Stockholm....Uppsala.... Vikings......

Our trip to Sweden was like stepping into the pages of a storybook—ancient ruins, charming, cobbled streets, and stunning waterfronts came together to create an unforgettable journey with my brother Partha and my sister Nimala. From the academic calm of Uppsala to the vibrant hum of Stockholm, every day brought something new and memorable.  

Our adventure began at Stockholm is often called the “Venice of the North,” and it’s easy to see why. The city is built across 14 islands, and the waterways are everywhere.  we stayed at the Hilton Stockholm Slussen. With sweeping views of the water and the charming buildings of Gamla Stan just across the bridge, it was the perfect base for our explorations. 

Wandering through Gamla Stan was like time traveling. Narrow, winding streets led us past colorful buildings, cozy cafés, and quirky shops. We stopped at Stortorget Square, took in the Royal Palace, and even tried some traditional Swedish fika (coffee and pastries) in one of the tucked-away cafés.

Next destination was Uppsala; a city steeped in Viking history and scholarly prestige with its university. We wandered through the quiet pathways of Gamla Uppsala, where ancient burial mounds rise gently from the landscape—each one said to belong to Viking kings and chieftains. Standing beside the runestones etched with mysterious symbols, we could almost hear echoes from a thousand years ago.

The city itself blended the old and new effortlessly. We took our time exploring Uppsala Cathedral and the university area, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere that makes this city so special.

From Uppsala, we made our way to Sigtuna,  a tiny town with massive charm. Dating back to the 10th century, it’s considered Sweden’s oldest town, and it felt like a living museum. Runestones dot the streets like public art, and the ruins of medieval churches lend a haunting beauty to the quiet lanes. We strolled along Lake Mälaren and enjoyed a slow lunch by the water.

Of course, no trip to Sweden would be complete without diving deeper into its Viking past. At the Viking Museum in Stockholm, we got a close-up look at Norse mythology, everyday life in Viking times, and even a ride through a dramatized Viking saga. It was immersive, fun, and surprisingly moving.  Sweden is both cutting-edge and timeless, vibrant yet serene.

 There was always a sense of depth—like we were walking in the footsteps of something ancient, yet still alive in the air.     

                                                      PEACE ON EARTH

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