Things To Do
in Sävja

Sävja is a tranquil parish in Uppland, Sweden, just outside Uppsala, known for its countryside and forested landscapes. The village sits by the Sävjaån river and offers easy access to wandering trails and lakes. Visitors can easily combine day trips to Uppsala's historic center with peaceful moments along the water.

In all seasons, Sävja serves as a quiet base for exploring central Sweden's nature and culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Nature Trails
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing hike along the scenic nature trails of Sävja, where you can enjoy the crisp morning air and the serene sounds of the forest. As the sunlight breaks through the trees, take in the beauty of the regional flora and fauna. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the picturesque views.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a leisurely picnic at one of the many serene spots. Grab lunch from a local café or pack your favorites and take the opportunity to unwind in nature. Spend your afternoon recharging in the tranquil environment before taking a stroll along the Sävja stream.

evening
:

As the day winds down, find a cozy spot in a nearby park for some evening relaxation. Watch the sunset, listening to the faint chirping of birds as they settle down for the night. Optionally, enjoy some local dining options in Sävja, reflecting on the day's adventures.

day 2
Cultural Day in Uppsala
morning
:

Take a short trip to the historic city of Uppsala, home to significant Swedish culture. Start your exploration by visiting the iconic Uppsala Cathedral, where you can marvel at its stunning architecture. Enjoy a warm coffee at a local café before diving deeper into the city.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Gustavianum Museum to learn about Uppsala's rich history and its impact on Sweden. Stroll through Uppsala University’s Botanical Garden, where you can admire the seasonal blooms and beautifully curated landscapes. Take time to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere as you sip on refreshments from nearby eateries.

evening
:

Return to Sävja in the early evening and prepare a delicious home-cooked meal while sharing the highlights of your cultural exploration. Settle into the warmth of your accommodations or choose to dine al fresco under the stars. Embrace the cozy ambiance of small-town living as you reflect on the day's experiences.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🥗Lunch for two$25-40
Coffee/tea$3-5
🚆Public transport day pass$6-12
🏨Mid-range hotel room (per night)$90-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Peaceful rural setting and easy access to nature
  • Close to Uppsala's culture and services
  • Safe and clean environment
  • Moderate costs relative to major cities
  • Limited nightlife in the village
  • Public transport could be less frequent in rural hours
  • Weather can be cold and variable
  • Distance from international flight hubs requires planning
  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Ursäkta, kan du hjälpa mig?" - Excuse me, can you help me?
  • "Vad kostar det?" - What does this cost?
  • "Jag skulle vilja få notan, tack." - I would like the bill, please.
  • "Var ligger närmaste busshållplats?" - Where is the nearest bus stop?

Places to Visit in Sävja

Visit one of these nice places.

Sävjaån riverside

Calm water, willows, and early morning mist—great for reflections and tranquil portraits.

Uppsala cathedral skyline from distance

Iconic spire views, especially at dawn or dusk from vantage points near the university area.

Lakeside at nearby lakes

Sunset and golden hour light over calm water with silhouettes of trees.

Old wooden farmhouses in the countryside

Traditional Swedish rural architecture with red painted barns.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sävja

Sweden’s cuisine blends seasonal produce from forests and fields with refined, modern dining. In Sävja and the surrounding area you’ll find hearty countryside meals, fresh fish from nearby lakes, and classic fika pastries.

Sävja Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Köttbullar with lingonberry

Swedish meatballs served with cream gravy, potatoes, and lingonberries.

Must-Try!

Gravad lax with hovmästarsås

Cured salmon with dill mustard sauce, often served with crispbread.

Raggmunk with fried pork

Potato pancakes fried with pork and lingonberries.

Sill (pickled herring) with rye crispbread

A traditional starter or part of a smörgåsbord, common at gatherings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Uppsala Saluhall

A bustling indoor market in Uppsala offering local produce, fish, cheeses, pastries, and quick lunches.

Vaksalagatan Market (informal stalls)

Seasonal stalls with fruit, berries, and ready-to-eat bites in the greater Uppsala area.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sävja has a humid continental climate with cold, snowy winters and mild summers. Expect long days in summer and short days in winter; rainfall is spread throughout the year, with the wettest seasons typically in late summer and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Be on time for appointments and reservations; Swedes value punctuality.

Quiet social style

Low voices in public spaces; avoid loud conversations in public transport.

Queueing

Form orderly queues and wait your turn.

Tipping etiquette

Tipping is optional; a simple 'tack' (thanks) is appreciated.

Environment and nature

Respect nature; take litter home; follow local trail rules.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sweden is generally safe with low crime rates. Standard travel safety applies: lock cars, watch belongings in crowded areas, and be cautious near water and on lakes in winter when ice can be thin. In emergencies dial 112.

Tipping in Sävja

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service charges are usually included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is common but not required.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is accepted but less common in smaller places.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days, blooming countryside; bring a light jacket and waterproof footwear for unpredictable showers.

Summer

Long days, warm weather, mosquitoes near water; bring sunscreen and insect repellent.

Autumn

Harvest season with colorful foliage; dress in layers and check for short rain showers.

Winter

Cold with snow possible; daylight is limited, plan for indoor activities and layered clothing.

Nightlife Guide

Sävja at Night

In Sävja, nightlife is limited; the village is quiet after dark. For bars, live music, and late-night dining, head to Uppsala or Stockholm where universities and cultural venues offer a lively scene, especially on weekends.

Hiking in Sävja

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sävjaåns Nature Trail

Forest and lakeside loop along Sävjaån with varied terrain and wildlife.

Uppland Countryside Walk

Rural trails connecting small villages and open farmland, suitable for day hikes.

Gamla Uppsala nature paths

Short, easy trails near historic sites with views over the plains.

Airports

How to reach Sävja by plane.

Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)

Main international gateway; reachable by car/train from Sävja in about 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.

Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA)

Closer option for domestic Swedish and some European flights; more limited international options.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sävja is a small village with good walkability within the village; for longer trips and city amenities, you’ll rely on a short drive or public transport to Uppsala. The surrounding countryside is pleasant for strolls and bike rides; main sites are reachable by car or bike with some rural roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Nearby Uppsala University brings a student population to the region; many students travel between campus and home.

Families

Rural households with children, often seeking quiet neighborhoods and schools in nearby towns.

Retirees

A portion of residents are retirees seeking a peaceful countryside lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular among locals and visiting teams; local fields and clubs exist in the Uppsala region.

Cross-country skiing

Widely practiced in snowy winters on trails and forests around Uppland.

Orienteering

Active in the rural terrain; great for navigation skill and endurance.

Transportation

Traffic

Sävja benefits from good road connections to Uppsala and surrounding towns. Public transportation relies on regional buses and rail connections in Uppsala; traffic can be heavier during commute hours toward Uppsala in mornings and evenings. Winter driving requires caution on icy roads; plan for extra travel time during winter snowfalls.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sävja.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Swedish cuisine includes many vegetarian options; ask for meat-free dishes, or choose fish-free meals and dairy-free options; many restaurants label vegetarian items.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in the wider Uppsala region, including primary care centers in nearby towns and the University Hospital in Uppsala for emergencies and specialized care. For non-urgent issues, book appointments with local clinics; in emergencies dial 112. Insurance and European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) coverings apply for visitors within the EU. Pharmacy access is common in Uppsala and larger villages.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide