Finding the best hotels in Uppsala depends on how you want to experience the city. Some travellers prefer a historic room close to Uppsala Cathedral, while others want a modern hotel beside the railway station or a quieter base near the university. This guide to Uppsala hotels covers the most convenient areas, the best places to stay for different budgets and travel styles, and practical tips for choosing the right room.
Where to stay in Uppsala
Uppsala is compact, walkable and easy to explore without a car. The central railway station is close to shops, restaurants and several of the city’s main hotels. From here, you can reach Uppsala Cathedral, the university quarter, the castle and the river within a short walk or bicycle ride.
The best area for you will depend on your itinerary. Central Uppsala is ideal for first time visitors and anyone arriving by train. The area around the cathedral and university suits travellers interested in history, culture and peaceful surroundings. Hotels farther north can offer more space, parking and lower rates, especially for families or visitors travelling by car.
Central Uppsala and the railway station
This is the most convenient location for a short city break. You will be close to the station, restaurants, shopping streets and the riverside promenade. Staying here also makes day trips to Stockholm simple, with frequent trains taking around 40 minutes to Stockholm Central.
The cathedral and university quarter
The historic centre has a quieter atmosphere and some of the most distinctive accommodation in the city. It is a good choice if you want to wake up near Uppsala Cathedral, Gustavianum, Carolina Rediviva library and the university gardens. Restaurants and cafés are nearby, although the streets are generally calmer in the evening than the area around the station.
Uppsala north
Hotels in the northern part of the city are practical for motorists, business travellers and families who value parking and larger rooms. You may be farther from the main sights, but local buses and bicycles make the centre accessible. These properties can also be useful when central hotels are fully booked.
The best hotels in Uppsala
Grand Hotell Hörnan: best for historic atmosphere
Grand Hotell Hörnan is one of the best hotels in Uppsala for travellers who want character and a central location. The hotel occupies an elegant historic building near the river and is within easy walking distance of the cathedral, university and city centre.
Rooms combine traditional details with modern comfort, making the property feel more individual than a standard chain hotel. The location is especially attractive for couples, weekend visitors and anyone who wants to explore Uppsala on foot. Ask about a room with a view if that is important to you, since views and room layouts can vary.
- Best for: couples, history lovers and city breaks
- Location: central Uppsala near the river and cathedral
- Why choose it: distinctive architecture and a memorable setting
- Keep in mind: historic buildings may have more variation between rooms than modern hotels
Hotel Villa Anna: best for a refined boutique stay
Hotel Villa Anna is a strong choice for visitors looking for a quieter and more personal hotel experience. Located near Uppsala Cathedral and the university, it offers a boutique atmosphere in a historic setting. The hotel is known for its individually styled rooms and polished service.
This is one of the best hotels in Uppsala for a special occasion, a romantic weekend or a culturally focused visit. The surrounding streets are peaceful, yet the main sights, restaurants and cafés are close by. Its restaurant is another reason to consider staying here, particularly if you enjoy an elegant dinner without travelling across town.
- Best for: couples, special occasions and boutique hotel fans
- Location: the historic centre near Uppsala Cathedral
- Why choose it: individual design, calm surroundings and attentive service
- Keep in mind: boutique rooms may be smaller or less uniform than rooms in large chain hotels
Elite Hotel Academia: best for a central modern hotel
Elite Hotel Academia is located beside Uppsala Central Station, making it one of the most convenient places to stay for train travellers. The modern hotel has a broad range of rooms and is close to shopping, restaurants and the city’s central attractions.
The property works well for both business and leisure trips. A rooftop bar provides city views, while the hotel’s meeting facilities make it popular with business travellers. If you are arriving late by train or planning a day trip to Stockholm, the location is particularly useful.
- Best for: train travellers, business trips and short stays
- Location: directly beside the central railway station
- Why choose it: excellent transport links and modern facilities
- Keep in mind: the station area is convenient and lively rather than secluded
Radisson Blu Hotel Uppsala: best for railway access and business travel
Radisson Blu Hotel Uppsala is another practical choice beside the railway station. It offers contemporary rooms, meeting facilities and the predictable convenience of a large international hotel brand. The central location makes it easy to walk to the cathedral, university and riverside paths.
This hotel is among the best hotels in Uppsala for business travellers and visitors with an early train. It is also a comfortable base for longer stays because the rooms and public areas are designed for both work and relaxation. Check whether breakfast is included in your rate, as packages can differ.
- Best for: business travellers, families and rail connections
- Location: next to Uppsala Central Station
- Why choose it: dependable facilities and a highly convenient position
- Keep in mind: compare room categories if you want extra space or a view
Clarion Collection Hotel Uppsala: best for a welcoming stay with added value
Clarion Collection Hotel Uppsala sits close to the river and within walking distance of the station and central attractions. The hotel is known for a friendly atmosphere and packages that may include an evening meal or refreshments, depending on the booking conditions.
That added value can make it one of the best places to stay in Uppsala for travellers who prefer a simpler daily routine. Instead of searching for a restaurant every evening, you may be able to enjoy part of your dinner at the hotel. The riverside position is also pleasant for morning walks and relaxed evenings.
- Best for: couples, value conscious travellers and longer stays
- Location: near the river, station and city centre
- Why choose it: an appealing atmosphere and possible meal inclusions
- Keep in mind: check exactly what is included in your selected rate
Hotel Botanika: best for a relaxed and social atmosphere
Hotel Botanika is a lively option near the university area and botanical gardens. It appeals to travellers who like modern design, a casual atmosphere and easy access to Uppsala’s cultural attractions. The hotel has a restaurant and social spaces that can feel more informal than a traditional business hotel.
The location is useful for visiting the castle, botanical gardens, university buildings and cathedral. It is a good match for younger travellers, groups and anyone who wants a hotel with more energy in the public areas. Rooms and rates vary, so compare the available categories when booking.
- Best for: friends, students, casual city breaks and social travellers
- Location: near the university and botanical gardens
- Why choose it: modern style and a relaxed public atmosphere
- Keep in mind: it may be less suited to guests seeking a very quiet or formal hotel
Akademihotellet: best for the university quarter
Akademihotellet is located close to Uppsala University, the cathedral and Carolina Rediviva library. Its setting is especially convenient for university visits, academic events and travellers who want to stay in the historic part of town.
The hotel has a more understated character than some of the larger central properties. It can be a good option for visitors who value location and a calm environment over extensive leisure facilities. The surrounding area is attractive for walking, with old university buildings, parks and cultural landmarks close at hand.
- Best for: university visits, academics and history focused trips
- Location: the university and cathedral district
- Why choose it: quiet central setting and easy access to historic sights
- Keep in mind: facilities may be more limited than at a full service chain hotel
Scandic Uplandia: best for families and practical central stays
Scandic Uplandia is a centrally located option with the practical facilities many families and business travellers appreciate. It is close to shops, restaurants and the main attractions, and larger room categories may be available for guests travelling with children.
Scandic hotels often provide useful family services, breakfast options and accessible room types, although availability depends on the booking. The hotel is worth comparing with other Uppsala hotels if you want a familiar brand and a straightforward central base.
- Best for: families, groups and travellers who prefer a familiar chain
- Location: central Uppsala near shops and restaurants
- Why choose it: practical facilities and a convenient base
- Keep in mind: confirm family room arrangements before booking
Scandic Uppsala Nord: best for travellers with a car
Scandic Uppsala Nord is north of the main centre and is suited to visitors who prioritise parking, easy road access and practical accommodation. It is less central than the hotels near the station, but local transport makes it possible to reach the city centre without driving into the busiest streets.
This hotel can be a sensible choice for a road trip, a family holiday or a business visit where the city centre is not your only destination. Before booking, check the transport options and parking terms, since these can be important parts of the total cost.
- Best for: road trips, families and business travellers with cars
- Location: northern Uppsala with convenient road access
- Why choose it: parking and a practical setting
- Keep in mind: allow extra time for travelling to the cathedral and central sights
How to choose among Uppsala hotels
Choose your location first
For a first visit, central Uppsala is usually the easiest choice. Hotels near the station put you close to public transport, while the cathedral district offers a more historic atmosphere. If you have a car, a hotel outside the centre may offer better value and simpler parking.
Compare the total price
Room rates can change significantly by season, weekday and event calendar. University terms, graduation celebrations, concerts and summer travel can affect availability. Compare the full price, including breakfast, parking, city tax if applicable and any cancellation conditions. A slightly more expensive room can represent better value if it includes breakfast for two people or free parking.
Check breakfast and evening dining
Breakfast is common among Uppsala hotels, but it is not always included in the lowest advertised rate. If you have an early train, check the breakfast opening hours. Travellers staying for several nights may also appreciate a hotel with an on site restaurant, especially on quieter evenings.
Look at room size and bed arrangements
Hotel room sizes vary, particularly in historic buildings. Families should check whether a room includes a sofa bed, extra bed or connecting rooms. Couples may prefer a quieter room facing an inner courtyard, while light sleepers should ask about traffic, railway and nightlife noise.
Consider accessibility
If you have mobility requirements, contact the hotel before booking rather than relying only on photographs. Ask about step free entrances, lifts, accessible bathrooms and the distance from the room to the restaurant. Central Uppsala is easy to walk around, but cobbled streets and older buildings can affect accessibility.
Best places to stay in Uppsala by travel style
For a romantic weekend
Hotel Villa Anna and Grand Hotell Hörnan are natural choices for couples who want a distinctive setting and easy access to restaurants and historic sights. Clarion Collection Hotel Uppsala can also suit a relaxed weekend, particularly when its rate includes an evening meal.
For a family trip
Scandic Uplandia and Radisson Blu Hotel Uppsala are worth comparing for families because of their central locations and range of room types. Scandic Uppsala Nord may be more convenient if you are driving and want parking. Always confirm the sleeping arrangements for children before paying for the reservation.
For a business visit
Elite Hotel Academia and Radisson Blu Hotel Uppsala are especially convenient for business travellers who need meeting facilities, reliable transport and a central address. Akademihotellet is a good alternative for university related visits or events in the historic academic quarter.
For a budget conscious stay
Hotel prices in Uppsala change often, so there is no single property that is always the cheapest. Compare smaller hotels, chain properties and rates that include breakfast. Staying just outside the central area can reduce the nightly price, but calculate the cost of local transport and the time spent travelling.
What to do near your hotel
Uppsala Cathedral is the city’s most recognisable landmark and a short walk from many of the best hotels in Uppsala. Nearby Gustavianum provides insight into the university’s history, while Carolina Rediviva houses important collections and the famous Silver Bible. Uppsala Castle offers views over the city, and the botanical gardens are particularly pleasant during the warmer months.
For a quieter walk, follow the river through central Uppsala and continue towards the city parks. The area around the university has cafés, bookshops and historic buildings, while the streets near the station offer a wider choice of restaurants and shops. If you have extra time, consider a trip to Gamla Uppsala, known for its ancient burial mounds and museum. Local buses connect the site with the modern city.
Booking tips for your Uppsala stay
- Book early for summer weekends, major university events and popular concert dates.
- Check the distance from Uppsala Central Station if you are travelling by train.
- Confirm whether breakfast, parking and evening meals are included.
- Read the cancellation policy before choosing a lower non refundable rate.
- Request a quiet room, accessible room or family arrangement in advance.
- Compare the hotel’s location with your planned sights, not only the headline price.
- Look for direct hotel offers as well as major booking websites, since inclusions can differ.
Whether you want historic charm, modern convenience, family facilities or easy access to the university, there are plenty of places to stay in Uppsala. The most suitable choice is usually the hotel that matches your location, transport plans and preferred level of service. By comparing the area and the complete booking price, you can find the right base for exploring this welcoming Swedish university city.