Got some spare time during your visit to Uppsala and want to hit two birds with one stone? Lacing up your running shoes is not only a great way to stay in shape—it’s also the perfect way to explore your surroundings! Uppsala is an exceptionally runner-friendly city, even in the heart of downtown. That’s why we want to highlight some of Uppsala’s most scenic jogging routes, where it’s worth looking up from the pavement every now and then.

City Sightseeing Route

One of the great advantages of visiting Uppsala is that almost all of its major landmarks are within walking distance in the city center. That means you can check them all off your list—at least from the outside—while on your run!

We recommend starting at S:t Eriks Torg, where you’ll be greeted by the towering Uppsala Cathedral and catch a glimpse of The Market Hall and the Uppland County Museum, both beautifully situated along the Fyris River. From here, head uphill along Akademigatan, keeping an eye out to your right for Gustavianum, one of Uppsala’s oldest preserved buildings. It’s hard to miss with its impressive anatomical theater perched on the roof.

Continue along Biskopsgatan toward the University Main Building, constructed in 1887, which has since been the hub of Uppsala’s academic culture. If possible, step inside to admire the grand entrance hall and auditorium. Behind the University Main Building, Övre Slottsgatan—also known as Övre Slotts—runs through the charming old town.

Soon, you’ll arrive at the cozy Vasaparken, home to the striking building Vasahuset, painted entirely in blue. In the middle of the park, you’ll find Biotopia, an interactive museum that makes science fun and engaging for kids and young explorers. Continue past the Old Cemetery until you reach English Park (Humanities Center) and library Carolina Rediviva, two more iconic spots in Uppsala’s academic landscape.

Pass by the fantastic Peter No-Tail playground before stepping inside the Botanical Garden, where you can marvel at the grand Baroque Garden and the 200-year-old Orangery. But the best part is still ahead! On the hill above, you’ll reach the highlight of your run: Uppsala Castle. Climb the stairs up to the castle, then finish your route in the lush City Garden (Stadsträdgården) before heading back to the cathedral.

Running Along the Fyris River

Curious about what lies beyond the city center? Running along the Fyris River, whether north or south, offers soft terrain, varied scenery, and beautiful riverside nature.

If you head north, you’ll soon reach Fyrishov’s adventure water park. Take a detour through the Tunakolonin, a lush community garden, and wave to the canoeists paddling toward Librobäck.

Heading south offers a completely different experience. First, you’ll pass through the bustling City Garden, running past the newly built Studenternas football stadium. After crossing under Kungsängsleden, the inviting avenues, parks, apple orchards, and cultivated fields of Ulleråker unfold before you. Take a break at the outdoor gym for some strength training. Keep an eye out for focused birdwatchers scanning the Uppsala Kungsäng nature reserve on the other side of the river. Still have energy left? Keep running all the way to the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU)—it’s worth the effort!

Röbo & Gamla Uppsala Hills Route

Looking for a longer running route in Uppsala with a countryside feel? Head north from Fyrishov until you reach Domarringen’s disc golf course. From there, take the tunnel under Bärbyleden and continue through the forest toward Röbo, where several scenic running trails extend in different directions. There’s also a modern outdoor gym if you want to mix in some strength exercises.

In the distance, you’ll spot your final destination: Gamla Uppsala, one of Sweden’s most significant historical sites. Cross the open fields and make your way to the Gamla Uppsala burial mounds, a mystical place where history meets nature—a perfect grand finale to your run.