Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala), about 5 km north of central Uppsala, is one of Sweden's most important ancient sites, famous for the great Royal Mounds (Kungshögarna) raised for the ruling elite during the Vendel period (c. 550–800 AD). It was a political and religious heart of the Svea people — home to the assembly (thing), a market, and a celebrated pre-Christian cult center where kings sacrificed to Odin, Thor and Freyr, described in the 11th-century account of Adam of Bremen — making it a landmark of Norse mythology and Viking-age history. As of 2026 the open-air heritage park with its three towering mounds, wide meadows and the 12th-century Gamla Uppsala Church is freely walkable year-round, while the indoor Gamla Uppsala Museum (run by Upplandsmuseet) tells the fuller story. It makes a rewarding half-day where you can stroll among the burial mounds and feel Sweden's deep past.
The three great Royal Mounds, traditionally named for Odin, Thor and Freyr, with sweeping meadow views from the top
Tingshögen, the mound where the ancient thing (assembly) is said to have gathered
Gamla Uppsala Church (12th century), once the seat of Sweden's archbishopric
The museum's Vendel- and Viking-age finds, 3D models and a special runestone exhibition
Summer guided 'mound climb' walks and the open meadow trails around the site
Good to know
SeasonThe mounds and meadows are wide open with little shelter from wind. Summer (May–Sep) is pleasant, but spring, autumn and winter can be cold and windy — bring a waterproof, windproof layer and sturdy shoes.
SeasonMuseum hours change sharply by season (summer May–Sep daily 11:00–17:00; winter Oct–Apr Wed–Sun 12:00–16:00). It closes on Midsummer's Eve and around Christmas/New Year, so check that your visit doesn't fall on a Swedish holiday closure.
RulesThe mounds are protected ancient monuments. Keep to marked paths and don't climb on or damage them outside the official guided routes.
MannersGamla Uppsala Church is still an active parish church. Keep quiet inside and be considerate during services and events.
SafetyIn the tall summer grass, watch for ticks (which can carry Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis) — wear long trousers and check yourself after walking. Paths are grassy and uneven, so comfortable footwear helps.
CautionThis is a low-risk area for tourist scams, but always buy transit tickets through the official UL app or a kiosk (drivers often don't sell cash tickets), and keep an eye on belongings at Uppsala Central and on buses. Sweden is largely cashless, so cards and mobile payment work best.
Practical info
From central Uppsala it's about a 10–15 minute ride on a UL city bus (confirm the current line and times in the UL app), and it's an easy bike ride, with free parking near the museum. The outdoor mound park and church are free and open year-round, while the indoor museum charges admission (adults about 150 SEK, free for under-20s) with seasonal opening hours — always confirm the latest prices and times before you go.
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