I often take the same morning walk through Uppsala with a camera over my shoulder. It is not a long hike and it is certainly not an epic photography adventure. Yet it remains one of my favourite photography walks.
The route starts in Stadsträdgården, continues up to Uppsala Castle, down towards Uppsala Cathedral and then follows the Fyris River past Upplands Museum before returning to where I started.
Most of the year it is a beautiful walk. But during autumn it becomes something special.
What fascinates me most is how the exact same route never looks the same twice.
Every morning brings something new.
The Colourful Autumn
The first phase of autumn is all about colour.
The trees seem determined to put on one final spectacular show before winter arrives. Shades of yellow, orange and red transform parks, streets and riverbanks throughout the city.
In Stadsträdgården, the rising sun often catches the first autumn colours of the day. The light filters through the trees, creating warm tones that almost seem unreal. Every morning reveals new subjects to photograph. A tree that has turned a little more golden since yesterday. A path suddenly covered in leaves. Reflections in the Fyris River that double the colours of the season.
As I climb towards Uppsala Castle, the city gradually opens up below. From here it is possible to photograph both the vibrant autumn foliage and some of Uppsala’s most famous landmarks in the same frame.
The towers of Uppsala Cathedral rise above the sea of autumn colours and create a strong sense of place.
This is the season when the leaves go out with a bang.
The Mysterious Autumn
Then the transformation begins.
The colours slowly fade. The days become shorter. Sunrises arrive later. And morning fog starts making regular appearances.
At first the fog drifts gently across the ground. The trees are still visible, but their outlines become softer. The light spreads differently, giving the city a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere.
Gradually the fog takes over.
Walking from the castle towards the cathedral, I sometimes see the cathedral towers disappear halfway into the mist. The Fyris River becomes a grey ribbon flowing through the city, with the opposite bank fading into the background. Buildings, streetlights and people emerge briefly from the fog before disappearing again.
Photography changes completely during this period.
Instead of strong colours, the focus shifts to mood and atmosphere. Shapes become more important than colours. Silhouettes replace landscapes. Light and shadow become the main subjects.
What was once obvious suddenly becomes mysterious.
Why I Keep Returning
Many photographers are always looking for new locations.
But sometimes the most rewarding thing you can do is return to the same place again and again.
Autumn changes the landscape a little every day. A familiar location becomes new simply because the light, weather and season never stop changing.
My morning walk through Uppsala is proof of that.
From the colourful trees in Stadsträdgården to the fog surrounding Uppsala Cathedral and the reflections along the Fyris River, the same route can produce completely different photographs depending on which autumn morning you choose.
And perhaps that is why autumn is my favourite season for photography in Uppsala.
It never gives you exactly the same photograph twice.
Photography Tips for This Walk
Start Early
The best light often appears shortly before sunrise and during the first hour of daylight. Early mornings also mean fewer people in your photographs.
Bring a Wide-Angle Lens
A wide-angle lens works well for photographing Uppsala Castle, Uppsala Cathedral and the riverfront.
Watch the Weather Forecast
Some of the best photography conditions occur on cold mornings with fog along the Fyris River.
Look for Reflections
After rain or during calm mornings, reflections can be found throughout the city, especially along the river.
Visit More Than Once
The biggest mistake is assuming one visit is enough. Autumn changes rapidly and every week offers new photographic opportunities.
Photography Highlights Along the Route
Stadsträdgården
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Stadsträdgården+Uppsala
Best photographed during early morning when sunlight filters through colourful trees.
Uppsala Castle
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Uppsala+Castle
One of the best viewpoints in the city with beautiful views over rooftops, cathedral towers and autumn colours.
Uppsala Cathedral
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Uppsala+Cathedral
Particularly photogenic during foggy mornings when the towers emerge from the mist.
Fyris River
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Fyrisån+Uppsala
Excellent for reflections, street photography and autumn colours.
Upplands Museum
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Upplandsmuseet+Uppsala
Historic architecture combined with river views and seasonal colours.
Related Photography Guides
FAQ
When is the best time to photograph autumn colours in Uppsala?
The peak autumn colours usually occur between late September and late October, although the exact timing varies each year.
Where can I photograph autumn colours in Uppsala?
Stadsträdgården, the Fyris River, the castle area and the university parks are among the best locations.
When is the best time to photograph fog in Uppsala?
Fog is most common during October and November, especially on calm mornings after clear nights.
Is Uppsala good for photography?
Yes. Uppsala combines historic architecture, parks, rivers, churches and seasonal scenery, making it one of the best city photography destinations in Sweden.
How long is this photography walk?
The route can be completed in about one hour, although photographers will often spend considerably longer exploring and taking pictures.
What camera gear should I bring?
A standard zoom lens such as a 24–70mm is ideal. A tripod can also be useful for low-light autumn mornings.