Viking History and Swedish Countryside Tour to Sigtuna & Uppsala

The Viking History and Swedish Countryside Tour to Sigtuna & Uppsala offers a comprehensive glimpse into Sweden’s Viking era combined with charming medieval towns. Priced at $257.08 per person, this full-day excursion lasts approximately 9 hours and departs from central Stockholm, making it an accessible choice for those interested in history, archaeology, and Scandinavian culture. The tour features hotel pickup and drop-off, a comfortable minibus, and an expert guide who brings the sites to life with vivid storytelling.

With an average booking window of 54 days in advance, this trip is well-organized and popular among travelers seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, historical education, and scenic landscapes. While the tour covers many sites, it can be quite full and occasionally feels rushed, especially at some locations. The inclusion of lunch at a local eatery and several free stops for exploration add practical touches that enhance the experience. This tour suits history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Viking heritage and medieval Sweden.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Stockholm lasting about 9 hours with hotel pickup.
• Priced at $257.08 per person, including transport and an expert guide.
• Visits include Uppsala, Sigtuna, and key Viking sites like runestones and burial mounds.
• Stops at Granby, Vallentuna, and Täby provide insight into Viking Parliament and ancient roads.
• Includes free time in Sigtuna and Uppsala for independent exploration.
• Tour is suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for children under 8.

From Täby Church to the Viking Causeway Bridge

The journey begins near Stockholm, where the tour drives past Täby Church, a historic 13th-century Romanesque and Gothic structure. The guide highlights its significance as a local worship site and cultural landmark. Shortly afterward, the group stops at Jarlabanke’s Bridge, an 11th-century Viking Age bridge constructed by a prominent Viking chieftain. Runestones by the bridge mention Jarlabanke and his family, emphasizing their influence in early Swedish society.

This initial segment sets the tone for a trip deeply rooted in Viking heritage and medieval history. The guide explains the powerful role of Viking chieftains and their efforts to mark their presence through infrastructure like bridges and runestones.

Exploring Arkils Tingstad, the Viking Parliament Site

In Vallentuna, the tour visits Arkils Tingstad, a site of archaeological importance. This Viking Age assembly site features stones arranged in a square pattern, believed to have served as a meeting place for local communities to resolve disputes and enact laws. The stones’ layout offers a glimpse into Viking governance and legal practices. The site remains a powerful symbol of early Scandinavian political life.

A short walk from the site, visitors can enjoy views of Lake Vallentuna, adding a natural serenity to the historical atmosphere. The small lake and surrounding forests offer a peaceful backdrop to the ancient site.

Viking Runestones and the Granby Rune Stone

In Orkesta, travelers encounter the Granbyhällen or Granby Rune Stone, which features one of the longest inscriptions from the Viking Age. The stone likely served as an inheritance record and connects visitors with Viking family history. Nearby, the best-preserved Viking house foundations reveal longhouses where Viking families lived.

Additional time is spent exploring Granby farm, where a cozy farmhouse hosts a Swedish fika (optional), along with the chance to buy regional crafts and Viking souvenirs. This stop blends history, culture, and local flavor.

Medieval Churches and the Sigtuna Town Charm

The tour’s next major stop is Sigtuna, founded in AD 980, making it Sweden’s oldest town. Visitors stroll cobblestone streets past wooden and stone buildings, with highlights like St. Mary’s Church and the Sigtuna Museum. The town’s lakeside setting offers peaceful views and a sense of timeless Scandinavian charm.

Sigtuna’s old-world atmosphere combines medieval architecture with bespoke shops offering local souvenirs. The town provides ample free time for independent exploration, allowing visitors to soak in the historic ambiance or enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeshore.

Uppsala’s Royal Mounds and Uppsala Cathedral

The next site is Gamla Uppsala, famous for its three large burial mounds dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries. These royal mounds are associated with legendary Swedish kings and contain grave goods like weapons and jewelry. The mounds symbolize Swedish kingship and provide a tangible link to prehistoric rulers.

Adjacent to Gamla Uppsala, the tour visits Uppsala Cathedral, an architectural marvel of Gothic design. The cathedral houses the tomb of King Gustav Vasa and offers climbable bell towers with panoramic views of Uppsala. Inside, visitors admire stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings that reflect centuries of religious craftsmanship.

Independent Exploration in Uppsala and Final Return

The last segment of the tour allows free time in Uppsala. Visitors can explore local shops, visit the Uppsala University campus, or simply enjoy the city’s historic streets. Afterward, the group boards the minibus for the smooth return to Stockholm.

The overall pacing balances guided commentary with personal time, though some reviews note that certain stops can feel somewhat rushed. The air-conditioned vehicle and professional guide help keep the experience comfortable and informative.

Practical Details and Tour Highlights Summary

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a comfortable minivan, and a professional, knowledgeable guide. The itinerary covers key Viking and medieval sites, such as Viking parliament stones, runestones, burial mounds, and ancient churches. The free time in Sigtuna and Uppsala offers flexibility to explore at your own pace.

The lunch break takes place at a local eatery (not included in the price), and stops at Hökeriet offer a chance to pause and shop for Viking-related souvenirs. The tour is not recommended for children under 8 and can be crowded, with up to 16 passengers in a single vehicle.

The overall rating of 4.5/5 from 153 reviews reflects high satisfaction, especially for guides who are both knowledgeable and engaging. Some occasional comments mention long hours and brief stops, but most praise the well-organized nature of the trip and the expertise of the guide, Urban.

Viking Heritage and Scenery Combined in a Full Day

This tour delivers a balanced mix of Viking archaeology, medieval history, and scenic countryside. It provides an educational experience with hands-on insights into Viking life, from runestones to burial mounds. The visits to Sigtuna and Uppsala add cultural depth and visual charm.

While the itinerary can feel tight at times, the expert guide and well-chosen sites make it a worthwhile option for history enthusiasts. The experience is especially enriching for those wanting to understand Sweden’s early history through physical sites and artifacts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time for exploration.

What is the price and what does it include?
The price is $257.08 per person and includes hotel pickup and drop-off within central Stockholm, transport by minibus, and a professional guide. Food and drinks are not included.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not recommended for children under 8 years old due to the length and nature of the sites visited.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include Viking runestones, Viking parliament sites, granite burial mounds in Gamla Uppsala, Uppsala Cathedral, and the historic town of Sigtuna.

How is the pacing of the tour?
Most reviews say the pace is generally good, but some note that certain stops may be brief, and some sites can feel rushed.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a charged phone (note: the tour vehicle does not have charging ports), and water for a long day of sightseeing.

This Viking History and Swedish Countryside Tour from Stockholm offers a rich, engaging, and well-organized way to explore Sweden’s ancient past while enjoying scenic vistas and charming towns. It’s a good fit for anyone eager to connect with Viking heritage and see historic sites in a single day.