Viking History and Swedish Countryside Tour to Sigtuna & Uppsala

Discover Sweden’s Viking Heritage and Medieval Charm on a Day Trip from Stockholm

This full-day tour offers an engaging journey through Swedish Viking history and medieval sites. For $257.08 per person, you’ll spend approximately nine hours traveling in comfort between iconic locations like Uppsala, Sigtuna, and ancient Viking ruins. Led by an experienced guide, this trip is perfect for those curious about Sweden’s past, with highlights including runic stones, Viking parliaments, burial mounds, and charming old towns.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience: First, the depth of historical insight provided by guides who really know their stuff—many reviews commend guides like Urban for being both knowledgeable and entertaining. Second, the scenic countryside views that make the journey memorable, not just the destinations.

A minor consideration is the length of the day—it runs close to nine hours—so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full schedule and outdoor exploration. If you love history, architecture, and picturesque towns, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that makes it easy to see why many travelers book it 54 days in advance.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about Viking culture, visiting medieval churches, and strolling through historic towns, this trip will suit you perfectly. It’s especially popular among history buffs and those wanting a comprehensive look at Sweden’s roots, but it’s also designed to be accessible for most.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Viking and medieval sites in one full-day experience
• Expert guides who bring history to life with engaging stories
• Scenic countryside views between destinations
• Visits to Uppsala, Sigtuna, and Viking archaeological sites
• Includes transportation and hotel pickup, making logistics easy
• Long day, so good footwear and energy are recommended

An In-Depth Look at the Viking History and Swedish Countryside Tour

If you’re visiting Stockholm and want to get out into the Swedish landscape while uncovering stories from the past, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. The journey begins with a hotel pickup in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus, a thoughtful feature that saves you the hassle of navigating public transport or rental cars.

Within minutes, you’ll be passing by Täby Church, a structure dating back to the 13th century with Romanesque and Gothic influences. While you’ll only see it from the outside, it sets the tone for a day steeped in history. Next, your guide will point out Jarlabanke’s Bridge, a remarkable Viking Age construction named after a chieftain who built it in the 11th century. You’ll learn about the powerful Viking figures behind the stones and the purpose of this ancient crossing—an opportunity to connect with the Vikings’ engineering skills and social structure.

Visiting the Viking Parliament at Arkils Tingstad

The first major stop is Arkils Tingstad in Vallentuna, an archaeological site that served as a Viking parliament. The stones arranged in a square here likely functioned as seating for community gatherings. This site provides a tangible link to Viking governance and lawmaking, making it one of the more unique discoveries on the tour.
Reviews highlight how much visitors appreciate the insight into Viking political processes, with one traveler noting it as an important archaeological site that sheds light on early Scandinavian society.

A Moment of Nature at Vallentunasjön

From there, the journey continues to Lake Vallentuna, a peaceful spot with stunning views. This short stop offers a chance to breathe in the fresh air and take photos of the tranquil waters. Many reviewers mention how these scenic views are just as memorable as the historical sites, adding a touch of calm to the busy day.

Exploring Granby and the Granby Rune Stone

Next, you’ll visit Orkesta, home to the Granbyhällen or Granby Rune Stone, one of the longest and most detailed Viking-era inscriptions in Sweden. The stone is more than just a monument; it’s a family inheritance record carved into swirling runes. Nearby, you can walk inside the Viking house foundations, which are some of the best-preserved in the world. This is a highlight for those interested in everyday Viking life, with several reviews praising the authentic reconstruction and storytelling.

The Cozy Atmosphere of “Hökeriet” & Sigtuna’s Old Town

A cozy farmhouse lunch stop at “Hökeriet” provides regional food and Viking souvenirs. Many travelers love this authentic touch, as it combines local flavors with a chance to browse handcrafted items. Afterward, the tour takes you to Sigtuna, Sweden’s oldest town, founded in AD 980. The cobblestone streets, wooden houses, and lakeside views create a perfect backdrop for relaxed exploration. Visitors often mention the charming atmosphere and the appeal of browsing local shops and the Sigtuna Museum.

Uppsala: Royal Burial Mounds and the Cathedral

Your day continues with a visit to Gamla Uppsala, the site of royal burial mounds dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries. The mounds are linked to legendary Swedish kings and symbolize the country’s ancient rulers. The nearby Uppsala Cathedral, with its soaring gothic spires and intricate stained glass, is a must-see. From the bell tower, you’ll get panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape—a favorite among visitors who enjoy both history and architecture.

Final Stop: Independent Exploration in Uppsala

After the guided parts of the tour, you’re encouraged to enjoy some free time in Uppsala. Many reviews mention how the guide’s flexibility allowed travelers to explore at their own pace, whether visiting the Uppsala University grounds, the Uppsala Castle, or simply relaxing in a café.

Transportation and Group Size

The entire journey unfolds in a comfortable minibus, usually accommodating up to 16 travelers. Most reviews note that the vehicle’s air conditioning keeps everyone comfortable, but some mention the importance of bringing a charged phone or camera—a good tip since there are many photo-worthy moments.

While the tour is well-organized, a few guests comment that seating can be tight in the last row, given the number of passengers. The full-day format means you’ll be on your feet and outdoors quite a bit, so wear sturdy shoes and bring water.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

The reviews reflect that Urban and other guides excel at making history accessible and engaging. Their knowledgeable storytelling makes the sites come alive, helping you appreciate the significance of each stone, mound, or medieval ruin. The inclusion of stops like Hökeriet for a regional snack and the town of Sigtuna adds a personal touch, making the experience feel less like a checklist and more like an authentic day in Sweden.

In terms of value, the price includes transportation, guide, and hotel pickup, which simplifies planning and ensures you don’t need to worry about navigating public transportation or parking. The admission to sites like Uppsala Cathedral and Gamla Uppsala is free, but some stops like the Uppsala Cathedral Museum are optional and might require extra tickets.

Many reviewers mention that the guided commentary is both informative and entertaining, with some noting that the balance of time at each site is well maintained—though a few felt it could be more concise, especially at the church and rune stone stops. The use of in-ear devices during the tour was highlighted as helpful for hearing the guide clearly, especially in outdoor environments.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for history enthusiasts, Viking culture fans, and those interested in medieval Scandinavia. It’s perfect if you want a rundown of Sweden’s past in a single day, with enough flexibility to explore towns like Sigtuna and Uppsala at your own pace. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate scenic drives and authentic local stops.

However, since the day is quite full and involves a long outdoor experience, it might be less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed, shorter outing. The full-day duration also means it’s better for those comfortable with a busy schedule and the cold or heat, depending on the season.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately nine hours, covering multiple sites and scenic drives.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation by air-conditioned minibus, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a professional guide.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there is a lunch stop at a local eatery, and many reviews highlight the quality of the food and regional snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8 years old, mainly because of the duration and amount of walking involved.

Can I customize the visit to certain sites?
Most of the itinerary is fixed, but there is some free time in Uppsala for independent exploration.

How many people are in each group?
The tour accommodates up to 16 travelers, which keeps the group relatively small and manageable.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and dress according to the weather—layers for cold, sun protection if sunny.

Are there any optional extras?
Some sites like museums may charge extra, but most of the key sites visited are free to enter.

What is the main focus of this tour?
The emphasis is on Viking relics, runic stones, ancient towns, and medieval architecture.

How do I ensure I get the most out of the tour?
Bring a charged phone or camera, listen carefully via the in-ear devices, and participate actively in the storytelling.

Final Thoughts

This Viking and medieval Swedish history tour offers a thoughtful blend of history, scenery, and local culture. For those eager to learn how Scandinavians lived over a thousand years ago, it’s an accessible way to gain insight while enjoying some of Sweden’s loveliest countryside and towns.

Travelers who thrive on guided storytelling combined with scenic exploration will find this day trip rewarding. The expert guides, especially Urban, make complex history engaging and fun, which many reviews praise highly.

The included stops are carefully selected to showcase Sweden’s Viking roots as well as its later medieval and royal history, making it a well-rounded experience. Although it’s a full day with some long stretches of outdoor touring, most find the balance of sites and stories worth the effort.

Overall, if you want a well-organized, informative, and scenic way to explore the Viking age and medieval legacy of Sweden, this tour is a solid choice—especially for curious travelers eager to connect with the past in a lively, authentic way.

Remember to bring good walking shoes, a camera, and a sense of adventure—your journey into Viking Sweden awaits.