Uppsala is a city that packs a punch for travelers interested in Swedish history, Viking roots, and medieval architecture. Its compact size makes it perfect for guided tours, allowing you to stroll through ancient ruins, see impressive cathedrals, and learn about legendary battles. What we love most about these experiences is how they blend authentic local stories with beautifully preserved sites—especially on the full-day Viking history tour that takes you from Stockholm to Sigtuna and Uppsala, exploring 1,000-year-old runestones and reconstructed Viking bridges. This trip offers not just history, but a chance to walk in Viking footsteps, with guides bringing the past alive.
If you’re short on time but want a focused introduction, the Uppsala Private Guided Walking Tour gives an intimate look at the city’s highlights, from Gamla Uppsala to Uppsala Castle. For those who want a comprehensive day trip, the Uppsala city and Sigtuna city 8h tour from Stockholm combines the charm of the lakeside town with Uppsala’s grand cathedral and medieval sites. Each of these options offers a different flavor, catering to varied interests and schedules. Below, we explore each tour in detail to help you pick your perfect Uppsala adventure.
1. Stockholm Viking History Full Day Tour to Sigtuna + Uppsala
At number one, this full-day Viking history tour from Stockholm delivers an immersive journey through Swedish Viking landmarks, with visits to Sigtuna—the oldest town in Sweden—and Uppsala. The tour begins early with pickup in Stockholm and includes scenic drives past sites like Broby Bridge and Arkils Tingstad, where you’ll see real Viking rune stones and reconstructed bridges, making history tangible.
This tour stands out because of its detailed focus on Viking Age sites, such as the grave fields in Broby and the Jarlabanke Bridge. The stops are well-paced, with plenty of opportunities for photos and explanations from guides who are clearly passionate about their subject. The highlight for many is walking through Sigtuna’s charming streets and exploring Uppsala’s majestic cathedral, Sweden’s largest. The itinerary also includes a visit to Gamla Uppsala, home to royal burial mounds and ancient runestones.
Reviewers consistently praise the guides, with Olof and Calle receiving 5-star ratings, emphasizing their knowledge and friendliness. The trip’s value comes from its comprehensive itinerary—covering ancient ruins, medieval landmarks, and Viking relics—all within 8-9 hours. The included lunch and scenic drives add to the experience, making it ideal for travelers eager to combine history and landscape in one day.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you’re eager to learn Viking history in a lively, guided setting while visiting some of Sweden’s most iconic ancient sites. It’s well-suited for history enthusiasts and those wanting a full, immersive day from Stockholm.
2. Uppsala Private Guided Walking Tour
Number two on our list offers a personalized, two-hour glimpse into Uppsala’s top sights. This private walking tour is ideal if you want a more relaxed, in-depth experience of the city’s highlights, guided by someone who can tailor the visit to your interests. It’s rated perfectly at 5 stars with just two reviews, indicating high satisfaction among those who prefer a more intimate setting.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on key landmarks like Gamla Uppsala, where you’ll see historic burial mounds and learn about the Battle of Fýrisvellir. You’ll also visit Uppsala Castle, with its impressive architecture, and the scenic university area, home to Sweden’s largest cathedral, Uppsala Cathedral. The guide’s local knowledge helps you understand both the historical significance and modern life of the city.
Because it’s a private tour, it’s especially suited for couples, families, or small groups seeking a flexible schedule and personalized commentary. The brief duration allows you to cover the city’s main points without feeling rushed, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a personalized, relaxed tour and want to focus on Uppsala’s most iconic sites, this private walk offers a tailored experience that’s highly rated for its depth and flexibility.
3. Uppsala city and Sigtuna city 8h tour from Stockholm
Rounding out our list, this 8-hour guided day trip combines visits to Sigtuna and Uppsala, two of Sweden’s most charming towns. Starting from Stockholm, the tour offers guided walks through historic streets with local guides, ensuring you get more than just a surface look. It’s rated 4.6 out of 5, with strong reviews emphasizing the quality of sightseeing and guide expertise.
This tour shines because it balances medieval and Viking sites in both towns. In Sigtuna, you’ll explore runestones and medieval church ruins, soaking in the cozy lakeside atmosphere. In Uppsala, the focus is on the grand cathedral, royal burial mounds, and the university district. The guided approach means you see all the must-visit spots and get rich stories behind each.
Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day that hits the highlights of both towns, this tour provides a good value for the full-day experience. It’s especially useful if you prefer guided commentary rather than exploring solo. The itinerary is well-organized, with scenic drives and enough time at each stop to appreciate the sites fully.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wishing to see both historic Sigtuna and majestic Uppsala in one day, especially if you enjoy guided storytelling and want to cover the major highlights without rushing.
How to Choose Your Uppsala Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interest level, schedule, and travel style. If you love Viking history and ancient ruins, the full-day Viking tour from Stockholm (see more) offers a rich, comprehensive experience. For a more personal, relaxed visit, the private walking tour (details here) is best. If you want a full-day guided overview of both towns, the 8-hour Sigtuna and Uppsala tour (check availability) provides a balance of sightseeing and storytelling.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and specific interests. For example, history buffs eager to see Viking relics and ruins should lean towards the full-day Viking tour. Families or couples seeking a more intimate experience might prefer the private walk. Meanwhile, travelers wanting a thorough introduction to both towns in one day will find the 8-hour tour ideal.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid missing out on these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
Uppsala offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and schedules. The full-day Viking tour is perfect for history enthusiasts wanting an immersive Viking experience. The private walking tour offers a personalized, relaxed way to see the key sites, ideal for couples or small groups. Meanwhile, the 8-hour combined tour provides a balanced look at both Sigtuna and Uppsala, making it a great choice if you want to maximize your day.
No matter which you choose, these tours give you authentic insights into Sweden’s ancient past and cultural fabric. To make the most of your trip, consider your specific interests, and book early—these experiences tend to fill up fast. Uppsala’s treasures await, and a guided tour ensures you won’t miss the stories behind them.