The Best of Uppsala: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Uppsala , Sweden

The Best of Uppsala: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

(4 reviews)

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Uppsala is a city of drama and mystery, where every landmark hides a secret from the past. On this walking tour, you’ll walk in the footsteps of royals like Queen Catherine Jagiellon and scientists like Carl von Linne. Their remarkable stories demonstrate how this Swedish city is a hub of innovation.

The tour begins in front of the gate to Linnaeus Garden – the country’s oldest botanical garden. You’ll see Uppsala Cathedral, where you’ll hear turbulent stories about royals and discover how the Sture Murders changed the course of Swedish history and paved the way for a new era of kings.

As you continue your walk, you’ll pass a small medieval church, the grand Uppsala University Library, and the Royal Gardens on your way to Uppsala Castle. The tour finishes at a magnificent city viewpoint outside the castle.

By the end of this tour, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for Uppsala – a city of royals, scholars, and enduring legends that shaped Sweden into what it is today.

Available options

The Best of Uppsala: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

This self-guided audio tour begins in front of the gate to Linnaeus Garden – the country’s oldest botanical garden.

You'll cross over the Jarnbron bridge and hear about student traditions that are still practised to this day.

As you stroll through the Old Town’s charming streets along the Fyris River, you’ll learn about Carl von Linne’s unlikely journey to becoming a famous botanist, and hear the quirky tale of how Uppsala University was founded.

On this tour, you'll have an opportunity to touch Runic Inscription 489, a real Viking-age stone artifact.

You’ll see Uppsala Cathedral, where you’ll hear turbulent stories about royals and discover how the Sture Murders changed the course of Swedish history and paved the way for a new era of kings.

As you continue your walk, you’ll pass Helga Trefaldighets Kyrka (a small medieval church), the grand Uppsala University Library, and the Royal Gardens on your way to Uppsala Castle.

On this tour, you'll have a chance to admire the Castle’s Gunilla Bell, which was used to communicate with citizens on the Bastion Styrbiskop.

Stop 10 Pass by

The tour finishes at a magnificent city viewpoint outside the castle, where you can learn about modern Uppsala’s strong science and innovation scene.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Food and drink

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour starts at Linnaeus Garden. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Uppsala

Uppsala is a historic university city in central Sweden, known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant student life, and stunning architecture. It's home to the tallest church in Scandinavia, a world-renowned cathedral, and a bustling academic scene.

Top Attractions

Uppsala Cathedral

Uppsala Cathedral is the tallest church in Scandinavia and a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It's a significant religious site and a symbol of Uppsala's rich history.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours 120 SEK (adult ticket)

Gustavianum

Gustavianum is Uppsala's oldest building and houses a museum with a diverse collection of artifacts, including anatomical exhibits, archaeological finds, and historical artifacts.

Museum 1-2 hours 100 SEK (adult ticket)

Fyrishov

Fyrishov is a large recreational center with a water park, swimming pools, sports facilities, and a spa. It's a great place for families and those looking for indoor activities.

Entertainment/Adventure 2-4 hours Free entry (costs vary for specific activities)

Uppsala University Botanic Garden

The Uppsala University Botanic Garden is a beautiful and serene place to explore a wide variety of plants and flowers. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or picnic.

Nature 1-2 hours Free entry (greenhouse requires a small fee)

Linnaeus Garden

Linnaeus Garden is a historic botanical garden dedicated to Carl Linnaeus, the famous Swedish botanist. It showcases plants that were studied and cultivated by Linnaeus himself.

Historical/Nature 1-2 hours Free entry (museum requires a small fee)

Gamla Uppsala

Gamla Uppsala is an ancient site with Viking-era burial mounds, a historic church, and a museum. It's a fascinating place to learn about Sweden's Viking heritage.

Historical/Archaeological 1-2 hours Free entry (museum requires a small fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Swedish Meatballs

A classic Swedish dish consisting of ground meat (usually beef and pork) mixed with breadcrumbs, milk, onions, and spices, served with lingonberry jam, mashed potatoes, and cream sauce.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy. Vegetarian and vegan versions are available at some restaurants.

Surströmming

A traditional Swedish fermented fish dish, usually served with potatoes, sour cream, and onions. It's known for its strong smell and pungent taste.

Snack Contains fish and dairy. Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Kanelbullar

Cinnamon buns are a popular Swedish treat, often enjoyed with coffee. They are sweet, spiced, and sometimes filled with cinnamon and cardamom.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy. Vegan and gluten-free versions are available at some cafes.

Gravlax

A Nordic dish consisting of raw salmon, cured in salt, sugar, and dill. It's typically served with mustard sauce, bread, and sometimes potatoes.

Appetizer Contains fish and gluten. Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Hiking and biking in the surrounding countryside Swimming and fishing in nearby lakes Visiting historic sites and museums Enjoying a coffee break (fika) at a cozy café Strolling through the city's parks and gardens Shopping for local crafts and souvenirs Exploring Uppsala Cathedral and other historic sites Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and numerous festivals and outdoor activities. It's the best time to explore the city's parks, gardens, and outdoor attractions.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Swedish
Widely spoken: English, German, French
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Swedish Krona (SEK)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Uppsala is generally a safe and welcoming destination for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is uncommon but can occur in crowded areas and on public transport. Exercise normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night or in isolated areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and always check the fare before starting your journey

Getting there

By air

Stockholm Arlanda Airport • 20 km north of Uppsala

By train

Uppsala Central Station

By bus

Uppsala Central Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and user-friendly, with frequent services and clear signage. Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Uppsala.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Uppsala

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Flogsta Kvarngarden Svartbäck

Day trips

Stockholm

70 km • Full day

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a diverse range of attractions. It's a perfect day trip from Uppsala.

Sigtuna

35 km • Half day

Sigtuna is a charming and historic town with a rich Viking heritage, cobblestone streets, and beautiful churches. It's a great place to explore Sweden's medieval past.

Märsta

25 km • Half day

Märsta is a picturesque town surrounded by beautiful nature, including forests, lakes, and hiking trails. It's a great place to escape the city and enjoy the Swedish countryside.

Festivals

Uppsala Medieval Festival • August Uppsala International Short Film Festival • October Uppsala Regatta • June

Pro tips

Visit Uppsala Cathedral early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the beautiful light and atmosphere
Explore the city's parks and gardens, such as the Uppsala University Botanic Garden and the Linnaeus Garden, for a peaceful and relaxing experience
Take advantage of Uppsala's vibrant student culture by visiting local cafes, bars, and restaurants, which often offer affordable and delicious food and drink
Use public transport, such as buses and trains, to get around the city and save money on taxis and parking
Consider purchasing a Uppsala Card or similar pass for discounted entry to attractions and unlimited public transport