tourist places in gothenburg

10 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Gothenburg

Written by Andrew Birbeck and Shandley McMurray Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

It's impossible to get bored in Gothenburg, Sweden's so-called, "Second City." Known as Gӧteborg, this coastal place is filled with beauty and fun things to do, including screaming on a thrill ride at Liseberg Amusement Park , looking for deer in Slottskogen Park , and embarking on a seal safari in the Southern archipelago .

Naturalists will enjoy the Gothenburg Botanical Garden , while creative types should visit the Gothenburg Museum of Art . When hunger strikes, there is an array of delectable dishes on offer at the city's award-winning restaurants.

In this picturesque city peppered with historic buildings and flanked by a bustling seaport, the sparkling canals can fool tourists into believing they're near the sights of Amsterdam. Speaking of canals, Gothenburg's 190-kilometer-long Gӧta Canal is an unmissable attraction and one of the most popular places to visit in Sweden .

For more must-see attractions, use our list of the best things to do in Gothenburg.

See also: Where to Stay in Gothenburg

1. Enjoy a Thrilling Ride at Liseberg Amusement Park

2. take a stroll in slottsskogen park, 3. have an outdoor adventure in gothenburg's southern archipelago, 4. get back to nature at the gothenburg botanical garden (botaniska), 5. gothenburg museum of art (goteborgs konstmuseum), 6. explore the historic haga district, 7. the garden society (trädgårdsföreningen), 8. explore the universe at universeum, 9. enjoy the views from skansen kronan, 10. shopping around magasinsgatan, where to stay in gothenburg for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in gothenburg, gothenburg, sweden - climate chart, more must-see swedish cities.

Want your kids to appreciate you forever, or at least for a day? Take them to the Liseberg Amusement Park . Opened in 1923, this Gothenburg landmark remains a true family favorite. Thrilling rides and roller coasters, regular concerts, and a wonderful Christmas market make this a popular attraction — the largest of its kind in Scandinavia — with locals and tourists alike.

Around 40 different attractions and rides, such as AtmosFear, one of the tallest free-fall rides in Europe , and the award-winning wooden roller coaster Balder will help you while away the hours. On the Liseberg Wheel ( Lisebergshjulet ), you'll be treated to terrific views over the city, and the Helix roller coaster is another favorite.

This ultra-fun attraction also boasts good food, music, games, and hundreds of thousands of flowers in bloom during the summer months. Another popular time to visit is Halloween, when the park is transformed into a spooky-themed adventure zone.

Address: Örgrytevägen 5, 41251 Gothenburg

Hoping to save a few bucks? Head to 338-acre Slottsskogen , a leafy park and mini-zoo in the heart of the city. Also known as "Castle Park," it's a fantastic place to bring the entire family. And the best part? It won't cost a penny. In fact, visiting this park is one of the best free things to do in Gothenburg for both locals and tourists.

Elk, seals, penguins, moose, and deer are just some of the species you can see in the zoo, which is one of the oldest in Sweden. And, from April to September, kids can enjoy pony rides and cuddle farmyard animals at the petting zoo.

Many people also come here to relax and wander through the peaceful parklands and wild forests of maple, beech, and oak. Roller skating, biking, jogging, and miniature golf are other popular activities. Cafés and well-designed children's playgrounds lie within the park, and concerts and events are also staged here, including the popular Way Out West music festival in the summer.

Located on the edge of the park is the Gothenburg Museum of Natural History , a popular Gothenburg attraction for its dioramas of animals from around the globe.

Address: Slottskogspromenaden, 414 76 Göteborg

You don't have to travel far from the city to find charming villages, stunning scenery, and pristine beaches. Thanks to its location in the Gothenburg Archipelago, seal safaris, sailing, lobster fishing, sea-angling, and boat excursions are just some of the activities to tempt tourists in the southern section of this stunningly beautiful archipelago (Skärgården). Best of all, regular ferry links run to most anywhere you'd like to go.

The southern islands, reached from Saltholmen ferry port, remain a car-free zone making it a perfect destination for cyclists and hikers. Styrsö Island, with four quaint villages and about 1,400 inhabitants, is a real treat. The oldest village, Byn, which literally means village, dates back to 1752. There's also a post office, cafés, shops, guesthouse, and restaurant as well as plenty of places to fish and swim.

If you feel like soaking up some nature in between touring the city sights, the serene 432 acres of Gothenburg Botanical Garden (Botaniska) is a wonderful place to unwind. Part nature reserve and arboretum, with walking paths weaving through the trees, and partly cultivated gardens, this peaceful oasis is guaranteed to bust any stress that accompanied you on vacation.

This beautiful and tranquil place was established in 1916 and is one of Europe's largest botanical gardens. Home to around 16,000 different plant species, including some extremely rare specimens, it's a wonderful place to visit.

Highlights include the Japan Valley, the colorful Rhododendron Valley, and the rock garden awash with the soothing sounds of a waterfall. Orchids and other species of exotic plants flourish in the greenhouses, and you can even see a rare tree from Easter Island that is extinct in the wild. The park is particularly pretty in the spring and summer when colorful blooms cluster on the trees.

Address: Carl Skottsbergs gata 22A, 413 19 Göteborg

Inspired and aspiring artists will enjoy a trip to the Gothenburg Museum of Art (Goteborgs Konstmuseum ). This captivating attraction hosts a collection of works that is regarded as one of the finest in Northern Europe, and it really shouldn't be missed.

The collection covers artworks from the 15th century to contemporary pieces, with a special emphasis on Nordic art. Artists featured here include Carl Larsson, Edvard Munch, Anders Zorn, Picasso, Chagall, Monet, Rembrandt, and many others.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, as well as family activities, lectures, workshops, guided tours, a shop, and café. The photo exhibitions at the Hasselblad Centre in the museum are also well worth seeing. A highlight is the annual Hasselblad Award Winner's Exhibition. Next door is the City Theatre (Gӧteburg Stadsteater) and Art Deco Concert Hall .

Address: Götaplatsen, 41256 Gothenburg

You can't help but love Gothenburg's historic district. Located in the west of the city, Haga is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Gothenburg and dates from the mid-17th century. It's also packed with things to do during the day and night. Stroll along the charming neighborhood of Haga Nygata, which is lined with beautifully preserved timber houses, boutique shops, and pleasant cafés.

Try one of the world's largest cinnamon buns (Kanelbullar) at Café Husaren , visit the spa and restaurant at Hagabadet Bathhouse , or enjoy fresh seafood at Sjöbaren restaurant. Don't miss out on Bräutigam's , chocolate makers for more than 140 years. In the southeast area, you can gaze out over the city from Skansen Kronan . As evening approaches head to Pustervik just outside Haga for some live music.

Location: Haga Nygata, Gothenburg

Situated in the heart of the city, the Garden Society of Gothenburg (Trädgårdsföreningen) is one of Europe's most beautifully preserved 19th-century parks. Here, you can stroll amid rolling lawns, exotic plants, and historic buildings, many of which date back to the park's establishment in 1842.

The woodland gardens and magnificent collection of roses are a feast for any eye, while the splendid glass and cast-iron Palm House at the park's center was inspired by the famous Crystal Palace in London and has been a popular attraction since 1878. For the kids, there's a terrific playground with swings, slides, and secret paths to explore.

Restaurants and cafés are on-site, and concerts and performances take place here throughout the year.

Address: Slussgatan 1, Gothenburg

Your kids won't be the same after you take them to Universeum . Located in the center of Gothenburg, this fun attraction is the largest science center in the Nordic countries and a great day out for all the family. The aquariums are among the largest in Europe. Explore the indoor rainforest, or go on safari and get up close to lizards, birds, insects, sloths, and several species of monkeys.

The ocean tank is home to several different kinds of sharks, the largest one being the sand tiger shark. You can also see moray eels and swordfish and even touch giant rays as they surface. Other fun things to do include visiting the space exhibition and the job lab, where little ones can dress up and try out different professions.

Address: Södra vägen 50, 40020 Gothenburg

A short walk from the city's historic Haga district, up a steep flight of stairs, Skansen Kronan fortress offers a glimpse of Swedish history, as well as sweeping views over the city. Completed in 1697, the fortress was built to defend against perceived threats of Danish attacks from the south. However, Gothenburg was never attacked in this way, and the cannons inside have stood idle for centuries.

The building served as a prison, as a private residence during the 19th century, and as a military museum in the 20th century. Today, the site encompasses a restaurant and conference center and is the site of many events and weddings. In the old army barracks adjacent to the tower is a summer café serving home-baked cakes, pastries, and ice cream, as long as they receive the right permits to open during the year you visit.

Location: Skansberget, Leijonsparres Väg 15, 413 04, Gothenburg

The trendy, bustling neighborhood around Magasinsgatan, in central Gothenburg, used to be a warehouse district and is well worth a visit. Grab a cup of coffee and something to eat or browse shops with everything from interior design to vintage clothing. There are plenty of gourmet and traditional restaurants.

This district is in the city center at the end of the Kungsgatan . If staying downtown, the easiest way to get there is to walk. Alternatively, you can take the tram or bus to either Grönsakstorget or Domkyrkan .

Location: Magasinsgatan, Gothenburg

Gothenburg's attractions aren't grouped compactly into one area, but public transportation is good, and many are within a 10- or 15-minute walk of each other. So for tourists, the most convenient hotels are those in the city center, close to the rail station and the Magasinsgatan shopping district and an easy walk from the floating ships museum. Farther south, on the way to the Liseberg amusement park and Universeum science center, is the Lorensburg district and Gothenburg's outstanding art museum. These highly rated hotels are handy to Gothenburg attractions:

Luxury Hotels :

• The striking contemporary Upper House , overlooking the Universeum and Liseberg, is connected to the convention center and has a spa, heated outdoor pool, and beautiful views.
• In the center, near the train station, city museum, and Magasinsgatan shopping area, the boutique Hotel Pigalle is a romantic retreat with 1920s Paris décor.
• Beside the rail station, Clarion Hotel Post offers a gym, spa, and a year-round heated roof-top pool, all a short walk from the center.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the city center, near the station, airport bus stop, and Magasinsgatan, the historic Hotel Royal Gothenburg pampers guests by including afternoon tea and cakes.
• A two-minute walk from the airport bus stop, Comfort Hotel City - Gothenburg has small, well-furnished rooms and a kitchen for guests' use.
• Nearby, Hotel Vanilla is a 10-minute walk from the station and close to restaurants and shopping.

Budget Hotels:

• For a unique experience only a short walk from the airport bus stop and the center of Gothenburg, Hotel Barken Viking is on a ship.
• Just off Kungsparken, halfway between the old center and the art museum and an easy walk to either, Hotel Poseidon is close to restaurants and shopping.
• Spar Hotel Majorna is on the waterfront in Majorna, near the maritime museum and Kiel ferry landing; a variety of restaurants are nearby.

Sweden is famous for its safe, stylish cities flaunting a fascinating blend of old and new. About 470 kilometers northeast of Gothenburg, the Swedish capital, Stockholm , is a picturesque intermingling of land and sea, with plenty of appealing day trip options, including the medieval university city of Uppsala . The beautiful island of Gotland , where many Swedes like to vacation, is also only a 35-minute flight away. At the country's southwestern tip, Malmo is famous for its iconic Oresund Bridge connecting Sweden with Denmark , and the busy port city of Helsingborg to the north is also a short hop from Denmark.

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Home » Travel Guides » Sweden » 25 Best Things to Do in Gothenburg (Sweden)

25 Best Things to Do in Gothenburg (Sweden)

Built in one go in the 17th century, Gothenburg was planned as a trading post when the Swedish Empire was at the peak of its powers. As the largest port in Sweden it became a centre for industries like shipbuilding, and despite its obvious affluence still has an down-to-earth, working character.

As a planned city, there’s a neat order to Gothenburg’s streets, and 300 years after it was founded a new wave of construction in the 1920s gave the cultural meccas like the Museum of Art. In a maritime town like Gothenburg you should also try to spend as much time as possible on the water, island hopping on the archipelagos off the coast or floating down the 17th-century canals.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Gothenburg :

1. Gothenburg Museum of Art

The prestigious museum opened in 1923, in time for Gothenburg’s International Exhibition.

You can come to appreciate works from across Europe painted from the 1400s to the 21st century.

But the museum’s acclaim comes from its 19th-century Nordic art, by famous and familiar names like Edvard Munch, Peder Severin Krøyer, Bruno Liljefors and Anders Zorn.

The French collection deserves your time for its works by Gauguin, Picasso, Monet, Chagall and van Gogh.

And for lovers of the Renaissance and Baroque there are pieces by van Dyck, Rembrandt, Rubens and Jacob Jordaens.

2. Botanical Garden

Gothenburg’s sprawling Botanical Garden covers 175 hectares in the centre of the city, and also encompasses a nature reserve and arboretum.

Around 4,000 of its plants are kept in greenhouses, so the attraction is full of life in any season.

Inside is the largest collection of orchids in the country, numbering 1,500 in total.

Also under cover is an Easter Island tree, sophora toromiro, which will fascinate botanists as it’s extinct in its natural habitat.

The arboretum meanwhile has trees from all over the world, neatly ordered and labelled, and in summer the rock garden is a treat for its waterfall and more than 6,000 plant species.

3. Liseberg

This thriving amusement park goes back to 1923 and draws big crowds today.

Liseberg has a traditional character and abounds with greenery and woodland, but its lineup of high-tech rides is constantly evolving.

The steel roller coaster Helix was unveiled in 2014 and the state -of-the-art Valkyria is in the pipeline for 2018. But if there’s one roller coaster that you cannot leave without riding it’s the bone shuddering Balder, a wood-tracked coaster that ranks among the best rides of its kind every year.

All ages are accommodated at Liseberg, so those adrenaline rides are combined with thoughtfully designed kids’ amusements like merry go rounds, flying elephants and dragon boats.

Liseberg also stages big concerts (free with entry), and is unusual in Sweden as it opens in winter for Halloween and Christmas, when there’s a special market.

You’d never know it today, but this cute neighbourhood southwest of the city centre used to be a slum with a seedy reputation.

Haga is a grid of cobblestone streets flanked by brick warehouses and uniform 19th-century houses with wooden facades.

These charming buildings were scheduled to be torn down during redevelopment works in the 1970s, but Gothenburg’s citizens got together to preserve its character.

Haga is now the city’s hippest neighbourhood, and has no shortage of cafes, delicatessens, independent shops and reasonably priced restaurants.

If you want to be really Swedish about it, Haga’s just the spot for fika, a quick coffee and a bun.

5. Gothenburg Archipelago

Close to Gothenburg you can embark on a journey through the little granite islands of the Southern and Northern Gothenburg archipelago.

The Southern islands, below the mouth of the Göta älv are designated car-free.

You’ll catch a ferry from Saltholmen and can use that ticket to jump from island to island, calling in on painted fishing villages and old shipping settlements, and taking kayak trips on glassy water and hikes in nature reserves.

The northern Archipelago is more inhabited and connects to Gothenburg via a car ferry.

On this side, Hönö is a destination for fishing and watersports, and has a fish museum, a generous helping of restaurants and rugged cliffs along its coasts.

6. Slottsskogen

Southwest of Haga is Gothenburg’s main park, in 137 hectares of restful greenery.

The east side is a planned English garden with flowing lawns and paths that weave between old growth trees.

The rest has been left to nature, and is taken up by linden, oak and beech woodland.

If you need to squeeze in a morning run, this is the place to go, and there are also adventure playgrounds, an observatory, miniature golf and other sports facilities.

The free zoo at the centre of the park dates to 1876 and has Nordic animals like moose, Gotland ponies, deer, and domestic animals like goats, pigs and sheep.

There are also water enclosures, home to seals and Humboldt penguins.

7. Trädgårdsföreningen

Gothenburg’s most central park may well be its prettiest, as the Garden Society of Gothenburg has hardly changed since the 19th century.

It was inaugurated in 1842 by King Carl XIV Johan and thanks to its meticulous preservation has been given listed status in Sweden.

There are historic buildings in the park, like the cute coffee house that dates to 1874. But the postcard image is the magnificent palm house, Palmhuset, erected in 1878, based on London’s Crystal Palace and containing tropical species.

In June and July the rose garden’s 6,000 bushes are in bloom for a spectacle of colour and fragrance that will stay with you.

8. Universeum

Close to Liseberg is an attraction that approaches scientific topics in engaging, child-friendly ways and has a host of animal exhibits over seven floors.

The centrepiece is the Ocean Zone, which has an immense ocean tank inhabited by sharks and tropical species, and a touch tank where little ones can find out what rays’ backs feel like.

You can also enter an indoor tropical rainforest, spotting colourful birds, sloths and monkeys on the branches above.

On a very different tack is the “Kalejdo” exhibition, where kids can explore criminal science, the cosmos and find out how lasers work, and “Explora” a sort of experiment zone using cutting-edge technology.

Beginning at Kungsportsbron, the bridge over the canal, and slicing diagonally through the city is Gothenburg’s broad and princely avenue.

It was laid out in the 1800s to link a new upmarket neighbourhood southeast of the centre with the old fortified city.

For shopping, nightlife and dining Avenyn is the cream of the crop: In the daylight hours you can potter around the chain stores, high-end fashion houses and one-of-a-king boutiques, and after dark you can paint the town red at all manner of eateries and nightspots.

Bring a sense of adventure too, as the connecting streets like Södra vägen merit a detour, while to the west rise the Neoclassical mansions of the posh Vasa neighbourhood.

10. Feskekôrka

On a canal-side in central Gothenburg is the city’s fish and shellfish market.

You’ll be forgiven for mistaking this building for a church, as its design was inspired by Norwegian Stave Churches and medieval Gothic architecture (hence the name “fish church”). The market opened in 1874 and was a technical marvel at the time as there are no pillars inside, with a roof supported instead by powerful beams.

This should be your first stop for ocean-fresh fish and shellfish caught on the day.

There are also two highly-rated restaurants at the market, a few options for takeout, and even a stall that will shuck your oysters for you and pair them with wine.

11. Aeroseum

In the military section of Gothenburg’s airport is a facility from the Cold War era.

Built between 1950-55 is a subterranean hangar that was kept secret until the 1990s.

In 2005 it was converted into an aviation museum, and is a seriously cool place to check out military aircraft.

There’s a collection of helicopters and Swedish-made fighter jets and bombers like the Saab 37 Viggen and the Saab 35 Draken.

You can climb into the cockpit of many of these aircraft, visit the facility’s control room and get behind the controls of a flight simulator.

12. Maritiman

Moored on the Göta älv in the middle of the city is a mini-armada of 15 heritage vessels.

These come in all shapes and sizes and make up a floating museum, plunging you into Sweden’s military and civilian seafaring heritage.

The two standout craft you can board are the HSwMS Småland, a Halland-class destroyer launched in 1952, and the HMS Nordkaparen, a submarine in service from 1962 and famously almost involved in a collision with a Soviet submarine in 1980. You’ll get full access to both of these vessels, squeezing through some tiny passages, climbing ladders and steep stairways to see engine rooms, torpedo ports, living quarters and mess halls for a taste of life on board.

13. Volvo Museum

Some way west of the centre, on a quay beyond the mouth of the Göta älv is a museum all about Sweden’s best loved automotive brand, which was founded in Gothenburg in 1927. If you’re a Volvo aficionado you’ll find almost every model that the brand has ever produced, checking out dozens of vintage cars and trucks people know and love, but also concept cars never intended for sale.

Volvo was never just about cars either, and there’s an absorbing exhibition for the Volvo Ocean Race and equipment developed by Volvo Aero.

14. Paddan Tour

Paddan are flat-hulled, low-profile sightseeing barges that tour Gothenburg’s harbour and canals.

The boats depart two or three times an hour are hop-on, hop-off, so you can spend a bit more time at the sights that pique your interest.

In a city with a strong maritime spirit it’s a must-do activity, showing you around the 17th-century canals, fishing harbour, old shipyards, and waterfront industry and passing below scores of bridges.

You’ll see those vessels at the Maritiman from a new angle and get a view of Gothenburg’s more recent developments like the post-modern Lilla Bommen tower.

All the way you’ll be given titbits about Gothenburg’s construction in the 1600s and how the city was defended.

15. Götaplatsen

At the southern end of Avenyn and below the Gothenburg Museum of Art, Götaplatsen is a distinguished square laid out for the International Exhibition in 1923. This is a cultural district of its own, because the art museum is accompanied by the City Library, City Theatre and the City Concert Hall, where the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra is based.

Come to take snaps of the Nordic Classicist and to meet the statue of Poseidon standing in the fountain at the end of Avenyn.

He was carved by Carl Millies, one of Sweden’s preeminent 20th-century sculptors and is an image that graces many postcards.

16. Museum of Gothenburg

The city’s museum took up residence in the Swedish East India Company offices in 1861. The building is from the 1700s and its permanent exhibitions document the history of Gothenburg from prehistory to the industrial age.

You’ll meet the Vikings that once navigated these waters, and jump to the days of the Swedish Empire and the colossal project that created modern Gothenburg in the stormy 17th century.

Moving on, there’s an exhibition about the industrialisation and upheaval of the 19th century, and about life and work in Gothenburg in the early 20th century.

All of this is complemented by temporary exhibitions that take a closer look at specific events and themes like the Second World War.

17. Masthugg Church

This church dates to 1914 and was designed in the Nordic Romantic style by Sigfrid Ericson who also conceived Gothenburg’s Museum of Art.

With a tower rising to 60 metres, it’s a striking edifice to behold, but what really gives the church its power is the location at the crest of Masthugg hill beside the Göta älv.

As a constant presence on the skyline, the church is a prominent landmark in every sense and has become an emblem for the city.

Take a peek at the interior, which can hold more than 1,000 worshippers.

Ericson also designed the altar tryptych, which was fashioned by the sculptor Ninnan Santesson, and he drew up plans for the baptismal font, which were finally realised in 1991 using sandstone quarried from the island of Gotland.

18. Skansen Kronan

Atop a hill in Haga is one piece of a system of artillery fortifications that went up in the 17th century, on the back of centuries of fighting with Denmark.

And despite the turmoil that preceded its construction, this redoubt never actually took part in battle.

The tower can only be viewed from the outside as it is now reserved for functions and sets the scene for summer concerts.

But you can come for an ice cream in summer, and get an idea of its five-metre thick walls and inspect the 23 ports for canons that were never fired in anger.

Best of all is the view over Haga and Göta älv.

19. New Älvsborg Fortress

This stronghold was set up on an island at the mouth of the Göta älv in the second half of the 17th century.

It became Gothenburg’s first line of defence from the sea after its less defendable predecessor was dismantled.

There’s a regular boat trip from Lilla Bommen to this island to adventure through the ravelins, passages, bastions, magazine and gun emplacements.

Unlike Skansen Kronan, this fortress was called into action briefly in 1719 when it faced an assault from the Danish and Norwegian fleets.

The tours are given a historical theme, so you’ll be greeted at the island’s dock by actors in period costume who will regale you with tales from Gothenburg’s fractious 17th century.

20. Natural History Museum

At the northern entrance to Slottsskogen is Gothenburg’s natural history museum, which goes back to 1833 and moved into its current premises in 1923. The museum has an old-school feel, so expect a lot of stuffed animals.

Two of these are absolutely enormous: There’s a blue whale that washed up close to Gothenburg in 1865 and has the honour of being the only mounted blue whale in the world.

Another enormous beast is the African elephant, weighing six tons and measuring six metres in height.

For something a bit more edifying there’s the Space Walk (Rymdpromenaden), a scale model of the solar system, with planets dotted across the park to the south, and Pluto located several kilometres away.

21. Gothenburg Opera House

On the harbour at Lilla Bommen stands Gothenburg’s Post-Modern opera house, which was almost 50 years in the pipeline and finally opened in 1994. The final product divides opinion but nobody could say that the building isn’t bold.

Beyond its eye-catching hull-like form, there are a few noteworthy things about the opera house, like an intelligently-devised interior that allows productions to be staged at a lower cost, and a record construction time of just a couple of years.

You can see the airy interiors, go behind the scenes and find out about its clever logistics on a tour.

Or just come during the season for ballet, musicals and opera of the highest standard.

22. Guldhedstornet

On a clear summer’s day you could battle up to the highest point in the city in Gothenburg’s southern suburbs.

On the hilltop is a water tower that dates to the 1953 and has a cafe installed on its upper level.

This is open from 11:00 to 18:00 and at 130 metres offers a satisfying panorama of Gothenburg to go with a coffee, pastry or shrimp sandwich.

Up here you can make out the old and new harbours, some of the archipelago and the thick woodland that surrounds the city.

23. Trip to Vinga

Inspecting the vessels on Gothenburg’s quays you may feel the call of the open sea, and a voyage to the small, remote island of Vinga would scratch that itch.

Vinga is ten nautical miles west of the entrance to Gothenburg’s harbour, but don’t let that deter you as the journey there and back is worth it.

The M/S Walona makes the trip as comfy as possible, and has a cafe on board.

Vinga has been used as a seamark by navigators for hundreds of years, while the current lighthouse is from 1890. An interesting fact about this place is that the father of the legendary Swedish singer Evert Taube was the lighthouse keeper at this time, and Taube spent his earliest years on Vinga.

On warm days pack a picnic and even swimming gear if you’re brave enough!

24. Delsjön

Catch the tram out from the centre of Gothenburg to Töpelsgatan and then walk another few minutes to this pair of lakes (Lilla and Stora Delsjön) enveloped in dense woodland.

Fed by the Göta älv, Delsjön is a water reservoir for the city and promises peace, unblemished nature and outdoor fun.

You could ramble, jog or cycle around its shores in birch and coniferous woodland.

And when the weather is right, Stora Delsjön’s large beach is gets a thumbs up from families, while you can also dive off rocks around the shore for a bracing dip.

There’s a cafe, a playground for youngsters and a food kiosk, as well as barbecue and picnic areas for timeless summer afternoons.

25. Culinary Experiences

Fish and seafood in Gothenburg are out of this world and the city abounds with outstanding restaurants, but the lobster and crayfish are in a class of their own.

During lobster season from September to April you can head out on a lobster safari, pulling up pots to catch your own lobsters under metallic skies and in a seascape of little granite.

It doesn’t get much more Nordic than that! A Swedish tradition of a very different kind is “fika”, which is a coffee break and a chat with a friend or colleague.

You can go for fika at any number of upscale cafes around Gothenburg but Brogyllen on Västra Hamngatan is famed for its delectable pastries like cinnamon buns (kanelbullar).

25 Best Things to Do in Gothenburg (Sweden):

• Gothenburg Museum of Art
• Botanical Garden
• Gothenburg Archipelago
• Slottsskogen
• Trädgårdsföreningen
• Volvo Museum
• Paddan Tour
• Götaplatsen
• Museum of Gothenburg
• Masthugg Church
• Skansen Kronan
• New Älvsborg Fortress
• Natural History Museum
• Gothenburg Opera House
• Guldhedstornet
• Trip to Vinga
• Culinary Experiences

• Experience Guide (sv, dk, no, eng)
• Corporate (in Swedish)
• Press & Media
• Travel Trade
• Destinations
• Southern Sweden

Things to do in Gothenburg

Art and design.

Things to do with art and photography? Then head first for the Guide Michelin three-starred attraction Gothenburg Museum of Art at Götaplatsen sqaure for the world’s finest collection of national-romantic Scandinavian late 19th century art. Look out for works by Edvard Munch, Anders Zorn and Carl Larsson. Just around the corner from here is the Röhsska Museum , or as someone somewhere prefers to call it the Swedish Museum of Fashion, Design and Decorative.

Gothenburg Museums

Want to know how people lived where Gothenburg is today 12,000 years ago? Or why and how the city was laid out by Dutchmen? Then visit the Gothenburg City Museum for answers and explanations on these facts and much, much more about the history and culture of Gothenburg. This museum is also home to Sweden’s only surviving Viking ship.  Universeum  is a science discovery centre combining science, technology and adventure in an exciting building by Gothenburg´s own international star architect Gert Wingård. 

Liseberg  is a pretty busy place. As well as the fun in the amusement park, there are gardens, a sculpture park, hotels, bars, and restaurants. At Christmas-time Liseberg becomes one huge Christmas market.

Trendy old Haga

The oldest and one of the most characterful areas of Gothenburg is the Haga  district from the 18th century. Formerly a low-rise, wooden-housed area falling into disrepair it is now officially cool. Tread the cobblestone streets, find cool gear at its vintage and second-hand stores and stop-off at one of the area’s excellent cafés.

For a glimpse into how the other half lived in the 18th century in Sweden visit creamy coloured, neoclassical-architecture Gunnebo House and Gardens , just 10 minutes by bus or car from downtown Gothenburg.

Universeum Science Center, Gothenburg

Universeum, Gothenburg, is a science centre where animals and nature are mixed with new technology and exciting experiments.

Photo : Ellika Henrikson/Göteborg & Co

Gunnebo House and Gardens, Gothenburg

Photo : Gunnebo castle/vastsverige.com

Amusement park Liseberg in Gothenburg

Photo : Anna Hållams

Gothenburg fish market

Photo : Per Pixel Petersson/imagebank.sweden.se

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Must-see attractions in Gothenburg

Röda Sten Konsthall

Occupying a defunct power station beside Älvsborgs bridge, Röda Sten Konsthall's four floors serve up edgy, contemporary exhibitions showcasing both…

Konstmuseum

Home to Gothenburg’s premier art collection, Konstmuseum traverses the Renaissance to the present day, with works by the French impressionists, Rubens,…

In what is arguably the best museum for kids in Sweden, you find yourself in the midst of a humid rainforest, complete with trickling water, tropical…

The attractions of Liseberg, Scandinavia's largest amusement park, are many and varied. Adrenalin blasts include the venerable wooden roller coaster…

Trädgårdsföreningen

Laid out in 1842, the lush Trädgårdsföreningen is a large protected area off Nya Allén. Full of flowers and tiny cafes, it’s popular for lunchtime…

Haga District

The Haga district is Gothenburg’s oldest suburb, dating back to 1648. A hardcore hippie hang-out in the 1960s and '70s, its cobbled streets and vintage…

Mölndals Stadsmuseum

Located in an old police station, this museum is like a vast warehouse, with a 10,000-strong collection of mainly 20th-century local nostalgia, ranging…

Sjöfartsmuseet

Sjöfartsmuseet focuses on the city's maritime history through an entertaining collection of maps, model ships, recreated sailors' quarters, and period…

The city’s oldest secular building, Kronhuset is a former arsenal built in Dutch style between 1642 and 1654. It was here that Karl X held the disastrous…

Near the opera house, the world’s largest floating ship museum is made up of 20 historical crafts, including fishing boats, a light vessel and a…

Linné District

The Linné district holds fast to its grungy roots, especially along the Långgatan streets. Here, hip cafes, junk shops and street-smart boutiques mix with…

Stadsmuseum

At Stadsmuseum, admire the remains of the Äskekärrkeppet, Sweden’s only original Viking vessel, alongside silver treasure hoards, weaponry and jewellery…

Naturhistoriska Museet

The Natural History Museum is home to an incredible range of taxidermied wildlife, from the horned and hooved denizens of the savannah to all the big cats…

Nya Älvsborgs Fästning

At the mouth of the Göta älv, squat red Elfsborgs Fortress was built in the 17th century to keep out the marauding Danes and saw action again in the early…

Across the river and next to the Science Park is the city's most exciting new building – the epitome of green engineering. Kuggen, or 'Cogwheel',…

The beautiful 19th-century Hagakyrkan, built in 1859, is well worth peeking inside. The park behind the church is home to a simple yet moving monument to…

Klippan Precinct

Once a bustle of industry (with glassworks, foundries, breweries and salting houses) the Klippan precinct has been revamped into a rather fetching…

Volvo Museum

Pay homage to one of Sweden’s enduring icons at the Volvo Museum, which contains everything from the company’s debut vehicle to its most experimental…

Världskulturmuseet

In a striking building by London-based architects Cécile Brisac and Edgar Gonzalez, the Världskulturmuseet sees ethnography, art and global politics…

The elegant Domkyrkan was consecrated in 1815, the two previous cathedrals on this site having both been destroyed by town fires. Although many of the…

Slottsskogsparken

Slottsskogsparken is an enormous park featuring dozens of walking trails and kid magnets Barnens Zoo and Djurgårdarna, an animal park with farm animals,…

This peculiar fish market is shaped like a church. You may see the odd bride and groom posing with the shellfish; they're not lost – it's just that the…

Masthuggskyrkan

One of Gothenburg’s most distinctive buildings, this is a welcome landmark for sailors and is a smashing viewpoint over the western half of the city…

Galleri Ferm

Constant surprises, mainly from Scandinavian artists such as Per Cederbank, Emil Olsson and Yrjö Edelmann, plus works by internationally renowned…

Botaniska Trädgården

Sweden’s largest botanical garden breathes easy with around 16,000 plant species. Look for outdoor sculptures, and check online for special events and…

Göteborgs-Utkiken

The red-and-white ‘skyscraper’ Göteborgs-Utkiken, nicknamed ‘The Lipstick’ for obvious reasons, has killer views of the harbour from the top.

Galleri Nils Åberg

This gallery shows works by fresh, young Scandinavian artists alongside established contemporary pieces by the likes of Picasso and Joan Miró.

Galleri Thomassen

Showcases up-and-coming talent in its Lilla Galleriet and contemporary art from all over Scandinavia as well as Berlin.

Röhsska Museet

This art and design museum is currently closed, awaiting various decisions about how it's run. At the time of research its future was still unclear; check…

Places To Visit in Gothenburg

Places to visit in gothenburg.

Gothenburg is a beautiful city with a rich history, and is known for its vibrant culture and beautiful natural scenery. It's also home to some of Sweden's most popular tourist destinations, such as the Vasa Museum and Kungsträdgården Park. If you're looking for a relaxing day trip, consider exploring the nearby beaches.

Alternatively, if you're in town for longer, there are many places to explore, including the lively Göteborg nightlife scene. Another one of the great things to see in Gothenburg is Slottsskogen, a park offering serene getaway filled with local flora and fauna. This beautiful Scandinavian city is home to some of Sweden's most iconic landmarks, including the Volvo Museum, which is full of fascinating artifacts from Volvo's past, including some of the company's earliest cars. For more information on the artistic history of the city, one must visit the famous Gothenburg Museum of Art, showcasing Middle Aged art collections of various famous artists.

Among the plethora of places to visit in Gothenburg, one must not skip the Liseberg Amusement park if they are visiting with their kids. With more than 60 rides this is one of the best places where children and adults both enjoy some quality time together.

If you're looking for a fun day out, Liseberg Amusement Park is the place to go. With more than 60 rides and attractions, there's something for everyone. The park is located right in the heart of Gothenburg, so it's easy to get to. Some of the most popular rides include the Scary Halloween celebration, Dizzy, and eccentric dance rides.

If you're looking for a scenic getaway, head to Gothenburg's Slottsskogen park. The park is home to various flora and fauna, making it the perfect place to take a break from city life. You can also explore the park's gardens and historic buildings, where you can stroll around in peace with your loved ones.

The Gothenburg Botanical Garden is absolutely beautiful and well-maintained. It's perfect for a relaxing day out, and the gardens have something for everyone. There are a magnificent variety of trees and plants from all over the world, along with a Wildlife Park where you can see many different kinds of animals. Around 16000 species in this garden makes it one of the most beautiful things to see in Gothenburg.

The Gothenburg Museum of Art is a must-see in Gothenburg. Established in 1923, the museum features a wide range of art from the Middle Ages to the present day. Highlights include works across the world from the 14th to the 21st century. The museum is located in the old city center, close to the river, offering a peaceful environment to the museum tour, making it one of the best places to visit in Gothenburg.

This picturesque waterfront district is home to the iconic Göteborgs Hamn shipyard, one of the largest in the world. Wander along the docks or take a walk around the ponds – it's sure to be a captivating experience. Kungsholmen district is home to some of Gothenburg's most popular attractions, like the Vasa Museum and the Concert Hall. Stroll past quaint cafes and boutiques, or take a seat at one of the restaurants to enjoy this Gothenburg tourist attraction.

If you're looking for a place to relax and take in some of Sweden's stunning natural scenery, then Universeum is the perfect place for you. One can also explore the planetarium, which offers various shows on astronomy. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try out one of the museum's climbing walls or go ice skating on the frozen river outside. It has Europe’s largest aquarium, which is filled with 3 million liters of water. This aquarium includes sharks, rays, and other fishes, which is considered one of the best things to see in Gothenburg.

Gothenburg Archipelago is one of the top attractions on the list of places to visit in Gothenburg. Located just off the coast of Sweden, the archipelago consists of over 60 islands that offer a wide range of activities, including camping, hiking, swimming, biking, and fishing. Some of the more popular destinations include Glimmingehus Island and Vaxholm Island.

Skansen Kronan is a fortress which was built to protect the king from enemies, but was never attacked by one. Hence, later it was turned into a prison and later it was converted into a military museum. Now the place is majorly used as an event place, where all the majestic halls of the fort are decorated based on the type of occasion. You can stroll around here and witness the beautiful architecture along with fine dining.

If you want to explore Gothenburg's natural beauty, consider visiting the Horticultural Society. Some of the highlights include the Botanical Garden with its array of plants from around the world, Lakeside Park, and several nature trails for hiking and biking. It possesses different types of plants, and they are divided into different types of climates so that they can sustain for a long period.

The Feskekôrka is a huge open-air market in Gothenburg, Sweden. It's one of the most popular places to visit in Gothenburg, and was opened in 1874- the market has something for everyone. There are stalls selling everything from fresh produce to clothes and souvenirs, and there's also a wide range of food options available. If you're looking for something special, check out the artisan stalls - they're worth a visit.

Suppose you're looking for a place to get out of the city and see some beautiful scenery, head over to Älvsborg Fortress. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located just outside of Gothenburg and is full of history and beauty. The fortress was built in the 17th century as part of Sweden's Defenses against Denmark, and it's still in use today as a military base. You can visit the fortress on your own or take a guided tour, and explore several exciting museums inside.

Masthugget Church is one of the most beautiful Gothenburg tourist attractions. The church was built in the early 1800s and has since been restored multiple times. The church is unique because it consists of both the main and annex buildings. The main building is used for services, while the annex building is used for storage.

Maritiman is a museum decorated to the Swedish Navy and their achievements, offering an exclusive peek into the past and evolution of the navy. There are various activities offered by the museum, including a guided tour through the museum. Get your spy senses on as you discover the submarine equipment in the base gallery.

The Volvo Museum is home to one of the largest collections of Volvo Cars in the world. It includes Volvo vehicles that date from 1927 to the 20th century. The museum features a permanent exhibition on the history of Volvo and a rotating exhibition on various automotive themes. The museum also has a library and a workshop.

This museum is packed with artifacts from all over the world, including a replica of the Starship Enterprise from Star Trek. You'll also find exhibits on history, art, and culture. If you're a fan of video games, don't miss the interactive game room. There are several consoles and games available for you to play.

Explore Gothenburg City

FAQs for Places To Visit in Gothenburg

What is special about gothenburg.

Gothenburg is a beautiful city with many things to see and do. Some of the things that make it special are its history, architecture, and culture. Some of the popular places to visit in Gothenburg are the Viking Ship Museum, the Baltic Sea aquarium, and the Vasa Museum.

What is the best time to visit Gothenburg?

The best time to visit Gothenburg is during the summer months, that is from June to August, when the weather is pleasant and the city is decorated in festivities. You can see a vibrant and cultural Swedish city as you enjoy all the amazing festive special menus in restaurants and cafes.

How many days are enough to visit Gothenburg?

On average the city can be explored in 3 days, where you will be able to see all the popular attractions of the city. But for a depth exploration at least 8 days are needed as you can discover all the beautiful nearby Islands as well which offers great experiences and views.

How to reach Gothenburg?

• By Air: Landvetter (GOT) is an international airport in Gothenburg, which offers easy connectivity with various European and other destinations. Once you reach the airport, you can take various airport transfers to start your journey.
• By Train: SJ, Västtrafik, Öresundståget, Tågab, NSB and MTR Express are some of the regular trains connecting the city center from Scandinavian capitals Stockholm, Oslo and Copenhagen. It will nearly take you an average of 4-5 hours to reach Gothenburg from nearby cities.
• By Bus: Nils Ericssonterminalen is a bus terminal service which includes local companies of buses such as Flixbus, Nettbuss and Bus4you. Buses are well connected with the nearby cities of Sweden and Scandinavia, which takes around 3-5 hours for a journey.

Which are some of the best places to visit near Gothenburg?

• Gothenburg Botanical Garden
• The Gothenburg Museum of Art
• Gothenburg Archipelago
• Skansen Kronan
• Volvo Museum

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Places to Visit in Gothenburg

• Places To Visit

Gothenburg Tourist Places

Here is the best places to visit in gothenburg:, liseberg amusement park.

Slottsskogen

Gothenburg Botanical Garden

The Gothenburg Museum Of Art

Gothenburg Archipelago

Best of Sweden

Horticultural Society

Skansen Kronan

Gothenburg City Museum

New Älvsborg Fortress

Masthugget Church

Best of Stockholm

Volvo Museum

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Gothenburg Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 17, 2023

As the second-largest city in Sweden, Gothenburg ( Göteborg in Swedish) has a lot to offer travelers. Not a lot of people visit Gothenburg in comparison to other parts of the country (like Stockholm), but I really enjoyed my time here.

The city was founded as a Dutch trading colony in 1621 due to its strategic location on the coast. Today, the city remains an important industrial city, as the Port of Gothenburg is the largest port in the Nordic countries.

Despite its industrial background, the city is much more relaxed than Stockholm. With plenty of green space both in and around the city, Gothenburg manages to maintain a small city feel while offering plenty of things to see and do. And with a compact downtown, Gothenburg is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. The many students (thanks to the several large universities) lend a vibrant, youthful feel to the city.

This travel guide to Gothenburg can help you plan your trip, save money, and help you make the most of your time in Sweden’s second city!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Gothenburg

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Gothenburg

1. Have fun at Liseberg

This is the biggest amusement park in Scandinavia, with rollercoasters, a haunted house, tons of rides for kids, and a giant Ferris wheel with stunning views of the city. Admission is 95 SEK while admission and unlimited rides are 255 SEK.

2. Explore the Haga

As one of the oldest areas of Gothenburg, this was once a working-class neighborhood. It’s now a popular summer destination lined with upscale antique shops and cozy cafes. It’s a great place to stroll and relax. Head to Café Husaren for huge cinnamon buns.

3. Visit the Gothenburg Botanical Garden

This botanical garden is one of the largest in all of Europe. Spanning 430 acres, the garden is home to over 16,000 plant species, a Japanese garden, and places to sit down and relax with a good book. There is a voluntary entrance fee of 20 SEK.

4. Visit the Skansen Kronan

This redoubt (fort) was built in the 1600s outside of the city walls. Armed with 23 cannons, it was built to prevent a potential Danish attack on the city and was later converted into a prison and then a museum. It makes for an interesting excursion and offers insights into Gothenburg’s history.

5. Take a day trip to Marstrand

An hour bus ride from the city is the charming island of Marstrand. In the summer, this island is bustling with visitors who tour the narrow streets and visit the stone fortress, Carlsten (a definite must!). From here, it’s just a stone’s throw to the smaller, more secluded islands of Dyrön and Åstol.

Other Things to See and Do in Gothenburg

1. go shopping on the “avenyn”.

Kungsportsavenyen (colloquially known as the Avenyn, which is pronounced like “avenue”) is the city’s main shopping street. Stores and restaurants of all price ranges are here. It’s a good place to eat, people-watch, shop, and soak up the heart of the city.

2. See Slottsskogen

Take a stroll through the wooded hills, where you can visit a zoo and a family-friendly animal park. The area is also home to the city’s oldest observatory and there are lots of jogging trails too. In the summer, there is a cafe in the park where you can stop for a snack. This is one of the best places in the city to have a picnic as well. Best of all? It’s free!

3. Visit the Natural History Museum

Located right next to Slottsskogen, this museum is full of all sorts of animals, including the world’s only mounted blue whale. Here you’ll find African elephants, dinosaur fossils, and tons of other mounted animal displays. It’s a good educational activity for kids. Admission is free.

4. Take in the Gothenburg Opera

Built in 1994, the gorgeous Opera House is an important monument of the city. It has over 1,300 seats and, although some tickets are pricey, you can find last-minute ticket deals at the box office. There are often musical productions performed in English as well. Tickets usually range between 100-950 SEK per person.

5. Picnic in Trädgårdsföreningen

This 19th park and garden sits in the heart of the city and is a fantastic place to relax and have a picnic. There is a playground for children, numerous greenhouses full of interesting flora (which you can visit for free), sculptures, gardens, and plenty of shade if you want to sit down with a good book.

6. Climb aboard the Swedish Ship Götheborg

This is a reconstruction of a mid-18th-century ship from the Swedish East India Company. The original ship sank off the coast in 1745 after returning from China. Built from 1995-2003, this reconstruction is one of the world’s largest operational wooden ships. It often tours different ports around the world so make sure it’s in Gothenburg before trying to visit. The ship is open to the public on weekends only and tickets are 150 SEK.

7. Learn some local history

The City Museum in Gothenburg offers some great exhibits, with detailed information about city development and artifacts like old local clothing and household goods. The highlight is undoubtedly the detailed exhibit on the Vikings. This is a super interesting place to visit when you first arrive to get a solid understanding of the city and its past. Adult admission is 60 SEK, while students and visitors under 20 enter free.

8. Spend time at the Gothenburg Museum of Art

If you’re an art lover, take advantage of the sparse crowds at this art local museum. The museum’s collection features both Swedish and international work dating from the 17th century onward. It includes art from big names like Rembrandt, Picasso, and Monet. Admission is 60 SEK though it’s free for students and anyone under 20.

9. Tour the Volvo Museum

If planes, trains, and automobiles are more your thing, head to the Volvo Museum. Founded in 1927, Gothenburg serves as the company’s headquarters and the museum gives an outline of Volvo’s history as well as the evolution of their vehicle designs over the past few decades (it was Volvo that invented the three-point seatbelt we all use today). Admission is 120 SEK.

10. Wander through Delsjön

Just outside of the city lies Delsjön, a nature area with lakes and wooded trails. The park spans almost 500 acres. You can run, go for a hike, or rent canoes here in the summer. I love the peace and quiet of the park. It’s easy to get to via the public tram too.

12. Explore Universeum

If you’re traveling with kids (or just want to act like a kid) head to Universeum. It’s an interactive science center that opened in 2011, offering an indoor rainforest, a chemistry lab, dinosaur exhibits, and much more. It’s a great way to have fun and learn a thing or two along the way. Admission is 225 SEK for adults and 175 SEK for kids under 16.

  For more information on other cities in Sweden, check out these guides:

• Stockholm Travel Guide

Gothenburg Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Hostels start around 250 SEK per night for a dorm room with 8-10 beds and 725 SEK for a private room. Some hostels charge an additional fee (usually around 50-80 SEK) for bed linens in dorm rooms (you can bring your own, however sleeping bags are not permitted). Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities.

Wild camping is legal in Sweden so thought traveling with a tent can camp outside the city with ease thanks to the country’s generous Freedom to Roam laws. Just make sure you’re not camping near someone’s house.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels cost around 700 SEK per night. Cheaper options are available, however, they usually require sharing a bathroom with other guests. Many hotels have a sauna on site. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and coffee/tea makers.

Food prices – Food in Sweden is hearty and based heavily on meat, fish, and root vegetables. One of the most iconic and popular dishes is meatballs and a creamy sauce with potatoes and lingonberry jam. Crayfish, shrimp, mushrooms, and fresh summer berries are other popular staples. For breakfast, Swedes usually eat dark bread with cheese and vegetables. For fika, cinnamon buns are the go-to choice for many.

Food is expensive in Gothenburg (as it is everywhere in Sweden). Cheap food from outdoor street vendors starts at 50 SEK, though these vendors are few and far between.

Most convenience stores and cafes offer pre-packaged sandwiches and meals for 50-100 SEK if you want a quick bite. Hot dogs cost around 30 SEK at places like 7-Eleven and Pressbyran. A fast-food combo meal is around 90 SEK.

At fast-casual style eateries, whole pizzas cost around 65-95 SEK while a burger is 75-90 SEK. Most nice sit-down restaurant meals are around 190-275 SEK for a main dish. A three-course dinner at a fine dining restaurant is around 450 SEK.

If you’re looking for a drink, beer can be as cheap as 40 SEK, though 65-75 SEK is more common. Wine costs around 55-75 SEK at your average restaurant, and cocktails are around 100 SEK.

All the best bars and pubs are be found near Järntorget and Andra långgatan (the more touristy and expensive places are on “the Avenyn”).

For a filling buffet, head to Café Andrum. For a quick bite on the go, Jonsborg has burgers and hotdogs (as well as vegan options).

Grocery shopping costs around 600-700 SEK per week for basic staples like pasta, rice, and veggies. If you cut down on your meat and cheese intake (some of the most expensive food items in Sweden) you can lower your costs significantly. Willy’s is the cheapest of the large supermarket chains.

Backpacking Gothenburg Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget, you should plan to spend around 680 SEK per day. This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all your meals, using public transportation to get around, limiting your drinking, and participating in cheap activities like visiting free museums and hanging out in the parks.

On a mid-range budget of 1,280 SEK per day, you can stay in a private room in a hostel, get a public transportation card and take an Uber or two, eat most meals out at fast food joints, enjoy a couple drinks, and visit more paid attractions (like Liseberg or Universeum).

On a “luxury” budget of 2,075 SEK or more per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, drink more, eat out for all your meals, take taxis everywhere, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in SEK.

Gothenburg Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While Gothenburg is cheaper than Stockholm, it’s still a far cry from a budget-friendly destination. Fortunately, there are ways to slash your spending here. Here are some of my ways to save money in Gothenburg during your visit:

• Stay with locals for free – Accommodation is expensive in Gothenburg. Consider using Couchsurfing to stay with a local. It’s a great way to get to know the local culture because you’re staying in someone’s home and you can ask them all the questions you want.
• Avoid eating in the tourist district – While Haga and the Avenyn are great places to stroll and soak in the city, they are also the most crowded, most expensive places to grab a bite to eat. Wander around some of the smaller streets to find cheaper options.
• Free walking tours – Göteborg Walking Tours runs the best walking tours in the city. They offer a few different walks depending on what you’re interested in (they even have a fika tour). They generally last two hours and are available in English. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Drink beer – If you are going to drink, stick to beer. It costs about half as much money as mixed drinks or wine at the bars and restaurants. For greater savings, buy your own alcohol at the government-run Systembolaget (it can be up to 50% cheaper that way).
• Try the lunch buffets – If you choose to eat out, the lunch buffets are an economical way to do so, costing around 105 SEK. They are a popular option with locals. For cheap hot dogs and burgers (including vegan options) head to Jonsborg.
• Refill your water bottle – Water is about 30 SEK per bottle. Since the tap water is drinkable (it’s one of the cleanest in Europe!) you should just bring a reuseable water bottle. Not only does this save you money, but it saves the environment too! LifeStraw is my go-to brand since their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is clean and safe.
• Avoid the taxis – With the buses running late, you should be able to skip the cabs (the city is very walkable too). A typical ride costs more than 200 SEK, so unless you are far from the bus and it’s snowing out, the price is hard to justify.
• Save money on rideshares – Uber is cheaper than taxis and is the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus. That said, the buses go everywhere and the city is walkable so you shouldn’t need one.

Where to Stay in Gothenburg

Gothenburg has a few hostel accommodations, though they aren’t quite as nice as the ones in Stockholm. These are my suggested and recommended places to stay in Gothenburg:

• STF City Hostel
• Slotsskogen Hostel
• Backpackers Göteborg

How to Get Around Gothenburg

Public transportation – The public transportation within Gothenburg costs 34 SEK per ticket. Tickets last 90 minutes and can be transferred from buses to trams and ferries. A day pass costs 110 SEK while a 3-day pass costs 210 SEK. These also work for buses, trams, and ferries.

When coming from Landvetter airport, the bus is your cheapest option. Flygbussarna runs shuttles regularly, with tickets costing 119 SEK (one way) when bought in advance. The journey takes around 30 minutes. Flixbus also runs airport shuttles but they come less frequently (however, they are cheaper at around 99 SEK when purchased in advance).

Taxi – Taxis here are quite expensive. Fares start at 51 SEK and go up by 14 SEK per kilometer, which means an average ride is likely going to cost you over 200 SEK!

Bicycle – You can rent bikes all around the city using Styr & Ställ. A 20 minute ride costs 30 SEK. The cheaper option is to get a one-month Styr & Ställ card for 90 SEK and then you’ll have free 60-minute access to rentals all around the city.

Ridesharing – Uber here is a little cheaper than taxis but it’s still quite expensive. I don’t recommend using it unless you have to.

When to Go to Gothenburg

The ideal time to visit Sweden is from June to August, when the weather is warm and the days are (really) long. Gothenburg is at its liveliest during this time, with locals taking advantage of the good weather at every opportunity. The parks are always full, and there are tons of fun events happening around town. Temperatures are often in the 20s Celsius (60s and 70s Fahrenheit) during the summer months.

The downside to visiting then is that, since Sweden has a very short summer, the city is rather crowded, so be sure to book your accommodation in advance. This is especially true if you are visiting during Midsommar, the big Swedish holiday at the end of June. It’s a great time to experience Swedish traditions (which involve a lot of drinking)!

May typically has great weather with occasional rain, while September offers cooler temperatures and changing leaves. You’ll beat the crowds and still be able to explore the city on foot without the weather getting in your way (too much).

Attractions begin to close around late September, and the days get dark early in October. Temperatures start dropping around this time too. However, prices also decrease, and you’re likely to find cheaper airfares and accommodations during this time. Be sure to pack layers if you plan on visiting during this time of year.

The winter is very cold and sees a lot of snow and darkness. In the depths of the winter, you only get a few hours of light each day and temperatures plummet below -0ºC (32ºF). The plus side of traveling during the off-season, however, is that it’s when accommodations are the cheapest, and fees for certain attractions are lower as well.

While Gothenburg is quite beautiful in winter, you won’t want to be walking around as much, and since it’s a great city to explore on foot, you will potentially be missing out so I’d skip a winter visit if you can.

How to Stay Safe in Gothenburg

Sweden is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime here is rare and solo travelers — including solo female travelers — should feel safe. That said, Gothenburg is still a large city so keep an eye out for pickpockets, especially around the central station and on public transportation.

As in any city, always keep an eye on your drink when out at the bar and never walk home alone if you’re intoxicated.

In general, long as you are aware of your surroundings and use common sense and you should be just fine.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

If you’re worried about getting ripped off, here’s a list of common travel scams to avoid.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Gothenburg Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Stockholm Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Sweden and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Stockholm

Where to Stay in Stockholm: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 9 Best Hostels in Stockholm

Living Lagom in Sweden: An Interview With Lola Akerstrom

The Swedish Birthday Party

10 Ways to Visit Stockholm on a Budget

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The 15 Very Best Things to Do in Gothenburg, Sweden

• Post author By thebumpercrew
• Post date November 30, 2023
• Categories In City Breaks , Europe , Things to Do , Travel
• 1 Comment on The 15 Very Best Things to Do in Gothenburg, Sweden

One of the best bits about travelling to somewhere where you know someone is you get the local, insider knowledge. And that’s precisely what happened in Gothenburg. I (Joel) visited visit my brother and his family, who have lived in Sweden for years. I’d previously visited in winter, so it was nice to explore a bit more of what Gothenburg has to offer outdoors, which is what Sweden is famous for (aside from IKEA, Spotify and Volvo, obviously!).

Gothenburg (Göteborg to the locals, pronounced gow·tuh·bawg) is Sweden’s second-largest city, located on the west coast of Sweden. Nestled between a stunning archipelago and expansive forests, Gothenburg is the perfect blend of urban landscape, countryside and sea.

Clean, tidy and well-maintained, Gothenburg is a city that should be on your list of places to visit. The Swedish also speak great English, so there are no language barrier concerns, which is wonderful for those who can’t speak any other language other than English (like me!).

Before we dive into our things to do in Gothenburg, here’s another thing Gothenburg has going for it – according to the Global Sustainability Index, the city is the world’s most sustainable destination and an excellent choice for sustainable travel. Without further ado, let’s explore the things to do in Gothenburg!

Things to Do in Gothenburg

1 | Gothenburg Museum of Arts

The Gothenburg Museum of Art has one of the best art collections in Northern Europe and includes some big names such as Rembrandt, Picasso and van Gogh. You’ll also find contemporary art there, too. The museum is also home to the Hasselblad Center. This is because Gothenburg was the birthplace of Hasselblad, who made the cameras that went to the moon in 1969! If photography is your thing, you can’t miss the Hasselblad Centre. You’ll find some decent photography exhibitions too.

2 | Universeum

Universeum is the national science centre of Sweden. It’s a gigantic 18,000 cubic metre playground that provides a powerful education in science, technology and sustainable development, things which the Swedish are renowned for. If the natural world, and more importantly, making the world a better and more sustainable place, is of interest to you, Universeum is a must-do in Gothenburg.

3 | Gothenburg Botanical Garden

If you like green spaces, the Gothenburg Botanical Gardens is a must-visit for you. On the edge of Gothenburg lies 175 hectares of beautiful gardens containing over 15,000 species of plants.

It’s a place where you can get lost in tranquil landscapes, from the arboretum to the Japanese Dell. You might even discover a bit of wildlife, like this frog! There’s also a cafe that serves amazing cinnamon buns, known locally as kanelbullar.

4 | Admire the Views from Skansen Kronan

Sitting proudly atop of hill Risåsberget, in the Haga district of Gothenburg, is the Skansen Kronan. The fortress, built between 1687 and 1700, was constructed to protect the city of Gothenburg against possible Danish attacks.

These days, it serves a different purpose – one where you can go to enjoy the panoramic views of Gothenburg and where you can go to sit, relax and soak up the atmosphere with friends. You can even get married or host a party in this dramatic setting.

5 | Visit Haga

What was once a dense residential area of Gothenburg, Haga is now known for its timber houses, cobbled streets, independent retail and cosy cafes. Haga is the place to go to feel like you are stepping back in time and to enjoy a bit of Swedish Fika.

6 | Stroll Trädgårdsföreningen & Palm House

Trädgårdsföreningen translates as a garden association, but all you need to know is it’s a wonderful park right in the centre of Gothenburg. It’s a place to relax on the well-kept lawns or perched along the river bank and stroll around the beautiful flower beds to admire the native and exotic plants.

And sitting in the centre of Trädgårdsföreningen is Palm House. Modelled on Crystal Palace in London, Palm House is a 19th-century masterpiece of cast iron and glass containing exotic plants, and you guessed it, palm trees! And as you wander around this magnificent and massive greenhouse, you’ll be wrapped in the tropical warmth.

7 | Cycle the Harbour

Similarly to Amsterdam, cycling is very much part of the fabric of Gothenburg, and cycle lanes form part of the city landscape, which makes getting around Gothenburg by bike friendly, efficient and safe. So, take the opportunity to get around this wonderful city in a safe and enjoyable way.

Taking a cycle tour around the harbour will give you unique and alternative views of the city that are well worth it. There are two options to enjoy cycling in Gothenburg. Head on a cycle tour or look for bike hire in Gothenburg. Bike Tour Gothenburg is a great option – they are located by the harbour and offer cycling tours (the tour guide rides on an iconic Penny-farthing bike) and bike hire.

8 | Indulge in Swedish Fika

We’re halfway through our things to do in Gothenburg, so it’s time to take a moment to relax over coffee. Did you know Sweden has one of the world’s highest coffee consumption per capita? That’s probably why Fika is high on the Swedish agenda! Fika is often translated as ‘coffee and a cake’, but after a bit of research, it turns out Fika is much more than that. Fika is a ritual – a concept, state of mind, attitude and, most importantly, a social event.

Therefore you can’t have Fika alone – it must be shared with someone because that’s the point! Haga is famous for Fika, so take a trip there. Alternatively, if you’re after a cinnamon roll, I have it from my brother that one of the best cinnamon rolls you will find is in the Botanical Gardens. And I can confirm – it was delicious! Sweet cinnamon with a moist centre. What’s not to love?!

9 | Visit Gothenburg City Museum

Located on a quiet road in Gothenburg sits the Gothenburg City Museum, which is housed in the historic former East India Company building from the 18th century. Inside, you can discover how people lived in Sweden 12,000 years ago and explore the history of Gothenburg and why it’s nicknamed the Swedish Amsterdam. You’ll also find Äskekärrsskeppet, the only exhibited Viking ship in Sweden. But don’t get too excited; it’s just the remains of the hull! There’s also a shop, café and restaurant inside.

10 | Wonder at Feskekörka

Gothenburg’s Feskekörka is one of the city’s most iconic and recognisable buildings. Feskekörka, translated as Fish Church, got its name because of the building’s uncanny resemblance to a church. But it’s not a church; Feskekörka contains a fish market and seafood restaurants. The building alone is worth a visit, even if what’s inside isn’t your thing.

11 | Escape the Urban Sprawl

There aren’t many free things to do in Gothenburg, but this is one!n You don’t have to go far to escape the city of Gothenburg. The outdoors is part of Swedish life. In Sweden, they have a thing called Allemansrätten, which is a right of public access. Allemansrätten means you can freely walk, camp, cycle, ride or ski across the entire country. Amazing, right?

Pushing away from the city centre is Änggårdsbergen Nature Reserve, which spills out from Gothenburg Botanical Gardens. You can explore the woodland and small lakes and get lost in a little wilderness on the city’s edge. Alternatively, check out Slottsskogen City Park. It’s Gothenburg’s main park and home to Göteborg Natural History Museum, a zoo and has cafes and restaurants.

12 | Thrill Seek at Liseberg

Liseberg is one of Gothenburg’s most popular attractions, with up to three million people passing through its gates. Imagine a centrally located place where you can satisfy the thrill-seeker in you. Well, Liseberg is the place to go! Liseberg contains Europe’s longest dive rollercoaster, with a vertical drop of almost 50 metres, where you will reach speeds of 105 kph (65 mph).

Liseberg entry is cheaper to visit after 6 pm, and if you want access to the park to enjoy the parklands and restaurants without going on the rides, that’s also an option .

13 | Explore a Warship

If ships are your thing, you can’t miss Maritiman . You can discover what life on board a submarine is like and wander around the Swedish Navy destroyer, Jagaren Småland, the largest warship in Scandinavia.

14 | Visit the Volvo Museum

You’ve likely heard of Volvo, but did you know the car manufacturer originated in Gothenburg in 1927? You can pay the Volvo museum a visit to learn all about Volvo’s heritage and history and look at a range of cars, buses, trucks, marine engines and construction equipment. There’s also a cafe and souvenir shop to finish your visit!

15 | Experience the Peace of Gothenburg Archipelago

Last but not least of our things to do in Gothenburg is to visit the Gothenburg Archipelago . That’s not because it’s not awesome, but because it will consume the best part of your day to get from the city to the islands of the archipelago and back.

Having said that, it’s worth taking the time to get out, explore the islands and soak up the peaceful nature of the Gothenburg Archipelago. So, if you fancy pushing even further out of Gothenburg or you’re looking for day trips from Gothenburg, the archipelago is the place to go! Read our in-depth guide to the archipelago .

Things to Do in Gothenburg Map

Is Gothenburg worth visiting?

Absolutely, yes! Gothenburg is a fantastic city with a rich history, lots of things to do and is safe, clean and tidy. Add Gothenburg to your list of places to go!

Is Gothenburg a nice city?

Yes, Gothenburg is a nice city. It’s got a wonderful range of architecture, is clean, tidy, friendly and safe. There’s also an excellent public transport network to improve your visit. There are also a ton of things to do in Gothenburg to keep you occupied, from visiting a range of museums to exploring the archipelago.

Is Gothenburg expensive to visit?

Gothenburg isn’t a budget-friendly city and is expensive to visit compared to the UK and London. Expect to pay a few pounds more for a pint!

Do they speak English in Sweden?

Although English isn’t their first language (it’s Swedish!), the Swedes speak excellent English. Communicating with Swedish people in English is seamless, and a language barrier is something you are unlikely to encounter.

What language do they speak in Gothenburg?

Swedish is the native language of Sweden, but in general, Swedish people speak excellent English. The Swedish are ranked as one of the highest performing countries on the English Proficiency Index!

So, what’s not to love about Gothenburg – there’s plenty to do, it’s by the sea, has great access to nature, and is safe, friendly and clean.

• Gothenburg Museum of Arts
• Gothenburg Botanical Garden
• Admire the Views from Skansen Kronan
• Stroll Trädgårdsföreningen & Palm House
• Cycle the Harbour
• Indulge in Swedish Fika
• Visit Gothenburg City Museum
• Wonder at Feskekörka
• Escape the Urban Sprawl
• Thrill Seek at Liseberg
• Explore a Warship
• Visit the Volvo Museum
• Experience the Peace of Gothenburg Archipelago

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• Tags City Breaks , Europe , Sweden , Things to do , Travel

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Gothenburg Travel Guide

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Of all the cities in southern Sweden, the grandest is the western port of Gothenburg. Designed by the Dutch in 1621, the country’s second largest city boasts splendid Neoclassical architecture, masses of sculpture-strewn parkland and a welcoming and relaxed spirit. The cityscape of broad avenues, elegant squares, trams and canals is not only one of the prettiest in Sweden, but also the backdrop to Scandinavia’s biggest seaport, making the city a truly cosmopolitan destination. There is a certain resentment on the west coast that Stockholm wins out in the national glory stakes, but Gothenburg’s easier-going atmosphere – and its closer proximity to western Europe – makes it first choice as a place to live for many Swedes. Talk to any Gothenburger and they will soon disparage the more frenetic lives of the “08-ers” – 08 being the telephone code for Stockholm.

Avenyn and around

Liseberg and around, the old town and the harbour, along rosenlundskanalen, slottskogsparken.

At the heart of the city is the historic old town : this is the best place to start your sightseeing, although Gothenburg’s attractions are by no means restricted to this area. Tucked between the Göta River to the north and the zigzagging Rosenlundskanalen to the south, the old town’s tightly gridded streets are lined with impressive facades, interesting food markets and a couple of worthwhile museums, most notably the Stadsmuseum and, up by the harbour, the Maritiman , a repository of all things nautical. Just across the canal that skirts the southern edges of the old town is Trädgårdsföreningen park, in summer full of colourful flowers and picnicking city dwellers.

Heading further south into the modern centre, Avenyn is Gothenburg’s showcase boulevard, alive with flashy restaurants and bars. However, it’s the roads off Avenyn that are the area’s most interesting, with alternative-style café-bars and some of Gothenburg’s best museums, including the Konstmuseum (Art Museum) further south on Götaplatsen. For family entertainment day or night, the classic Liseberg Amusement Park , just to the southeast of the Avenyn district, has been a meeting place for Gothenburgers since the 1920s.

In Vasastan, a small district to the west of Avenyn, crammed with intricately decorated late nineteenth-century apartment buildings and peppered with appealing little cafés, you’ll find the Röhsska Museum of applied arts. Vasastan stretches west to Haga , the old working-class district, now a haven for the trendy and moneyed. Haga Nygatan, the main thoroughfare, leads on to Linnégatan, the arterial road through Linné . Fast establishing itself as the most vibrant part of the city, it’s home to the most interesting evening haunts, with new cafés, bars and restaurants opening up alongside long-established antique emporiums and sex shops. Further out, the rolling Slottskogsparken park is an alluringly pretty place to sunbathe.

Brief history

Founded on its present site in the seventeenth century by Gustav II Adolf, Gothenburg was the Swedes’ fifth attempt to create a centre free from Danish influence. The Danes had enjoyed control of Sweden’s west coast since the Middle Ages, and extracted extortionate tolls from all vessels entering the country. Sweden’s medieval centre of trade had been 40km further up the Göta River than present-day Gothenburg, but to avoid the tolls it was moved to a site north of the present location. It wasn’t until Karl XI chose the island of Hisingen, today the site of the city’s northern suburbs, as the location for Sweden’s trading nucleus that the settlement was first called Gothenburg.

Over the ensuing centuries, the British, Dutch and German traders who settled here during left a rich architectural and cultural legacy. The city is graced with terraces of grand merchants’ houses featuring carved stone, stucco and painted tiles. The influence of the Orient was also strong, reflecting the all-important trade links between Sweden and the Far East, and is still visible in the chinoiserie detail on many buildings. This trade was monopolized for over eighty years during the nineteenth century by the hugely successful Swedish East India Company , whose Gothenburg auction house, selling exotic spices, teas and fine cloths, attracted merchants from all over the world.

Running all the way from Rosenlundskanalen southeast to Götaplatsen is the wide, cobbled length of Kungsportsavenyn. Known more simply as Avenyn , this “avenue” teems with life and is Gothenburg’s showiest thoroughfare. The ground floor of almost every grand old nineteenth-century home has been converted into a café, bar or restaurant, which the young and beautiful inhabit whilst sipping overpriced drinks and posing at tables that, from mid-spring to September, spill out onto the street. Avenyn is arguably one of the best places in the city for people-watching, and no visit to Gothenburg is complete without a stroll down it.

At the southern end of the avenue is Götaplatsen, modern Gothenburg's main square, centred on a vast statue of Poseidon and flanked to the east and west by the Stadsteatern (Theatre) and Konserthuset (Concert Hall) respectively, and to the south by the fascinating Konstmuseum , which contains a fine collection of international art from various periods.

Konstmuseum

Behind Poseidon stands Götaplatsen’s most impressive attraction, the superb Konstmuseum , its massive, symmetrical facade reminiscent of the fascist architecture of 1930s Germany. This is one of the city’s finest museums, and it’s easy to spend half a day absorbing the diverse and extensive collections, the highlights of which are picked out below. A delightful little park, Näckrosdammen , lies just behind the museum; with its late-spring rhododendrons and big, duck-filled pond, it’s a lovely place for a stroll.

Hasselblad Center

On the ground floor, to the left of the ticket desk, the Hasselblad Center contains excellent exhibitions of contemporary photography. Displays are temporary and aim to showcase the work of internationally renowned photographers as well as those from up-and-coming Nordic artists.

European and Swedish collections

The Konstmuseum’s collections of European art date from fifteenth to the seventeenth centuries and fill a total of six rooms. Pride of place is taken by Rembrandt’s Knight with Falcon , although Rubens is also well represented with works such as Adoration of the Magi on display. Elsewhere, you’ll find paintings by the celebrated masters of French Impressionism and artists closely linked to them: Monet, Gauguin, Renoir and Cézanne, for example. Look out, in particular, for Van Gogh’s Olive Grove, Saint Rémy from 1899 which is widely considered to be one of the artist’s most powerful works in terms of vitality and expression. Collections of Swedish art are dominated by Alexander Roslin who is represented by a portrait of French aristocrats and a group portrait of the well-to-do Grill family.

Fürstenberg Galleries

Best of all, and the main reason to visit, are the Fürstenberg Galleries on the top floor, which celebrate the work of some of Scandinavia’s most prolific and revered early twentieth-century artists; well-known works by Carl Larsson, Anders Zorn and Carl Wilhelmson reflect the seasons and landscapes of the Nordic countries, and evoke a vivid picture of Scandinavian life at that time. Paintings to look out for include Larsson’s Lilla Suzanne , which touchingly depicts the elated face of a baby and is one of his most realistic works; Anders Zorn’s Bathers , flushed with a pale pink summer glow and exemplifying the painter’s feeling for light and the human form; and the sensitive portraits by Ernst Josephson, most notably his full-length portrait of Carl Skånberg – easily mistaken for the young Winston Churchill. The Danish artist Peter Kroyer’s marvellous Hip Hip Hooray again plays with light, and a couple of works by Hugo Birger also deserve your attention. One depicts the interior of the original Fürstenberg Gallery, while his massive Scandinavian Artists’ Breakfast in Paris , dominating an entire wall, puts some faces to the artists’ names – a pamphlet in the room will help identify them. Also worth a look is an entire room of Larsson’s bright, fantastical wall-sized paintings.

The city’s oldest working-class suburb is Haga ; once so run-down that demolition was on the cards, today it’s one of Gothenburg’s most enjoyable quarters. The transformation took place in the early 1980s, after someone saw potential in the web of artisans’ homes known as “governor’s houses”, distinctive early nineteenth-century buildings constructed with a stone ground floor and two wooden upper storeys.

Haga is now a miniature version of Greenwich Village, with well-off and socially aware 20- and 30-somethings hanging out in the style-conscious cafés and shops along its cobbled streets.

Haga Nygatan

There are a couple of good cafés along Haga's main thoroughfare, Haga Nygatan , which is really somewhere to come during the day, when there are tables out on the street and the atmosphere is friendly and villagey – if a little self-consciously fashionable. Apart from the boutiques, which sell things like Art Deco light fittings, calming crystals and nineteenth-century Swedish kitchenware, it’s worth noting the intervening apartment buildings; these red-brick edifices were originally almshouses funded by the Dickson family, the city’s British industrialist forefathers who played a big part in the success of the East India Company – Robert Dickson’s name is still emblazoned on the facades.

To the west of Haga, the cosmopolitan district of Linné is named after the botanist Carl von Linné, who created the system for classifying plants used the world over. To get here, turn south off Haga Nygatan into Landsvägsgatan, which joins up with Linnégatan – the main thoroughfare. In recent years, so many stylish cafés and restaurants have sprung up along the main drag that Linné is now considered Gothenburg’s “second Avenyn”, although without the attitude; the street is lined with Dutch-inspired nineteenth-century architecture, tall and elegant buildings interspersed with steep little side roads. However, it’s the main roads leading off Linnégatan, prosaically named First Long Street (Första Långgatan), Second Long Street (Andra) and so on up to Fourth (Fjärde), that give the area its real character; the not-very-long Second and Third streets contain a mix of dark antique stores, basement cafés and sex shops.

On the right as you head up Linnégatan away from Järntorget is the forbidding building at no. 9 (at the corner of Fjärde Långgatan and Linnégatan) where King Oskar II had his private royal apartment – and his women. Directly opposite is a modern apartment block that’s worth a second glance; it replaced a property whose republican owner so hated both the monarchy and the morals of the king that he had a run of colourful ceramic panels depicting the devil installed, facing the royal apartment. Sadly, the Gothenburg propensity for doing away with its own past meant the “devil building”, as it was known, has now been demolished, but two of the grotesque panels have been incorporated into the new apartment block.

Southeast of Avenyn is the Liseberg Amusement Park , alive both during the day and at night throughout the summer. In its shadow to the south is one of Gothenburg’s most engaging museums, Universeum , particularly fascinating for children, while the absorbing Världskulturmuséet is just next door.

Liseberg Amusement Park

Just a few minutes’ walk southeast from Götaplatsen, Liseberg Amusement Park is a riot of party lights and bubblegum-pink paintwork. Opened in 1923, this is Scandinavia’s largest amusement park, and with its flowers, trees, fountains and clusters of lights, it’s great fun for adults as well as children, and leagues away from the neon and plastic mini-cities that constitute so many theme parks around the world. The old and the young dance to live bands most evenings, and although the park is louder and more youth-dominated at night (especially on Saturdays), it’s all good-humoured. Pride of place at Liseberg goes to its two roller coasters: “Kanonen”, which reaches its top speed just two seconds after being fired bullet-like from its start point, before plummeting 24m at a ninety-degree angle; and the equally hair-raising Balder, a wooden construction that’s twice been voted the best of its kind in the world – travelling at up to 90km per hour, it includes a seventy-degree drop.

Christmas market

If you’re around between mid-November and late December, head for Liseberg's enjoyable Christmas market , where stalls selling handicrafts and presents are lit by around three million fairy lights. This being Sweden, the commercialism is remarkably low-key, and the pervasive smell of glögg (mulled wine), roasted almonds and freshly made waffles adds to the enjoyment. This is also a good place to sample the traditional Swedish julbord , a Christmas smorgasbord full of hams, cheeses and heavenly cakes (booking required for the julbord , t 031 40 02 00).

The old town is divided in two by the Stora Hamnkanalen , to the north of which is the harbour , where the impressive shipyards make for a dramatic backdrop. The streets south of the canal stretch down to Rosenlundskanalen and the excellent Stora Saluhallen. Straddling the Stora Hamnkanalen is the stately main square, Gustav Adolfs torg , a good starting point for sightseeing around the old town; you can easily see the whole area in a day.

Gustav Adolfs torg

At the centre of Gustav Adolfs torg , a copper statue of Gustav II Adolf points ostentatiously to the spot where he reputedly declared: “Here I will build my city.” This isn’t the original German-made statue of the city founder however: that one was kidnapped on its way to Sweden and, rather than pay the ransom demanded, the Gothenburgers commissioned a new one.

On the western edge of Gustav Adolfs torg stands the Rådhuset , which isn’t a town hall as the name suggests, but has housed the criminal law courts since 1673. The dull Neoclassical facade is dramatically improved by an extension designed by the ground-breaking Functionalist architect Gunnar Asplund in 1937.

Lilla Bommen harbour

At the riverside Lilla Bommen harbour Gothenburg’s industrial decline is juxtaposed with its artistic regeneration to dramatic visual effect. To the west, beyond the harbour, redundant shipyard cranes loom across the sky, making a sombre background to the industrially themed bronze and pink-granite sculptures dotted along the waterfront.

Walking west along the quay, it’s just a couple of minutes to Maritiman , the city’s engaging maritime museum, which comprises nineteen boats, including the 1915 lightship, Fladen , a submarine and a freighter which once sailed regularly from Gothenburg across the North Sea to the east coast of England, each giving a glimpse of how seamen lived and worked on board. The most impressive ship is a monstrous naval destroyer, Småland , which saw active service until 1979. There’s a rather good café on another of the ships, the ferry Dan Broström , with outdoor seating available on the upper deck.

Stadsmuseum

The Stadsmuseum is Gothenburg’s biggest museum. It is located in the Ostindiska Huset, which housed the offices, goods store and auction house of the enormously influential Swedish East India Company . Envious of the major maritime nations, two Gothenburg-based industrialists, Colin Campbell and Niklas Sahlgren, set up the firm in the early eighteenth century. Granted the sole Swedish rights to trade with China in 1731, the company monopolized all Swedish trade with the Far East for over eighty years, on condition that the bounty – tea, silk, porcelain, spices and arrack (an East Indian schnapps used to make Swedish punch) – had to be sold and auctioned in Gothenburg. As a result, Chinese influence pervaded Gothenburg society, and wealthy financiers adorned their homes and gardens with Chinese motifs. By 1813, unrest caused by the French Revolution and competition from British and Dutch tea traders meant that profits slid, and the company lost its monopoly. The headquarters, however, remain an imposing reminder of the power and prestige the company – and Gothenburg – once had.

Elsewhere in the museum, other main exhibits focus on Gothenburg’s Viking past and include the impressive remains of the Äskekärr longboat, a trading vessel dating from around 900 which was found 30km up the Göta River from present-day Gothenburg. There’s also a breathtaking collection of medieval triptychs from churches across western Sweden, as well as a thorough account of the founding of Gothenburg in 1621 and its development through the centuries.

Following the zigzagging Rosenlundskanalen that marks the southern perimeter of old Gothenburg – a moat during the days when the city was fortified – makes for a fine twenty-minute stroll, past pretty waterside views and a number of interesting diversions.

The stretch along Stora Nygatan is the most scenic; to one side are Neoclassical buildings all stuccoed in cinnamon and cream, and to the other is the green expanse of Trädgårdsföreningen park.

Kungsportsplatsen and Stora Saluhallen

Continuing west from Trädgårdsföreningen park, you’ll pass Kungsportsplatsen , in the centre of which stands a useful landmark, a sculpture known as the “Copper Mare” – though it’s immediately obvious if you look from beneath that this is no mare. A few minutes further on, and one block in from the canal at Kungstorget, stands Stora Saluhallen , a pretty, barrel-roofed indoor market built in the 1880s. Busy with shoppers perusing the forty-odd stalls and shops and full of atmosphere, it’s a great place to wander, as is the market outside.

Trädgårdsföreningen park

Well-groomed Trädgårdsföreningen park contains a number of attractions, the most impressive of which is the 1878 Palmhuset (Palm House); designed as a copy of London’s Crystal Palace, and looking like a huge English conservatory, it contains a wealth of very un-Swedish plant life, including tropical, Mediterranean and Asian flowers.

Elsewhere in the park is the Rosarium , which, with nearly three thousand varieties of rose, provides a myriad of colours throughout the year; in summer it hosts lunchtime concerts and a special children’s theatre (details are available at the tourist office).

Just north of the main entrance to the park, across the canal, is Kungsportsplatsen, in the centre of which stands a useful landmark, a sculpture known as the “Copper Mare” – though it’s immediately obvious if you look from beneath that this is no mare.

Slottskogsparken is a huge, tranquil expanse of parkland with farm animals and birdlife, including pink flamingoes in summer. On its south side are the impressive Botaniska Trädgården , a vast glasshouse akin to London’s Kew Gardens, which, at almost two square kilometres, are the biggest in Europe. The gardens hold some sixteen thousand species of plants; highlights are some of Sweden’s biggest orchids, the summer flower plantations and the adjoining arboretum.

Having explored the city centre, don’t miss the opportunity to wander into the Vasastan district, where the streets are lined with fine nineteenth-century and National Romantic architecture, and the cafés are cheaper, more laidback and much more charismatic than those in the centre. The area also boasts Gothenburg’s collection of applied arts, the Röhsska Museum , and several fine university buildings.

Along Vasagatan , the main street through the district, and parallel Engelbrektsgatan to the south, you’ll come across solid, stately and rangy buildings that epitomize Gothenburg’s nineteenth-century commercial wealth and civic pride. White-stuccoed or red-and-cream brick facades are decorated with elaborate ceramic tiles, intricate stone-and-brick animal carvings, shiny metal cupolas and classical windows. With the detail spread gracefully across these six-storey terraces, the overall effect is of restrained grandeur. Many of the houses also have Continental-style wrought-iron balconies; it’s easy to imagine high-society gatherings spilling out into the night on warm summer evenings. In contrast, interspersed among all this nineteenth-century swagger are some perfect examples of early twentieth-century National Romantic architecture, with rough-hewn stone and Art Nouveau swirls in plaster and brickwork; look particularly at the low-numbered buildings along Engelbrektsgatan.

Röhsska Museum

The excellent Röhsska Museum is Sweden’s main museum of design, fashion and applied arts and an aesthetic Aladdin’s cave, with each floor concentrating on different areas of decorative and functional art, from early-dynasty Chinese ceramics to European arts and crafts from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Most arresting is the first floor, which is devoted to twentieth-century decor and features all manner of recognizable designs for domestic furniture and appliances from the 1910s to the twenty-first century – enough to send anyone over the age of 10 on a giddy nostalgia trip.

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The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Gothenburg Itinerary

Last Updated on February 14, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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If you’re considering planning a 1, 2 or 3 days in Gothenburg itinerary you’re really going to be spoilt for choice when it comes to incredible things to do in this lively city.

While Sweden’s capital city of Stockholm is the heart and core of Swedish culture and government, Sweden’s second-largest city is one of the top locations to visit in the country.

Home to Volvo, beautifully designed Dutch canals, and one of the most thriving art and culture destinations in Scandinavia, Gothenburg is a city that can’t be missed. 

Gothenburg has about half the population of Stockholm with the addition of stunning elegance and pools of green throughout the city.

Sweden’s second-largest city is the perfect spot to experience Swedish style and culture without just being another tourist of the masses.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Gothenburg?

One of the crucial planning points of your trip will be to decide how long to stay in Gothenburg. While it’s usually easier to decide how long to stay in capital cities, smaller cities can be trickier to figure out.

Gothenburg is ⅓ the size of Stockholm and although there is plenty to do, an ideal trip would be a long weekend in the city.

With one day in Gothenburg, you’ll be able to see the main sights, eat a good meal, and wander around the city.

If you spend 2 days in Gothenburg, you’ll be able to go at a much slower pace, taking in the city while doing all the same things within 1 day but in less of a rush.

With 3 days in this Scandinavian city, you’ll be able to explore the city at your own pace, taking in the sights and tastes as well as managing to take a short day trip to the neighboring, breezy seaside, Gothenburg Archipelago. 

Getting To & Around Gothenburg

You’ll likely be arriving in Gothenburg either by plane or by train.

If you’re visiting from another part of Sweden, the best way will be to take a train to get to Gothenburg’s Central Station. Sweden has a wonderful transportation system and you’ll be able to get a high-speed train from most of Sweden at usually an affordable cost.

You can reach Gothenburg by train from Stockholm, Copenhagen , or Malmo in around 3 hours, making it a central point of any Sweden itinerary . You can view schedules here.

Gothenburg has its own airport (Landvetter International Airport) located 25 km from the city center and serves routes throughout the rest of Scandinavia as well as the rest of Europe.

Unfortunately, there isn’t any direct public transportation from Gothenburg Airport to the city center, but there are multiple coach bus services offering transportation.

The travel time is around 20 minutes from the airport to the city and can be purchased in advance online or on the bus depending on the company. FlixBus is my favourite, as they have frequent services, low costs, and pretty comfortable seats on the bus. If you have the budget, it is also possible to book a private transfer.

If where you’re visiting Gothenburg from doesn’t offer direct flights to the city’s airport, the second-best option would be to fly into Stockholm or Copenhagen and then take a train to Gothenburg. Stockholm and Copenhagen airports are both bigger, lending more opportunities for flights from varying departure countries.

Just like the rest of Sweden, the city of Gothenburg has wonderfully efficient and sustainable urban transportation options. The main transportation system in Gothenburg consists of bus, a large tram network, and boat services which are all included in the same transportation ticket.

A single ticket costs around 35 SEK for 90 minutes for one zone covering any included transport that you need from your departure area to your final destination.

If you need to travel throughout different zones in the city, you’ll need to purchase a multiple-zone ticket (or two one-zone tickets) which lasts for 180 minutes and costs double the price of a 90-minute ticket.

It’s also possible to purchase day-pass tickets (1-3 days) giving unlimited public transport for the number of zones included in your pass.

To give you a better understanding of the zones, there are 3 zones in the city of Gothenburg, A, B, and C. While zone A is the direct center of the city, it’s quite a small area so if you plan on exploring the city without restrictions, make sure you at least get a ticket for zones A and B if you plan on purchasing a pass. Otherwise, purchase tickets as you go along according to your destination. 

Despite the orderly transportation system of Gothenburg, the city itself is quite small making it an incredibly walkable city. For example, a walk between the Skansen Kronan Castle and the Gothenburg Museum of Natural History takes just around 18 minutes and this goes for most locations within the main city center. 

However, you may want to use public transportation if you want to visit somewhere like the Liseberg Amusement Park or the expansive Gothenburg Botanical Garden (Trädgårdsföreningen), both of which are a little bit further out.

1, 2 or 3-Day Gothenburg Itinerary

It’s pretty easy to say that Gothenburg is one of the “coolest” and on-trend cities in Europe. While the city began as a Dutch trading colony in 1621, today it’s the sustainability capital of Scandinavia, the home to Volvo cars, friendly locals, and a world-renowned food scene.

It’s also one of the most enjoyable cities in Sweden to wander around on a long weekend and enjoy the idyllic architecture & Swedish minimalism, fika culture, nature, and canals making up Sweden’s second-largest city. 

Day 1 – Gothenburg’s Central Highlights

Gothenburg main center .

The prime location to begin any Gothenburg itinerary is in Gothenburg’s classic old town. Begin at the sprawling Gustaf Adolfs (King Gustaf Adolf founded the city in 1621) Torg , formerly Stora Torget. This is Gothenburg’s main square where you’ll find the city’s Town Halls, both old and new.

After wandering around in Gothenburg’s largest square, continue into the Western North Town (Vastra Nordstaden) , and further take in the historical buildings such as the Stock Exchange, and Crown Hall (Kronhuset, Gothenburg’s oldest building dating back to 1643 in Dutch architecture). 

If you want to learn more about the history, you can book a walking tour here.

Domkyrkan (Gothenburg Cathedral)

After first getting acquainted with Gothenburg in the precise and historically rich center of the city, I suggest heading to Domkyrkan (Gothenburg’s Cathedral) which is about a 6-minute walk.

Gothenburg’s Cathedral was first built in the early 19th century by architect Carl Willhelm Carlberg after an earlier cathedral built in the 17th century had perished. The interior of the cathedral is a unique mix of styles, from classical and empirical style to traditional baroque.

This gorgeous cathedral is an integral part of the city of Gothenburg and is a beneficial addition to any trip to Gothenburg.

Wander Around Magasinsgatan

A short walk (around 5 minutes) away from the Gothenburg Cathedral will bring you to Magasinsgatan (Warehouse Street) .

This area is a great spot to explore Gothenburg off the beaten path and is the perfect example of how historic working-class areas in many cities today are prime spots for hip culture, shopping, and food scenes.

Here you’ll find many unique and local brands filling the streets, as well as a laid-back, expressive, and alternative atmosphere. Just wandering the area is an adventure in itself, taking in the architecture and street art, food trucks, and everything in between. 

Dinner at Feskekorka (Fish Church) or Saluhallen Food Hall 

At this point of your first day, you’ll likely have built up an appetite and be ready to enjoy a meal in Gothenburg’s renowned food scene.

My recommendations to have the best local experience with Gothenburg’s best and most well-loved foods are to either head to the Fish Church or the Saluhallen Food Hall.

Due to the city’s prime location by the sea, you’ll find outstanding seafood in Gothenburg and the surrounding areas. Built in 1874, Feskekorka (Fish Church) is the local fish market in Gothenburg and is a Gothenburg staple.

The building itself resembles a church and because of this, it took on its name and is one of the most recognisable buildings in Gothenburg. While the main part of the building is a fish market, there are a few delectable restaurants inside serving up some of the tastiest seafood in all of Gothenburg.

If you’re not into seafood, another option is to head to the Saluhallen Food Hall , about 5 minutes away in the other direction. The Saluhallen Food Hall is located in an iconic 1800s building and here you’ll be able to find all sorts of dishes and cuisines, including traditional Swedish delicacies.

Day 2 –  A Deeper Dive into the City’s Culture

Breakfast in the haga neighborhood.

To begin the second day of your visit to Gothenburg, I suggest heading to Haga , one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, to have a Swedish breakfast and a leisurely wander.

This area is lined with homes in traditional brick Gothenburg style, cosy cafes/coffee houses, unique shops of every type, and restaurants aplenty.

At Christmastime, you’ll find a festive Christmas Market and in the spring/autumn, you’ll have the opportunity to browse the local farmer’s market. My suggestion is to head to Latteria to enjoy a tasty breakfast before continuing your day.

Skansen Kronan Castle

Located on the perimeter of the Haga neighborhood is one of the most important landmarks in Gothenburg, the Skansen Kronan Castle.

Completed in 1700, the imposing fortress was built in preparation for battle but in all of the time of its existence, it was never actually used for that purpose as it was never attacked by enemies.

It’s been used in varying ways throughout history and today is used as a banquet hall, wedding venue, and party venue. This classic fortification offers wonderful views of the city and is definitely on of the top things to do in Gothenburg. You also can get an incredible view of Gothenburg from the castle, as well.

The outdoor part of the castle not used for venues is open 24 hours a day and is free for visitors unless. If you want to see inside, you’ll have to arrange a tour in advance with the Skansen Kronan group. 

Gothenburg Museum of Art or Volvo Museum

A solid way to round up your second day (if you’re planning 3-day itinerary, the last day will be spent outside of the city), is to head to one of the city’s varying museums. My suggestions are either the Gothenburg Museum of Art or the Volvo Museum. 

The Gothenburg Museum of Art is located in the central Lorensberg neighborhood and is known to be one of the best collections of art in all of Sweden and Scandinavia. With international collections dating back to the 15th century and unique exhibitions, I think the Gothenburg Museum of Art is one of the best museums to visit in the city.

Tickets for a single entry are around 65 SEK and are free for students and those under 20 years. Opening hours vary depending on the day and time of year, so check in advance to plan your day.

One of Gothenburg’s biggest names and sources of fame is easily the home to Volvo cars. For car aficionados or those interested in a unique and integral part of Gothenburg, a visit to the Volvo Museum is a great option.

Here you’ll take a trip throughout the history of the Volvo name beginning in 1927, its cars and what makes the company how we know it today. Entry tickets are around 160 SEK with concession tickets available.

Again, the hours of the museum vary depending on the day and time of year so check the website to plan accordingly.

Day 3 – Gothenburg Archipelago 

Gothenburg is located in a perfect location for both city-dwellers and nature lovers alike. While even in the city center you won’t find yourself far from green areas, the Gothenburg Archipelago lines the waters of Gothenburg and southwest Sweden.

The archipelago consists of 20 islands and is split into two groups; the Northern Archipelago and the Southern Archipelago. Both are incredibly beautiful and worth the visit but with just one day, I suggest heading to the Southern Archipelago.

The Southern Archipelago is closer and more accessible with public transport, whereas the Northern Archipelago is a bit more of a complicated journey. The islands are completely car-free and have such a relaxed and happy atmosphere that’ll make you want to spend more time on the islands. 

You can easily reach the Southern Archipelago in around 30 minutes on public transportation and there are quite a few options when deciding which island to visit on your day trip. 

Styrso is the main hub island of the southern islands and is a great contender for which island to visit. You’ll find cafes, restaurants, and quiet spots to swim while enjoying the warming Swedish sun. 

Another option if you’re looking to be fully immersed in nature, is to visit Vargo. Vargo island is the furthest west island of the Southern Archipelago and is pure nature and peace. There are no restaurants or stores as Vargo is a nature reserve, so bring a blanket and picnic to feel the fresh sea breeze, take in the wildlife, and go for a swim.

Where to Stay in Gothenburg

Hotel Royal – Mid-range visitors to Gothenburg will love this centrally-located hotel. They have lovely, clean and comfortable rooms to choose from and even offer a great breakfast to start your day each morning.

Hotel Pigalle – For those who’d like a luxury option in Sweden’s second city, this hotel is a great choice. There are a myriad of elegant rooms to choose from and countless great amenities to ensure your stay in Gothenburg is a fantastic one.

Slottskogens Hostel – If you’re traveling solo or on a budget, then this hostel offers both dorms and private rooms along with good self-catering facilities and common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Gothenburg hotels!

Gothenburg isn’t the most popular destination in Sweden, but it’s easily one of the most dynamic. There’s something for everyone; whether you’re keen on history, culture, food, nature, or modern architecture.

After spending some time in Gothenburg, you’ll have a newfound appreciation for Sweden’s second-biggest city and will likely be waiting for another trip to explore the region further.

Are you planning to visit Gothenburg? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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Europe , Gothenburg , Sweden , The Best Day Trips From Gothenburg, Sweden · January 5, 2022

70 Fun Things To Do In Gothenburg, Sweden | Unique Göteborg

Gothenburg is perhaps an underrated tourist destination when it comes to visiting Sweden. Most visitors seem to choose the bigger city of Stockholm or enjoy the snow up north in the likes of Kiruna or Umeå . However, as a city, Gothenburg seems to have a charm that you can’t ignore. Whether you are looking for great museums, beautiful nature, good food, or an “authentic Swedish experience”, you will be able to find it here. There are so many things to do in Gothenburg it was actually hard to reduce this list to 70. And if this article doesn’t convince you to visit Gothenburg, perhaps these ones will:

Gothenburg, or Göteborg in Swedish, is Sweden’s second-biggest city. Historically, one of the region’s most important commercial hubs, the harbour of Gothenburg is still very active today. The city is located at the outlet of the Göta Älv, or Göta Canal, on Sweden’s West Coast. Today, you can still see much commercial boat traffic travelling up the canal towards Sweden’s biggest lake, the Värnern.

With all the things to do in Gothenburg, it is becoming increasingly more popular as a tourist destination. It is a place to discover Swedish culture, history, and future, like Lonely Planet’s Sustainable city of the year 2021.

Other Gothenburg Guides you might enjoy

• Why visit Gothenburg, Sweden
• A sustainable travellers guide to Gothenburg
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• Day trips from Gothenburg

Having now lived in Gothenburg for 18 months and counting, I even now find myself spending days exploring every inch of this city I call home. I am so incredibly in love with not only the city but the way of life here. I hope I can bring you as much joy when you visit Gothenburg as I have had living there.

So, let’s get to it. Here are the best things to do in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Things to do in Gothenburg, Sweden

Palmhuset is a tropical biome located in Trädgårdsföreningen in central Gothenburg. With several temperate rooms that are heated year-round, it’s a great place to explore some exotic plants. Throughout the rooms, there are several tables set up which are great for picnics, creating art, or simply taking a breather.

Palmhuset is open from 10 – 19 in the summer and 10 – 16 in the winter.

Liseberg is Scandinavias’ biggest amusement park and one of the best places to visit in Gothenburg. If you are visiting in the summer, then the park is open and in full swing with rides, performances and activities. In the autumn , Liseberg is known for having one of the best spooky Halloween celebrations, with up to 5 haunted houses to explore! And in the winter, Liseberg has Gothenburg’s cosiest Christmas market. In November and December it is full of cosy wooden stalls selling speciality food, and a working Santas workshop.

Göteborgs Stads Museet / The Gothenburg City Museum

The Gothenburg City Museum, or Göteborgs Stads Museet, is a great thing to do in Gothenburg if you are wanting to get to know a little bit more about the city. The exhibitions range from an immersive experience into the history of Gothenburg to archaeological findings of the Vikings, and a recently opened exhibition celebrating Gothenburg’s 400 year anniversary. You can read more about Gothenburg City Museum here!

Spårvagns Museet / The Tram Museum

The Spårvagn Museet is home to Gothenburg’s old tram collection. Only open between 11 and 14 on Sundays. Here you can see trams ranging from the first electric tram to the modern ones that are still in circulation. This is one of the most interesting places in Gothenburg to visit for anyone interested in trains, logistics or Gothenburg’s history! You can read more information here!

Discover the archipelago

One of the best things about Gothenburg is the ferry that takes you out to all of the islands. From Central Gothenburg, you can visit over 11 different islands, all with their own unique things to see and do. The ferries leave from Saltholmen or Stenpiran towards the southern archipelago, and you can catch a bus towards the islands in the northern archipelago. If you are visiting Gothenburg in the summer, this is one of the things you have to do!

Universeum is the largest science centre in Scandinavia, and home to amazing exhibitions about sea life and wildlife. With a big, exotic rainforest room and aquariums, Universeum is not only one of the best things to do in Gothenburg for kids, but the adults will love it too!

Full Moon Thai

Full Moon Thai is a restaurant on Avenyn. I have purposely not included any pictures in this article as part of the experience is the amazement you get when you first walk inside. Full Moon Thai is more than just eating out, it is a real experience as you are transported to Thailand for the night. Visiting Full Moon Thai is a great thing to do in Gothenburg if you want to have a fun meal in a unique atmosphere.

Volvo Museum

The Volvo Museum is a fascinating place to visit if you are interested in cars. The museum exhibitions focus on the history of Volvo, including their past cars, prototypes, buses and racing cars. The museum is a fun thing to do in Gothenburg for kids and adults and is open every day of the week. You can find more information here!

Sauna at Frihamnen

The sauna at Frihamnen is one of Gothenburg’s highlights. A strange iron building sticking out in the harbour, you wouldn’t believe this is actually one of the best places to hang out in the winter months. The sauna is free to the general public and is open all year round.

Världskulturmuseet / The Museum of World Culture

The Museum of World Culture is one of Gothenburg’s best museums. They have exhibitions educating about different cultural aspects and social problems around the world. It’s a super fun thing to do with children in Gothenburg as there are lots of interactive exhibitions. You can read more about current exhibitions here!

Gunnebo Slott

Gunnebo Slott is an old manor house just outside of central Gothenburg. The house itself is quite small and not much of it is open, however, the gardens are very large and somewhere you could walk around for hours. There is a kitchen garden, an English style garden, and a forest and more open meadow on the outskirts of the property. Gunnebo Slott is known for its traditional, sustainable methods of gardening and maintenance. The gardens are all looked after using traditional methods, and therefore everything sold in their cafe is homegrown and ecological. You can find more information on visiting Gunnebo Slott here.

Konstmuseum / Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the most acclaimed museums in Gothenburg. Here they have a lot of art pieces on display, including some pieces from local Gothenburg artists, and those from Sweden. The museum is a peaceful place to wander around and a great thing to do on a rainy day. You can find more information about their exhibitions here.

The Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum (Naturhistoriska riksmuseet) is a fascinating place to visit. On display, they have fossils, animal skeletons, exhibitions about the arctic, Swedish nature and so many more things! The museum is a fun thing to do in Gothenburg, especially with children. It is open every day except Mondays. You can find more information here!

A day trip to Marstrand

Marstrand is one of the most popular islands to visit in the whole of Sweden – a thriving holiday town in the summer and a cosy nature retreat in the winter. Here you can discover the history behind Carlstens Fästning, a fortress turned gaol, try world-class seafood at one of the great restaurants, or take a dip in one of the picturesque bays.

Röhsska Museet / The Röhsska Museum of Design and Craft

The Röhsska Museet is my personal favourite museum in the city. It is a more contemporary art museum, with unique exhibitions. Last time we visited there was an exhibition on Swedish design through the years, and the unique people that live in Iceland. Both of these exhibitions have stuck with me still 2 years later. Today, they have exhibitions on the migration of objects, chairs throughout history, and 18th-century design and craft. Definitely recommend this museum as something to do in Gothenburg! You can find more information here!

Röda Sten Konsthall

Röda Sten Konsthall is another art museum, this time focusing on local artists with more contemporary pieces. Every few months the art hall features a new artist, so there is always something new to see here! You can find the exhibition program here!

Hönö is one of the more popular islands to visit in Gothenburg’s northern archipelago. This is because you can take the car ferry over, and the island of Hönö is connected to several other islands by a bridge so it is super easy to ‘island hop’. These islands are Öckerö, Fotö and Hälsö. On Hönö, you have to visit Klåvan, the small fishing village with several great restaurants and shops to wander around. Don’t miss filling Cottage for the best pizza and interior decorations. There are several other small villages to visit on Hönö as well as some great beaches and walks through the nature.

Göteborg Opera

Göteborg Opera is a fun and unique activity to do in the evenings. The opera changes every few months with both classic and contemporary performances. In 2022, there is a contemporary show using the songs from popular Gothenburg singer Håkan Hellström called Kärlek skoner igen. Watching this will be a great way to see a little bit into the culture of the city. You can read more information about the opera here!

Haga Bion is a really unique cinema/ cafe/ bar in the center of Gothenburg. The cafe is one of the cosiest places to sit, while the bar is open in the evenings. In the summer, they have one of the best outdoor courtyard bars in Gothenburg. The cinema only plays alternative films, usually from film festivals and foreign directors. If you’re looking for something unique to do in Gothenburg, then this is definitely the place for you! You can read more about Haga Bion here!

Delsjö is home to two lakes – Stora Delsjö and Lilla Delsjö. The area is one of the most popular areas in Gothenburg and a great place for a walk, kayak, picnic or swim. The walking track around Delsjön is 7.5km with beautiful nature the whole way, while there are also bbq places scattered around the grassy areas for barbeques.

Haga is the oldest part of Gothenburg and is known to have the cosiest cafes and shops. It’s a great place to start exploring when you first arrive in Gothenburg as Haga is where you can really get a feel for what the city is all about. There are so many fun things to do in Haga, including Haga Badet, the spa, taking a fika in one of the cosy cafes, and finding locally produced souvenirs. If you want to find out more about the are and the houses there you can do a Haga walking tour such as this one!

Styrsö is one of the most popular islands to visit in Gothenburg’s southern archipelago. It is relatively close to the harbour and takes around 20 minutes by ferry to arrive at one of the two ports. Strysö is known for its beautiful houses and great swimming spots! On the island, there are four small villages, each with its own unique character. A day trip to Styrsö is a fun thing to do in Gothenburg in the summer.

Härlanda Tjärn

Härland Tjärn is another of the big lakes in Gothenburg. This is also a great place for a summer swim or barbeque, with fire pits dotted around the lake. there is a walking track that circles the lake, giving way to many great swimming spots on rocks and sandy beaches.

Älvborgs Nya Fästning

Älvborgs Nya Fästning, also known as Elfsborgs Fästning, is a fortress in the middle of the harbour of Gothenburg. It can only be reached by ferry throughout the summer months making it a really special and unique thing to do when you can. Walking around the fortress you can discover a lot about Gothenburg’s history and get some great views of the city from the sea. You can find more information about visiting the fortress here!

Vrångö is the southernmost island in the Gothenburg archipelago (and my personal favourite!) The island is known for its beautiful nature and great swimming spots, with several great seafood restaurants. The island is car-free and only accessible by ferry. It takes about 30 minutes to get from Saltholmen in Gothenburg to the port on Vrångö.

Frölunda Ice Hockey

Frölunda is Gothenburg’s much-loved ice hockey team. They are a part of the SHL (Swedish Hockey League) and their season usually plays out from September to May. They are one of the best teams in the league so you are usually in for a very exciting game.

Masthuggskyrkan

Masthuggskyrkan has one of the best views over Gothenburg, located on the eastern side overlooking the harbour. Built in 1914, the church itself is an impressive sight, however, the park and the view are the main attractions of Masthuggskyrkan. Here is a great place to visit for a walk or a picnic.

Kronhuset is one of the oldest areas of Gothenburg, a church, courtyard and several buildings which are now a cafe and several art studios. The cafe is one of my favourites and one of the best in Gothenburg in the summer when you can sit out in the courtyard. The art studios are open during the week and you can find handcrafted ceramics and jewellery for purchase. At Christmas, Kronuset has one of the best Christmas markets in Gothenburg.

Minigolf in Kungsparken

Minigolf is always a fun thing to do, especially when it is in a park in the city centre. The minigolf is part of Golf and Bar Allén, so while you play you can take a drink and a pizza. Kungsparken minigolf is open throughout the spring and summer.

The Botanical Gardens / Botaniska

The Botanical Gardens is my absolute favourite park in Gothenburg. In the spring , the park is constantly blooming with different flowers, both planted and those more natural such as the white anemones in Vitsippordalen. In the summer this is the ideal place for a picnic, while in the autumn the colours are magical. The Botanical Gardens cafe is also a great fika spot, with delicious snacks, soup and cakes. Here they are super good with dietary requirements and there is always something vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and/or lactose-free!

If you are interested in the different seasons in Gothenburg, you can read my posts about the best places to visit in the spring , the best spots for finding cherry blossoms, and the best places to see the autumn colours here !

Second Hand Shopping

There are SO many great second-hand shops in Gothenburg that you would be a fool not to go to at least one while you are visiting the city. The best thing about Swedish second-hand stores is that the clothes are all of great quality, fashionable and still cheap. You can find a list of my favourite secondhand stores in Gothenburg here!

Haga Badet is an old spa located in the old part of town, Haga. The spa has several pools and a gym and is a great place to visit if you want a low key spa experience with a massage or the likes. Haga Badet is open every day and offers special passes for visitors – such as a 3 day pass where you get access to the spa, pool and gym! You can find out more here!

Bohus Fästning

Bohus Fästning is a fortress in Kungälv, a town just north of Gothenburg. It takes 20 minutes to get to from Gothenburg Central station on the bus so it is an easy day trip. The Fortress was built in the 14th century and is now a fascinating place to walk around, with a small museum about the history of the fortress and fun little exhibitions in each of the rooms to show how they are used. This is one of the best unique things to do in Gothenburg with kids, especially in the summer when you can take a picnic and eat it by the lake in the fortresses main courtyard. You can find out more about visiting the fortress here!

Upper House Spa

Upper House Spa is probably the most well-known spa in Gothenburg, with a “hanging pool” that looks out over Liseberg amusement park. When you book through a day spa package, you get 2 hours to explore the pools and saunas. It is the perfect inner city spa escape.

For more spa inspiration in and around the city, you can read my post on 10 Amazing Spas to Visit Near Gothenburg!

Gathenhielmska kulturreservatet

Gathenhielmska Kulturreservatet is a cultural reserve with some of Gothenburg’s oldest houses. This is a great place to visit if you want to see how traditional timber houses are made, and how Gothenburg used to look before it was developed.

Lindholmen Food Market

Lindholmen food market is one of the most fun places to visit in Gothenburg if you are into food. Located inside an old hangar, the Food Market is an international fusion that features different restaurants in and around Gothenburg every Saturday. There is usually also a tattoo artist, an art and design market, and a live band performing which makes for such a fun atmosphere.

Lindholmen Science Park

Lindholmen Science Park is on the north of Gothenburg. Taking the ferry over to Lindholmen is one of the more fun ways to explore the city and a great thing to do if you are visiting! Lindholmen is one of the newer areas of the city so here you will find a beautiful walk around the harbour with modern buildings. It is a popular place for students to hand out, with both Chalmers and Gothenburg University having buildings in the area.

The Paddan is a small boat that tours the Gothenburg canal throughout the summer. It is such a fun thing to do in Gothenburg as you get to see the whole city from a different perspective, while also learning about some of the most iconic spots.

A Cruise on the M/S Göteborg

The M/S Göteborg is a small ship that cruises around the harbour and offers different meal packages. This is a really fun thing to do in Gothenburg as you get to try some local food and see the city at the same time! They often do a seafood lunch or dinner throughout the summer, and a traditional Swedish Julbord (Christmas table) throughout November and December. You can find out more here!

Victoria Passagen

Victoria Passagen is a small alleyway in the central shopping area of Gothenburg. Inside, you will find several super cosy restaurants and shops to visit! This includes Jinx Dynasty, one of the best contemporary Asian lunch restaurants in the city. On the other side, you will find Da Matteo, one of the best places for a cosy fika in Gothenburg!

Röda Sten is an area by the water in the western part of Gothenburg. It is named after a stone in the water painted red (Röd means red, and Sten means stone). Röda Sten is a beautiful area with a great walk that goes from Röda Sten Konsthall to Tånguddens Båtuppläggningsplats, and Saltholmen if you continue on further. Along the walk are some great views of the harbour and some great picnic spots.

Saltholmen is Gothenburg’s most popular swimming spot and the port where the majority of ferries leave to the archipelago. At Saltholmen there is a small walk through the nature, some fabulous swimming spots off the rocks on both sides of the harbour, and a good restaurant.

Stora Saluhall

Stora Saluhall is the bigger of the two food markets in Gothenburg. Here you can try local delicacies, purchase meats, cheeses, salads and seafood, and eat at a great restaurant that overlooks the food hall. On the sides of Saluhall are small restaurants and bars.

Take a drink in Cafe Magasinet

Cafe Magasinet is probably the most well-known cafe/ bar in Gothenburg. With its “instagrammable” decor, it is a very cool place to hang out during the day and evening. They do a great daily lunch with fresh salads and sandwiches, and sourdough pizza in the evenings.

Spinneriet in Lindome

Spinneriet in Lindome, previously known as Lilla Spinneriet, is a beautiful farm shop style cafe just outside the city of Gothenburg. With a small boutique shop and a wonderful cafe that serves organic, locally grown food, it is the perfect place to visit for a nice lunch out. On weekends they serve a brunch menu which is my personal favourite time to visit.

Silviksbadet

Silvikabadet is one of the best beaches in Gothenburg. it is very popular in the summer as it is very sandy with a small slope into the ocean. You can sit on the rocks, on the sand, or on the grassy bank beside the water.

Slottsskogen

Slottsskogen is one of Gothenburg’s oldest and biggest city parks. It is a very popular place all year round for a walk, picnic or sledging in the winter. There are several playgrounds within the park, and a small animal zoo. There are also several cafes dotted around the park which serve lunch all year round. A great activity is to take a walk through Slottskogen to one of the cafes for lunch.

Pedelo around the Gothenburg canal

In the summertime, you can hire a kayak or pedalo from Kajakbryggen (by the entrance to Trädgårdsforeningen). This is a super fun thing to do in Gothenburg for all ages, in one of the most beautiful parts of the canal.

Take a drink on Andra Långgatan

Andra Långgatan is well known as the “bar street” in Gothenburg, with pubs, restaurants and bars open until late every night of the week. This is the ideal place to visit if you want to meet some new people, go on a bar crawl, or even just explore Gothenburg’s nightlife.

Antiquehallaren

Antiquehallaren is an old antique hall in central Gothenburg. The main hall has been transformed into a cafe with some really cosy spots to sit, while the shops surrounding it are really unique boutiques. Here you can find a stamp collecting shop, an antique jeweller, the British Shop and many other fascinating places.

Stora Teatern

Stora Teatern is Gothenburgs biggest theatre. Throughout the year they put on many different shows and performances that are definitely worth going to watch! In the summer they also have a bar that is open, with a lovely courtyard overlooking the Gothenburg canal.

Askimsbadet

Askimsbadet is another of the popular swimming spots in Gothenburg. What makes Askimsbadet special is that it is an incredibly long and wide sandy beach. Visiting here in the summer is a great thing to do with kids as there is a lot of space to run around, as well as a cafe and a climbing frame on the grass bank behind the beach.

Giant cinnamon buns at Cafe Husaren

You can’t come to Sweden and not try a cinnamon bun! I read a fact once that the average Swede eats 300 cinnamon buns a year (I know!?), so if you can’t beat them, join them and buy a big one from Cafe Husaren in Haga. There are a few other cafes that have started selling these giant cinnamon buns, but Cafe Husaren is the most famous of them all and my recommendation.

Heaven 23 is the bar on the top level of Gothia Towers. The views from here and incredible, and they have super nice cocktails which are surprisingly not as expensive as you would think. You can visit the bar any time, but it is best to book if you want to visit the restaurant!

Singsing is quite a popular karaoke bar in Majorna, a “suburb” of inner Gothenburg. The bar has an upstairs where you can sit and eat, with a music quiz once a week, while the downstairs is split up into several small karaoke rooms. This is a go-to for my friends and I when we are looking for something fun to do in Gothenburg. It does book up quite quickly though so make sure to book in advance if you want to go on a Friday or Saturday!

Guldheden’s Vattentorn

Guldheden’s Vattentorn is an old water tower turned cafe in Guldheden. Visiting here is a very unique thing to do in Gothenburg. The cafe is open during the spring and summer and is a great place for fika or lunch.

Styr och Ställ

Styr och Ställ is a company that leave our hire bikes throughout the city. They are super easy to use, all you do is download the app, scan the QR code, and off you go! There are so many great bike routes to do around Gothenburg. My personal favourite is cycling from Röda Sten out to Saltholmen.

Bärby Self-picking fruit and vegetables

Bärby Self-picking fruit and vegetables in located slightly outside of the city, on the Northern “island” of Hisingen. Here you can pick different fruits and vegetables from spring to autumn including raspberries, cabbage and potatoes. It’s a super fun place to visit if you want to get some locally grown, organic vegetables. Also, super fun for kids to get to pick them themselves and see where they come from!

Take a drink at the secret Stranger Bar

Stranger Bar is by far the coolest bar in Gothenburg. Firstly, there is no signage, you have to know where you are going to get inside. You find the door, press the doorbell, and wait to see if you are let in. When you are inside, it feels like you are in some underground club with brick walls and delicately crafted cocktails. I make it sound hard to find but its location is on Google Maps, just don’t be scared to knock on the random door!

Änggårdsbergen

Änggårdsbergen is a stretch of forest that connects to the Botanical Gardens in Gothenburg. It is one of the best places for a forest walk, with many tracks of different lengths throughout the area.

Fiskekyrka (or Feskekorka) is a big food hall where local fishermen come in the mornings to sell their daily caught fish. This is an amazing place to visit in Gothenburg to see how this harbour city runs. Fiskekyrka has been open since 1874 so is very historically engrained in Gothenburg’s culture.

Ramberget is another of the great forests in Gothenburg, located on the Lindholmen side of the city. The word Berget means mountain, and that is just what this forest is. The walking trail wraps around the mountain until it reaches the top where there is a great viewpoint that looks over the city. It is quite a short walk but something to do if you enjoy exploring the city by foot.

HMS Småland J19

HMS Småland J19 is a military ship on display as a part of the Maritime Museum. It is one of two ships built of this type in Sweden and was in service until 1979. When you visit, you can climb aboard the ship and discover the inner workings of the engine and crew quarters. You can find out more here!

Slottskogen Children’s Zoo / Barnens Zoo

Slottskogen Children’s Zoo is a free zoo located in the city’s biggest park. They have farmyard animals like goats, sheep, chickens, more typically Swedish animals such as moose, and reindeer, and more exotic animals like penguins and seals. The “zoo” is completely integrated into the park so is open 24 hours a day.

Take the ferry to Lindholmen

Something fun to do in Gothenburg on a nice day is to take the free ferry from Stenpiran to Lindholmen. The ferry goes every 10 – 15 minutes and is only 5 minutes long, but it’s a fun way to travel. Gothenburg is known to be a big harbour city so I find it amazing to be able to visit so much of the city by ferry and boat. It gives such an insight into what the city is all about and how day to day life works.

Sail on The East Indianman Göthenborg

The Swedish Ship Götheborg is a replica of the 16th-century ship that sank just outside of Gothenburg on a voyage back from China. Today, the replica ship has made 5 trips around the world, and now sits in Gothenburg harbour and is a great place to visit to find out about Gothenburg’s rich history. 

Skansen Kronan

Skansen Kronan is an old fortress that sits in the centre of Gothenburg, just on the outskirts of Haga. The fortress has one of the best views over Gothenburg city, especially at sunset. Just outside the fortress, on top of the hill, is a super cosy waffle cottage, serving coffee and hot waffles throughout the year.

Visit the cat cafe Purrfect Cat

This is a new addition to the list as Purrfect, Gothenburg’s first cat cafe, just opened up a few months ago. Here you can come for a fika, and play with cats while you drink your coffee or tea. You can even adopt one of you get too attached.

Gothenburg Viewpoint, Lilla Bommen

Gothenburg Viewpoint is the official name for the viewing deck on the top floor of the Lipstick building in Lilla Bommen. The viewpoint is one of the best for a view of Gothenburg’s harbour, as you can see across to Lindholen, the opera house, and all the way to Masthuggskyrkan. The viewpoint is free to enter so a great thing to do when exploring the city!

Take a coffee at Magasinsgatan

Magasinsgatan is the best place to be in Gothenburg on a sunny day. With several coffee shops, boutique shops, and food trucks, the atmosphere is like nowhere else in Gothenburg. When here, you have to try the Bao from Jinx Food Truck (best in the city!). In the winter, it is super cosy to sit inside Da Matteo and drink a coffee, with the smell of their fresh roasted beans filling the air. Make sure to take a look around and see if you can find Floramor and Krukar, the “hidden” flower shop and ceramic workshop.

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14 Cities With The Cleanest Air In The World, Ranked

• Honolulu, USA, Auckland, New Zealand, and Brisbane, Australia are among the cities with the cleanest air in the world, thanks to their strict environmental regulations and low pollution levels.
• Clean air in these cities makes them attractive destinations for travelers who want to experience natural beauty, outdoor activities, and vibrant cultural scenes.
• Geneva, Switzerland, Oslo, Norway, and Stockholm, Sweden are also known for their clean air, making them ideal places to visit for environmentally conscious tourists.

Air pollution is a global trend as the world continues to grow in industrialization. Some cities of the world are highly polluted, and the air quality in them poses a health risk to both locals and visitors. However, some cities still boast cleaner air quality due to greener environments and tough environmental regulations.

Such cities are great to visit and even live in because one will not have to put up with polluted skies or breathe in contaminated air. Without further ado, here are the top cities in the world with the cleanest air.

UPDATE: 2023/10/10 13:23 EST BY REENA JAIN

More Cities With The Cleanest Air In The World, Ranked

Although it is nearly impossible to get clean air in large metropolitan areas, certain cities and nations are making an effort to maintain a clean environment by lowering carbon emissions and reducing pollution levels. This list has been updated with four more cities with the best air quality in the world, making them the best places to live and travel.

Honolulu, USA

The American city of Honolulu takes great pride in claiming to have some of the cleanest air in the world. Its geographical location and Hawaii's strict environmental regulations result in clean air conditions.

Honolulu is a popular tourist destination with a lot to discover and experience , including natural splendor, cultural richness, and recreational opportunities. Visitors swarm to Hawaii for its breathtaking beaches, especially the famous Waikiki, historical landmarks, and outdoor activities, including hiking, marine life exploration, and cultural appreciation. Plus, its tropical climate, inviting aloha spirit, and delectable cuisine are a treat for visitors.

• Top Attractions: Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head State Monument, Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Iolani Palace

Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland, New Zealand, is one of the best cities in the world to visit , not only because of its incredible sights, whale-watching opportunities, and adjacent volcanic islands but also for the excellent air quality. The city has some of the world's cleanest air, all thanks to strict environmental policies and a commitment to sustainable practices.

Beyond its clean air, Auckland is home to many stunning beaches, forests, mountains, and over 50 islands. There are three captivating wine regions that add to its allure. The city's great nightlife, vibrant cultural scene, diverse cuisine, and numerous outdoor activities make it an appealing tourist destination for anyone seeking both indulgence and relaxation.

• Top Attractions: Sky Tower, Auckland Museum, Waiheke Island, Auckland Zoo, Piha Beach

Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane, the scenic jewel of Queensland, is a bustling metropolis with an astounding number of exciting attractions . Brisbane's air quality is another draw for travelers. Situated along the southeastern coast, the city's pristine air is a result of low industrial pollution, strict air quality laws, and efforts to limit emissions.

Brisbane has a picturesque riverfront, world-class dining, and a thriving arts scene. The city also serves as a gateway to the stunning Gold Coast and the Great Barrier Reef, two of Australia's natural wonders, making it a popular destination for both adventure buffs and outdoor lovers.

• Top Attractions: South Bank Parklands, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, Story Bridge Adventure Climb, Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)

Geneva, Switzerland

With very low pollution levels, the city's policies for a clean city, efficient public transportation, and support for sustainable development, Geneva is another Switzerland city that made it onto this list of the cities with the cleanest air in the world.

Geneva's clean air quality adds to the city's attraction as a top tourist destination. The proud home of the UN, the city entices tourists with its picturesque lakeside setting, rich cultural heritage, and world-class dining . Visitors can stroll through the old town to appreciate historical architecture, splurge on designer goods, and engage in outdoor activities amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

• Top Attractions: Jet d'Eau, United Nations Office at Geneva, St. Pierre Cathedral, Lake Geneva, Palais des Nations

Oslo, Norway

Oslo is the capital city of Norway and the country's most populous city. It's a calm city for business and relaxation and enjoys a moderate population. The city is also a global maritime destination, housing some of the world's top maritime companies.

The air in Oslo is fresh and clean, boasting a moderate air quality index, which makes it one of the world's most livable cities. Norway generally has clean air, and this also contributes to the amazing visibility, which makes it easy to see its most beautiful places .

• Top attractions: Akershus Fortress, Folk Museum of Norway, Norwegian Maritime Museum

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is the capital city of Sweden and one of the most amazing cities in the European Union, renowned for its number of bridges and landscapes. The city comprises 14 islands, making it a waterfront capital.

However, there's one thing yet outstanding about this Swedish capital. It's the air quality that is a major draw for environmentally conscious visitors. The city enjoys a fair air quality index, which is termed safe and moderate for breathing, even as the most populated Swedish city.

• Top attractions: The Royal Palace, Vasa Museum, Djurgarden, the National Museum of Fine Arts

Victoria, Canada

On the southernmost point of Vancouver Island, off the Pacific coast of Canada, is the city of Victoria, the capital of British Columbia province. Nicknamed the "Garden City," Victoria comprises many parklands, trees, and gardens, making it a popular tourist destination in Canada.

Residents and tourists of this beautiful city enjoy better air quality which is on the safe side of the air quality index rankings. One won't need a face mask for protection against toxic air pollutants because the city has a relatively untainted atmosphere.

• Top attractions: Royal BC Museum, the Butchart Gardens, Craigdarroch Castle

Related: 10 Awesome Things To Do In Victoria, British Columbia

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is a quiet and charming city perched on a scenic bay of the Gulf of Finland's shore, north of Estonia. Despite having a population of fewer than 500,000 people, the city is still the most populous in Estonia. With the surrounding bay, fewer industrial centers, and trees, it's no surprise the air quality here is super clean.

Once in Tallinn, visitors can soak in one of the purest forms of air, unspoiled by pollutants and industrialization.

• Top attractions: Tallinn's Old Town, Tallinn TV Tower, Toompea Castle

Related: Why Estonia's Historic Capital City Of Tallinn Is Worth Visiting

The Hague, The Netherlands

The Hague in the Netherlands is one of the world's most famous cities for hosting the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice. These two international courts attract several visitors to the Hague annually from across the world, but still, its air remains clean.

This is partly due to the ocean air since the city is on the Netherlands' west coast overlooking the North Sea. Also, there are strict Dutch laws that limit the emission of harmful substances and prevent the exposure of humans to long-term pollution.

• Top attractions: Louwman Museum, the Peace Palace, Duivenvoorde Castle

Gothenburg, Sweden

Gothenburg is Sweden's second-largest city, situated on its west coast. The city has a low population density, which helps to keep the air moderately pure and safe for breathing.

Other factors, such as the air from the West Coast, the many parks and gardens, trees in its boulevards, and environmental laws, help to keep the air quality in Gothenburg cleaner and safer.

Sweden is also one of the world's most livable cities with a better quality of life, which is partly due to its less toxic atmosphere.

• Top attractions: Gothenburg Museum of Art, Liseberg Amusement Park, Gothenburg Botanical Garden

Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich is a picturesque city on the north side of Lake Zurich, Switzerland, and it's the country's largest city. The city, beyond its jaw-dropping beauty, is a major financial hub in the heart of Europe and the most famous city in Switzerland.

The air quality here is as clean as the city's beauty, and Zurich has been on the list of cities with the cleanest air in the world for several decades. While tourists troop in to behold the city's elegance, the air quality is the icing on the cake of their experiences.

• Top attractions: Lake Zurich, Swiss National Museum, FIFA Museum

Related: 9 Things To Do In Zürich: Complete Guide To Switzerland's Vibrant Hub

Helsinki, Finland

Finland's capital and most populous city is also the social, cultural, and political nerve center of the country. Yet, the air in Helsinki is clean, breathable, and considered one of the safest in the world for humans.

This air quality is partly due to the many forests that surround the country. Helsinki is also one of the world's most livable cities. Certainly, air quality plays a major role in this livability ranking because air pollution makes most cities unsafe or unlivable.

• Top attractions: Ateneun Art Museum, Helsinki Railway Station, Korkeasaari Zoo

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is one of the most populated countries in the European Union, housing nearly half of the entire nation's population, but this has not stopped it from being one of the cities with the cleanest air in the world. The city still boasts an impressive air quality index, which is considered fairly safe for locals and tourists.

Besides being one of the cities with the cleanest air in the world, Vienna is also known for many other amazing things. It is also known as one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world , the city with the biggest Christmas market in the world , and the city of music/ most beautiful city in Europe .

• Top attractions: Imperial Schonbrunn Palace and Gardens, Belvedere Palace, Vienna Zoo, Vienna State Opera House

Reykjavik, Iceland

Despite being the largest city in Iceland and a melting pot for all kinds of activities, Reyjavik remains one of the safest cities in the country to take deep breaths without worrying about getting one’s lungs contaminated with pollution.

Reykjavik is also one of the world's cleanest and greenest cities, making it a hub for global tourism. If one is looking for a laid-back and beautiful city with exceptional and fine air quality, Reykjavik is the place to be.

• Top attractions: Hallgrimskirkja Church, Harpa concert hall, Bruarfoss waterfall

Seeing the sights during travel often involves traipsing through polluted cities, but with these travel destinations, clean air is a highlight.