This study uses Uppsala, Sweden, as a case study to investigate third places and their physical components in fostering social cohesion. Through a systematic literature review and field observations of 18 third places, the research evaluates foundational urban planning theories by Oldenburg, Jacobs, and Gehl against contemporary scientific progress. Third places where social cohesion is present and healthy are analyzed against their own exterior and interior components such as pedestrian-centered planning, accessibility, and sound environments. Findings indicate that street-establishment permeability seems less important towards social cohesion than was stated in most of the literature analyzed. While interior design, pedestrian centered public spaces outside the third place, cultural symbolism in the interior design and good worker-visitor relations seem to have a significant and causal correlation to good social cohesion. While broad and inconclusive, these results contribute to refining urban planning strategies and discovering new perspectives in the study of the third place.