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.

Located in the dynamic Uppsala Municipality, the popular Uppsala Castle is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Uppsala or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Sweden.

Uppsala is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Uppsala offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Uppsala and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Uppsala Cathedral, Stadsträdgården, Botanical Garden, Old Uppsala Archaeological Park, and Carolina park - 'Engelska Parken'.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Uppsala has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Uppsala, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Sweden!

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 Uppsala. 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. You can also rent a car and drive to Uppsala Castle, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. 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 tour that features this popular castle in Uppsala is highly recommended. As one of Sweden's most iconic attractions, Uppsala Castle draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Uppsala Castle starting at just 169.66 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Uppsala Castle and other top attractions in Uppsala than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Uppsala include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Uppsala Castle's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Uppsala Castle and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind castle in Sweden.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Uppsala Castle and Sweden's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Stockholm Arlanda Airport and the city of Uppsala, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Sweden cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Uppsala and beyond.

Conveniently explore Uppsala Castle and plenty more captivating attractions in Uppsala by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Uppsala Castle and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Uppsala has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Uppsala Castle below.

Aside from Uppsala Castle, Uppsala is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Uppsala, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Uppsala Cathedral, Stadsträdgården, and Botanical Garden.

Uppsala Cathedral is a bucket-list church and top attraction in Uppsala, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,700 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Uppsala Cathedral is Domkyrkoplan, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden.

Another appreciated attraction in Uppsala is Stadsträdgården. Like Uppsala Cathedral, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 2,500 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is 753 09 Uppsala, Sweden.

Botanical Garden is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Uppsala. This park and top attraction in Uppsala has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,400 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Villavägen 6-8, 752 36 Uppsala, Sweden.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Uppsala below.