1. An evening in the bustle of the Andra Långgatan bar street
The neighbourhood around Järntorget and the four different “Långgatorna” is a hub of Gothenburg’s alternative and more relaxed nightlife. Here you have a beer with good friends at one of the many bars on Andra långgatan and go to the theater or a concert at Järntorget.
2. Try the fish soup at Bar Bulot – always made with freshly caught ingredients
You’ll find the wine bar and restaurant Bar Bulot inside Stora Saluhallen at Kungstorget. The bar is a sister restaurant to the slightly larger Bulot restaurant at the street Norra Hamngatan 8, and they both combine local ingredients with exploratory cooking techniques.
3. Discover the city on foot – everything is close by
It is often said that Gothenburg is a big city in a pocket format – the range is large and you can find most things within walking distance. Pack your walking shoes and go exploring!
4. The Swedish classic high-quality department store NK
NK – Nordiska Kompaniet was founded in 1902 and is an exclusive department store with 45 departments in fashion, accessories, beauty and interior design on four floors. Here you’ll find leading Swedish and Nordic design together with international brands.
5. A slice of Denmark at Helenes Smørrebrød
Helenes Smörrebröd is located in central Gothenburg, between Götaplatsen and Scandinavium. Here you can enjoy authentic Danish smörrebröd. Or why not just have a coffee with a freshly baked vienna bread. For those of you who are on the move, there is of course take-out or Ud af huset, as it is called in Danish.
6. The café Kampanilen on top of Stigberget
On this street corner opposite the Maritime Museum and Aquarium, there has been a pastry shop for almost a hundred years. Here at Kampanilen, you can enjoy artistic pastries and solid artisanal bread signed by this year’s Swedish pastry chef of the year Kalle Bengtsson.
7. All the friendly people in Gothenburg
Gothenburgers are known to be friendly with a relaxed attitude, and will most often help guide you to the right path or just greet you with a simple smile. The fact is that Gothenburg has previously been crowned the world’s kindest city.
8. Industrial history and innovation at World of Volvo
World of Volvo is an experience centre in central Gothenburg offering interactive exhibitions, culinary experiences, and entertaining events. Take the chance to operate a full-size excavator, get blown away in their wind tunnel, and much more. World of Volvo is inviting you on an inspiring journey to a close encounter with the Volvo brand. Come and enjoy a place where there is always something happening!
9. The tasty delicacies at the lively Stora Saluhallen market hall
At the Stora Saluhallen market hall, all corners of the world are represented among the forty shops and restaurants found here. You can buy various delicacies, spices, coffee, cheese, just enjoy the atmosphere or eat in one of the restaurants. Popular spots in Stora Saluhallen are, for example, Bar Bulot, Hasselsson’s Macklucka, Wine Mechanics or Kåges Hörna.
10. Dare to try Liseberg amusement park with its world-renowned roller coasters
There is something for everyone at Liseberg, where you’ll find the most fun in Scandinavia. Forty-two rides and attractions offer thrills, spills and laughter for kids and grown-ups. Make sure you have enough time, cause there is plenty of fun to try here!
11. Let the time fly while exploring the vast second-hand shopping scene
It’s easy and fun to shop for vintage and second hand bargains in Gothenburg. You’ll find everything from fancy antiques to second hand and exclusive vintage here. Shops are found across town in neighbourhoods like Haga and Linné, the inner city and near the main boulevard Avenyn.
12. The unique archipelago – just a tram ride away
The Gothenburg archipelago is amazing and there are so many islands for you to discover. Walk along winding trails near the sea, through quaint fishing villages and experience beautiful nature reserves.
13. The famous Swedish cinnamon bun – try one in the Haga neighbourhood
The cinnamon roll is perhaps Sweden’s most common (and tastiest?) fika bread. Since the 1920s, the bun has been baked and eaten as we know it today, and on October 4 we celebrate this with Kanelbullens dag (cinnamon bun day). In Gothenburg, you can enjoy everything from buns with sourdough, buns with pearl sugar, organic buns and perhaps the largest bun in the world.
14. The plentiful shopping scene in Gothenburg
In Gothenburg there is a large selection of unique shopping. Magasinsgatan for instance is a given destination for shopping and coffee as well as eating out or grabbing a drink when the evening comes. Trendy shops, restaurants and bars all offer something special, no matter if it comes to barista skills, local clothing brands or restaurant decor.
15. See P.S. Krøyer’s painting Hip, Hip, Hurrah! at Gothenburg Museum of Art
Hip, Hip, Hurrah! Artists’ Party, Skagen was painted as a group portrait of the artist’s circle. Seated at a dining table in a garden in summer, a group of artists have gathered for a garden party. They are raising their glasses in a toast, perhaps to life, art, and friendship. This Danish masterpiece can be seen up close at the Gothenburg Museum of Art.
16. Taste the night away in the city’s vibrant and acclaimed restaurant scene
The Gothenburg restaurant scene is certainly alive and well, and new eateries are added frequently. Discover Everything from the city’s star restaurants and white tablecloths, to hidden gems, small hole-in-the-wall places and classic establishments.
17. Do visit the many cosy cafés – there’s always time for a fika
The Swedish tradition ”fika” (meaning to take a break, sit down with a friend for a cup of coffee and some baked goods) has become a world-wide sensation. And for good reason. Visit the cafés in Gothenburg and see for yourself why the concept of “fika” is so cherished in Sweden.
18. A trip to Marstrand where the archipelago ends and the open sea begins
Farthest to the west, where the archipelago ends and the sea begins, is Marstrand. The sailing and swimming community Marstrand is a big favorite for all visitors. Experience the powerful atmosphere at Carlstens Fortress, the quay with boats of all kinds and cozy neighborhoods with car-free streets. Here you will also find top-class restaurants and cafes as well as sun and salty baths.
19. The newly opened Clarion Hotel Draken with its skybar
On October 1, 2023, the 34-story Clarion Hotel Draken opened by the square Järntorget. Draken is Gothenburg’s tallest hotel and has become a new landmark in the city. Drakens also has a popular sky bar, where the view is outstanding.
20. Artilleriet – one of Sweden’s best shops for interior design
Artilleriet is a unique store with home decor and design. They have an eclectic range of furniture, lighting, rugs, textiles, skincare from around the world, with a personal blend of classic, vintage, and modern products. Artilleriet has a kitchen-focused store called Artilleriet Kitchen Studio, where you can not only shop for beautiful, handcrafted kitchen products, but also create your own kitchen.
21. Find your own pause in the tropics at the Palmhouse in the Garden Society of Gothenburg
In the centre of the park stands the Palmhouse, like a glittering artwork in glass and cast iron. It was modelled on the Crystal Palace in London, and has been a popular destination since 1878. In an area measuring almost 1,000 square metres you can enjoy tropical warmth and exotic plants, including palm trees.
22. The Stena Line ferry from Fredrikshavn is a destination on its own
From Fredrikshamn to Gothenburg, it only takes 3 hours and 30 minutes by ferry, and the trip across the Kattegat sea is a destination in itself. When you arrive, you’ll be more than ready to explore what Gothenburg has to offer!
23. The easy-to-use app for all public transport
In Gothenburg, trams, buses and boats are always included, regardless of which ticket or public transport card you travel with. All tickets and travelling cards can be purchased at any of the public transport operator Västtrafik’s sales outlets, or in the app To Go. The outlets are recognised by their blue flags and façade décor. Most of them are kiosks like Pressbyrån and 7-Eleven, or grocery stores.
24. Find your new favourite taste at one of the many breweries
Ever heard of Stigbergets, Poppels or Dugges? You should. Gothenburg is one of Europe’s hottest hubs for craft beer and several of the city’s breweries are among the best in the world. Here’s everything you need to know to drink local beer in Gothenburg.
25. Take a coffee break in style at the espresso bar Bar Centro
A “hole-in-the-wall” café with fantastic espresso at Kyrkogatan 31. The small premises has small tables and stools to sit on, but you can also drink your coffee outside on the street.
26. The iconic shrimp sandwich – try one with a view at Gothia Towers
It was in 1984 when the Gothia Towers King Size Shrimp Sandwich first saw the light of day. Pioneered in Newport, Rhode Island, the concept was brought to Gothia Towers in Gothenburg. Just as in America, it was size that mattered. And in line with its proportions, Gothia Towers calls it King Size.
27. Find a calm space in one of the many parks all around town
The parks are a popular choice among connoisseurs with green fingers, as well as anyone just wanting to go for a walk in the open air. The compact city centre makes it easy to walk from the green groves of Slottsskogen to the Botanical Garden’s flower beds or drop by the Garden Society.
28. Stroll through the cosy Haga neighbourhood, filled with independent cafés and shops
Haga is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Gothenburg. The pedestrian street Haga Nygata is lined with well-preserved houses, many in the characteristic Gothenburg style called “landshövdingehus” with one floor in brick and the rest in wood. Today they house plenty of independent shops and cafés.
29. Trendy fashion and interior design shopping at Grandpa
Grandpa sells Scandinavian and international fashion as well as gadgets, books and interior design – for both life in the big city and for outdoor life in nature.
30. Have a fika break at Arket Café – inside the Arket department store
Lifestyle and clothing shop Arket’s own café has a vegetarian kitchen that promotes natural flavours and a more sustainable way of eating with ingredients selected according to the season. The menus reflect the New Nordic food concept.
31. Italian dining at Enoteca Roma in the Bagaregården neighbourhood
At the Italian restaurant and wine bar Enoteca Roma, which you’ll find on the street Stockholmsgatan 3 in the heart of the neighborhood Bagaregården, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Rome for a pitstop. The small but well-thought-out menu offers Italian dishes influenced by the Italian capital, which is the chef’s and the owner’s old hometown.
32. Find your space for relaxation and recreation in Slottsskogen city park
Slottsskogen is a place for relaxation, recreation and outdoor activities. The mix between planned park and natural forest creates a fantastic environment for everything from running to cosy picnics. In and close to the park are cafés, playgrounds and much more.
33. Relax luxuriously with an amazing view at Upper House Spa
Enjoy hamam, saunas, experience showers and various pools high above the Gothenburg skyline at 5-star Upper House Spa. Here you’ll also find a gym, yoga classes and spa treatments. Entrance to the spa is included in your stay at hotel Upper House and discounted if you’re staying at Gothia Towers.
34. Contemporary art inside the Röda Sten Art Centre – and striking views of the Älvsborg Bridge outside
Röda Sten art centre is situated in the old boiler house in the harbour inlet. It’s an alternative arena for contemporary art in all its forms. There is also a popular restaurant serving coffee, lunch and sometimes brunch.
35. Hike and discover the many nature reserves and outdoor opportunities close to the city
It is easy to discover the natural wonders in and around Gothenburg. Here, a world of fresh air, clear waters, majestic cliffs and dense forests is always close by – all you need to do is hit the hiking trail.
36. The Göta Älv river – for short boat trips as well as the views
The Göta Älv is a river that drains lake Vänern into the Kattegat, at the city of Gothenburg. Many boats, large and small, pass here daily, and if you wish, you can rent a boat in central Gothenburg and get out on the river through the canal. If you prefer to enjoy the beautiful view from land, there are plenty of walking paths along the Göta Älv river. To get to the Island of Hisingen, you can also take a ferry across the river.
37. Stay with a playful spirit at Liseberg Grand Curiosa Hotel
Liseberg Grand Curiosa is a fantasy-themed family hotel, right next to Sweden’s most visited amusement park Liseberg. The star-shaped hotel building is nine storeys high and has 457 rooms. All rooms have at least five beds, but there are also rooms for larger groups. There are six-bed and seven-bed rooms, and some with connecting doors for larger groups.
38. Find your calm among 20,000 species of plants at Gothenburg Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden offers a vast and impressive collection of plants and flowers, and is a great place to visit all year round. With over half a million visitors a year it’s one of the most popular attractions in the region.
39. The taqueria Hermanos Tacos, on the outskirts of Majorna’s vibrant restaurant scene
The neighbourhood Majorna has a vibrant restaurant scene, and Hermanos Tacokiosk is just one of many additions to it. The restaurant is located near Sannaplan, and serves tacos (of course) as well as street food in various forms.
40. Nordstan – a large shopping mall close to the central station
In Nordstan, Scandinavia’s leading shopping centre, you’ll find 200 shops offering the latest in all possible areas. The largest collection is in fashion – clothing and shoes.You will also find cosmetics, consumer electronics, sport shops, flowers, toys, home furnishings, banks, liquors, restaurants, pharmacy and much more here.
41. The nightlife and bar scene
The large clubs are dotted along the main boulevard Avenyn and often have dance floors and bars over several floors. If you prefer a laid-back vibe you should try Vasagatan, Magasinsgatan, Linnégatan or Andra Långgatan. Nightclub gigs are popular and Pustervik has rock and pop bands playing several nights per week, while Nefertiti offers a wide range of for example jazz concerts. There are plenty of other clubs and bars to visit as well.
42. Football, handball and ice hockey – there’s live sport for every taste
Gothenburg has teams in the highest league in both football (Allsvenskan), hockey (SHL) and handball (Handbollsligan). Perhaps one of the most popular sports is football, where you’ll find the Gothenburg teams IFK Göteborg, GAIS and BK Häcken in the Allsvenskan for men, and BK Häcken in Allsvenskan for women. In ice hockey, you’ll find the team Frölunda HC playing in the top league, and when it comes to handball, Sävehof from Partille (near Gothenburg) plays in the top league. The football stadium Gamla Ullevi is also the national arena for the Sweden’s women’s national team.
43. Skeppet GBG, a restaurant and live stage housed in a seamen’s church
Skeppet GBG is a concert venue, restaurant and music studio located near Stigberget in the neighbourhood of Majorna. Their ambition is to put on a wide variety of events, stretching from concerts to movie nights and theatre.
44. Gothenburg’s main boulevard: Avenyn, with its lively restaurants and nightlife
Kungsportsavenyen, commonly known as Avenyn, stretches from the bridge Kungsportsbron by the canal to Götaplatsen and the Museum of Art, the City Theatre and the Concert Hall. The main boulevard is busy all day until late, with many nightclubs along the entire avenue.
45. Relax and spa with a rich history at Hagabadet – built in 1876
Hagabadet is a true Gothenburg icon. Established in 1876, Hagabadet offers spa treatments, massages, fitness, yoga and culinary delights in some of the most beautiful settings in Gothenburg.
46. Åbytravet racetrack is a must-see for trotting fans
Åbytravets horse racing track is the very heart of Åbytravets business, and around it they have created an extensive facility to offer a perfect overall experience. With first-class restaurants, they can offer gastronomic experiences that complement the evening’s trot.
47. Take an art walk among the galleries in Vasastan, around Kastellgatan street and Konstepidemin
In Gothenburg there are lots of small galleries where you can just look at the art, or buy it if you want to. Most are around the Vasastaden area, but you’ll also find some in Linnéstaden, including Konstepidemin, which is Sweden’s largest workplace for independent artists.
48. Travelling to Gothenburg is very easy by train
You can easily travel to Gothenburg by train. The train from Copenhagen usually takes about 3 and a half hours and takes you to Gothenburg Central Station, which is centrally located and where you can easily get around by foot, tram or bus.
49. Hike the trail of ancient and medieval history on Pilgrimsleden Göta Älv
Pilgrimsleden Göta älv is one of Sweden’s most fascinating hiking trails. There are an incredible amount of traces of history here, while the landscape offers iconic nature experiences. The entire trail is 13 kilometers long and runs from central Gothenburg to Vänersborg.
50. Right now, you get even more Gothenburg for your money – thanks to the strong DKK
Since inflation took off, the Swedish krona weakened against the dollar, the euro and the Danish krone. This means that a coffee that costs 60 Swedish kronor at the time of writing only costs 39.31 Danish kroner.
