Nestled in Sweden’s cultural heart, Uppsala is a charming city where ancient landmarks meet a modern lifestyle, and navigating this beautiful place is remarkably easy with its well-organized public transport system. When I first arrived in Uppsala, I knew I wanted to explore every corner of this historic city—without the hassle of a car. In this guide, I’ll cover the ins and outs of Uppsala’s public transport, including buses, trains, cycling, and even pedestrian-friendly tips. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, this guide will help you travel around Uppsala like a true local.
1. Getting Familiar with UL (Uppsala Länstrafik)
Uppsala Länstrafik, or UL for short, is Uppsala County’s primary public transport operator, covering the entire county, including Uppsala city and nearby towns. UL runs a network of buses and trains that make traveling within Uppsala and beyond straightforward. As a newcomer, the UL system was easy to learn, and I was surprised at how comprehensive and user-friendly it was.
UL Tickets and Prices
UL offers a few different ticket options that cater to both short-term visitors and long-term residents. Tickets can be bought directly through the UL mobile app, which was a lifesaver for me. Here are the main types of tickets:
- Single Ticket: Perfect for a one-way trip within Uppsala, these tickets are valid for 75 minutes, so you have plenty of time to make transfers within the city. As of my latest experience, a single adult ticket costs around 30 SEK.
- 24-Hour Ticket: If you’re planning to hop on and off buses or trains multiple times in one day, the 24-hour ticket, priced at around 130 SEK, offers unlimited travel.
- 7-Day Ticket: For an extended stay, the 7-day ticket allows unlimited travel and costs about 290 SEK.
With the UL app, buying, storing, and showing tickets is seamless. You can also buy tickets at kiosks or from ticket machines, usually found at bus stations or major train stations.
UL Card
For frequent users, purchasing a UL travel card might be a wise investment. You can load the card with different types of tickets, and it offers discounts for regular travel.
2. Exploring Uppsala by Bus
The bus system in Uppsala is efficient, punctual, and easy to navigate. Buses cover most areas of the city and connect to the outskirts, making them ideal for visiting local attractions.
Popular Bus Routes
While there are numerous bus routes in Uppsala, some key routes are particularly useful for tourists:
- Bus 2: This route goes from Central Station to Gränby Centrum, one of Uppsala’s main shopping centers. It’s a good route if you want to do some shopping or grab a bite in one of the larger malls.
- Bus 9: A favorite for those looking to visit Gamla Uppsala, an ancient historical site with Viking burial mounds and the Gamla Uppsala Museum.
- Bus 11: This route takes you from Central Station through several residential areas, giving you a glimpse of Uppsala’s daily life and neighborhoods.
My Bus Experience
My first bus ride in Uppsala was smooth. The buses are clean and spacious, and I was happy to find that they’re wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly. The UL app also includes real-time bus tracking, so I always knew exactly when my bus would arrive, which was helpful on cold mornings. The bus stops are clearly marked, and electronic screens display the time for the next buses.
3. Navigating by Train
For trips beyond Uppsala, like visits to Stockholm or nearby cities, Uppsala Central Station (Uppsala C) serves as the main hub. It’s located right in the heart of the city, making it very accessible.
Commuter Trains
The Pendeltåg (commuter train) is the best way to travel between Uppsala and Stockholm, and the journey takes about 40 minutes. Trains leave frequently, especially during peak hours, so you’ll rarely have to wait long. This train also stops at Stockholm Arlanda Airport, which is incredibly convenient if you’re flying in or out of Uppsala.
Regional Trains
For exploring other parts of Sweden, Uppsala C offers regional trains that connect to major cities like Gothenburg, Malmö, and more. It’s a scenic and comfortable way to see the Swedish countryside.
My Train Experience
I loved the train rides in and out of Uppsala. The commuter trains are clean and quiet, with comfortable seats and plenty of room to store luggage. Tickets can be purchased through the SJ app or website for regional trips, or directly through UL for commuter routes. The trains are remarkably punctual, and I was impressed by the ease of transferring between the local buses and trains at Uppsala C.
4. Cycling: A Local Favorite
Uppsala is a bike-friendly city with an extensive network of bike lanes. Renting a bike is an excellent way to explore the city’s charming streets and scenic parks at your own pace. The flat terrain and bike lanes make cycling a comfortable and popular choice.
Renting a Bike
Uppsala has several bike rental shops, including Uppsala Cykeluthyrning near the central station. Prices vary, but you can expect to pay around 150 SEK per day or less if you’re renting long-term. Some hotels also offer bike rentals, which can be convenient if you’re staying in the city center.
Top Bike Routes
- Uppsala University and Botanical Gardens: This route takes you through the university’s historic buildings and the lush botanical gardens, a perfect blend of culture and nature.
- River Fyris: A relaxing ride along the Fyris River offers beautiful views and passes by Gamla Uppsala. It’s a great route if you want a peaceful escape.
My Biking Experience
I found biking to be a fantastic way to explore Uppsala’s sights. The bike lanes are well-marked, and most of the city’s main attractions are accessible by bike. It was an eco-friendly way to get around and truly gave me a local’s view of the city.
5. Walking Around Uppsala
One of the joys of Uppsala is that it’s a very walkable city. The historic center, where many of the main attractions are located, is compact and pedestrian-friendly.
Top Walking Routes
- Uppsala Cathedral to the University Library: This short route covers two of Uppsala’s most famous landmarks. Starting at the stunning Uppsala Cathedral, you can make your way to the historic University Library, enjoying picturesque streets along the way.
- Stora Torget (Main Square): This bustling square is surrounded by shops, cafes, and markets. It’s a great spot to get a feel for the local culture and enjoy some people-watching.
6. Navigating Uppsala Like a Local: Insider Tips
After spending some time here, I picked up a few local tips that made traveling in Uppsala even smoother:
1. Timing Matters
- Rush hour is usually from 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM. Buses can get crowded during these times, so plan accordingly if you prefer a quieter ride.
2. Weather Prep
- Uppsala’s weather can change quickly, so dress in layers and be prepared for rain, especially if you plan to bike or walk around.
3. Get a Fika To-Go
- Swedish coffee culture, or fika, is everywhere, and most cafes offer take-out options. Grab a coffee and pastry on your way to make any public transport trip more enjoyable.
4. Know the Public Transport Etiquette
- Swedes value quiet and personal space on public transport, so try to keep conversations low and avoid loud phone calls.
5. Use Google Maps or the UL App for Navigation
- Both of these tools are reliable for planning routes and finding schedules. I found them indispensable for getting around Uppsala seamlessly.
Navigating Uppsala’s public transport system was an essential part of my journey, allowing me to explore this beautiful city comfortably and affordably. The buses, trains, and cycling routes offer something for every kind of traveler, and I found each mode to have its own unique charm. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, venturing into the Swedish countryside, or simply enjoying the scenic streets, Uppsala’s transport options will make you feel like a local in no time.
By embracing Uppsala’s well-connected and eco-friendly public transport system, I found myself seamlessly blending into the local lifestyle. So, when you’re in Uppsala, skip the car rentals, grab a UL ticket, and get ready to experience this charming Swedish city like a true local.
