramatic past – from medieval fortress to royal residence and modern cultural venue. Through interactive exhibitions and historical artifacts, you’ll discover the stories of the people and events that shaped both the castle and the city of Uppsala.

The museum is located inside Uppsala Castle and can easily be combined with a visit to the Uppsala Art Museum.

Carolina Rediviva

In the heart of Uppsala stands Carolina Rediviva, Sweden’s oldest university library, where you can visit a free exhibition filled with historical treasures. Here you’ll find the Silver Bible – one of the world’s most famous manuscripts from the 6th century – written in silver and gold letters on purple parchment. In addition to this unique work, you can see rare maps, medieval manuscripts, and historical letters that offer a fascinating glimpse into both Swedish and global history.

Summer delights

Stadsträdgården (The City Garden)

A visit to Stadsträdgården is a must during summer. Here, flowers, fountains, and lush trees come together in a green oasis right in the city center. The park offers scenic walking paths, playgrounds, and cozy cafés – perfect for a picnic, a moment of rest, or some time in the sun. On warm evenings, concerts and events often take place, turning the park into a lively meeting spot for both locals and visitors.

Walk along the River Fyris

A stroll along the River Fyris is one of the most relaxing ways to experience Uppsala in summer. The river winds through the heart of the city, surrounded by green parks, historic buildings, and charming cafés. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop for a break – perhaps for an ice cream or a picnic by the water. Whether you’re walking alone, with friends, or with family, the River Fyris is a wonderful place to enjoy both nature and city life!

Swimming spots in Uppsala

When the temperature rises, a refreshing swim is a must! Uppsala offers several great swimming spots where you can enjoy the sun and the water. Whether you’re looking to swim, have a picnic on the beach, or simply relax, there’s something for everyone. Learn more about Uppsala’s swimming areas here.

Uppsala Summer Zone

As an initiative to promote active lifestyles among children and youth, the Uppsala Summer Zone is held every summer at the Studenternas bandy field. Since its launch in 2021, this 6,360-square-meter activity area has become a favorite among both kids and adults. There’s something here for everyone – whether you want to play sports, join in on games, or just hang out with friends!

Winter activities

Sledding

Sledding is a classic winter favorite for families and playful adults alike. Uppsala offers several great hills for fun and speedy adventures. Sunnerstagropen, located about eight kilometers south of the city center, has a large slope perfect for sledding. Hammarskog Nature Reserve is another great option for sledding enthusiasts. If you’re looking for something closer to the city, Slottsbacken – just below Uppsala Castle – is a popular choice.

Ice skating

When the weather allows, there are several outdoor ice rinks to choose from in Uppsala. Around the city, you’ll find maintained rinks at schools, sports fields, and parks. At Studenternas, you can enjoy public skating sessions. The municipality also clears skating tracks on the lakes at Björklinge, Fjällnora, and Hammarskog outdoor recreation areas. You can check the latest ice conditions on each recreation area’s Facebook page.

Cross-country skiing

For those who love cross-country skiing, Uppsala offers several beautiful trails. Some of the most popular ones are located at Sunnerstaåsen and Fjällnora recreation areas, where you can combine nature, exercise, and winter tranquility. The tracks are well maintained and suitable for both beginners and more experienced skiers.

Rent and borrow equipment – completely free

Fritidsbanken

Want to try one of these activities but don’t have the right gear? At Fritidsbanken, you can borrow sports and leisure equipment completely free of charge. It could be anything from skis and skates to football boots or a floorball stick. Most of the equipment is second-hand but well maintained and in good condition. In Uppsala, Fritidsbanken is a collaboration between the Uppland Sports Federation, Region Uppsala, SISU Sports Educators, and Uppsala Municipality.

You’ll find Fritidsbanken at two locations in Uppsala – in Industristaden and Gottsunda.

Discover Uppsala’s Mouse Houses

The Mouse Houses of Uppsala

Uppsala hides tiny magical worlds in the form of mouse houses, created by artists Jekaterina Pertoft and Zilmara Suarez. Each mouse house tells its own story, turning the city into a delightful adventure for visitors of all ages.

Along Svartbäcksgatan, you’ll find three of these charming creations: Mus-sala Station, a tiny mouse train station complete with suitcases and tracks; Mus-sala’s Annual Rafting Event, a playful tribute to Uppsala’s Valborg celebrations where mice float down the river on miniature rafts; and The Cheese Mystery of Mus-sala, an exciting adventure filled with cheesy clues.

At Smedsgränd 2, you’ll find The Mouse Bakery, a cozy little scene where miniature loaves and pastries bring the mice’s bakery world to life.

Inside Uppsala Cathedral, near the Kids Corner, the church mice have moved in. Zilmara Suarez has created two miniature dioramas that depict their lives within the cathedral’s grand and historic setting.