Exploring Old Uppsala: A 1.5-Hour Viking and Vendel Period Walking Tour

Read the full experience

Step into the heart of Sweden’s ancient past with the Viking period and Vendel period tour of Old Uppsala, a concise yet deeply immersive 1.5-hour journey through one of Scandinavia’s most significant historical landscapes. Located just north of Stockholm in Vallentuna municipality, Old Uppsala holds the echoes of a time when powerful kings ruled and storied rituals shaped Norse culture. This walking tour offers outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike a rare chance to experience the raw connection between the present landscape and its Viking-era roots. The key highlight of the tour is the remarkable ancient burial mounds that dominate the terrain—massive earthworks constructed over a millennium ago to honor elite dead in the Vendel and Viking periods. These graves are not only impressive feats of prehistoric engineering but also windows into the spiritual and societal customs of early Scandinavians, including the contentious topic of human sacrifices. As you move from mound to mound, your guide will reveal narratives about the people laid to rest here and the significance of their burial artifacts, offering a tactile link to the culture behind the stones. Old Uppsala is also home to the site of the former medieval cathedral, a spiritual waypoint that marks the transition from pagan practices to Christianity in Sweden’s early history. Standing amid these ruins, visitors get a palpable sense of the centuries-old spiritual crossroads that shaped northern Europe. What makes this tour especially compelling is its outdoor setting amid open fields and gently rolling hills, which preserves the sense of natural and cultural heritage without the crowds typical of enclosed museum exhibits. The flat terrain makes the walk accessible to most visitors, while the open skies and cool Nordic air enhance the reflective mood of the experience. This tour is an ideal stop for travelers staying in or around Stockholm looking to add a meaningful cultural excursion to their itinerary. Beyond the rich Viking lore, visitors gain an appreciation for how Old Uppsala remains a cornerstone of Sweden’s outdoor historical preservation efforts. Whether you are fascinated by Viking sagas, archaeological mysteries, or simply want to stretch your legs through a place steeped in legend, the Viking and Vendel period tour at Old Uppsala offers an unforgettable glimpse into Scandinavia’s past that is both educational and tangible.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1.5 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels with a short, gentle walking route

Frequently asked questions

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for children with an interest in history and outdoor walks.

Are the burial mounds accessible to visitors?

Visitors can walk around and view the mounds but should not climb or disturb them, as they are protected sites.

Is the tour available year-round?

Tours operate year-round, but weather conditions may affect scheduling between winter months.

How do I get to Old Uppsala from Stockholm?

Old Uppsala is accessible by train or car from Stockholm, approximately 45 minutes north via public transit or highway.

Is there parking available at the site?

Yes, there is parking nearby for guests traveling by car.

Are guides available in languages other than English?

Guides typically speak English and Swedish; check availability for other languages when booking.

Local insights

Wildlife

European hare
Common buzzard

History

Old Uppsala was a major religious center in pre-Christian Scandinavia, with the burial mounds dating back to 550–800 AD.

Conservation

The site is actively protected to preserve its archaeological integrity and minimize visitor impact on the fragile earthworks.

About Sweden History Tours

Sweden History Tours is a guided tour operator based in Stockholm that specializes in historical and cultural walking tours across Stockholm, Uppsala and surrounding regions. The company offers an extensive range of public and private experiences — from short one‑hour city walks to full‑day excursions to the Stockholm archipelago, Åland Island, Birka and ancient burial sites. Popular themes include Viking and Vendel era archaeology, medieval history, naval and naval‑isle walks, dark folklore and ghost walks, church and cathedral guided tours, and food and fika experiences featuring local producers. Guides are authorized and deliver focused, research‑based commentary at sites such as Old Town (Gamla Stan), Uppsala Cathedral, Vasa Museum connections, Vallentuna church, Täby church and multiple rune stone and grave mound locations. Sweden History Tours runs small group public departures and customizable private tours, with options for hotel pick‑up, transported tours and combined museum visits. The operator emphasizes factual storytelling, archaeological context and conservation‑aware visits to heritage sites. Tours are available in Swedish and English where noted, with some seasonal specialty walks for Christmas, Halloween and other cultural events. Booking options include short themed walks, full‑day historic itineraries and tailored corporate or family programs. Sweden History Tours is positioned as a specialist in Swedish history interpretation, offering reliable logistics, local knowledge and a broad catalogue of experiences for visitors seeking depth, authenticity and local food connections. The operator accommodates accessibility needs where possible and provides clear pre‑tour information on meeting points, durations and recommended clothing for seasonal weather and safety guidelines.

Base locationVallentuna, Stockholms län

Tours offered113+

Adventure tips

Wear sturdy walking shoesThe terrain includes grassy fields and uneven paths near burial mounds—solid footwear ensures comfort and stability.

Bring weather-appropriate layersSwedish weather can shift quickly; dressing in layers helps you stay comfortable throughout the tour.

Respect the sacred sitesThese ancient mounds are protected cultural monuments; avoid climbing or disturbing any features during your visit.

Arrive early to avoid crowdsThe site can get busy during peak season—starting early means a quieter, more reflective experience.

Recommended gear

Comfortable walking shoes: Provides support and traction on uneven turf and dirt paths.
Weatherproof jacket: Protects against spring showers and cool Nordic winds.
Sun hat and sunscreen: Shield yourself from the midsummer sun during the open-air tour.
Insulating layer: Keeps you warm as temperatures drop during autumn outings.