Old Uppsala is one of Scandinavia’s most valuable cultural environments. Here lie the three Royal Mounds, once the site of a royal estate and a gathering place for the Swedes to worship their gods. Experience Vikings, archaeological finds, and runestones!

Upon arrival, coffee and sandwiches will be served, providing the energy needed for today’s exciting and historical tours.

Old Uppsala stands as one of Scandinavia’s most valuable cultural environments and most myth-laden sites. As early as the 6th century, it served as a political and religious center. The Old Uppsala Museum presents the site’s legendary history. Alongside knowledgeable guides, visitors are shown the exhibition featuring unique original finds, models, slideshows, and audio narratives. Situated near the monumental Royal Mounds, the Old Uppsala Museum guides us through the ancient monument area, where we learn about the society that thrived here during the Iron Age. A royal estate once stood here, and it was here that the Swedes gathered to worship their gods. The site retained its significance as a religious center long after Sweden was Christianized.

ALTERNATIVE GUIDED TOUR: “Decipher If You Can”

Runestones are Scandinavia’s oldest written sources and are among Uppland’s most intriguing cultural heritage. They serve as gateways to the Viking Age and sometimes even further back in time. In Uppland, runestones are more densely concentrated than anywhere else. Why were they erected and by whom? What do they tell us today? There are also runes on objects from both prehistoric and modern times, conveying various messages from the carver. These include utilitarian objects such as spinning whorls and calendar sticks, but runes could also serve ritual or magical purposes. In Old Uppsala, runestones can be found in the archaeological area and near the church. Most of them were erected during the Viking Age around the year 1000.

We’ll have lunch at the Odinsborg.

As evident from the exciting history of Old Uppsala, there is strong evidence suggesting that Sweden’s first cathedral was built here in the 11th century. On the same site, near the royal estate, Sweden’s first archbishop’s church was erected in 1164. In 1270, the archbishopric was moved to the village of Östra Aros, which would become modern Uppsala. The cathedral was demoted to a parish church but has nevertheless retained its symbolic significance. The church will be shown from the inside by the church’s knowledgeable guides.

Price starting from: 795 SEK

The example above includes: Morning coffee and sandwich, guided tour of the museum and archaeological area, lunch, guided tour of Old Uppsala Church.

Optional: Bus transport from your hometown; we’re happy to assist with booking.

Note: There are two different guided tours to choose from. The classic one focusing on Vikings, archaeological finds, and the Royal Mounds. Or the new addition for 2024, “Decipher If You Can,” which focuses on runestones, archaeological finds, and a closer look at runestones in the archaeological area.

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