Explore the captivating history of the Viking Age on this comprehensive tour from Stockholm. Explore significant sites like the Jarlabanke Bridge and Arkils Tingstad, where Vikings once gathered. Enjoy a traditional Swedish fika break before uncovering the ancient burial mounds of Gamla Uppsala. With hotel pickup, free cancellation, and a knowledgeable guide, this 9-hour excursion promises an immersive journey into the heart of Sweden’s Viking heritage. What secrets might these timeless landmarks reveal?
Key Points
- Comprehensive 9-hour tour from Stockholm showcasing Viking heritage sites in Uppsala and Sigtuna.
- Visit the 11th-century Jarlabanke Bridge, an important stone bridge commissioned by a chieftain.
- Explore the well-preserved Viking assembly site of Arkils Tingstad, a hub for community decisions.
- Enjoy a traditional Swedish fika break with coffee and homemade pastries at a local cafe.
- Discover the former seat of Swedish royal power during the Viking Age in Gamla Uppsala.
Tour Overview
The Tour Overview provides key details about the Uppsala and Sigtuna Viking Sites Tour.
Priced from $201.73 per person, the 9-hour tour runs in English and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Priced from $201.73 per person, the 9-hour tour runs in English and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Pickup is available from hotels or the meeting point at Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel.
The tour visits Viking sites like Jarlabanke Bridge, Arkils Tingstad, and Gamla Uppsala, with stops for fika (coffee break) and free time in Sigtuna.
Led by an experienced guide, the small group size of 17 guests max ensures a personalized experience with interactive discussions about Viking history and culture.
Looking for more options in Stockholm? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Exploring Jarlabanke Bridge
Jarlabanke Bridge stands as a captivating remnant of the Viking era, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. This 11th-century stone bridge, once a crucial crossing point, is now a site of historical significance.
On the guided tour, guests learn about Jarlabanke, a powerful chieftain who commissioned the bridge’s construction. Visitors explore the bridge’s intricate architecture and discover the strategic importance it held during the Viking Age.
The 30-minute tour provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to envision the bustling activity that once took place on this ancient structure. It’s a fascinating stop on the Viking Sites tour.
Discovering Arkils Tingstad
Next, the tour group ventures to Arkils Tingstad, a well-preserved Viking assembly site dating back to the 11th century. At this historic location, the guide leads the group on a 30-minute tour, sharing insights into the political and social significance of the site.
| Feature | Description |
| — | — |
| Site History | A gathering place for local assemblies and debates |
| Architectural Remains | Circular stone foundation, remnants of wooden structures |
| Cultural Significance | Decisions on law, administration, and community matters |
| Guided Tour | Provides context and brings the site’s history to life |
The tour then moves on to the next stop, Vallentuna Church, to continue the journey through the region’s Viking heritage.
Visiting Vallentuna Church
After exploring the historical significance of Arkils Tingstad, the tour group heads to Vallentuna Church, a well-preserved 12th-century structure that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s Viking-era architecture and religious practices.
The guide leads the group on a 30-minute tour, highlighting the church’s Romanesque stone construction, intricate carvings, and ancient baptismal font. Visitors learn about the important role the church played in the lives of local Viking communities, serving as a hub for community gatherings, rituals, and the preservation of Nordic traditions.
The tour then continues to the nearby HÖKERIET for a traditional Swedish fika break.
More Great Tours NearbyFika Break at HÖKERIET
After visiting the impressive Vallentuna Church, the tour group heads to the nearby HÖKERIET, a local cafe known for its traditional Swedish fika.
Here, they’re treated to a 45-minute coffee break filled with homemade pastries and the chance to recharge.
The cafe’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff create a welcoming respite from the morning’s exploration. Guests can savor the flavors of Sweden, sip on rich, aromatic coffee, and enjoy casual conversation with the group.
A cozy respite filled with the flavors of Sweden, rich coffee, and casual conversation with the group.
This mid-tour break provides a chance to fuel up and prepare for the next exciting leg of the Viking sites adventure.
Wandering Through Sigtuna
After the rejuvenating fika break, the tour continues to the historic town of Sigtuna.
This medieval town is Sweden’s oldest, founded in the 10th century. Guests enjoy 1 hour of free time to explore the charming streets, lined with colorful wooden houses, independent shops, and cafes.
The guide then leads a 15-minute tour, highlighting Sigtuna’s Viking-era ruins, rune stones, and St. Mary’s Church. Visitors learn about Sigtuna’s role as an important trading hub and administrative center during the Viking Age.
The tour then departs for the final destination, Gamla Uppsala, to uncover more Viking history and culture.
Uncovering Gamla Uppsala
The tour now ventures to Gamla Uppsala, the former seat of Swedish royal power during the Viking Age. The guide leads the group through this historic site, revealing its rich past:
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Visitors stand in awe before the three massive burial mounds, the final resting places of ancient kings.
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The group gathers around the ruined foundations of Gamla Uppsala’s royal hall, imagining the feasts and ceremonies that once took place here.
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Towering over the landscape, the medieval Uppsala Cathedral commands attention, a symbol of the region’s Christian conversion.
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The guide shares tales of pagan sacrifices and the gradual transition to Christianity in this pivotal location.
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Guests depart with a deeper appreciation for the captivating history of Gamla Uppsala.
Admiring Uppsala Cathedral
Towering over the city, Uppsala Cathedral captivates visitors with its impressive Gothic architecture. Dating back to the 13th century, this grand cathedral is a true masterpiece, boasting towering spires, intricate stone carvings, and stained-glass windows that flood the interior with vibrant colors.
During the guided tour, guests will learn about the cathedral’s rich history and the significance it holds within the Swedish Lutheran church. From the stunning vaulted ceilings to the ornate pulpit, every detail of this architectural wonder showcases the skill and dedication of its medieval builders.
A must-see for any visitor to Uppsala.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Historical Site?
The tour includes guided visits of approximately 30 minutes at each historical site, such as Jarlabanke Bridge, Arkils Tingstad, Vallentuna Church, and Gamla Uppsala. Visitors also have 1 hour of free time to explore Sigtuna.
Can We Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?
The tour does not include dedicated time for purchasing souvenirs. However, visitors can explore the historical sites and the town of Sigtuna during their free time, where they may find opportunities to buy local crafts or Viking-themed merchandise.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour?
The tour doesn’t offer a private option. It’s a shared group tour with a maximum of 17 guests to provide a personalized experience. There are no opportunities to purchase souvenirs during the tour.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
No specific discounts are mentioned for seniors or students on this tour. However, the tour operator may offer flexible pricing or package deals for larger groups. Interested customers should inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Fit Our Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized to fit the interests of your. The knowledgeable guide is open to adjusting the itinerary or focus based on the group’s preferences to provide a more personalized Viking sites experience.
The Sum Up
This guided tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich Viking heritage of Sweden. From the historic Jarlabanke Bridge to the ancient burial mounds of Gamla Uppsala, the tour provides an immersive experience, complemented by a traditional Swedish fika break. With convenient pickup options and a flexible cancellation policy, it’s an ideal way to explore the captivating Viking sites around Stockholm.
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