If you are visiting Gothenburg and the surrounding area, a trip to the archipelago is a must. Stroll through picturesque alleyways, visit lovely beaches and nature reserves and experience the calm of the archipelago. The Gothenburg region’s archipelago has over 7,600 islands, each with its own unique charm and experiences.
The southern and northern islands of Gothenburg
Did you know that the Gothenburg archipelago is usually divided into southern and northern islands? The southern islands come alive in summer and are well-visited destinations. In winter, the northern islands are a safe bet for those who want more to choose from, as restaurants, accommodation and shops are open to a greater extent all year round. Read our guides to the southern and northern islands respectively for more tips on things to see and do.
Getting to the archipelago
You can reach the southern islands by public transport ferries from the ferry terminals at Saltholmen or Stenpiren in central Gothenburg.
If you want to visit the northern islands, depart from the ferry terminal at Lilla Varholmen, where you can take a car ferry to Hönö and Björkö, from which you can reach the rest of the northern islands in the Gothenburg archipelago. It is also possible to travel to Hönö directly from Stenpiren in central Gothenburg with M/S Kungsö at certain times of the year.
Please note that the southern islands are car-free, while the majority of the northern islands can be reached by car. On the southern islands, residents often get around by flatbed mopeds and golf carts.
Restaurants, cafes and breweries in Gothenburg’s archipelago
In the Gothenburg archipelago you will find a wide range of lovely restaurants and cafés. Enjoy fresh fish and seafood, or delicious pastries and refreshing drinks. Several of the islands also have their own craft breweries that organise tastings and have their own so-called “tap rooms”. Read more in the guide for tips on places to eat in both the southern and northern archipelago.
Also take the opportunity to try the archipelago’s range of blue food, i.e. sustainably grown or wild-caught food from the sea, such as oysters, mussels and seaweed.
In an age where new and innovative food is constantly sought after by both restaurants and gourmands, the blue food appears as perhaps extra exciting. Blue food, i.e. sustainably grown or wild-caught food from the sea, offers unique flavours and opens up new opportunities for culinary creativity.
Stay in the Gothenburg archipelago
Discover the delightful charm and tranquillity of the Gothenburg archipelago and stay as close to the sea as possible. From picturesque cottages near the quay, to hotels with fantastic fish and seafood restaurants.
Activities in the Gothenburg archipelago
There are many fun activities and experiences in the Gothenburg archipelago. Explore beautiful nature reserves, hidden swimming spots, enjoy a sauna with views of Vinga lighthouse or head out on a seal safari. We have compiled some highlights of activities to take part in, all year round.
Discover the Gothenburg archipelago. Activities, swimming, sauna, hiking and nature experiences all year round for families with children, pleasure seekers and adventurers.
Practical information
In Sweden, the right of public access applies. Thanks to this, you have a fantastic freedom to move around and spend time in Swedish nature. However, this means you need to show consideration for nature, landowners and other visitors. Please read more in our guide about what applies regarding camping, picking flowers and berries and spending time outdoors with dogs.
The Right of Public Access gives you and everyone else the freedom to roam the Swedish countryside. Just make sure to remember that with freedom comes responsibility, so please respect nature and your fellow explorers.