Uppsala is a city that combines rich history, innovative culture, and stunning landscapes. It’s a place where you can explore Viking runestones, walk on castle rooftops, or explore modern digital art—all in one compact, walkable city. We particularly love the Stockholm Viking History Full Day Tour to Sigtuna + Uppsala for its deep dive into Viking heritage, especially with its visits to ancient runestones and reconstructed Viking bridges []. If you’re craving a thrill, the Roofwalking on the world’s greatest pink castle! offers a one-of-a-kind panoramic view of Uppsala Castle, guided safely along the castle roof []. For those interested in contemporary art, the Cube of Art Uppsala Museum of Interactive Art brings digital creativity to life with sensors that respond to every move [].
Quick Overview
Uppsala offers a variety of guided day trips, private walking tours, and unique experiences. You can learn about Viking history with full-day excursions, explore city highlights in short walks, or try adrenaline-pumping activities like roofwalking. The list includes cultural tours, such as the Uppsala: City Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour, perfect for discovering both the major sights and lesser-known spots. For a more interactive experience, check out the Uppsala Museum of Interactive Art, where digital art pieces react to your movements. And if adventure calls, the Uppsala Canoe Rental offers a peaceful paddle on Uppsala’s calm waters. No matter your interest, this list has something to make your visit memorable.
1. Stockholm Viking History Full Day Tour to Sigtuna + Uppsala
At number 1, this full-day guided trip from Stockholm combines Viking history with scenic drives and visits to historic towns. Experience 1000-year-old runestones, reconstructed Viking bridges, and ancient grave fields in Broby Bridge. The day includes walking tours in Sigtuna, Sweden’s oldest town, and Uppsala, famous for its cathedral and Viking relics. The tour runs around 8 to 9 hours and features stops with scenic views, cultural insights, and regional food. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides like Olof and Gustav for their engaging storytelling and authentic experience. The tour’s highlights include the Jarlabanke Bridge, Arkils Tingstad, and the Uppsala Cathedral, making it ideal for history enthusiasts who want a comprehensive Viking adventure. The value is excellent considering the depth of sites covered. Perfect for history buffs and those eager to see a broad swath of Swedish Viking heritage.
Bottom Line: An immersive, full-day experience that balances history, scenery, and local flavor—highly recommended for travelers wanting a deep dive into Sweden’s Viking past.
2. Roofwalking on the world’s greatest pink castle!
Number 2 on our list is the adrenaline-packed Roofwalking tour of Uppsala Castle. This 1.5-hour experience lets you walk on the castle’s roof, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Uppsala and its university town. The tour is small-group, with guides providing all safety equipment and instructions, so you can focus on the thrill and the landscape. This activity is perfect for those who enjoy adventure and unique perspectives—it’s the only tour that combines history, architecture, and daring in such a memorable way. The guides ensure safety at every step, making it accessible even for first-timers. Guests rave about the personalized attention and overall experience, describing it as “epic” and “safe.” The fee includes entrance to the castle and the professional guidance needed to conquer the climb.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a unique, fun-filled activity with incredible views, this roofwalk is one of the most memorable ways to see Uppsala Castle and its surroundings.
3. Uppsala: City Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour
Number 3 offers a lively 2.5-hour walking tour through Uppsala’s most iconic sights and secret spots. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore the majestic Uppsala Cathedral, Botanical Gardens, and Uppsala Castle. The tour emphasizes Uppsala’s ancient origins and its modern university vibe, with special attention to Carl Linnaeus’s botanical legacy. Guests enjoy the detailed storytelling, especially about the mythical stories behind the city’s sites. This tour ranks highly due to its personalized approach and comprehensive coverage of cultural and natural highlights. It’s suited for travelers wanting a well-rounded introduction to Uppsala’s history and its hidden corners. The price offers good value for a private-guided experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a rich history, scenic spots, and local insights packed into a single engaging walk.
4. Uppsala bloody history 1h- racial biology, 18th-century plague, 19th-century prostitution etc.
Number 4 is a rare look at Uppsala’s darker past. In just an hour, you’ll visit Svartbäcken, the Gustavianum Museum, and the Uppsala Cathedral to learn about racial biology experiments, the 18th-century plague, and the city’s 19th-century red-light district. This tour uncovers stories often left out of standard guides, focusing on the discipline of racial biology, executions, and social struggles. The guide’s detailed narration makes the complex topics accessible and compelling. The price reflects its focus on specialized history—a good fit for those interested in Sweden’s lesser-known, more controversial chapters. Reviews note that the guide’s engaging storytelling makes the dark history both informative and thought-provoking.
Bottom Line: For travelers curious about Sweden’s shadowy episodes, this tour offers an eye-opening, compact history lesson.
5. Cube of Art Uppsala Museum of Interactive Art
Number 5 is the interactive art experience housed in a striking black cube. This museum specializes in digital and laser art, where your movements influence the artwork’s colors, shapes, and sounds. Using lidar sensors, the art reacts to visitors, creating an engaging, almost sci-fi environment. The tour lasts about an hour and is perfect for tech lovers and art enthusiasts interested in the cutting edge of digital creativity. The guided experience emphasizes experimentation and interaction—a playful contrast to traditional museums. Reviews highlight the innovative setup and the chance to see digital art in a new light. Admission includes all technology and guidance, making it a good value for a tech-centric activity.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a modern, hands-on art experience that blends science and creativity in a futuristic setting.
6. Uppsala Must See 2h city walk – 2h tour of all big attractions!
Number 6 is a compact, two-hour guided walk covering Uppsala’s main sights. Led by a licensed guide, you’ll see Uppsala Cathedral, Uppsala Castle, and the university’s historical landmarks. The tour includes viking runestones and stories about murder at the castle, plus insights into local flora at the Botanical Gardens. It’s a perfect option for travelers short on time but wanting highlights. Guests appreciate the clear, engaging narration, especially when discussing Uppsala’s Viking roots. The tour offers good value considering the breadth of sights covered in such a brief period. It suits visitors who want a taste of everything without a long commitment.
Bottom Line: An efficient yet thorough intro to Uppsala’s top attractions—ideal for first-timers.
7. Uppsala Private Guided Walking Tour
Number 7 offers a personalized 2-hour private tour through Uppsala’s must-see spots. You’ll explore Gamla Uppsala, the University, and the cathedral, with a guide tailoring the experience to your interests. This tour is great for travelers who want a flexible, intimate exploration with customized content. Reviews mention the deep local knowledge and the opportunity to ask questions freely. The private format makes for a relaxed, personalized experience. The price is per group, making it a good value for families or couples. It’s perfect for those who want a more tailored, in-depth look at Uppsala.
Bottom Line: For a flexible, personal experience, this private tour offers the most customization and comfort.
8. City walk 1h – Runes and rune stones in Uppsala
Number 8 is a short one-hour guided walk focusing on Viking runestones. Led by an authorized guide, you visit rune stones in the university park and outside the cathedral, hearing stories of Viking Age life. It’s a perfect quick introduction for history lovers or families with limited time. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge bring the stones’ stories to life. Reviews commend the rich storytelling and the easy pace. The walk is best suited for those wanting a focused, brief Viking-themed experience.
Bottom Line: A quick, engaging way to discover Uppsala’s Viking past through its rune stones.
9. Uppsala Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour
Number 9 combines self-guided discovery with a fun scavenger hunt. Using your smartphone, you solve riddles that lead you to hidden spots and major attractions. It’s ideal for families or groups who prefer a flexible, interactive experience. The price is very affordable, and reviews praise the entertaining puzzles and learning opportunities. It’s perfect if you want to navigate Uppsala at your own pace, with a playful twist. The tour covers key sights like the university and old town, blending sightseeing with problem-solving.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, fun way to explore Uppsala independently with a bit of puzzle-solving.
10. Swedish Lifestyle and Private Walking Tour of Uppsala
Number 10 is a 3-hour private tour exploring both historic and contemporary Uppsala. Your guide shares insights about urban development, gender equality, and environmental efforts, alongside visits to the university, cathedral, and castle. The personalized approach suits travelers wanting a deeper understanding of Swedish culture today. Reviewers appreciate the tailored content and the opportunity to ask questions. The price per group makes it accessible, especially for those interested in modern Swedish life as well as historical landmarks.
Bottom Line: Best for those curious about how Uppsala blends its regal past with modern values.
$136.72 per group (up to 8)
11. Guided tour 90min at Old Uppsala mounds and old Uppsala church
Number 11 takes you on a 1.5-hour guided walk through Old Uppsala. Explore Vendel and Viking-era burial mounds, excavations, and the historic church. The guide shares stories about powerful early kings and recent archaeological discoveries. It’s suitable for history fans interested in Viking kings and burial sites. Guests praise the knowledgeable commentary and the opportunity to see ancient relics firsthand. The tour’s focus on archaeological insights makes it both educational and fascinating.
Bottom Line: A compact, detailed exploration of Old Uppsala’s archaeological treasures.
12. Adventure parc
Number 12 offers an outdoor adventure course in Fjällnora, outside Uppsala. The climbing and zipline activities are supervised and suitable for all skill levels. It’s perfect for families, friends, or active travelers looking for physical fun in the Scandinavian forests. The course has multiple ways to complete it, with all equipment provided. Reviewers call it a challenging yet safe experience. The activity lasts around 1.5 hours, making it an easy addition to your trip.
Bottom Line: A lively, physical activity designed for fun and challenge amid scenic nature, ideal for outdoor adventure seekers.
13. Uppsala’s biggest attractions – 1h city walk in Uppsala city
Number 13 is a short but informative guided walk focusing on Uppsala’s most famous landmarks, from the university to the cathedral. It highlights scenes of murder and intrigue at Uppsala Castle and discusses Viking roots. The tour is rapid but covers a lot, making it ideal for busy travelers. The guide’s engaging storytelling keeps the pace lively, and reviews highlight the interesting historical details.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, engaging snapshot of Uppsala’s key sites, especially if time is limited.
14. Best of Uppsala: Private Walking Tour with a Local
Number 14 emphasizes personalized attention in a flexible, 2-6 hour private tour. Your local guide helps uncover hidden corners, local favorites, and lesser-known stories of Uppsala. Reviewers mention deep knowledge and tailored content, including special visits like Norrlands Nation. Ideal for travelers wanting a customized, immersive experience with a friendly guide.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a private, tailored exploration that adapts to your interests, this is one of the best options.
$55 per person
15. Day Trip to Uppsala
Number 15 offers a full 7-hour guided day trip from Stockholm, including Botanical Gardens, Uppsala Cathedral, and Linnaeus Museum. It features guided tours and scenic walks, plus time for a lunch break. This is a great way to see Uppsala’s highlights in a comfortable, structured way. The reviews note its balanced itinerary and knowledgeable guides. It’s best suited for those preferring a pre-arranged, all-inclusive day.
Bottom Line: An efficient way to experience Uppsala’s must-see sights comfortably, especially for travelers with limited time.
16. Uppsala: Canadian Canoe Rental
Number 16 offers a relaxing canoe rental experience—perfect for families or couples seeking peaceful paddling in Uppsala’s calm waters. Paddles, life jackets, and multiple pick-up locations make it easy to enjoy. Dogs are welcome, making it a great pet-friendly activity. The rental lasts three hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy Uppsala’s lakes and rivers at your own pace.
Bottom Line: For a quiet, scenic outing in nature, renting a canoe provides a relaxing, family-friendly escape.
How to Choose Your Perfect Uppsala Tour
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, schedule, and travel style. If you love history and Viking lore, the full-day Viking tour or the Rune stones walk are perfect. For adventurers, the castle roofwalk or the adventure park will satisfy your craving for adrenaline. Those interested in culture and contemporary life should consider the private walking tour or the interactive art experience. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the self-guided scavenger hunt or canoe rental Uppsala Canoe Rental.
Book early, especially for popular activities like roofwalking or private tours, to secure your spot. Think about how much time you have—whether a quick 1-hour walk or a full day trip—and match your choice to your interests. For example, history buffs will appreciate the full Viking tour, while families with kids may prefer the adventure park or canoe rental.
Uppsala offers a wide range of engaging experiences that suit every traveler. For those craving history, the Stockholm Viking History Full Day Tour or the Old Uppsala guided tour provide in-depth insights. For adventure lovers, the castle roofwalk and adventure park bring active fun. And for modern art fans, the Cube of Art pushes boundaries with interactive exhibits.
No matter what you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable Uppsala experiences. Start planning your trip today—you’ll find this city offers more than just a pretty skyline.