Stockholm Viking History Full Day Tour to Sigtuna + Uppsala

If you’re eager to step back a thousand years into the Viking age and see the places where Norse culture thrived, this full-day tour from Stockholm aims to deliver just that. Led by knowledgeable guides and expertly organized, it combines sightseeing, history, and a dash of Swedish charm.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances education with scenic exploration. You get close to real Viking sites, from ancient runestones to burial grounds, all while enjoying the picturesque Swedish countryside. Plus, the small-town charm of Sigtuna and the storied streets of Uppsala make the trip feel authentic rather than touristy.

That said, the tour is quite packed, with multiple stops and some walking involved, so it might not be ideal for travelers with limited mobility or those looking for a very relaxed day. It’s best suited for history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, or anyone excited to connect with Scandinavia’s Viking roots in a meaningful way.

Key Points

• Rich Viking Sites: Visit some of Sweden’s most important historical Viking sites, including burial grounds and runestones.
• Authentic Towns: Walk through the oldest town in Sweden, Sigtuna, with medieval ruins and cozy streets.
• Historical Uppsala: Explore the 1500-year-old king’s grave mounds and the impressive Uppsala Cathedral.
• Expert Guides: Enjoy engaging commentary from guides who know Viking history inside and out.
• Scenic Drives: The tour features comfortable transportation and scenic views of the Swedish countryside.
• Value for Money: Combining multiple sites with transportation and guided insights offers excellent value for a full day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Viking history, delivered through a mix of scenic drives, site visits, and short walks. We’ll walk you through each major stop, highlighting what makes it special and why it matters.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Stockholm, with transportation included from within 3 kilometers of Stockholm Central Station. The comfort of the bus, along with a friendly guide, sets the tone for a day full of discovery. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of the Swedish landscape from the city to the countryside.

Broby Bro Burial Grounds

Your first stop is at Broby Bro, renowned as one of Sweden’s most famous Viking burial sites. You’ll see ancient graves from the pagan era, along with a Christian burial from the transition period—an intriguing snapshot of religious change. The site is scenic, and the guided explanation will help you understand Viking burial customs and their significance in society.

Jarlabanke Bridge

Next up is Jarlabanke’s bridge, a reconstructed Viking bridge that crosses a small creek. This site is especially fascinating because of the runic inscription carved into the stone bridge — a rare peek into Viking law and social structure. Walking over the reconstructed bridge gives you an authentic feel for how Vikings built their infrastructure.

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Arkils Tingstad

Another highlight is the Arkils Tingstad, an ancient Viking assembly site or “thing.” This was essentially a Viking parliament where disputes were settled and laws discussed. The site’s scenic views and historical importance make it a compelling stop, giving you insight into Viking governance and kin group construction.

Sigtuna: Sweden’s Oldest Town

The charm of Sigtuna makes it a favorite among travelers. This small town, with its winding medieval streets and wooden buildings, feels like stepping into a living museum. You’ll have ample time—about 100 minutes—to walk among ruins of medieval churches, visit quaint shops, and perhaps grab a snack. The guide will take you on a walking tour, sharing stories of the town’s Viking past and its significance as a hub for trade and culture.

Uppsala and the King’s Mounds

From Sigtuna, the tour heads to Uppsala, home to one of Sweden’s most meaningful archaeological sites. The king’s grave mounds, dating back 1500 years, are striking and full of stories. You’ll walk among these towering burial sites, learning about the Viking kings and their burial customs. The site also features the ruins of a medieval cathedral, which once was a major religious center.

Uppsala Cathedral

Uppsala’s cathedral, the largest church in the Nordic countries, is awe-inspiring. Your guide will tell you about its history, including notable figures like Carl Linnaeus who are buried there. Standing inside, you get a sense of the religious evolution from pagan times to Christianity and its importance in Swedish history.

Gamla Uppsala: The Sacred Grounds

Your final historic stop is Gamla Uppsala, a site that was once a religious, political, and cultural center. The large, high grave mounds dominate the landscape, and the site still exudes a spiritual atmosphere. This stop caps your Viking journey, connecting you physically and intellectually to the ancestors who shaped Swedish history.

Lunch and Local Flavors

During the break, you’ll have time at a local café, sampling regional snacks or just relaxing with a coffee. While food isn’t included in the tour price, this pause allows you to savor local flavors and reflect on the morning’s discoveries.

The Practical Side

The entire day lasts around 8 to 9 hours, with a well-planned itinerary that includes plenty of scenic driving, short walks, and informative stops. The group size is kept manageable, and the guides are praised repeatedly for their knowledge and friendly manner. As many reviews highlight, guides like Calle, Gustav, and Åsa bring history to life with engaging stories and expert insights.

Price-wise, the tour offers good value considering the transportation, guided commentary, and access to top Viking sites. Entry fees aren’t included, so if you’re eager to visit any museums or pay for special access, budget accordingly. You’ll need to bring your own snacks or buy them along the way, but the stop at Sigtuna and Uppsala may allow for some local shopping or quick bites.

Weather can be a factor—this tour operates in all conditions—so dress appropriately, especially if it’s chilly or rainy. The bus is well-heated, and breaks are scheduled, making the day comfortable even in less-than-perfect weather.

Authenticity and Value

What truly makes this tour stand out, according to reviews, is the combination of expert guides, stunning sites, and a well-organized schedule. Many reviews mention how guides like Calle, Gustav, and Åsa elevated the experience with their storytelling and knowledge—turning a sightseeing trip into a genuine education.

Travelers often remark on the authenticity of the sites—standing on a reconstructed Viking bridge or walking among ancient grave mounds offers a tangible connection to the past. This isn’t just a bus tour; it’s an immersive experience that makes history feel alive. The small towns and open landscapes add to the sense of stepping back in time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for anyone with an interest in Vikings, Scandinavian culture, archaeology, or medieval history. It offers enough variation to appeal to families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a day outside Stockholm’s city bustle. It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate guided storytelling and scenic drives, making complex history accessible and engaging.

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that’s packed with meaningful sites and insightful guides, this tour hits the mark. However, if mobility is an issue or if you prefer a very relaxed pace, you might want to consider how tightly packed the schedule is.

The Sum Up

This full-day Viking tour delivers an impressive blend of history, scenery, and authentic Swedish towns. The guides’ expertise and storytelling turn ancient runestones and burial mounds into vivid stories from the past, creating a memorable experience for anyone curious about Scandinavia’s Viking legacy.

You’ll love the opportunity to walk among 1000-year-old sites, learn about Viking laws and society, and stroll through charming towns that seem frozen in time. The scenic drives and well-maintained sites add to the overall value, making it a worthwhile investment for history enthusiasts.

While it’s a busy day, the mix of guided insights, scenic stops, and culture makes this a standout experience — especially if you’re eager to connect with the roots of Swedish identity. This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, engaging, and authentic Viking adventure close to Stockholm.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off within 3 km of Stockholm Central Station, and a knowledgeable guide. Entry fees and food are not included.

How long is the tour?
Expect around 8 to 9 hours of sightseeing, with multiple stops and scenic drives.

Is there any walking involved?
Yes, there is some walking during the guided tours of sites like Sigtuna and Uppsala, but it is described as limited.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour operates in all conditions. Layers and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.

Are meals provided?
No, meals are not included, but there will be a lunch break at a local café where you can purchase regional snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the engaging nature of the sites and guides makes it generally suitable for families interested in history.

How many people typically join this tour?
The reviews suggest a manageable group size, often with personal interaction and attentive guiding.

What is the main attraction?
The combination of Viking burial sites, runestones, and visits to historic towns like Sigtuna and Uppsala makes this a comprehensive Viking experience.

Do I need to prepare anything beforehand?
Just bring curiosity, weather-appropriate clothing, and a willingness to learn about one of Scandinavia’s most influential eras.

This tour offers a rare chance to walk through the history of the Vikings with guides who genuinely bring the stories to life. For those yearning to see where Vikings once ruled and to connect with Swedish history beyond Stockholm, it’s a day well spent.

You can check availability for your dates here: