So lovely that you’ve found your way to Gothenburg! You’re probably one of many who have already visited or are thinking about making the trip to Sweden’s second-largest city. And there’s hardly ever been a better time to experience Gothenburg. New restaurants and hotels add to the already vibrant vibe, while the beautiful archipelago islands and natural areas remain as close as ever.
There are more opportunities than ever – in fact, so many that it’s well worth staying a little longer next time you visit!
Craft beer in abundance
Gothenburg is Sweden’s – and arguably Scandinavia’s – craft beer capital. Below are three small-scale breweries that truly stand out. But you’ll have no trouble discovering more! In total, there are around 40 craft breweries in the Gothenburg region.
Restaurant and beer bar
Craft beer and restaurant on Gamla Varvsgatan
Beer brewery in Majorna
A Craft Brewery founded in Gothenburg by four friends from different parts of the world.
craft brewery
Craft brewery, taproom and restaurant on Ringön with its own beer, padel, darts, mini golf and a lively programme of events.
The unique archipelago
No other archipelago is quite like Gothenburg’s. With its 20 islands, there’s always something new to discover – and most of it can be reached with a regular tram ticket.
Eat and enjoy coffee and sweet treats in the Gothenburg archipelago. Everything from fish and seafood restaurants to charming cafés with sea views awaits.
Nature & activities
Gothenburg’s coastal location and its many archipelago islands offer a wide range of swimming spots – from sun-warmed cliffs and jetties to sandy beaches. Be sure to explore the nearby forest lakes as well, and plan a visit in 2026/2027 when the spectacular water park Liseberg Oceana is set to open.
Whether you want to visit car-free swimming islands or explore the range of services on the larger islands, there are several easy ways to get out into the Gothenburg’s archipelago.
Exciting and award-winning restaurants
Despite its small-city feel, Gothenburg offers an exceptional range of Michelin-starred restaurants and high-end fine dining (see some of our recommendations below). But you’ll also find fantastic food at all price levels, with particular highlights in ‘blue food’ (wild-caught seafood) and innovative street food.
Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant
Food enthusiasts and top chefs alike flock to this exclusive sushi and omakase restaurant. At Hoze, head chef José Cerdá serves a small-scale yet luxurious daily menu, crafted with local ingredients and exceptional culinary expertise.
Two-star Michelin restaurant
Fine dining restaurant in picturesque surroundings.
Michelin-starred restaurant
Michelin starred restaurant specialised in west Swedish gastronomy.
Vintage finds on another level
In Gothenburg, it’s easy to discover your next unique piece of home décor or a new outfit – and more often than not, it will be someone else’s old treasure. The city is known for its more than 120 standout vintage and charity shops – some carefully curated with hand-picked items, others focused on budget-friendly bargains and retro gems.
Second-hand shop at Magasinsgatan
Shop second-hand clothes from well-known brands.
Charity shop in central Gothenburg
Spacious second-hand store on the street Rosenlundsgatan, offering clothing, household items and home decor. New items are added daily.
Vintage design furniture
Nice vintage interior design shop in cosy Majorna.
Tallest, leading, scariest
Ok, you probably know a thing or two about us: maybe that we have the tallest building in the Nordic region – Karlatornet. Or that Sweden’s leading indoor shopping mall, Nordstan, is just a stone’s throw from the central station. And of course, that the theme park Liseberg takes the scare factor to the max during Halloween season.
Landmark and viewpoint
The high-rise Karlatornet in Gothenburg is Sweden’s and the Nordic region’s tallest building – and Gothenburg’s new landmark. From summer 2026, the tower will welcome visitors to its observation deck with panoramic views of the city.
Shopping centre
Large shopping mall close to the central station.
Amusement park
Liseberg amusement park is Gothenburg’s much-loved theme park, with 42 rides and attractions in the heart of the city.
Follow the locals to discover more of Gothenburg
A great way to experience Gothenburg is to ask the locals for their personal tips on what to do and where to go. Here’s the inside scoop from a beer geek and a chef.
