7 days in Gothenburg, Sweden: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Nestled along the west coast of Sweden, Gothenburg is a gorgeous port city that mesmerizes visitors with its beautiful canals, lush parks, rich history, and a vibrant cultural scene. As the second-largest city in Sweden, Gothenburg boasts charming cobblestone streets, a fantastic array of museums and galleries, and perhaps the best seafood in the entire country. It’s time to dive into the Scandinavian dream in this captivating city, making friends with friendly locals and getting a taste of their famous “fika” coffee culture.
Things to consider before arriving in Gothenburg
Gothenburg’s public transport is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate, making it simple to explore the city.
The city is family-friendly, offering many attractions and activities for all ages, including Liseberg Amusement Park.
Sweden can be quite expensive, so prepare your budget accordingly.
✅ Gothenburg is perfect for those who appreciate art, history, and culture, as well as nature enthusiasts who love parks and outdoor activities.
What to bring with you
1. Comfortable walking shoes – you’ll be exploring the city on foot quite a bit!
2. Warm layers – even during the summer months, the weather can be unpredictable.
3. Rain gear – Gothenburg sees frequent rainfall, so it’s best to be prepared.
4. A reusable water bottle – tap water is safe and delicious in Sweden.
Best time of the year to visit Gothenburg
The best time to visit Gothenburg is between May and September, when you can enjoy pleasant weather, longer daylight hours, and plenty of outdoor events and festivals. However, if you’re a fan of cozy, Scandinavian winters, you might also consider visiting during the Christmas season to experience the magical Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and festive atmosphere.
How to get into the city
1. By plane: Landvetter Airport (GOT) is the closest international airport, located about 25km east of Gothenburg. From there, you can take the Flygbussarna Airport Coach or a taxi to the city center.
2. By train: Gothenburg is well-connected by train with Stockholm, Oslo, and Copenhagen. The central train station, Göteborg Centralstation, is located in the heart of the city.
3. By bus: FlixBus and Nettbuss operate long-distance bus services, connecting Gothenburg with various destinations in Sweden and Europe. The main bus terminal, Nils Ericson Terminal, is situated right next to the central train station.
7 day city guide trip to Gothenburg
Day 1: Welcome to Gothenburg!
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Husaren, famous for their giant cinnamon rolls. Then head to the Gothenburg Museum of Art, where you can admire works from Nordic artists such as Edvard Munch and Anders Zorn. Afterward, stroll around Haga, a charming neighborhood full of boutiques and cafes. Enjoy dinner at Restaurant 28+, which offers a seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients.
Day 2: Boat Tour and Seafood
Take a morning boat tour along the canals, with Paddan Boat Tours, to see the city from a different perspective. Then head to the Fish Market, where you can taste fresh seafood and learn about the city’s fishing industry. In the afternoon, visit Liseberg amusement park, Scandinavia’s largest park, with plenty of rides and attractions.
Day 3: Archipelago Adventure
Take a day trip to the southern archipelago of Gothenburg. Hop on a ferry in Saltholmen and enjoy the stunning views while sailing to Vrångö island. Walk around the island, enjoy the beaches, and have lunch at Vrångö Värdshus, a cozy restaurant with a Swedish twist.
Day 4: History and Gardens
Start your day at the Gothenburg City Museum, where you’ll learn about the city’s history and culture. Afterward, head to the Garden Society of Gothenburg, where you can admire the beautiful flower gardens and greenhouses. Have dinner at the historic Café Kronhuset, which dates back to the 17th century.
Day 5: Day Trip to Marstrand
Take a day trip to Marstrand, a charming island off the coast. Explore the Carlstens Fortress, with its stunning views of the harbor, and walk around the picturesque alleys of the island. Have lunch at the iconic restaurant, Grand Hotel Marstrand, and then relax on the beach.
Day 6: Gothenburg’s Canals and Parks
Start your day with a visit to the Museum of World Culture, which showcases art and artifacts from around the world. Then take a boat tour along the canals, passing through the beautiful parks of Slottsskogen and Keillers Park. Have dinner at the iconic Sjömagasinet Restaurant, where you can taste modern Swedish cuisine.
Day 7: Sunday in Gothenburg
Spend your Sunday morning at the Feskekôrka fish market, where you can buy fresh seafood, and enjoy it in the nearby Kronhus Park. In the afternoon, visit the Volvo Museum, where you can learn about the history of the company and see some classic models. Finish your day with a relaxing sauna experience at the Art Garden Spa.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Gothenburg
If you’re looking for other places to visit near Gothenburg, I recommend two destinations:
– Stockholm: Take the train to the Swedish capital, which takes around 3 hours. Explore the charming Gamla Stan neighborhood, visit the iconic Royal Palace, and see the modern art at the Museum of Photography.
– Oslo: Norway’s capital is just a 3-hour bus or train ride away. Admire the views from the Opera House, explore the Vigeland Park, and learn about Viking history at the Viking Ship Museum.
