When I first visited Uppsala, I expected beautiful architecture, a rich history, and a vibrant university culture, but I hadn’t anticipated the spectacular sunsets that this Swedish city could offer. Watching the sun sink over Uppsala’s picturesque landscapes became a cherished ritual, and each spot I found offered a unique, unforgettable view. Here, I’ll share the best places I discovered to catch the sunset in Uppsala, drawing from my experiences and moments of awe at the breathtaking scenes.
1. Uppsala Castle (Uppsala Slott)
The first time I experienced a sunset at Uppsala Castle, I was utterly captivated. The castle sits on a hill that overlooks the entire city, offering a panoramic view that’s hard to match. From here, the horizon stretches wide, revealing a tapestry of rooftops, the historic Uppsala Cathedral, and endless fields in the distance. The castle itself has a slightly rugged charm, its pink and yellow façade bathed in warm sunlight as the day begins to wind down.
My Experience
I arrived just as the sun was starting to lower, casting an orange hue over the entire scene. Standing near the castle walls, I found a spot that provided the perfect vantage point over the city. As the sun inched closer to the horizon, the sky transformed, blending pink, purple, and gold, as if an artist were painting directly onto the clouds. The castle grounds are quiet in the evening, and the solitude made the experience feel even more special. The sight of the cathedral spires silhouetted against the vibrant sky was awe-inspiring, creating a peaceful and almost surreal atmosphere.
Getting There
Uppsala Castle is within walking distance from the city center, about a 10-minute uphill walk from the main square. I found it quite pleasant to stroll up the pathway that leads from Botaniska Trädgården (the Botanical Garden) up to the castle.
2. Fyrisån Riverbanks
Another favorite spot for sunset viewing in Uppsala is along the Fyrisån River. Walking by the river, especially in the evening, provides an immersive experience in the city’s natural beauty. The gentle flow of the water reflects the changing colors of the sky, and I discovered that the buildings and trees lining the river create a peaceful, almost romantic setting.
My Experience
One evening, I decided to walk along the riverbank with no particular plan. As I strolled past the charming old buildings and riverside cafes, the sun began to set, and the reflections in the water created a mirror-like effect that was simply mesmerizing. I found a bench near the bridge by Uppsala Cathedral, where I could watch the sunlight flicker on the water’s surface. The colors in the sky deepened as the sun continued its descent, and the city lights began to twinkle in response. It felt as if the city and nature were harmonizing, creating a tranquil scene that I’ll never forget.
Getting There
Fyrisån runs through the center of Uppsala, making it easily accessible from any part of the city. The most scenic spots along the riverbank are around the central areas near the cathedral and the small wooden bridges that cross the water.
3. Botanical Garden (Botaniska Trädgården)
The Botanical Garden of Uppsala is a gem that’s not just for plant lovers; it’s also a fantastic place to watch the sunset. I visited the garden late one afternoon, hoping to catch a glimpse of the gardens as the sun set, and I was not disappointed. The garden is vast, filled with beautifully maintained flower beds, historic greenhouses, and open lawns, which offer an unobstructed view of the sunset.
My Experience
I made my way to an open area near the grand Linnaeus Monument and settled on a bench. The sunset light seemed to amplify the colors of the flowers, turning the garden into a spectacle of color. The sunlight peeked through the tall trees, casting a warm glow over the greenery and creating intricate shadows. As I watched, a calm fell over the place, with only a few other people around. It felt like a quiet sanctuary in the heart of Uppsala, a place where nature and history blended harmoniously.
Getting There
The Botanical Garden is located on Villavägen, close to the Uppsala University buildings. It’s a short walk from the city center, and the garden is open to the public, making it a lovely, easily accessible spot for an evening visit.
4. Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala)
Old Uppsala is known for its ancient burial mounds and rich Viking history, but what I didn’t know was how incredible the sunsets could be here. Located a bit outside the city center, this site has an expansive, open landscape that lets you see the sun descend over the rolling hills. This location combines a bit of history with a rustic, natural backdrop, making it feel like stepping back in time.
My Experience
When I arrived at Gamla Uppsala in the late afternoon, the light was already beginning to soften. I climbed one of the ancient burial mounds to get a better view of the surroundings. As the sun began to dip lower, the golden light stretched over the fields, casting long shadows on the grassy mounds. The historical weight of the site, combined with the natural beauty of the sunset, made for a deeply moving experience. Watching the sky transition from amber to dusky blue in such a historic place felt timeless.
Getting There
Gamla Uppsala is a bit farther from the city center, but it’s reachable by bus or bike in about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can walk, which takes around 45 minutes from the city center.
5. Uppsala Cathedral (Domkyrka)
The tallest cathedral in Scandinavia, Uppsala Cathedral, is already a striking sight on its own, but it takes on a new level of grandeur at sunset. The spires stand proudly against the evening sky, creating an impressive silhouette that dominates the Uppsala skyline.
My Experience
One of my favorite evenings in Uppsala was spent sitting on a small grassy area near the cathedral’s south side. As the sky began to glow with shades of orange and pink, the cathedral seemed to shine. The gothic architecture, with its high arches and spires, took on an ethereal beauty in the fading light. I felt a deep sense of peace watching the cathedral bathed in the warm glow of the sunset, a moment that truly embodied the spiritual and historical significance of the place.
Getting There
Uppsala Cathedral is centrally located, making it easy to reach from any point in the city. It’s a short walk from the train station or from the main shopping streets, and the nearby cafes provide a nice spot for a pre-sunset coffee.
6. Stadsträdgården (City Garden)
Stadsträdgården, Uppsala’s City Garden, is another wonderful location to take in the sunset. This large park is filled with flower beds, ponds, and trees that provide a scenic, peaceful retreat right within the city. I found this park to be the perfect place to unwind, especially in the evening when the setting sun casts its warm hues over the lush landscape.
My Experience
One evening, I decided to bring a small picnic to the park and enjoy it on one of the benches near the river. The park was alive with birds, and the gentle rustling of leaves added to the serene ambiance. As the sun set, the colors in the sky reflected off the pond, creating a scene that felt like a painting. There were other people around—families, couples, and solo visitors like myself—all enjoying the beauty of the moment. It felt like a shared experience, yet incredibly personal at the same time.
Getting There
Stadsträdgården is within walking distance of the city center, located just south of the main area. It’s easy to reach and provides plenty of open spaces, perfect for relaxing as the day comes to an end.
Uppsala’s Sunsets
Watching the sunset in Uppsala is a magical experience that reveals a new side of the city. Each location I visited offered its own unique charm, from the historical significance of Gamla Uppsala to the serene beauty of Stadsträdgården. There’s something profoundly calming about seeing the day end in a place with such a rich blend of history, nature, and culture.
For anyone visiting Uppsala, I highly recommend taking the time to seek out these spots for a sunset experience. The views provide a peaceful way to unwind, reflect, and take in the natural beauty of this charming Swedish city. Whether you’re a solo traveler, visiting with friends, or just looking for a moment of quiet, these sunset spots in Uppsala will leave an indelible mark on your memory.
