Viking History, Fika & Countryside 9h Tour to Sigtuna & Uppsala

Exploring Scandinavia’s Viking Past: Sigtuna & Uppsala in a Day

If you’re craving a day trip that combines history, stunning scenery, and authentic Swedish culture, the Viking History, Fika & Countryside 9-hour tour is just the ticket. For $279.66 per person, you’ll journey beyond Stockholm’s city buzz into the Swedish countryside, exploring legendary sites like Sigtuna and Uppsala, with a knowledgeable guide like Olaf or Gabriel leading the way. You’ll visit ancient graves, see rune stones, walk along reconstructed Viking causeways, and marvel at historic churches—all in a comfortably air-conditioned vehicle.

What we love most about this tour is how it makes the Viking era come alive through well-preserved sites and engaging storytelling. Plus, the scenic drives through lush landscapes and the chance to enjoy a traditional fika or coffee break make it feel like a true Scandinavian adventure. The only aspect to keep in mind is that it’s a full day, so some walking and early starts are involved—ideal if you’re eager to pack a lot into one day.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and curious travelers who want more than just a quick overview of Stockholm. If you’re interested in Viking legends, ancient runestones, and the roots of Scandinavian culture, you’ll find this trip both educational and inspiring. It’s particularly well-reviewed for guides who bring the sites to life with stories and insights.

Key Points

• In-depth Viking sites: Visit and learn about runestones, graves, and assembly sites like Arkils Tingstad.
• Expert guidance: Guides like Olaf or Gabriel are praised for their knowledge and storytelling ability.
• Convenient transportation: Hotel pickup within 3 km of Stockholm Central makes logistics easy.
• Cultural immersion: Includes a walking tour of Sigtuna, Sweden’s oldest town, and visits to historic churches and burial mounds.
• Beautiful scenery: Scenic drives through the Swedish countryside and views from Uppsala Castle.
• Flexible options: Coffee or fika can be added, and there’s free time for exploring towns on your own.

A Thorough Look at the Viking History, Fika & Countryside Tour

The Essentials

Starting at 9:00 am, this tour offers a full day of exploration, with transportation from your Stockholm hotel or port. The small group size—up to 19 travelers—ensures a personalized and engaging experience. You’ll spend approximately nine hours covering several key Viking sites, combining walking, driving, and storytelling.

The cost of around $280 includes expert guides, transportation, and entrance fees to sites. Food and drink, including the option for a traditional Swedish ‘fika’, are add-ons, giving flexibility for your preferences. The tour is designed for most travelers, with comfortable walking shoes recommended, and it often books about 53 days in advance.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Broby Bro is your first stop, where Viking runestones and graves shed light on family life and burial customs. Here, you’ll see the messages carved into stones in Old Norse, which have survived for over a thousand years. Many reviews, like Walter_B’s, praise the guide’s passion and knowledge, making this site a standout.

Next, you’ll walk across Jarlabanke’s Causeway, built by a Viking chieftain. The reconstructed bridge and the stories behind it reveal how power and society were organized in Viking times. Robinflion appreciated this stop for its historical context and the feeling of walking upon history.

Arkils Tingstad offers a rare glimpse into Viking democracy and law. This well-preserved assembly site (or “thing”) allows you to imagine Viking leaders gathering here to decide on disputes. The lakeside views and Viking ships’ stories are highlights, with many visitors commenting on how visualizing Viking society becomes easier here.

A brief visit to the St. Olof Church ruins introduces you to a story of Viking king Olof, showcasing the transition from pagan to Christian Scandinavia. The ruins date from around 1120 AD, and the story of Olof adds a layer of royal drama to your day.

Sigtuna, Sweden’s oldest town, is the next stop, where you’ll join a walking tour of charming wooden streets. The town is so picturesque that locals and Swedes alike visit for holidays. Here, you can enjoy a break for fika (if upgraded) and explore on your own—perfect for those who love blending guided insights with free time.

In Gamla Uppsala, you’ll encounter the largest burial mounds in Sweden—about 10 meters high and over 50 meters across—offering a tangible connection to pre-Christian royal power. The site’s archaeological importance and ancient stories are frequently praised by visitors.

Finally, the tour visits Uppsala’s historic district, featuring the Uppsala Domkyrka (Cathedral), which dates back to the late Middle Ages, and the Uppsala Castle, perched on a hill with commanding views of the city. The castle’s history is marked by drama and intrigue, making it a fitting end to your Viking journey.

The Value of the Experience

Throughout the day, your guides—like Gabriel or Olaf—bring Viking history to life with engaging stories and insights, as many reviews reflect. Visitors consistently mention how knowledgeable and approachable the guides are, making complex history accessible and fun. The small group size ensures your questions are welcomed, and the pacing feels just right—not rushing through sites but allowing plenty of time to absorb each story.

Transportation is smooth and comfortable, with air-conditioned vehicles making the long drives between sites pleasant. The scenic routes through Swedish landscapes allow you to relax and enjoy the views, often highlighted as one of the tour’s most enjoyable features.

You’ll find that the sites visited are carefully chosen for their historical significance and visual appeal. From ancient runestones to royal burial mounds and medieval churches, this tour offers a layered understanding of Viking and early Swedish history.

The Authenticity and Educational Value

Many guests comment on the authenticity of the sites visited—standing on the reconstructed Viking causeway or peering into the graves of Viking women, like Estrid, the only Viking woman skeleton identified in Sweden. The stories about Viking law, exploration, and society give depth to the ruins, moving beyond surface-level history.

The inclusion of free time in Sigtuna allows you to soak in the atmosphere or enjoy local cafes, while the optional fika upgrade offers a chance to savor traditional Swedish treats. This balance of guided learning and personal exploration appeals to a wide range of travelers.

Tour Logistics and Practicalities

For about $280, the tour offers significant value—covering transportation, expert guides, key sites, and a comprehensive narrative in one engaging day. It’s ideal for those who want a meaningful overview of Viking history without the hassle of planning individual trips.

The tour operates with a minimum of three participants, ensuring a more intimate experience, but it can get canceled if numbers are too low. Booking well in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a history buff eager to see Viking sites firsthand, this tour will satisfy your curiosity. The storytelling approach makes the past feel alive, appealing especially to travelers who enjoy culture. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate scenic drives and want to see a slice of Swedish countryside.

While the tour is comprehensive, it’s best for those with good mobility and a genuine interest in history—families with young children might find it a bit lengthy, but older children and teens who love legends and archaeology often enjoy it.

In short, it’s perfect if you want a well-rounded, engaging, and authentic Viking experience with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from any Stockholm hotel within 3 km of Stockholm Central Station.

How long is the transfer time?
Transfer times are approximately included in the tour duration, but exact times depend on traffic and location.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as there will be walking at sites and some uneven terrain.

Can I buy fika during the tour?
Yes, fika (a coffee and snack break) can be added as an upgrade, enhancing the experience with traditional Swedish treats.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but can be purchased during the free time in Sigtuna. You can also upgrade to include a meal.

What sites are included in the tour?
Sites include Viking runestones at Broby, Jarlabanke’s causeway, Arkils Tingstad assembly site, St. Olof church ruins, Sigtuna town, Gamla Uppsala burial mounds, Uppsala Cathedral, and Uppsala Castle.

How many people typically join this tour?
Up to 19 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience with personalized attention.

What’s the best way to book?
It’s recommended to book at least several weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons, via the provider’s website or trusted platforms like Viator.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and general physical activity.

What if the tour is canceled?
If the minimum number of participants isn’t met, the tour may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or alternative date.

To sum it up, the Viking History, Fika & Countryside tour offers a rich, well-structured day for anyone interested in Scandinavian Viking roots. With expert guides, scenic drives, and preserved sites, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for Viking culture and its lasting influence on Sweden. It’s a perfect choice for history lovers who want meaningful, authentic experiences outside the city, and who enjoy storytelling combined with beautiful landscapes.