Uppsala Cathedral (Uppsala domkyrka), in the university city of Uppsala about 70 km north of Stockholm, is the largest Gothic cathedral in the Nordic region and, at 118.7 m, the tallest church in Scandinavia. Begun around 1272 and consecrated in 1435, it is the burial place of King Gustav Vasa, founder of modern Sweden, and of the botanist Carl Linnaeus, and served for centuries as the coronation church of Swedish monarchs. In 2026 it remains a living church and national shrine — the seat of the Lutheran Archbishop of Uppsala, holding regular services and concerts — and entry is free. It makes an easy half-day trip by train from Stockholm, best combined with Uppsala University and nearby Gamla Uppsala.
The Vasa Chapel, tomb of King Gustav Vasa and his three queens, with richly painted wall decoration
The gilded reliquary of St Erik (Erik IX), patron saint of Sweden, whose relics rest in the cathedral
The grave and memorial of Carl Linnaeus, father of modern taxonomy, alongside figures such as Archbishop Nathan Söderblom (Nobel Peace Prize laureate)
The monumental 1710 Baroque pulpit designed by Nicodemus Tessin and carved by Burchard Precht
The French-style twin spires and red-brick exterior from Helgo Zettervall's Neo-Gothic restoration of 1885–1893
The Treasury (Skattkammaren) in the north tower, holding one of Europe's finest collections of medieval church textiles, including Queen Margareta's 'Golden Gown'
Good to know
SeasonIn summer (June–July) near-white nights keep it bright late into the evening, great for sightseeing but bring an eye mask for sleep. Winter is short-dayed and very cold, and the stone interior feels chilly, so dress warmly. Uppsala lies too far south for the northern lights, so don't expect aurora here.
RulesAccess is limited during services and concerts. In 2026 the cathedral is open daily 08:00–18:00, but on Walpurgis (30 April) and Midsummer Eve (19 June) hours are shortened to 08:00–12:00. Always confirm current hours on the official site before you go.
MannersThis is an active place of worship, so keep quiet indoors and remove your hat. Photography is generally allowed, but avoid shooting or using flash during services and follow the on-site signs.
SafetySweden is an almost cashless, card-and-contactless society, so be sure to carry a card that works abroad. Uppsala is fairly safe, but stay aware of your belongings against pickpockets in crowded spots like the train station and tourist areas.
CautionBuy transport tickets only through official apps (UL, SL, SJ). SL commuter trains via Arlanda Airport add a separate 'Arlanda passage' fee, so factor that in, and travelling without a valid ticket risks a heavy fine.
RulesEntry to the cathedral itself is free, but the Treasury (Skattkammaren) charges 80 SEK for visitors aged 18 and over (confirm the latest price). Tipping is not obligatory in Sweden.
Practical info
The cathedral is about a 10–15 minute walk from Uppsala Central Station — roughly 40 minutes by SJ train from Stockholm Central, or about 18 minutes by SL commuter train from Arlanda Airport. Entry to the cathedral is free while the Treasury is ticketed (80 SEK for ages 18+), and in 2026 it opens daily 08:00–18:00 (shorter on 30 April and 19 June); check the official site for the latest hours, fees and guided-tour schedule.
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