Uppsala is a city that invites exploration on foot. Its compact layout, centuries-old buildings, and vibrant university atmosphere make it an ideal place for walking tours. Unlike larger cities, Uppsala’s rich history is packed into a walkable area, where you can soak up medieval cathedrals, Viking relics, and stories that stretch back over a thousand years. One of our favorites is the Uppsala: City Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour. With its expert guide, you’ll explore the majestic cathedral, lush botanical gardens, and the imposing Uppsala Castle, all while uncovering stories that weave the city’s myth and history seamlessly together. For those interested in a deeper dive, the private Uppsala Private Guided Walking Tour offers a personalized experience tailored to your interests, perfect for visitors wanting an intimate look at this historic university city.
Uppsala’s walking tours are a great way to understand the city’s layered past—from Vikings to royalty—without the hassle of transportation. Whether you prefer a quick overview or a detailed exploration, each tour offers a different window into Uppsala’s character. Our list below features a variety of options, from comprehensive highlights to niche interests like rune stones and Swedish lifestyle, so you can find the perfect fit for your visit.
1. Uppsala: City Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour
At number 1 on our list, this tour is a fantastic introduction to Uppsala’s grandeur and secrets. It lasts about 2.5 hours and covers the city’s most iconic sights, including the Uppsala Cathedral, the world’s largest church in Scandinavia, and Uppsala Castle with its military history and stunning views. The route also includes a visit to the Botanical Gardens where Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, spent time. What sets this tour apart is its blend of major landmarks and lesser-known spots, giving you a well-rounded perspective.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll hear about Uppsala’s Viking origins, myth-laden stories, and university traditions. The itinerary includes stops at Uppsala University and its historic buildings, as well as scenic canal views that capture the lively student spirit. With a 4.8-star rating from 8 reviews, travelers rave about the guide’s storytelling and depth of knowledge. At $134 per person, it’s a bit of an investment but offers a thorough and engaging experience that’s perfect for first-timers or history enthusiasts. If you want a comprehensive taste of Uppsala’s highlights, this tour is a top choice.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, historically rich walk with a local guide, ideal for those wanting to see the main sights and hear the stories behind them.
2. Uppsala Must See 2h city walk – 2h tour of all big attractions!
For around $105, the Uppsala Must See tour hits the mark for its brisk, rundown of Uppsala’s highlights in just 2 hours. Led by an experienced guide, this tour is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to tick off the city’s major landmarks. It begins outside the impressive Uppsala Cathedral, then moves on to Viking runestones in the university area, providing a tangible connection to Scandinavia’s Viking past.
The itinerary includes a walk past the Uppsala University Main Building and a visit to the Botanical Gardens, where you can appreciate the plant collections and historical significance. The tour also covers the dark secrets of Uppsala Castle, with stories of murder and intrigue that add a dash of drama to history. With a perfect 5-star rating from 3 reviews, this tour promises a lively, engaging experience. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a quick, rich overview without sacrificing detail.
Bottom Line: An efficient, well-paced tour that packs in Uppsala’s most iconic sights, ideal for those on a tight schedule or first visit.
3. Uppsala Private Guided Walking Tour
At number 3, this Private Guided Walking Tour offers flexibility and personalized attention over two hours. Known for its high ratings (5/5 from 2 reviews), this tour is perfect if you want a bespoke experience focused on your specific interests. The guide will take you through Gamla Uppsala, the ancient burial sites and mythic center of Scandinavian royalty, and highlight Uppsala’s grandeur with the cathedral and university.
Being a private tour, it’s ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore particular topics like Swedish nobility, botanical history, or university life. The tour’s versatility means it can be tailored for families, history buffs, or those seeking cultural insights. Although the price isn’t specified, the private format ensures a more intimate experience. This tour works well for travelers who value customization and in-depth storytelling.
Bottom Line: A flexible, personalized tour suited for those wanting a tailored experience with an expert guide.
4. City walk 1h – Runes and rune stones in Uppsala
If you’re fascinated by Vikings and runestones, the 1-hour Runes and Rune Stones walk is a great choice. Guided by a licensed Uppsala guide, this brief but enriching tour explores rune stones in the university park and around the cathedral, offering stories that illuminate Viking life and beliefs.
The route includes the Uppsala University Main Building and Uppsala Cathedral, where you’ll learn about the runestones embedded in these structures. The guide shares tales of the Viking Age, making this a perfect pick for history lovers or those with a keen interest in Norse mythology. The tour has received excellent reviews, with one reviewer noting, “Had a great insight into Uppsala and its past… our guide was very passionate and knowledgeable.” At just 1 hour and $93.52 per person, it’s an efficient way to connect with Uppsala’s ancient roots.
Bottom Line: Ideal for Viking enthusiasts or visitors short on time who want to learn about Scandinavia’s rune legacy.
5. Swedish Lifestyle and Private Walking Tour of Uppsala
For travelers interested in both history and modern Swedish life, this Private 3-hour tour offers a deep dive into Uppsala’s cultural scene. Priced at $136.72 for up to 8 people, it combines visits to main landmarks—the university, cathedral, and castle—with insights into contemporary life, such as urban development, gender equality, and eco-efforts.
Led by a local guide, this tour provides a personalized experience that can be tailored to your interests, making it suitable for families, couples, or small groups. The review highlights how even non-English speakers, such as Japanese travelers, enjoyed the tour, indicating its accessibility. The focus on modern culture alongside historic sites makes this a good choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded perspective.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a private, flexible tour that mixes history with insights into current Swedish society.
$136.72 per group (up to 8)
6. Uppsala’s biggest attractions – 1h city walk in Uppsala city
This quick, 1-hour tour offers a whirlwind visit to Uppsala’s key sights. Guided by an authorized guide, it includes the University Main Building, the Gustavianum Museum, and the Uppsala Cathedral. The route emphasizes architecture, historical stories, and the university’s influence, with stops at rune stones and the castle courtyard.
Rated 4.5/5 from 3 reviews, this tour is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to catch the essence of Uppsala. It’s a fast-paced overview, focusing on a variety of themes from the 12th century to the late 19th century. The tour is a good primer before exploring more on your own and offers practical insights into Uppsala’s evolution.
Bottom Line: A brief, lively introduction suited for visitors on a tight schedule or as a first taste of the city.
7. Best of Uppsala: Private Walking Tour with a Local
Finally, the Best of Uppsala provides a flexible, extended experience lasting anywhere from 2 to 6 hours. Led by a friendly local, the tour is customizable, highlighting favorite neighborhoods, hidden spots, and local stories. With a 3.8-star rating from 4 reviews, it appeals to travelers who want a relaxed, personalized exploration.
One reviewer especially appreciated how the guide showed her family a special spot connected to her parents’ university days, making it more meaningful. This tour is perfect for those who want to go beyond the standard sights and explore personal stories and local culture.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a tailored, leisurely experience with plenty of flexibility.
$55 per person
How to Choose the Right Uppsala Walking Tour
When selecting your Uppsala walking tour, consider your interest level, time available, and budget. For a detailed overview packed with history, the City Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour is a strong choice. If you’re pressed for time but want a broad snapshot, the Must See 2-hour walk offers great value. Want something more intimate? The Private Guided Tour or the Private Lifestyle Tour provide personalized experiences, perfect for families or couples. For Viking fans, the Runes and Rune Stones tour offers a fascinating connection to Scandinavia’s past.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, and check availability for tours with flexible timings. If you’re particularly interested in Viking history or university life, choose a tour that emphasizes those themes, and always read recent reviews for the latest insights.
To sum it up, Uppsala offers a variety of guided walks that cover its ancient roots, royal history, and modern culture. For the most comprehensive experience, the City Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour is hard to beat, while those with limited time might prefer the quick-paced Must See tour. If you want a personalized journey, the private options are excellent, especially for deeper engagement.
No matter which tour you pick, Uppsala’s walkable charm and storied streets reward curious explorers. Book your preferred experience ahead and enjoy discovering this Swedish treasure step by step.