Uppsala is a city that surprises many with its outdoor swimming options. Whether you are a family with young children, a solo swimmer seeking a quiet spot, or someone who needs wheelchair-accessible facilities, Uppsala has a bathing spot that fits your needs. Here is a quick overview of the five best outdoor swimming spots in the city.
Quick Facts
- Number of spots featured: 5
- Fully accessible spots: Sunnerstabadet, Vårdsätrabadet, Fyrishov
- Open year-round: Sunnerstabadet (24h), Vårdsätrabadet (24h)
- Best for families: Fjällnorabadet (sandy beach + grassy lawns)
- Largest facility: Fyrishovs Äventyrsbad (heated outdoor pools + sun loungers)
- Most scenic: Vårdsätrabadet (lakeside views)
Outdoor swimming options across Uppsala, from lakeside beaches to heated adventure pools
The 5 Best Outdoor Swimming Spots in Uppsala
1. Sunnerstabadet
📍 Sunnerstabadet, 756 53 Uppsala
A quiet, safe, and clean outdoor bathing spot ideal for families with children. The facilities include wheelchair-accessible toilets and entrance ramps, making it one of the most inclusive swimming spots in the region. Open 24 hours year-round, so you can swim at any time that suits you, whether that is an early morning dip or an evening cool-down in summer.
What makes it special: Full accessibility combined with 24-hour opening makes Sunnerstabadet a reliable choice for swimmers with mobility needs or families with unpredictable schedules.
2. Fjällnorabadet
📍 Fjällnorabadet, Ö, Uppsala (by Lake Trehörningen)
A large family-friendly bathing area with a sandy beach, grassy lawns, and plenty of open space. Fjällnorabadet is one of the most popular summer destinations in the Uppsala area, drawing crowds on warm weekends. The combination of sand and grass means there is plenty of room for picnics, sunbathing, and games between swims.
What makes it special: The sandy beach sets Fjällnorabadet apart from the other spots on this list. If you prefer the feeling of sand between your toes over a rocky shoreline, this is your spot.
3. Vårdsätrabadet
📍 Vårdsätrabadet, Lövängsvägen, Uppsala
A beautiful bathing spot with scenic views over the lake. Open 24 hours year-round, with wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance. The surrounding landscape makes this spot particularly appealing for those who want to combine a swim with a peaceful nature walk. The facilities are well-maintained and cater to visitors with reduced mobility.
What makes it special: The combination of scenic lake views, 24-hour access, and full accessibility makes Vårdsätrabadet one of the most well-rounded spots on this list.
4. Fyrishovs Äventyrsbad (Outdoor Area)
📍 Idrottsgatan 2, Uppsala
One of Sweden’s largest aquatic centers, Fyrishovs offers a heated outdoor pool area with sun loungers, jetties, large grassy areas, and fully accessible facilities. The outdoor section is open alongside the indoor pools, giving visitors the best of both worlds depending on the weather. Located in a central area with good public transport access.
What makes it special: Fyrishovs is the only spot on this list that offers a proper adventure pool experience with slides, play features, and heated water. It is the go-to option if you want more than just a swim.
Uppsala locals and visitors sharing their favourite outdoor swimming spots on Reddit
5. Storvad Bathing Place
📍 Fyris River, Uppsala
A charming riverside bathing spot on the Fyris River with accessible entry and a family-friendly atmosphere in a picturesque natural setting. The river setting gives this spot a different character from the lake-based spots, with gently flowing water and tree-lined banks. It is a quieter alternative to the more popular beach locations.
What makes it special: The river setting at Storvad offers a different swimming experience compared to the lake spots. If you prefer gentle current and shaded river banks, this is worth a visit.
How to Choose the Right Spot for You
- For full accessibility: Sunnerstabadet or Vårdsätrabadet (both 24h, wheelchair-friendly)
- For a sandy beach experience: Fjällnorabadet (Lake Trehörningen)
- For a proper pool adventure: Fyrishovs Äventyrsbad (heated pools + slides)
- For a quiet riverside dip: Storvad Bathing Place (Fyris River)
Check Opening Dates Before You Go — Pools Open Seasonally
Uppsala’s outdoor swimming spots are well-maintained and genuinely varied in character. Most open in early June and close by late August, with exact dates varying by facility. Sunnerstabadet and Värdsätrabadet are the only sites with year-round access. Check Uppsala Vatten’s website for the current season’s opening dates, and arrive before noon on weekends to secure a good spot at the more popular lake beaches.
