Gothenburg is located on Sweden’s beautiful west coast and is the country’s second-largest city – yet it surprises visitors with its relaxed, almost small-town atmosphere. Whether you're enjoying a fika in the charming Haga district, listening to the seagulls by the harbor, or strolling through the city’s green parks, Gothenburg offers a unique blend of calm, nature, and culture. It’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway: compact, bike-friendly, and full of interesting corners – but it also has plenty to offer for a longer stay. In our Gothenburg travel guide , we’ll show you how urban buzz, cozy small-town charm, and Scandinavian zest for life come together here. You’ll find not only the top sights and neighborhoods, but also true insider tips and all the essential info for your trip to Gothenburg.
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In this article
Gothenburg Travel Guide – Facts and Figures at a Glance
- Gothenburg is Sweden's second-largest city with around 600,000 inhabitants, but it often feels more like a cozy small town.
- It is located on the west coastat the mouth of the Göta River and has historically been primarily a port and trading city. Even today, the Port of Gothenburg is the largest in Scandinavia.
- 1621 the city was foundedby Swedish King Gustav II Adolf, strategically close to the North Sea.
- Today, Gothenburg is known for its many parks and green spaces, as well as its cafés. It is also a center for design, sustainable urban development, and electric mobility.
- The blue-and-white trams are considered a cultural icon in Gothenburg.
Inom Vallgraven – Discovering Gothenburg’s City Center
Gothenburg’s city center is compact, vibrant, and diverse. It’s home to some of the city’s most important sights. You’ll also find plenty of inviting spots to relax, lots of shops, small cafés, and restaurants.
Here we show you the main highlights of the city center in our Gothenburg travel guide:
Götaplatsen – Culture and History in the Heart of Gothenburg
The slightly communist-flavored Götaplatsen is located at the upper end of Gothenburg’s grandest boulevard, Kungsportsavenyn - or simply Avenyn. At the center of the square stands the famous Poseidon Fountain, featuring one of the city’s most iconic statues. Surrounding the square are some of Gothenburg’s most important cultural institutions:
- The Gothenburg Museum of Art, one of Scandinavia’s most important art museums, featuring works from Carl Larsson to Picasso.
- The City Theatre (Stadsteatern), known for its diverse program of theater and music.
- The Concert Hall, home to the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra.
Avenyn – Gothenburg’s Lively Promenade
From Götaplatsen, Kungsportsavenyn stretches all the way to Kungsportsplatsen. The boulevard is lined with numerous restaurants, bars, shops, and clubs. Especially in summer, the area comes to life, making Avenyn a bustling and vibrant street.
Around Kungsportsplatsen – Stora Teatern, Stora Saluhallen, and Trädgårdsföreningen
At the lower end of Avenyn lies Kungsportsplatsen. The area around the square is filled with cafés and restaurants, perfect for a relaxing break. Several of the city’s key attractions are located nearby, including:
- Stora Teatern: The magnificent theater building from 1859 is now a major venue for guest performances, offering a diverse program ranging from theater, circus, and music to philosophy evenings.
- Stora SaluhallenThe "Great Market Hall" was completed between 1888 and 1898 and was considered the first major building in the country constructed entirely from stone, iron, and glass. Today, the hall houses around 40 shops and eateries. Among other things, you can find various delicacies, spices, coffee, cheese, and meat. Many stalls also serve meals or snacks. Saluhallen is definitely worth a visit.
- TrädgårdsföreningenThe green paradise in the middle of the city is located opposite Stora Teatern near Kungsportsplatsen and is perfect for a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle. A highlight is the Palm House (Palmhuset).
Kronhuset – Historic Jewel in Gothenburg’s City Center
Just a stone’s throw from Kungsportsplatsen are the Kronhusbodarna and Kronhuset, one of Gothenburg’s oldest buildings dating back to the 17th century. Originally built as an armory, it is now a center for crafts and exhibitions. In the courtyard, you can watch artisans at work and find souvenirs in a small shop. There’s also a cozy café where you can relax.
Magasinsgatan - Creative Scene and Urban Lifestyle
Away from Avenyn, you’ll find Magasinsgatan with its charming side streets. This neighborhood is known for its many small boutiques, cafés, restaurants, and creative shops. From good coffee to innovative design and street food, the area around Magasinsgatan offers a modern, urban contrast to the more traditional city center. Popular spots include Café da Matteo and the concept store Artilleriet.
Feskekörka – The Fish Market Hall Designed Like a Church
Another highlight in the city center is Feskekörka, which means "Fish Church." The distinctive building was inspired by church architecture and actually resembles a church. Feskekörka is basically a fish market hall, housing fresh fish stalls and small restaurants.
Experience Gothenburg’s Neighborhoods - Atmosphere & Everyday Life
Besides the city center, it’s especially the diverse neighborhoods that give Gothenburg its unique charm. Each district has its own character - from historic and cozy to youthful, alternative, or maritime.
Haga - Gothenburg’s Coziest Neighborhood
If you visit Gothenburg, you definitely should take a walk through Haga. This historic neighborhood is one of the oldest in the city and enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, typical 19th-century wooden houses, and relaxed atmosphere.
Originally a working-class district, Haga is now known for its many small cafés and boutiques. Here you can leisurely browse the shops and enjoy a fika to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center. A real highlight, and a local legend, are the huge cinnamon buns you can try at Café Husaren and Café Hebbe Lelle.
From Haga, it’s also worth the climb up to Skansen Kronan, an old fortress on a hill above the neighborhood. From there, you have a beautiful view over Gothenburg. It’s a great spot to enjoy the sunset.
Linné - Young, Vibrant, Relaxed
Directly next to Haga is Linnéstaden (commonly called Linné) - an urban, diverse, and lively neighborhood. Along Linnégatan, bars, cafés, and restaurants line the street. At the upper end, near Linnéplatsen, you’ll find one of the entrances to Slottskogen City Park, which is perfect if you’re looking for a break from the city buzz.
Vasastaden – Elegance & Historic Era Charm
Vasastaden is located between Avenyn and Haga and is one of Gothenburg’s most beautiful neighborhoods in terms of architecture. The area is characterized by elegant boulevards and historic buildings from the late 19th century.
Vasastaden is a bit quieter and more refined than Linné or Haga, but you’ll still find excellent restaurants and small shops here. It’s perfect for a peaceful stroll away from the hustle and bustle.
Majorna – Alternative Scene & Down-to-Earth Charm
You like things alternative, down-to-earth, and authentic? Then you should visit Majorna. This former working-class district in southwestern Gothenburg has evolved into one of the city’s most creative neighborhoods. Artists, academics, families, and students live side by side here.
There are plenty of small cafés, vintage shops, restaurants, and a vibrant pub and cultural scene.
Other Neighborhoods Off the Typical Tourist Track
Frihamnen: Frihamnen is located on the other side of the Göta River and is currently one of Gothenburg’s most exciting redevelopment areas. A new, urban, and creative neighborhood is taking shape here. In Frihamnen, you’ll find Jubileumsparken, which features a skate park, a public container sauna, a city beach, and even a swimming pool right in the river. The surrounding area also offers a range of pubs and restaurants.
Gamlestaden: Gamlestaden, the “old Gothenburg,” is located east of the city center and is also undergoing major transformation. Once a predominantly industrial area, it is now evolving with new residential developments, creative spaces, bars, and an emerging food scene. Here you’ll find street art, microbreweries, and plenty of secondhand shops.
Nature & Relaxation – Discovering Green Gothenburg
Gothenburg is green! Nature is never far away here—often just a short walk or tram ride. That’s why the city’s most beautiful green spots are a must in our Gothenburg travel guide.
Slottskogen – Gothenburg’s City Park
The largest and most famous park in Gothenburg is Slottskogen, the green heart of the city. Here, people gather to jog, take walks, play Kubb, have barbecues, and much more.
The park offers large lawns and wooded areas, as well as playgrounds and a free animal enclosure with moose, seals, and penguins. Thanks to its central location, Slottskogen is perfect for a relaxing break right in the middle of the hustle and bustle.
Trädgårdsföreningen – Historic Garden in the City Center
Just a few minutes from the main train station and Kungsportsplatsen is Trädgårdsföreningen, one of the best-preserved historic gardens in Europe. The highlight is the Palm House (Palmhuset), a Victorian greenhouse filled with tropical plants.
In summer, over 2,500 varieties of roses bloom here, turning the park into a colorful paradise. It’s the perfect place to enjoy nature right in the heart of the city.
Botanical Garden and Änggårdsbergen - Peace and Diversity on the City’s Edge
Just outside the city center but easily reachable by tram, you’ll find Gothenburg’s Botanical Garden - the Botaniska Trädgården. With over 16,000 plant species, it is one of the largest botanical gardens in Europe. The garden is situated on hilly terrain at the edge of a nature reserve and is divided into several sections, including a large rock garden with around 5,000 plant species. The greenhouses about 4,000 more species, including Sweden’s largest orchid collection with around 1,500 varieties.
In spring, the Botanical Garden bursts into full bloom, while in autumn, the colorful foliage creates a special atmosphere. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
Tip: For those who want to extend their walk, the Änggårdsbergen nature reserve is located directly adjacent to the botanical garden, offering hiking trails through the forest and hills.
Gothenburg’s Archipelago - Island Hopping Just Outside Your Door
Just half an hour from the city center begins Gothenburg’s famous archipelago. You can reach Saltholmen by tram 11. From there, ferries easily take you to the southern archipelago. The ferries are part of the public transport system and can be used with a regular Zone A ticket. A trip to the archipelago is perfect for a relaxing day trip and a highlight of any visit to Gothenburg.
Liseberg – Gothenburg’s Amusement Park Right in the City Center
Have you ever been to a city with an amusement park right in the middle? No? Neither had we - until we discovered Gothenburg. And that’s exactly why Liseberg absolutely deserves a spot in our Gothenburg travel guide.
Liseberg, the largest amusement park in Scandinavia, is located right in the heart of Gothenburg and truly has something for everyone. It offers not only thrilling high-speed roller coasters, but also concerts, beer gardens, and beautifully designed flower beds and decorations.
At Halloween, Liseberg transforms into a spooky wonderland with fog, special lighting effects, and haunted houses. In December, it turns into a sparkling winter paradise with Glögg, an ice skating rink, and a charming Christmas market full of holiday spirit.
Culture & Museums - Discovering Gothenburg’s Cultural Side
Gothenburg is not only green and relaxed but also rich in culture. The city’s museums are always worth a visit and can be a great option for a rainy day in Gothenburg. In our Gothenburg guide, we’ll show you the most important museums for visitors of all ages.
Gothenburg Museum of Art - Scandinavian Art and Timeless Classics
The Museum of Art is located right at Götaplatsen and is one of the most important art museums in Scandinavia. Its collection includes around 70,000 works ranging from the 15th century to contemporary art. While the focus is on Nordic art, works from other parts of the world are also on display.
Röda Sten Art Hall - Experience Contemporary Art in Gothenburg
Right beneath the Älvsborg Bridge, you’ll find the Röda Sten Art Hall. Housed in a former boiler house, it now showcases contemporary art, installations, and performances. There’s also a restaurant where you can enjoy fika, lunch, and occasionally brunch. The mix of industrial charm and the waterfront setting makes a visit a truly unique experience.
Gothenburg City Museum - Experience the City’s History
Gothenburg City Museum is a cultural history museum located in the center of Gothenburg. It is housed in the East India House, originally built in 1762 for the East India Company. Founded in 1861, the museum today showcases the history of the city and western Sweden, from the Viking Age to the present day.
Röhsska Museum - Design, Fashion, and Applied Arts
The Röhsska Museum is a museum for design, fashion, and applied arts in Gothenburg. The museum houses around 50,000 objects, including crafts and design pieces from Sweden and Europe, as well as from Japan and China. Additionally, the museum has a large fashion collection from the 20th and 21st centuries.
Maritiman - The Floating Museum
The maritime museum Maritiman, located in the harbor of Gothenburg, is the world’s largest floating maritime museum. The fleet consists of several ships and even a submarine that you can explore. The museum is ideal for families and technology enthusiasts.
Världskultur Museum - World Cultures and Global Perspectives in Gothenburg
The Museum of World Cultures is located near Liseberg and right next to the Universeum. Its collection includes more than 100,000 objects, making it Sweden’s second-largest ethnographic collection. In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum features changing exhibitions that are often interactive and socially critical, focusing on themes such as identity, politics, and consumption.
Universeum - Science & Adventure for the Whole Family
Right next to the Museum of World Cultures is Universeum, a large science center with an aquarium, rainforest, interactive stations, and technology exhibitions. It’s a great outing, especially for families, featuring real birds in the tropical house.
Food & Drink - Your Guide to Discovering Gothenburg’s Culinary Scene
Gothenburg is a true paradise for foodies. Whether you’re craving traditional Swedish home-cooked dishes like meatballs with mashed potatoes and brown sauce, prefer fish, or enjoy international cuisine, Sweden’s second-largest city has plenty to offer. And for those who love a cozy fika (coffee break), the city is full of charming cafés. In our Gothenburg guide, we’ll show you some of our favorite culinary spots in the city.
By the way, did you know that Swedish law requires that food must be served whenever alcohol is sold? That’s why even bars in Sweden always offer something to eat, and kitchens have to stay open until closing time.
Tip: If you want to save money while dining, look out for lunch specials. Many restaurants offer these during midday at a lower price than in the evening.
Restaurants - The Best Local Spots for Your City Trip
Here are some of our favorite restaurants for truly great food in Gothenburg:
- The Barn: One of the best burger restaurants, not only in Gothenburg. They also serve delicious vegetarian and vegan burgers. Great atmosphere. Be sure to make a reservation!
- Fiskbar 17: A small fish restaurant on Magasinsgatan. A concise but excellent menu at good prices. When the weather is nice, there’s a lovely outdoor seating area to watch the bustling street life.
- Ölstugan Tullen: A beer pub chain with several locations around the city. Here you can not only enjoy a relaxed beer but also eat well and affordably. We love the breaded cheese (Panerad Ost).
- Bombay Street: A very good Indian restaurant near Korsvägen. But beware: the spiciness here is much stronger than in most other places.
- Sköbaren: You’ll find this fish and seafood restaurant in two locations in Gothenburg – one in the cozy Haga district and another in Lorensberg. They offer excellent fish dishes at good prices.
- Hagabio: The alternative cinema offers a small, changing menu with very good food. There’s a lovely outdoor seating area - also perfect for a nightcap.
Tip: If you like shrimp, you have to try a shrimp sandwich. You can find them elsewhere in Sweden too, but Gothenburg is famous for its huge shrimp sandwiches.
Cafés: Kanelbulle, Fika and Co.
No visit to Sweden is complete without at least one fika. Here are our favorite spots for cinnamon buns, fika, and more:
- Café Husaren and Café Hebbe Lelle: Both are famous for their huge, plate-sized cinnamon buns. You can find both cafés in Haga.
- Fröken Olsson: A very nice café in the city center decorated with colorful tiles. On weekends, they offer a breakfast buffet.
- Cum Pane: Small bakery in Majorna and Olskroken with a few seats and excellent bread, cinnamon buns, and other treats.
- Brogyllen: One of the long-established bakeries and patisseries in Gothenburg with several locations. Great cinnamon buns, sweet pastries, and bread.
- Gelaterian: Best ice cream in Sweden, maybe the best we've ever had. Very intense flavors. Worth the wait – definitely try it.
Bars & Pubs in Gothenburg - Tips for Your Evening Out
In the mood for an after-work beer or a nightcap?
Along the streets Andra Långgatan and Tredje Långgatan, you'll find a row of pubs and restaurants. Andra Långgatan is generally more affordable and popular with both students and professionals. Tredje Långgatan also features some nice restaurants in addition to bars.
Practical Information for Your Trip to Gothenburg
How many days should I plan to visit Gothenburg?
How many days you need or want to spend in Gothenburg is, of course, very individual. For a city trip, we recommend two to three full days. That gives you enough time to explore the main sights and neighborhoods—and to experience a bit of Gothenburg’s green side as well.
Accommodation - Where to stay in Gothenburg?
Gothenburg offers plenty of hotels and AirBnBs. The best option is to stay centrally, so you can explore the city on foot right from your accommodation. If you prefer something more alternative, it’s worth looking for a place in Majorna - slightly off the beaten path but still surrounded by plenty of restaurants, bars, and small shops.
If you're traveling by camper, there are a few public parking areas in Gothenburg where overnight stays are allowed. Keep in mind that these spots usually lack infrastructure. The Park4Night app is a great tool to find suitable places. Traditional campgrounds are limited in Gothenburg, but you'll find one to the south in Askim and another at Lisebergsbyn in the eastern part of the city.
Getting Around - How Do I Get from A to B in Gothenburg?
In general, Gothenburg is easy to explore on foot or by bike. Many of the city’s main attractions are close to each other. In addition, the tram and bus network is reliable, clean, and well-developed.
Styr & Ställ bike rentals: Gothenburg is perfect for getting around by bike. Styr & Ställ offers bikes at numerous locations throughout the city. Just register on their website — you'll also find a map showing all bike stations. By the way, you can rent up to four bikes with one account.
Västtrafik app for public transport tickets: Download the Västtrafik To Go app to easily buy tickets for trams, buses, and ferries online. There are no ticket machines in Gothenburg. For visitors, day passes or 3-day tickets are very convenient.
Arrival - How to get to Gothenburg?
Airplaine : Landvetter Airport is located about 25 minutes outside the city center. The shuttle bus Flygbussarna runs regularly and takes you directly to the heart of Gothenburg.
Train : Gothenburg is well connected to the Swedish rail network. It takes about 3 hours to travel to and from Stockholm, and around 3.5 hours to Copenhagen. Connections from Germany typically go via Copenhagen and Malmö/Lund.
Car : From Germany, there are several ferry routes to Sweden. One direct connection is the Stena Line ferry from Kiel to Gothenburg*. Alternativ kannst du über die Öresund Brücke von Dänemark nach Schweden fahren. Mehr Informationen zur ferry from Kiel to Gothenburg, you can find in our article.
Best time to visit Gothenburg
The best time to visit Gothenburg is from May to September. During these months, the chances of good weather are highest, the city is lively, and the days are long. June to August are the warmest months, with average temperatures between 20 and 24°C.
Winter in Gothenburg is often cold and wet. If you’re hoping for a picturesque snowy winter, you’ll only find it here by chance. November especially tends to be stormy and very rainy. If you visit Gothenburg in winter, be sure to pack rain gear!
Do I need Cash in Gothenburg?
In Sweden, cash is rather uncommon. In many restaurants, small shops, and bars, cash is often no longer accepted. Swedes pay for everything digitally. It’s best to have a suitable card with you, such as the VISA Debit Karte der DKB or the Bank Norwegian credit card .
