Uppsala Castle travel guide

Uppsala Castle, a prominent landmark in Uppsala, traces its origins to the 16th century when it was commissioned by King Gustav Vasa in 1549. This Renaissance castle has witnessed pivotal moments in Swedish history, including the notorious Sture Murders in 1567, orchestrated by King Eric XIV.

The castle faced significant destruction in 1702 due to a catastrophic fire but was gradually restored over the following centuries. By the 18th century, it served as the residence for the Governor of Uppsala County and later transformed into a hub for cultural and social events.

Today, Uppsala Castle houses the Uppsala Art Museum, featuring contemporary art exhibitions and historical artifacts. Visitors can also explore the castle's rich history through guided tours, offering insights into royal scandals, political intrigue, and architectural evolution.

With its impressive architecture and storied past, Uppsala Castle remains an essential destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Uppsala Castle boasts a distinctive pink facade that stands as a striking contrast against the lush greenery of its surrounding gardens and the blue skies above. This vibrant color choice sets it apart from many other historic castles, making it a visually unique landmark. Inside, the castle houses the renowned Uppsala Art Museum, which features a rich collection of contemporary and modern art, offering a cultural feast for art enthusiasts. Another compelling feature is the Hall of State, where significant historical events, including the abdication of King Gustav Vasa's son, Eric XIV, have taken place. Visitors can also explore the Gustavianum, which contains an anatomical theater dating back to the 17th century, providing an intriguing glimpse into early medical practices. The castle's strategic location on a hill offers panoramic views of Uppsala, including the iconic Uppsala Cathedral and the Fyris River, making it an ideal spot for photography and sightseeing. These unique elements collectively enhance the allure of Uppsala Castle, making it a must-visit destination.

Uppsala Castle boasts some intriguing features that set it apart. The castle’s south wing houses the Uppsala Art Museum, which showcases contemporary and classical art, offering a cultural treat right within its historic walls. It also served as the site of the infamous Sture Murders in 1567, a dramatic event that shook Swedish nobility. Additionally, the castle’s botanical garden, originally planted by Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, remains a serene and historically rich spot. Did you know that Uppsala Castle played a significant role in Sweden's political history? It was here that King Gustav Vasa declared Sweden's independence from Denmark in 1523. Lastly, the castle offers a panoramic view of Uppsala, making it an excellent spot for photography enthusiasts.

Discover Uppsala Castle, a prime feature of Uppsala, in the vibrant Uppsala Municipality. Uppsala Castle is situated at Slottet, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden, just a short distance from Gunilla Bell and Stadsträdgården, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Uppsala Castle, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Uppsala, a city in Sweden rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Uppsala travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

The best time to explore Uppsala Castle is during the late spring to early autumn months, from May to September. During this period, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it ideal for walking around the castle grounds and enjoying the panoramic views of Uppsala. Summer months, particularly June and July, bring longer daylight hours, allowing visitors to maximize their time exploring the historic site.

In May, the city comes alive with the celebration of Walpurgis Night, a traditional Swedish event, which adds a unique cultural experience to your visit. The warmer weather in late spring and summer also means that the gardens and surrounding parks are in full bloom, providing a picturesque backdrop for your visit.

For those looking to avoid larger crowds, visiting in September can be beneficial as the tourist season begins to wind down. However, the weather remains favorable, and the castle's historical ambiance is just as captivating. By planning your visit during these months, you can enjoy a more relaxed and immersive experience, making it the best time to explore Uppsala Castle.

Uppsala Castle is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Uppsala, Sweden. If you're flying in, Stockholm Arlanda Airport is approximately 17 miles (27.4 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Uppsala Castle by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Uppsala, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Uppsala Castle, which is located 0.4 miles (0.6 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Slottet, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Uppsala Castle!

To truly enjoy your visit to Uppsala Castle, joining a guided tour of this renowned castle in Uppsala is highly recommended. As one of Sweden's most iconic attractions, Uppsala Castle draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Uppsala, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Uppsala Castle starting at just 169.66 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Uppsala Castle, perfectly planned travel packages to Uppsala make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Uppsala, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Uppsala Castle.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic castle in Sweden.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Uppsala.

Choosing the right accommodation near Uppsala Castle from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Uppsala can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Uppsala Castle, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Uppsala Castle, Uppsala boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From church to park, the top attractions in Uppsala offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Uppsala is Uppsala Cathedral, located at Domkyrkoplan, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden. This well-known church enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Stadsträdgården is worth seeing when you're in Uppsala. It's a popular park that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at 753 09 Uppsala, Sweden.

This park draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Villavägen 6-8, 752 36 Uppsala, Sweden, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Uppsala below to discover even more incredible places to explore.