Heritage & monuments
Valsgärde
Valsgärde Archaeological Site
Valsgärde is an archaeological site located on the banks of the Fyris River. It is primarily known for its burial grounds dating from the 6th to the 11th centuries, specifically the Vendel era. Visitors go here to see the remains of ancient ship graves and explore the landscape associated with the early Swedish kings.
Getting There
The site is located outside the center of Uppsala. It is most easily reached by car or bicycle. From the city center, the trip takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes depending on the mode of transport.
Visit Duration
Depending on your interest in archaeology and the amount of walking you intend to do around the riverbank, allow 1 to 2 hours to explore the area.
When to Visit
The site is an outdoor area, so it is best visited during the spring, summer, or autumn. Daylight hours are limited in winter. It does not typically experience the high crowd levels found in the city center, though it is quieter during weekday mornings.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its location, this site is often combined with other historical landmarks in the Gamla Uppsala area:
- Disagården open air museum (2.8km)
- Old Uppsala Church (3km)
- Old Uppsala archaeological area (3.1km)
- Gamla Uppsala museum (3.2km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors