What to see, what to do
à Gothenburg

Travel guide Gothenburg

Welcome to Gothenburg, the city of blue trams, picturesque canals and cheerful people who are sure to greet you with a hearty "Hej Hej"! Situated on the west coast of Sweden, Gothenburg offers the perfect balance between urban bustle and the tranquillity of Scandinavian nature. With a rich maritime history, fascinating museums and seafood cuisine to die for, this charming city is one of Scandinavia's hidden gems.

Founded in 1621 by King Gustav II Adolphus to strengthen Sweden's presence on the west coast, Gothenburg has prospered thanks to its port, becoming a hub of trade and industry. The city has retained a strong maritime heritage that is reflected in its architecture, museums and love of seafood.

To get to Göteborg, Göteborg Landvetter airport is the nearest, with regular flights from various European cities. If you prefer to travel by train, Gothenburg Central Station is well connected to other major Swedish cities. You can also arrive by long-distance bus, or by car via the E6 motorway.

Accommodation

For a luxurious stay, the Upper House is a splendid choice. For a mid-range budget, the Hotel Royal offers good value right in the city centre. And for budget travellers, the Göteborgs Mini-Hotel is an economical but comfortable option.

Gastronomy

Try the famous "kräftor" (crayfish), Swedish meatballs, and "surströmming" (fermented herring) if you dare! As for restaurants, Sjömagasinet is a must for seafood, while Smaka offers traditional Swedish cuisine at reasonable prices.

What is there to see? What to do?

Don't miss the Liseberg amusement park, the Volvo museum, the Göteborg botanical gardens, the impressive Göteborg opera house and the picturesque Haga, the city's oldest district.

Explore "Haga" for its vintage boutiques and cosy cafés, "Majorna" for its bohemian atmosphere, and "Avenyn" for its lively nightlife.

Try kayaking in the Gothenburg archipelago, hiking in the surrounding nature parks, or cycling along the city's canals.

Visit the Universeum theme park with your children, take a boat trip in the harbour
or spend a day at Askim beach.

The Gothenburg Culture Festival in August is a must, as is the Liseberg Christmas Market. Music fans won't want to miss the Way Out West festival in August.

Activities

Shopping

Go shopping at Nordstan, the city's largest shopping centre, or look for vintage treasures in the boutiques of Haga. Don't miss the Feskekörka fish market for fresh local produce.

Nightlife

Enjoy live music at Pustervik, dance the night away at Yaki-Da, or take in a play at Stadsteater. For a quieter evening, Jazzhuset offers good music in a relaxed atmosphere.

Did you know?

1. Gothenburg has its own dialect, "göteborgska".
2. The Liseberg amusement park is the largest in Scandinavia.
3. The Volvo Museum is entirely dedicated to the Swedish car brand.
4. Gothenburg is Sweden's most bicycle-friendly city.
5. Fika", the Swedish coffee break, is almost an art form in Gothenburg.

Tips and tricks
Gothenburg is a safe city, but keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The weather can be unpredictable, so always carry an umbrella. Public transport is efficient and covers the whole city.

Visit the city in summer for long, sunny days.
Try the "fika", a coffee break with a pastry, a much-loved Swedish tradition.
Take a public transport pass to explore the city easily.

I'm Malin, a lover of Swedish culture with an irresistible sense of humour and a passion for Gothenburg's history. I love immersing myself in the local culture and sharing my discoveries with you.

Malin S.

DiamsTrotter Gothenburg