Gamla Uppsala Museum
Explore Viking kings, ancient rituals, and majestic burial mounds at Gamla Uppsala Museum, a historical heartland of Sweden.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Gamla Uppsala Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Viking kings, ancient rituals, and majestic burial mounds at Gamla Uppsala Museum, a historical heartland of Sweden.
"Take your time, you will learn a lot and gain appreciation for the site."
⏳ Take Your Time
Don't rush! Allow ample time to read exhibits and watch videos for a richer experience.
🚶♀️ Explore the Mounds
Hike or bike around the burial mounds for stunning views and a connection to history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Royal Mounds
Outdoor area
Majestic burial mounds, remnants of ancient Viking kings and power. A must-see for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Gamla Uppsala Museum
Indoor museum
Explore Viking culture, runes, and ancient rituals. Offers a comprehensive look at the region's rich historical past.

Open-Air Museum
Outdoor area
Experience Viking life firsthand with reconstructions and demonstrations. Great for all ages to learn and engage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Viking History
Beyond the Museum Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Take Your Time
Don't rush! Allow ample time to read exhibits and watch videos for a richer experience.
🚶♀️ Explore the Mounds
Hike or bike around the burial mounds for stunning views and a connection to history.
📚 Pre-Visit Research
Reading up on Viking history beforehand enhances appreciation.
🚗 Parking Tip
Parking is just before the main site, an easy walk to the museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Take Your Time
Don't rush! Allow ample time to read exhibits and watch videos for a richer experience.
🚶♀️ Explore the Mounds
Hike or bike around the burial mounds for stunning views and a connection to history.
📚 Pre-Visit Research
Reading up on Viking history beforehand enhances appreciation.
🚗 Parking Tip
Parking is just before the main site, an easy walk to the museum.
🗣️ Engage with Staff
Staff are knowledgeable and polite, happy to explain old ways.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gamla Uppsala Museum offers a deep dive into Viking history, with impressive burial mounds and an informative museum. While some visitors note the presence of replicas, many praise the educational value and the opportunity to explore the ancient landscape. It's a site that rewards those who take their time to absorb its rich history.
"This is a very historic and important place for Viking history. It’s a great place to get outside for a bit and enjoy nature and go for a hike. I rode a Ryde scooter out here from Uppsala and it only took about 15 minutes. Perhaps read up on the place in Wikipedia or elsewhere before you go to gain appreciation for the site. Free entry to walking trails. I did not go in the museum. Oh…and you can hike and ride bikes on trails around the mounds which is fun."
Brian Deurloo
"Here you can know the values of old history and the livelihood of the people from the Sweden. There is a spot where you can meet the people explaining the old ways and also very polite to interact with.
It was a lovely experience."
Dhruv Agrawal
"This is a great museum. Yes there are a lot of copies and yes there is a ton to read, but it is extremely interesting. Just give yourself enough time to walk around the mounts, read all and in the museum, just grab a chair and stop to read and watch the videos. If you will run through it, of course you'll have the impression it is a weak museum. Take your time. Believe me, you will learn a lot."
Sneezy Fey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily reach Gamla Uppsala Museum from Uppsala by riding a Ryde scooter, which takes about 15 minutes.
Alternatively, public transport options are available, though specific routes and times should be checked locally. Driving is also an option, with parking available near the museum.Yes, there is a parking lot available. It's located just before the main site, making it a convenient starting point for your visit.
Absolutely! Cycling is a popular way to reach Gamla Uppsala, and there are trails around the mounds perfect for biking.
While scooters and bikes are popular, public transport options do exist. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and timings.
For a day trip from Uppsala, a scooter ride is quick and enjoyable.
For those coming from further afield, driving or checking public transport links are good options.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours for Gamla Uppsala Museum can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official museum website or local listings for the most current information, especially if planning a visit during off-peak times.
Entry to the walking trails around the burial mounds is free.
However, there is typically a fee to enter the museum itself. Check the museum's official website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts.For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check the museum's policy, especially during peak tourist seasons. This can help avoid queues and ensure entry.
Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended. They provide valuable insights and answer questions, especially for families.
Inquire at the museum about tour schedules and availability.The outdoor areas, including the walking trails and the burial mounds, are generally free to access and explore.
This allows visitors to enjoy the historical landscape without an entrance fee.🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Gamla Uppsala Museum, you can explore Viking history, see replicas of artifacts, learn about runes, and watch informative videos.
The outdoor area features impressive burial mounds and walking trails, offering a chance to connect with the ancient landscape.Some visitors note that many items in the museum are replicas.
However, the exhibits are designed to be highly informative and engaging, providing a comprehensive understanding of Viking life and culture.Yes, Gamla Uppsala Museum is suitable for children. The interactive exhibits, rune decoding, and the opportunity to create rune stones make it engaging for younger visitors.
Guided tours can also be tailored to answer kids' questions.To fully appreciate the museum and the surrounding mounds, it's recommended to allocate at least 2-3 hours. Taking your time to read exhibits and explore the outdoor areas is key to a rewarding experience.
The burial mounds are ancient tumuli, believed to be the resting places of Viking kings and important figures. They are a significant historical landmark and offer a unique opportunity for outdoor exploration and appreciation of the past.
📸 📸 Photography
The majestic burial mounds against the Swedish landscape offer stunning photographic opportunities.
The museum's exterior and the surrounding natural beauty are also great for capturing memorable shots.Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed, but it's best to check for any specific restrictions inside the museum exhibits. Flash photography might be prohibited to protect artifacts.
A versatile camera that handles both indoor and outdoor lighting well is ideal. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also sufficient for capturing the essence of the site.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and protected areas to preserve the site and ensure visitor safety. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for the burial mounds and the surrounding landscape. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details within the museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Enthusiasts & Archeology Buffs
🌳 Nature Lovers & Outdoor Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Gamla Uppsala
Beyond the mounds, Gamla Uppsala was a significant religious center, particularly for the Norse pagan religion. It's believed to have hosted a temple dedicated to the Æsir gods, making it a focal point for rituals and sacrifices. The nearby Gamla Uppsala Church, built on the site of the former pagan temple, stands as a testament to the transition from paganism to Christianity in Sweden. The museum itself aims to bring this rich history to life, offering insights into the daily lives, beliefs, and societal structures of the people who inhabited this sacred ground.
Visitors often find that understanding the historical context greatly enhances their experience. While some reviews mention a prevalence of replicas in the museum, the overall narrative and the tangible presence of the ancient landscape provide a unique connection to Sweden's Viking heritage. The site encourages a slower pace, inviting visitors to contemplate the deep history etched into the very earth they walk upon.
Navigating the Gamla Uppsala Experience
Stepping outside, the burial mounds are the undeniable stars of the show. These ancient monuments are not just visually striking but also evoke a sense of awe and wonder. Visitors are encouraged to walk or even bike around them, allowing for a more personal connection with the landscape and its history. The trails offer beautiful views and a chance to reflect on the centuries of human activity that have taken place here. Some visitors have found the staff to be very helpful and polite, offering insights into the 'old ways'.
For those looking to maximize their visit, consider combining the museum with a guided tour. These tours can offer deeper insights and answer specific questions, making the historical narrative more accessible, especially for families. The overall sentiment from many visitors is that Gamla Uppsala is a place that rewards patience and a willingness to engage with its layered history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit