Uppsala Cathedral travel guide

Uppsala Cathedral, a beacon of Gothic architecture, has stood as a monumental symbol of Swedish history since its foundation in the late 13th century. Originally commissioned by King Birger Jarl, construction began in 1270 and took over a century to complete, with its consecration finally occurring in 1435. This awe-inspiring edifice, which once served as the coronation church for Swedish monarchs, was initially dedicated to Saint Lawrence.

Through the centuries, Uppsala Cathedral has witnessed numerous historical events, including the Reformation in the 16th century, which saw it transition from Catholic to Lutheran. The cathedral is also the burial site of several significant figures, such as King Gustav Vasa, the father of modern Sweden, and Carl Linnaeus, the renowned botanist.

Architectural modifications and restorations have preserved its grandeur, with the most extensive work carried out in the late 19th century under the guidance of architect Helgo Zettervall. Today, Uppsala Cathedral remains a vibrant religious center and a must-visit landmark, reflecting Sweden's rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor.

Uppsala Cathedral's towering twin spires, which reach an impressive height of 118.7 meters, make it the tallest church in Scandinavia. Its Gothic architecture, characterized by its pointed arches and ribbed vaults, is a striking feature that sets it apart. The cathedral's intricate medieval frescoes, many of which have been meticulously restored, offer a vivid glimpse into the artistry of the 15th century.

Inside, the Chapel of the Holy Cross houses the tombs of several notable Swedish monarchs, including Gustav Vasa, the founder of modern Sweden. The cathedral also contains the relics of Saint Erik, the patron saint of Sweden, adding a layer of historical and religious significance. The Treasury, located within the cathedral, displays an extensive collection of ecclesiastical artifacts, including ornate chalices, vestments, and manuscripts.

Adding to its uniqueness, Uppsala Cathedral is home to the Gustavianum, a detached anatomical theatre from the 17th century, originally used for medical instruction. The cathedral’s acoustics are renowned, making it a favored venue for concerts and musical performances. The combination of historical artifacts, royal tombs, and exceptional architecture makes Uppsala Cathedral a truly unique and captivating landmark.

Located in the dynamic Uppsala Municipality, the popular Uppsala Cathedral 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 Castle, 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!

Uppsala Cathedral is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Uppsala, Sweden. If you're flying in, Stockholm Arlanda Airport is approximately 17.4 miles (27.9 km) away from Uppsala. From there, you can easily reach Uppsala Cathedral by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Uppsala, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Uppsala Cathedral, which is located 0.2 miles (0.3 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Uppsala Cathedral, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Domkyrkoplan, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden, Sweden.

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

The best time to explore Uppsala Cathedral is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically from May to September. During this period, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for walking tours and outdoor activities around the cathedral. Summers in Uppsala are relatively warm, with temperatures often ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), allowing visitors to enjoy the cathedral's stunning Gothic architecture and its serene surroundings without the discomfort of extreme cold or heat.

Visiting during these months also means longer daylight hours, giving you ample time to explore the cathedral's interior, the adjacent botanical garden, and other nearby attractions. Furthermore, early autumn is particularly beautiful with vibrant fall foliage adding a picturesque backdrop to your visit.

If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer crowds, consider visiting in May or September rather than the peak summer months of June and July. Additionally, special events such as the Uppsala International Sacred Music Festival in September can enrich your visit with captivating concerts and performances, making it an especially memorable time to explore Uppsala Cathedral.

To truly enjoy your visit to Uppsala Cathedral, joining a tour that features this popular Lutheran cathedral in Uppsala is highly recommended. As one of Sweden's most iconic attractions, Uppsala Cathedral 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 Cathedral starting at just 169.66 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Uppsala Cathedral 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 Cathedral 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 Cathedral 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 Cathedral below.

Aside from Uppsala Cathedral, 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 Castle, Stadsträdgården, and Botanical Garden.

Uppsala Castle is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Uppsala, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 3,300 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Uppsala Castle is Slottet, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden.

Another appreciated attraction in Uppsala is Stadsträdgården. Like Uppsala Castle, 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.