Is Gothenburg worth visiting during a trip to Sweden? If you’re looking for things to do and see in Gothenburg, you’ve come to the right place.
During our road trip through Sweden—particularly in the Bohuslän region—we spent a few days in Gothenburg. We explored its neighborhoods, parks, and stunning archipelago.
In this guide, we share our itinerary and tips for exploring Gothenburg on foot, by bike, and by public transportation in 1, 2, or 3 days, without missing any of the highlights.
Key tips for planning your trip before we go into detail about our itinerary.
One day is enough to see the city center. Two days allow for a leisurely pace, and three days let you explore the archipelago as well.
The city center is easy to explore on foot or by bike. Trams and ferries are a convenient way to complete your journey. You don’t need a car in the city.
Spring and summer are great times to visit the gardens and the archipelago. In the fall and winter, expect wind, rain, and short days. Be sure to check out our guide to visiting Gothenburg in the winter.
What to Do in Gothenburg? Our Must-See Spots on the Map
Gothenburg is Sweden’s second-largest city, after Stockholm. Despite its size, its downtown struck us as particularly peaceful. There is certainly traffic, but the pedestrian-friendly streets, trams, and bike lanes make exploring the city a pleasure.
We really enjoyed strolling through the historic center, the various parks, and the archipelago. Gothenburg is a tree-lined city that’s easy to get around and ideal for alternating between city sightseeing and nature.
Our accommodation recommendation:The Hotel Flora, located in the city center, is an excellent base for exploring Gothenburg without a car.
1. Stroll through the historic Haga neighborhood
Let’s start with the neighborhood we recommend you visit first: Haga.
A former working-class neighborhood that has been revitalized, Haga charms visitors with its cobblestone streets and wooden houses. It’s the perfect place to stroll among home decor shops, thrift stores, and used bookstores.
We quickly forgot that we were visiting a big city. Take the opportunity to stop for a fika break at one of the neighborhood’s many cafés.
Haga Nygata, the main street, is mostly explored on foot. This peaceful atmosphere adds greatly to the neighborhood’s charm.
2. Get a bird’s-eye view at Skansen Kronan
After Haga, hike up to the Skansen Kronan fort to enjoy a beautiful view of the neighborhood and the rooftops of Gothenburg. The fort itself is not usually open to visitors, but the hill and its surroundings are accessible.
Our first reaction was, “It’s very green for a big city!” The small park surrounding the fort is a nice spot for a picnic. At the end of the day, the light over the city is especially beautiful.
After these first two visits, you might already feel like moving to Gothenburg—just like we did!
3. Stroll along the canals of the old town
The center of Gothenburg is shaped by water. We loved strolling along its canals to explore the city from a peaceful and picturesque vantage point.
There are two options: the classic Paddan boat tour, which lasts about 50 minutes, or a longer cruise along the canals and the Säveån River. Check the operating dates when you make your reservation.
4. Take a walk through Trädgårdsföreningen
Another place we really enjoyed was Trädgårdsföreningen, also known as the Garden Society of Gothenburg. This large park, located right in the city center, is a true haven of tranquility.
Admission to the park and the Palm House is free. During our visit, the café was hosting a small concert, and the atmosphere was very pleasant. Take the time to stroll through the groves and the various landscaped areas.
The park features a large rose garden, greenhouses, and a spacious playground that’s popular with families. We even spotted a hare running free there.
We discovered it in the spring, during the blooming season, a time of year we highly recommend. However, restoration work may limit access to certain parts of the Palm House: please check the status before your visit.
Be careful not to confuse this park with Botaniska Trädgården, Gothenburg’s actual botanical garden, which is located further west and which we didn’t have time to visit.
5. Walk down Kungsportsavenyen, “Avenyn”
From the Gothenburg Museum of Fine Arts, we walked down Kungsportsavenyen—commonly known as Avenyn—toward the harbor and the opera house. At Götaplatsen, don’t miss the statue of Poseidon, one of the city’s landmarks. This major thoroughfare, lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants, contrasts with the narrow streets of Haga.
If, like us, you find yourself on a rainy day, the downtown shopping arcades offer a sheltered break. Be sure to set aside some time, though, to enjoy the facades, squares, and canals that make this stroll so special.
6. Sample the specialties at Saluhallen and Feskekôrka
We recommend stopping by the Stora Saluhallen covered market. There you’ll find Swedish products, places to grab lunch, and some really delicious cinnamon buns.
The large, round discs hanging in some store windows aren’t cheese wheels, but knäckebröd, a flat, crispy bread often made from rye. You can also find it in supermarkets, usually at a more affordable price: it’s a simple souvenir to bring back from Sweden.
Another must-see spot: Feskekôrka, the famous “fish market” whose architecture resembles a Gothic church. After an extensive renovation, the venue reopened in 2024 and now features fishmongers, restaurants, and gourmet food counters.
7. Explore the Gothenburg Archipelago
Off the coast of Gothenburg, the archipelago is made up of granite islands and islets. This getaway—combining the sea, villages, and hiking trails—is one of our fondest memories of the region.
You can choose a guided cruise through the Gothenburg archipelago or take the public ferries. The islands in the southern archipelago are car-free, and Västtrafik ferries operate year-round. A Zone A ticket allows you to combine travel by tram, bus, and ferry.
Each island has its own character, from tranquil Vrångö to charming Styrsö. We recommend setting aside a full day for your visit. Find the itinerary, schedules (which you should check), and our tips in our guide to visiting the Gothenburg archipelago.
8. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts
The Gothenburg Museum of Fine Arts, Göteborgs Konstmuseum, features Nordic and international works ranging from the Renaissance to contemporary art. Other travelers recommended it to us, but we didn’t have time to visit it. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.
Plan on spending two to three hours there, and check the hours and exhibits before your visit. The museum is usually closed on Mondays.
9. See the opera and the harbor
The Gothenburg Opera House, Göteborgsoperan, is located on the waterfront. Its contemporary architecture resembles the silhouette of a ship. At dusk, the lighting really brings out its shape.
We loved its modern look and the walk along the riverfront, dotted with boats and views of the Göta älv River.
10. Enjoy Liseberg Amusement Park
Liseberg is one of Scandinavia’s major amusement parks. It appeals to families and thrill-seekers alike, with roller coasters and attractions for all ages. The park is open during certain times of the year, including the summer season, Halloween, and Christmas: check the calendar before you go.
How many days does it take to visit Gothenburg?
We spent three days in Gothenburg. Two days are enough to explore the main neighborhoods and landmarks at a leisurely pace. If you have a third day, be sure to visitthe Gothenburg archipelago, which is worth a trip all on its own.
Our itinerary for visiting Gothenburg in 1, 2, or 3 days
If you only have one day, combine the highlights of Days 1 and 2: Haga, Skansen Kronan, Saluhallen, the canals, Trädgårdsföreningen, and the harbor. By bike, the route is faster, but the pace will still be brisk.
Day 1
Haga and the western part of the central region
A first day exploring the historic district, covered markets, canals, and the harbor quays.
Explore Haga and Skansen Kronan
Start in Haga, take a fika break, then head up to Skansen Kronan to enjoy the view.
Explore the markets and canals
Continue on to Feskekôrka, Stora Saluhallen, the canals, and the streets in the city center.
Stroll along the harbor’s docks
End the day on the harbor promenade to admire the opera house all lit up.
Day 2
Avenyn, museums, and gardens
A day spent exploring the main squares, museums, gardens, and Liseberg.
Explore Götaplatsen and Avenyn
Start at Götaplatsen, visit the Museum of Fine Arts if you’d like, and then walk down Avenyn.
Enjoy the gardens and canals
Explore Trädgårdsföreningen, then choose between a stroll along the canals and a boat ride.
Discover Liseberg or revisit Haga
Head to Liseberg if it’s open. Otherwise, go back to Haga to wrap up the day.
Day 3
The Southern Archipelago
A day in the great outdoors on one or two car-free islands in the Gothenburg archipelago.
Travel to the Southern Archipelago
Leave early enough and check the ferry schedules before choosing your route.
Discover Styrsö and Vrångö
Spend the day exploring one or two islands—such as Styrsö and Vrångö—without making too many ferry crossings.
Planning for the Return to Gothenburg
Make sure you leave enough time to catch the return ferry and get back to Gothenburg without rushing.
Where to Eat in Gothenburg? Our Top Picks
Our tip for staying within your budget: look for lunch specials, which are often a better deal than dinner service. The Swedish chain Max also offers several vegetarian burgers. We’re not big fans of fast food, but this option came in handy.
In Gothenburg, we didn’t try much Swedish savory cuisine in order to stick to our budget. However, you’ll find meatballs, fish dishes, and shrimp open-faced sandwiches. The prices below reflect those during our stay and may have changed.
- Am Thuc Viet Restaurant: a Vietnamese restaurant that we found to be good and affordable, with dishes costing around €15 when we visited.
- The Barn: great burgers in a cozy atmosphere; it cost about 20 € per person for a burger and fries during our visit.
Gothenburg has many cafés where you can take a fika break.
- Steinbrenner & Nyberg: We loved their pastries—especially the cinnamon rolls—as well as their bread. Their stand at Saluhallen is a convenient spot for a fika break while exploring the city center.
Where to Stay in Gothenburg? Hotels and Campgrounds
The Avalon Hotel enjoys a central location and offers quiet, well-maintained rooms. Its rooftop pool is a real plus when it’s open.
Located in the residential neighborhood of Olivedal, Linnéplatsens Hotell & Vandrarhem is a charmingly decorated hostel that’s a great option for budget travelers. The tram provides easy access to downtown. Be sure to check the room and bathroom types when you book.
If you choose to visit Sweden in a motorhome or campervan, the Liseberg campground is located a few kilometers from downtown and is accessible by bike. During our stay, we found it to be clean and quiet, with a large playground for children.
The shared kitchen even had a dishwasher—a real luxury when camping in an RV or tent. Be sure to book in advance during peak season and check the current rates, as they may vary depending on the date and location.
An Unusual Activity: The Amphibious Bus
We discovered some surprising amphibious buses in downtown Gothenburg. Easily recognizable by their whale-themed decorations, they begin the tour on the streets before entering the water to continue the journey as a boat.
The tour lasts about an hour, and commentary is provided in English. We haven’t tried this activity ourselves, but it can be a fun way to see Gothenburg from both land and water. It is not suitable for children under three or for people with limited mobility.
How do I get to Gothenburg?
Traveling to Gothenburg by Plane
From Paris, depending on the season and date, you’ll find direct flights or flights with a layover.Gothenburg-Landvetter Airport is located about 25 kilometers from downtown. Shuttle buses take about 30 minutes to reach the Nils Ericson bus station, though the travel time may vary depending on traffic and stops.
Should you rent a car in Gothenburg?
You don’t need a car to visit the city center. It becomes useful if you continue your trip along the Bohuslän coast or to areas with fewer transportation options.
We found driving in Sweden to be pleasant. Speed limits vary frequently depending on the road, so pay close attention to traffic signs and weather conditions.
To compare rental prices, we use RentalCars. For example, you can pick up the car in downtown Gothenburg and drop it off at the airport.
Traveling to Gothenburg by Car and Ferry
From continental Europe, you can reach Sweden by road via Denmark and the Öresund Bridge, or take a ferry from Germany to Trelleborg or Malmö. The travel time depends on the port, the ferry company, and the route you choose.
Compare routes and schedules on Direct Ferries. On our trip, we paid €138 with TT-Line for a motorhome and three passengers. This price is for reference only: it varies significantly depending on the date, the vehicle, and the cabin. Our ferry was new and even had a sauna.
A road trip takes you through several countries: Before you leave, check the local regulations, any tolls, environmental zones, and fuel prices along your route.
Traveling to Gothenburg by Train
From Stockholm
Direct trains run between Stockholm and Gothenburg. The fastest trips take about three hours, while other departures take longer. Check travel times and any potential delays when booking.
From Oslo
Oslo is located about 300 kilometers north of Gothenburg. Depending on the schedule, the train or bus takes about three and a half to four hours to make the trip.
From Copenhagen
Direct trains run to Gothenburg via Malmö and the Öresund Bridge. The trip usually takes about three and a half to four hours.
From France
The train is an alternative to flying or driving, but the trip from Paris requires several transfers. The most logical route generally goes through Germany, Hamburg, and Copenhagen before reaching Gothenburg. Plan for at least a long day—often 17 to 20 hours or more—and check each leg of the trip carefully: schedules, night trains, and track closures change frequently. A stopover in Hamburg or Copenhagen makes the trip more comfortable.
Visiting Gothenburg in Winter
Gothenburg is also worth visiting in winter, when it has a very different atmosphere. The maritime climate is often damp and windy, the days are short, and snow isn’t guaranteed. Check out our detailed itinerary in the article about Gothenburg in winter.
- Ice Rink: A seasonal rink may be set up in the city center, particularly in Bältespännarparken. Its availability and dates vary from year to year, so be sure to check the local schedule.
- Christmas Markets: Haga and Kronhuset typically host Christmas events on certain dates in late November and December. Check the calendar for the year before planning your trip.
- Christmas at Liseberg: The park is open on select dates, featuring holiday lights, decorations, and winter activities. Be sure to book in advance for the most popular dates.
From December through February, try the “onion” technique: wear several layers to adjust to the cold outdoors and the warm indoors.
Be sure to pack thermal or wool underwear, a warm sweater, an insulating layer, a waterproof and windproof jacket, and waterproof shoes. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and a scarf. Waterproof pants can come in handy on very damp days.
Find all our locations on the map
We’ve listed all the places and addresses mentioned above on a map to help you find your way around.
A Few Swedish Customs You Should Know About
- Sweden is a member ofthe European Union but does not use the euro. Prices are listed in Swedish kronor, abbreviated as SEK.
- Card payments are widely accepted, even for small amounts. However, be sure to have a backup plan and check the fees charged by your bank.
- Restaurants and certain activities may seem expensive compared to France. Lunch specials, accommodations with kitchens, and picnics can help you stay within your budget.
- During our five-week trip, we generally felt safe. As always, take the usual precautions, especially in crowded places.
- Some museums, shops, and cafés close earlier than in France, especially during the off-season or on weekends. Be sure to check the hours on the day of your visit.
- We appreciated the attention paid to design, public spaces, families, and reuse. There are many secondhand shops in Gothenburg, just as there are throughout the rest of the country.
If you’re looking for ideas around Gothenburg, check out our selectionof places to see and things to do in Sweden, along with a map to help you plan your itinerary.
We hope you have a wonderful trip! Feel free to leave a comment or give us five stars below, let us know if you’re planning this trip, and ask any questions here or on Instagram. We’ll be happy to answer them.
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