Best things to do in Gothenburg

Find out more about those top places in Gothenburg

Things to do in Gothenburg - Sweden

Gothenburg: Sweden's Cool, Calm, and Collected Second City

If you’re looking for a laid-back alternative to the bustling streets of Stockholm, then Gothenburg should be at the top of your list. With its unique charm and a sense of understated cool, this second-city of Sweden offers visitors a relaxed atmosphere, stunning places to visit, and a few hidden gems that are perfect for those who prefer sightseeing at a slower pace.

Step Back in Time in Gothenburg's Old Town

Gothenburg might not have the blockbuster attractions that Stockholm does, but its old town, with winding cobbled lanes and peaceful 17th-century canals, offers a beautiful mix of history and charm. The antique trams rattling down the street are like something out of a vintage postcard, offering a perfect photo op for any budding Instagram influencer.

Haga Neighborhood: One of the city’s most iconic areas, Haga, is where you’ll get a true taste of Gothenburg’s bohemian side. This historic quarter is filled with half-timbered buildings, cozy cafes, and shops where you can find everything from quirky vintage clothing to hand-crafted Swedish goods. You might even spot a few aging hippies soaking in the laid-back vibe—it's one of the top attractions for those seeking a slower pace of life.

The Relaxed Gothenburg Lifestyle

One of the reasons Gothenburg is so beloved by its residents (and visitors!) is its relaxed atmosphere. Unlike Stockholm, which can feel a bit hurried and polished, Gothenburg is a city that encourages visitors to slow down, sip a coffee, and just take in the moment.

Fika, Anyone?: In Sweden, there's an obsession with fika—the mid-morning or afternoon coffee break paired with a sweet treat, and Gothenburg is no exception. Whether you're popping into a cute café in Haga or grabbing a pastry by the canals, you’ll find that fika is more of a lifestyle than a simple activity. Take a break from sightseeing and indulge in this beloved tradition—trust us, it’s a must-do.
Canal-Side Parks: In summer, locals flock to the canal-side parks to relax in the sun, and it’s not hard to see why. These tranquil green spaces are the perfect spot to unwind, people-watch, or read a book while sipping on your coffee. In fact, they’re so relaxing, you might just forget you’re still in a city!

Gateway to the Gothenburg Archipelago

One of the hidden gems of Gothenburg is its proximity to the Gothenburg Archipelago, a group of wooded islands just off the coast. From the city center, you can easily catch a ferry to these stunning islands, where you can enjoy everything from hiking and cycling to beachside picnics and seafood feasts.

Ferry Adventures: The ferry ride itself is one of the most relaxing things to do in Gothenburg, offering gorgeous views of the coastline and the North Sea. Once on the islands, you'll find charming fishing villages, picturesque harbors, and plenty of opportunities for nature walks and outdoor exploration. Whether you’re into boating, hiking, or just relaxing by the water, the archipelago is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

Gothenburg: The Cool, Calm City with a Hint of Swedish Charm

Whether you’re strolling through Haga’s cozy streets, enjoying a fika in the sun, or exploring the serene Gothenburg Archipelago, this city offers a perfect blend of relaxed charm and understated beauty. It may not have the grand historical sites of Stockholm, but Gothenburg’s cozy atmosphere, vibrant neighborhoods, and outdoor adventures make it an ideal destination for those looking to experience a more laid-back side of Sweden.

Ready to Visit Gothenburg?

Pack your bags, bring your appetite for fika, and get ready to experience Sweden’s coolest second city. With its charming canals, hip neighborhoods, and natural beauty, Gothenburg is sure to steal your heart—even if it’s a bit too chill to make it onto the tourist radar of most first-time visitors!

Liseberg

In all of Sweden, Liseberg remains one of the tourist attraction sites that draws the highest number of tourists every single year. Liseberg has beautiful sights and remarkable sites in abundance. Of these, there is the amusement park that attracts about 3 million people yearly, musical concerts that features great performances and an inexhaustible list of nice restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy delicacies from all over the world.
Universeum

The Universeum Science Museum is very popular among kids for many reasons, it features a humid rainforest and a number of tropical birds, complete with different beautiful species of butterflies. The museum also has many colorful snakes safely kept away in glasses and many other fun sights that make kids love the place. A tour of Gothenburg is never complete without bringing your kids here to have some fun.
Haga

Haga is one of the oldest neighborhoods in all of Sweden. That is why you might find structures that are pretty ancient scattered around. This location is filled with pieces of evidence of a very long history, one of which is the Skansen Kronan. Generally, Haga is a nice place to be as there are a number of great restaurants and interesting activities to partake in.

Gothenburg Walking Tour
Gothenburg Museum of Art

The Gothenburg Museum of Art is one of the most popular museums in all of Sweden. This museum has exhibits of artworks made by artists that revolutionized the art world including Rembrandt, Edvard Munch, Rubens, Anders Zorn, Carl Larssonz, and some other notable few. The Gothenburg Museum of Art snagged the Museum of the Year in 2018. A tour of this museum gives you an opportunity to drink in the beautiful art.
Gothenburg Archipelago

A tour around the Gothenburg Archipelago is one filled with many surprises. It is best described as many beautiful attraction sites all locked up in a single location. What's more, you could take this tour by either road or boat. Beautiful sights await you with the Gothenburg Archipelago being touted as one of the most exquisite sites in Sweden.
Trädgårdsföreningen

Trädgårdsföreningen is a park that was built in 1942 and it has since then become a haven for relaxation. In recent times, there have been new additions to the park, such as the palm house which is essentially a palace of crystals and the rose gardens. The rose gardens are quite a sight to take in with the scent guaranteed to make you heady. This horticulture park plays host to many tourists every single day.