Country Vacations & Resorts

Destination “U” took a bit of research.

I initially wanted to do a post on “Uncle Sam, Louisiana” to mark the (then) upcoming United States 4th of July holiday, but information was not forthcoming. So, off we head to Uppsala, Sweden…I doubt we’ll be disappointed.

Uppsala, with its 180,000 residents, is the fourth largest city in Sweden. Located approximately 70km (45 miles) north of the nation’s capital of Stockholm, the Uppsala Municipality is home to Uppsala University. Founded in 1477, this world-class university is the oldest in Scandanavia.

Uppsala Cathedral

This scenic town is neatly divided by the Fyris River. On the west side is the historic quarter, dominated by the cathedral, and to the east of the river are the the administrative, residential and commercial areas. The cathedral, (Domkyrka), is the final resting place of the 15th century King of Sweden, Gustav Vasa, and his three wives. There is also a memorial in the cathedral to Dag Hammarskjöld, the only posthumous winner of the Nobel Peace Prize and former Secretary-General to the United Nations.

Uppsala Castle
Photo: David Castor

King Gustav began work on this remarkable castle in 1549. Castle remodeling and expansion continued through to the 1702 fire that nearly destroyed it. Although much of its original stone was used to build Stockholm Palace, this castle has been rebuilt in a French classical style and is now home to the Uppsala Art Museum. Tours are available February through June. Visit here for further details. Get additional information about Stockholm Palace, the world’s largest Royal Castle, here.

Climate and Seasons…

To be seen at its peak, plan your visit to Uppsala in late Spring or Summer. Average July temperatures are a pleasant 72 degrees Farenheit (22C). Although pollen can be an issue, take some allergy medication and see the scenic streets, rivers, and Botanical Gardens at their finest. Winter visits to Uppsala will be rather cold and possibly snowy, but a visit to Sweden for the Yuletide season would certainly be a unique travel experience. January temperatures hover right around freezing at 32 degrees Farenheit – a “do-able” temperature for cool weather travel.

If your travel schedule permits, don’t miss a chance to visit Sweden and Uppsala on Walpurgis Night. This festival, held April 30th and May 1st, is the country’s welcome to Spring – with dancing and bonfires – and a chance to eat, drink, and welcome the coming warm weather.

Getting there and getting around…

Although Uppsala has no airport of its own, getting there is relatively easy through Arlanda International Airport, located at the halfway point between Uppsala and Stockholm. From there, buses, trains, taxis and rental cars are all available. Some airlines may use Skavska or Västerås airports so double-check your arrival port before scheduling additional transportation.

Uppsala itself is a cycle-friendly city, sometimes known as “Bike Town,” and once you’ve arrived there, you just might decide to rent a bike to really see all this city has to offer. Although this city has numerous bike paths and lanes, pay attention to traffic patterns and lock your bike! Buses and taxis are also readily available.

Uppsala is a peaceful yet energetic city and deserves this spot on our Destination Wishes “U” travel tour.