How do I get to Gamla Uppsala from Stockholm?

Take a train from Stockholm Central to Uppsala (40 min), then bus 2 or 4 to Gamla Uppsala.

Is there an entrance fee for the mounds?

No, the mounds and church grounds are free to explore. The museum has a small fee (around 80 SEK).

Can I climb the burial mounds?

No, climbing is prohibited to preserve them. Viewing platforms are available.

What are the opening hours of the museum?

Typically 10:00-16:00, but check seasonal variations. Closed Mondays in winter.

Is Gamla Uppsala suitable for children?

Yes, the open spaces and history are engaging for kids. The museum has interactive exhibits.

Are there restaurants nearby?

A few cafes near the church and museum. For more options, head to Uppsala city center.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Not usually, but for guided tours or summer events, booking is recommended.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, most Swedes speak excellent English, especially in tourist areas.

Gamla Uppsala

SuburbUppsala, Uppsala

Gamla Uppsala is a SUB AREA in Uppsala, Uppsala.

Gamla Uppsala, just north of modern Uppsala, is a historic gem where ancient Viking burial mounds rise dramatically from the landscape. Wander among the three great royal mounds, believed to hold the remains of legendary Swedish kings, and explore the Gamla Uppsala Museum for deep insights into Norse mythology and early medieval life. The 12th-century church, built on a pagan temple site, adds a layer of spiritual history. The area is peaceful, with open fields and walking paths that invite quiet reflection. A visit here feels like stepping into a living saga, with the echoes of Old Uppsala's past as the first major political and religious center of Sweden. Perfect for history buffs and those seeking a serene, culturally rich day trip from Stockholm.

Best time to visit Gamla Uppsala

Late May to early September offers the best weather, with mild temperatures (15-25°C) and long daylight hours. Summer solstice brings cultural events. Spring and autumn are quieter with beautiful foliage. Winter can be cold and dark, but the snow-covered mounds have a stark beauty.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 5-10°C, rain

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Quiet, golden leaves

Know before you go

Getting there

ARN

Stockholm Arlanda Airport

International

35 km away

VST

Stockholm Västerås Airport

Domestic

80 km away

Getting around

"From Uppsala city center, take bus 2 or 4 to Gamla Uppsala (15 min). Biking is popular and flat; rent a bike in Uppsala. Walking is ideal for exploring the mounds and church. Taxis are available but limited. Driving is easy with free parking near the museum."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

50 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Free WiFi at the museum and some cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Uppsala station or airport from 100 SEK

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe, but watch for uneven paths. Scams are rare.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe, but watch for uneven paths. Scams are rare.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Gamla Uppsala is very safe, with low crime rates. Be cautious of uneven terrain on the burial mounds and walking paths, especially in wet weather. Pickpocketing is rare but keep valuables secure in crowded areas. At night, the area is quiet and well-lit near the church and museum. Overall, a safe destination for solo travelers and families."

Police

112

Ambulance

112

Fire

112

Entry and health

Health information

"Sweden has excellent healthcare, but ensure you have travel insurance covering medical expenses. Pharmacies (Apotek) are available in Uppsala city center. Tap water is safe to drink. No special vaccinations are required for Gamla Uppsala, but standard travel vaccines are recommended. In case of emergency, dial 112."

Culture

Local customs

"Swedes value punctuality and personal space. Greet with a handshake. Dress casually but neatly; no specific dress code for Gamla Uppsala. Respect the ancient mounds—do not climb on them. Quiet behavior is appreciated in the church and museum. Tipping is not expected but rounding up the bill is fine."

Swedish (official)EnglishFinnishSamiMeänkieliRomaniYiddishSwedish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$12-18 | a meal at a cafe costs around 120-180 SEK

Hotels

$80-120 | budget hotels in Uppsala range 800-1200 SEK/night

Local transport

$3 | bus ticket from Uppsala costs about 30 SEK

Cost notes

Gamla Uppsala itself has limited accommodation; most visitors stay in Uppsala city.

Timezone

Europe/Stockholm
Local time 20:38

More facts

Population

17,973

Type

Suburb

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Flogsta

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Alt-Uppsala, Gamla Uppsala, Gamle Uppsala, Staraja Uppsala, Staraja Upsala, Vanha Uppsala, jmla awbsala, Старая Уппсала, Старая Упсала, جملا أوبسالا, ጋምላ ኡፕሳላ, ガムラ・ウプサラ, Old Uppsala, Vanha Upsala

SuburbHistoricCulturalFamily-FriendlyHikingMuseum