Discover Gothenburg by boat sightseeing
Seeing Gothenburg from the water is one of the most popular ways to experience the city. On a guided boat tour you glide through the city’s canals, pass under low bridges and gain new perspectives on both historic buildings and modern neighbourhoods.
Whether you are visiting Gothenburg for the first time or exploring your own city, there are several boat tours to choose from. The most classic of them all is the Paddan tour.
Paddan canal tour
The classic Paddan boats have been taking visitors around Gothenburg since the 1930s. The tour starts in the city centre at Kungsportsplatsen and continues through the old moat and the city’s canals, under around twenty bridges and out into the harbour. Along the way you pass sights such as Gothenburg Opera House, Feskekörka, Läppstiftet, former shipyard areas and green parks.
During the tour the guide shares stories about Gothenburg’s history, architecture and development, often with humour and local anecdotes. Along the route you will see everything from historic shipyard areas and the fish harbour to modern residential districts and education hubs. The tour is guided in both Swedish and English.
Paddan on the Säveån river
Another version of the tour heads towards the Säveån river. Here the boat leaves the city centre and continues through a greener landscape where nature takes centre stage. The river is known for its rich birdlife and lush surroundings.
Paddan during Christmas
During the Christmas season special departures with Paddan that take you to Christmas at Liseberg. The journey to Liseberg takes around 40 minutes and the ticket also includes admission to Liseberg, where you step into a winter wonderland.
Departure points
The Paddan boats depart from Kungsportsplatsen in central Gothenburg. The Paddan tour is one of the most popular and well-known ways to experience the city and is operated by Strömma.
Good to know before your tour
The boats have no roof, so dress according to the weather. It is possible to pre-book tickets online to secure a seat on your preferred departure. Life jackets are available for both children and adults, and foldable prams can be brought on board if space allows.
Hire your own Paddan boat
Paddan boats can also be hired for private events, corporate gatherings or guided tours.
