Things to do in Gothenburg and beyond

Discover Gothenburg and beyond by public transport

Gothenburg and West Sweden has a great public transport network that make it the obvious choice for getting anywhere in the city and around the region. Plan your trips on the Västtrafik website or in the app ToGo. Gothenburg is also a great city to explore on foot, with most of the city centre’s top attractions within easy walking distance.

1. The city: Green spaces and city centre

We start our explorations with a city walk. Gothenburg’s commitment to nature and sustainability is evident in its lush parks and green spaces, such as Trädgårdsföreningen, Kungsparken, and Botaniska, (The Botanical Garden).

Gothenburg has a thriving food scene with a strong focus on local ingredients and sustainability. The city is also known for its craft beer, with a wide range of local breweries and taprooms to discover.

More must-sees in the city centre:

• Paddan Sightseeing – discover the city from the canals
• Saluhallen – a historic market hall for food lovers
• Haga – the old district with cosy cafes and unique shops
• Feskekörka – the iconic fish market hall
• Museum of Gothenburg – the story of Gothenburg from ancient times up until today.
• Liseberg – visit Europe’s leading amusement park

2. Gothenburg’s archipelago

Gothenburg’s glittering archipelago is just one part of the chain of more than 8,000 islands and islets that stretches along the coast of Bohuslän all the way to Norway. The archipelago is perfect for both day trips and longer stays, with something new to experience in every season.

The Southern Archipelago includes the islands Styrsö, Vrångö and Donsö, where the small fishing villages offer a glimpse into Swedish coastal life and a taste of the freshest seafood from popular restaurants like Isbolaget and Café Öbergska.

Always worth a visit is the charming island of Hönö in the Northern Archipelago, a happening place all year round and host to excellent restaurants, cafés, hotels, and small shops and boutiques. A great way to explore Gothenburg’s northern archipelago is to hike parts of the Archipelago trail.

• Accommodation tips: Skärgårdshotellet Hönö, Isbolaget Donsö, Kajkanten Vrångö, Kusthotellet Styrsö
• More things to do in Gothenburg's archipelago

3. Discover historic houses and industrial heritage

Experience some Swedish history set in beautiful surroundings. Gunnebo House and Gardens is one of Scandinavia’s best-preserved 18th-century estates and just 20 minutes from Gothenburg city centre. With guided tours and events held year-round, visitors can immerse themselves in the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy merchant John Hall and his family.

• Top tip: Make sure to find time for lunch or Swedish Fika at the restaurant at Gunnebo

Equally captivating is Råda Manor, a beautifully preserved estate and recently restored manor house, dating back to medieval times. Both houses have kitchen gardens that supply fresh produce to their restaurants and inspire visitors with ideas for their own gardens.

Part of West Sweden’s industrial heritage is beautifully showcased at sites like Nääs Fabriker in the beautifully preserved village of Tollered, a former textile mill turned into a hotel, spa and design gallery.

4. Explore design, art and creative culture

Gothenburg has a thriving design scene, and the historic Haga neighbourhood is a great place to explore independent shops, Scandinavian design, vintage finds and cosy cafés.

• Top tip: Try out the famous and giant Cinnamon buns at Café Husaren, they are the size of a small head

The city offers plenty of sustainable shopping, while Borås, just an hour away, is a great day trip for anyone interested in textiles and design. Visit the Textile Fashion Centre for exhibitions and the Textile Museum.

Art is everywhere in Borås, from photography and international works at Abecita Pop Art and Photo to large-scale murals and sculptures across the city.

• Tips on cafes in Borås: Balthazar Bakery & Deli, The Company
  
  

5. Small towns worth visiting near Gothenburg

There are several charming villages near Gothenburg that are worth a visit and easy to reach by public transport. For example Alingsås, known as the fika capital of Sweden. The town’s café culture originated during the boom years of the textile industry and with around thirty cafés serving pastries and coffee, you will be spoilt for choice.

• 4 great cafes in Alingsås: Nolbygård Ekobageri, Nygrens Café, Ekstedts Bageri & Cafe, Mormor Bettys kringlor

Other charming towns within easy reach of Gothenburg include:

• Lidköping – Set on the shores of Lake Vänern, Sweden’s largest lake, and known for Rörstrand porcelain. Nearby highlights include Läckö Castle and Platåbergens UNESCO Global Geopark.
• Strömstad – A lively coastal town and gateway to the Koster Islands and Kosterhavet National Park.

Would you like tips on more experiences in Gothenburg?