Uppsala to Görlitz Road Trip Guide: Hidden Gems & Scenic Routes

The E4 highway south from Uppsala passes the 16th-century Uppsala Cathedral, the tallest church in Scandinavia, before merging onto the E22 near Malmö. This 1,200-kilometer route to Görlitz crosses four countries, three ferry crossings, and two major climate zones. The drive typically takes 13-15 hours without stops, but with recommended breaks, plan for two full days.

The best stops Uppsala to Görlitz include the medieval town of Ystad in Sweden, the chalk cliffs of Møn in Denmark, and the Spreewald biosphere reserve in Germany. How long to drive Uppsala to Görlitz depends on traffic and ferry schedules; the Trelleborg-Rostock ferry alone adds 2-4 hours.

Starting in Uppsala, the landscape is dominated by flat farmland dotted with ancient runestones. Near Linköping, the Gota Canal offers a scenic detour. In southern Sweden, the rolling hills of Österlen are known for apple orchards and art galleries.

• UNESCO site: The Hanseatic town of Visby (Gotland) is reachable by a 3-hour ferry from Nynäshamn (south of Stockholm), but adds a day.
• Natural highlight: The chalk cliffs of Møn (Møns Klint) in Denmark, rising 128 meters above the sea, are a must-stop.

Crossing into Germany, the A20 passes through Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's lake district. The Spreewald, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, features hundreds of canals perfect for a punt boat tour. Local commerce along the route includes farm stands selling fresh strawberries in Sweden and smoked fish in Denmark.

Swedish and German roads are excellent, with well-maintained surfaces and clear signage. Speed limits: 110 km/h on Swedish motorways, 120-130 km/h in Germany (no general speed limit on many sections, but advised at 130 km/h). Watch for moose in Sweden between dusk and dawn.

• Rest stops: Every 50 km on major routes with toilets, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The 'Raststätte' in Germany often have fast food and shops.
• Family tip: The Oresund Aquarium (Helsingør) and the Hansa Park (Sierksdorf) are kid-friendly stops.

Pet-friendly framework: Most ferries allow dogs in cars or designated cabins (extra fee). In Germany, dogs are welcome in outdoor dining areas. Rest stops often have designated 'dog toilets'. Fatigue management: Break every 2 hours. The ferry ride is an excellent opportunity to rest.

From Uppsala, take the E4 south toward Stockholm, then switch to the E22 at Malmö. The E22 continues to Trelleborg, where you catch the ferry to Rostock (Scandlines or Stena Line). In Germany, the A20 east meets the A13 near Berlin, then the A15 leads directly to Görlitz.

• Fuel stops: Every 40-60 km in Sweden and Germany, with prices averaging 18 SEK/litre in Sweden (€1.60) and €1.85/litre in Germany.
• Tolls: No tolls in Sweden or Germany for cars, but the Oresund Bridge (Malmö-Copenhagen) costs around €50.
• Ferry: Book ahead in summer; prices from €50-100 for a car.

Is it worth driving Uppsala to Görlitz? Yes, for the freedom to explore off-grid spots like the Dübener Heide nature park or the boat trip through Spreewald's canals. However, the ferry can be a bottleneck; consider the fixed link via Denmark instead (adds 200 km but saves ferry time).

For hidden gems along the way, check this guide: how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.