Things to Do in Gothenburg
Activities to do in Gothenburg
With a long list of enthralling things to do in Gothenburg, this Sweden city has evolved into a no-miss destination in most of the Sweden packages. A day out to Liseberg Amusement Park is the most preferred thing to do in Gothenburg as the amusement park in a family entertainer with several amusing family rides, imposing roller coasters that could give a chill in the spine, and never the least, lots of fun, music, and games.
For those who seek love real-time water adventure, Gothenburg's Southern Archipelago is the go-to place. Offering absolutely nerve-wracking water activities to do in Gothenburg like sea angling and seal safaris, this place is for brave souls. For a laid back day after adventure and fun, Gothenburg has the best floating public pool with a sauna to swim and have fun. And the best part is that this sauna in Frihamnen is completely free!
If you are keen on a sightseeing tour, then the top things to see in Gothenburg are the Skansen Kronan which has amazing views of Gothenburg city, the canals that run through the city, and the Magasinsgatan street where you could shop for the best Gothenburg designs. The local seafood of Gothenburg is something that invites tourists repeatedly for a food tour!
Here are some of the best things to do in Gothenburg:
There are several idyllic spots dotted with colourful flower beds, waterfalls and lush greenery inside the park where you can enjoy family picnics. Music lovers can rock away with the best musicians on the Lilla Scenen and Stora Scenen stages or watch wonderful shows at Liseberg Theatre, Rondo and Kaninscenen.
Location: Örgrytevägen 5, 402 22 Göteborg, Sweden
Timings: 12pm -10pm
Miles of asphalt paths running through open fields and woodlands are great for running and taking a stroll. The outdoor gym at the northern end and a running track at the southern end of the park are places where you can visit for a workout. In a bike ride you can explore the interior of the path along the forested trails all the way to Vastra Frolunda.
Location: Slottsskogspromenaden, 414 76 Göteborg, Sweden
Among the garden’s vast collection of plants are the tropical orchids in Sweden, carnivorous plants and the rare Easter Island Tree. Climb up the garden to Haberget which overlooks the Anggardsbergen, Linnestaden, Kungs Dugard, Slottsskogen and the harbour with Alvsborgs Fastening and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Location: Carl Skottsbergs gata 22A, 413 19 Göteborg, Sweden
The most impressive holdings of the museum include 19th century Nordic art by famous artists such as Edvard Munch, Bruno Lilkefors, Anders Zorn and Severin Krøyer. The French collection owes its brilliance to the master painters such as Gauguin, Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh and Chagall. Those looking for Renaissance and Baroque should take a look at the masterpieces by Van Dyck, Rembrandt, Rubens Jacob Jordaens.
Location: Götaplatsen 6, 412 56 Göteborg, Sweden
Timings: Tuesday- Thursday 11am- 8pm, Friday-Sunday and all holidays 11am- 5pm, Mondays closed
Haga
Your shopping spree is never complete without fika-a Swedish style coffee break and Haga is the best venue for the occasion. From toy stores to curio shops, fashion outlets and local marchpane there is something for every taste. While in Haga don’t forget to taste a plate sized cinnamon bun found in Café Husaren.
Location: Haga Nygata, Gothenburg
Those looking for rock climbing or bouldering, can visit Arsdalen, a nature reserve on Hono. If you are on a romantic getaway, stay in a small house at Kajkanten in the island of Vrango and enjoy the floating sauna during summer.
Take a tour to the Chemistry Lab and be amazed to see exciting reactions in lab experiments. As you make your way through the rickety suspension bridges up the 25-metre-high kapok trees, you can get close to butterflies, apes and other animals. The other zones namely Space, The Reptilarium and The Hub have various exciting features for kids and adults.
Location: Södra Vägen 50, 412 54 Göteborg, Sweden
Timings: Thursday -Sunday 10am -6pm, Monday- Wednesday closed
Location: Slussgatan 1, 411 06 Göteborg, Sweden
Timings: Sunday- Saturday 7am- 6pm
As you walk around the six-sided shape and dappled granite walls of the fortress you cannot but appreciate how much effort it took for the soldiers to transport the stone up the hill which was required for building the structure of Skansen Kronan.
Location: Skansberget, Leijonsparres Väg 15, 413 04 Göteborg, Sweden
Take a look at Sweden’s only preserved Viking ship which showcases a striking contrast between the bourgeoisie life and the trade union struggle during the 19th century. The museum also organises temporary exhibitions that deal with contemporary issues of the place and diverse activities. There is a playroom for kids, a children’s museum and shop, a café and a restaurant inside the museum where you can relax and refresh after the excursion.
Location: Norra Hamngatan 12, 411 14 Göteborg, Sweden
Timings: Tuesday-Sunday 10am- 5pm, Wednesday 10am -8pm, Mondays closed
A guided boat ride from Lilla Bommen takes you through the wharf to the fortress in about 30 minutes. On the island you can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the historical monuments and beautiful natural surroundings. You will be informed about the history of the fortress since 1653 till date by your tour guide.
Location: Nya Älvsborgs Fästning, 426 76 Västra Frölunda, Sweden
The building structure was inspired by Gothic architecture showcased in the churches of that time. Being located near the sea, you can get fresh seafood in the market without extra transportation charges.
Location: Rosenlundsgatan, Fisktorget 4, 411 20 Göteborg, Sweden
Timing: 9am-5pm Tue-Thu, to 6pm Fri, 10am-3pm Sat
The Sea Lab offers exciting challenges and experiments for adventure seekers that include mechanisms of a submarine, ways to protect seats from pollution, how heavy steel ships float on ocean waters and many more things. For the little visitors, the daring ingenious Virgelina is awaiting to welcome them on board Maritiman. By telling tales of maritime adventures to new young visitors, she has become their best friend over the years.
Location: Packhusplatsen 12, 411 13 Göteborg, Sweden
Timings: 11am- 6pm
The elegant décor and wooden roof of the church that pay tribute to the glorious maritime history of the city are well worth beholding in your visit if art and culture are your things. The most striking feature of the church is its tower which dominates the major part of the city's skyline. One of the highly recommended places to see in Gothenburg as a part of ship cruise excursion.
Location: Store Bankgatan 15, 413 18 Göteborg, Sweden
The gift shop inside the museum showcases varied articles ranging from toys, books and clothing to advertising posters and other gifts for Volvo enthusiasts. After having toured through the nook and corner of the museum it's now time to have some coffee or tea with a good Swedish sandwich.
Location: Arendals Skans, 405 08 Göteborg, Sweden
Timings: 10am -5pm
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Which are the best things to do in Gothenburg?
1. Enjoy a thrilling ride at Liseberg Amusement Park: Since its inception in 1923, the Liseberg Amusement Park has been a family favorite. With offering a number of thrilling roller coaster rides, entertaining rides, music, games, and more, a thrilling ride at the amusement park is bound to brim your heart with joy. The large varieties of exciting rides are bound to add thrill to your vacation in Gothenburg while emerging as one of the best things to do in Gothenburg.
Location: Orgryte Vagen 5, 41251 Gothenburg
Price: 20 SEK
Timings: 12pm-10pm
2. Explore an outdoor adventure in Gothenburg's Southern Archipelago: If you are looking for one of the best things to do in Gothenburg, you must try out an outdoor adventure or a day out at the Southern Archipelago. Thanks to the beautiful adventure-filled location, and the Southern Archipelago offers seal safaris, lobster fishing, sailing, boat excursions, sea angling, and a lot more. Enjoy an exciting outdoor adventure with your loved ones while exploring ferry rides.
Location: Kattegat
Price: 90 minute ticket costs 28 SEK
Timings: 10am-7pm
3. Explore the more significant science center: Located centrally in Gothenburg, Universeum is well known for being the largest science center and serves as a great day out for the family. Well known for being the largest in Europe, it lets you explore the best of safari, indoor rainforest, and being up close with insects, lizards, sloths, and several other species available around the world. Do not forget to explore the ocean tank, home to the largest varieties of sharks, with sand tiger shark, the largest of its kind.
Location: Sodra vagen 50, 40020 Gothenburg
Price: 180 SEK
Timings: 10am-6pm
4. Explore the city with waterways: Gothenburg has been shaped by being closely situated to the sea, the waterways, and the river. By offering a magnificent view of parks, squares, and buildings, exploring the city in a kayak offers a fun-filled experience. If you are looking for the best things to see in Gothenburg, try the kayak. It is a stand-up paddleboard, and you can also explore special ocean buses and padden, exclusively available for offering city tours through waterways.
Location: Kungsportsavenyn
Price: 250kr/seat
5. Enjoy surrounding views from Skansen kronan: The popular Skansen Kronan fortress offers a magnificent glimpse of the ancient history of Sweden, along with offering a mesmerizing view of the surrounding city. Although the building once served as a prison, however at present, it encompasses a conference center along with a restaurant that serves delectable food with an even more gorgeous view of the city. Take your loved one on a date to the fortress and experience the best sunset of your life while marking off doing the best things to do in Gothenburg.
Location: Skansberget, Leijon Spares Vag 15, 413 04, Gothenburg
6. Try the local craft beer: Gothenburg offers a number of local craft breweries, which are popped up around the town. Offering delectable local brews, the varied beer pubs in Gothenburg is the perfect destination to unwind your day. Explore the local taste to experience more of what the city has to offer. Emerging as one of the best things to do in Gothenburg, the activity is bound to help you experience a local flavor of the city.
Location: Brewers Beer Bar
Timings: 4 PM-10PM
Price: $8 (avg price)
7. Shop for Gothenburg designs: If you are waiting to shop your heart out, you can explore the local clothing brands, a number of second-hand items, and interior design, which are just a few of the treasures that you can get your hands out while exploring the city. The local designs are a must to explore while you are traveling to the beautiful city of Gothenburg.
Location: Area surrounding street Magasinsgatan
8. Indulge in local seafood: If you are a seafood lover, you can never get enough of the local seafood found nearby. Among the popular species available, shellfish and fish is the real specialty located in the port city in Gothenburg. Feel free to explore the nearby local restaurants and indulge in shrimp sandwiches, oysters, clams, and just enjoy the local cuisines, as it is definitely one of the best things to do in Gothenburg.
Location: Sjobaren Fish Seafood, Haga Nygata 25, 413 01, Gothenburg
9. Go for a swim and sauna in Frihamnen: If you have been eyeing visiting Frihamen, there can never be a better reason than this. You must explore the place by experiencing the most thrilling activities enjoyed out there. Experience a floating public pool and a spectacular sauna where the activities are accessible by all and are free of cost! This pulls most of the crowd out there, being a hotspot for one of the best activities to do in Gothenburg and without breaking your bank.
Location: 417 55 Gothenburg
What are the romantic things to do in Gothenburg?
1. Explore the canals on the Padden boat: Get your partner along to spend a memorable time by the winding canals of Gothenburg. Explore the padden boat, which is flattering sightseeing barges that take you along the unique landmarks of the city. Do not forget to carry a camera along to capture the magnificent views of the cranes in the Fish Church market and the docks.
2. Explore Fika in a nearby café: Coffee is loved by all, and Fika is simply a Swedish term for a coffee break. If you and your partner are coffee enthusiasts, you must take your partner along to explore the local taste of Fika, coupled with some sandwiches and a cinnamon bun.
3. Enjoy a spa day: The popular spa center of Hagabadet has been a local favorite since its inception. Enjoy some romantic time with your significant other while exploring enjoyable steam baths, yoga, meditation, and other wellness opportunities.
4. Enjoy stargazing: Spend some alone time with your partner by losing yourselves amidst nature. Go skygazing at Slottsskogen (Castle Forest), where the northern end offers an observatory organizing stargazing events for visitors during the summer months, one of the best activities to do in Gothenburg.
What are the adventure activities to do in Gothenburg?
1. Glide along the river of Götaälv: Rated as one of the most thrilling outdoor activities to do in Gothenburg, tourists can glide on the rumbling waters of The Göta älv river at a speed of about 20 kmph. As you glide, you can feel the wind caressing your body and the views through the ride are an adventurous feast to the eyes.
2. Canoeing at Delsjon Lake: Located 3.7 miles from the centre of Gothenburg, the popular Delsjon Lake is the kind of lake that most cities yearn for. Surrounded by blue waters, tourists can rent or buy canoes and enjoy adventuring the still waters of the Delsjon Lake.
3. A roller coaster ride at Liseberg: The knuckle-clenching wooden roller coaster ride offers the most fun experiences of all time. Going up to a height of 118ft, the ride can give some real chills down your spine! You must explore the rides if you have a strong heart, as it is definitely not for the weak-hearted.
4. Hiking: The popular Gotaleden walking trail, 71 km long, runs between Alingsas and Gothenburg while offering a captivating natural beauty. Both locals and tourists prefer the walking trail for indulging in hiking and similar other adventurous activities.
Which are the best museums to visit in Gothenburg?
1. Gothenburg Museum of Art: With six varying floors ranging from the 15th century to the present, the Museum of Art in Gothenburg reflects a Nordic profile. A proud owner of the ancient Nordic painting collection, it also boasts the presence of several world-renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Picasso, and more.
2. Natural History Museum: A museum catering to the interests of all, the Natural History Museum is an absolute delight for all. From preserving diving essentials to criminal investigators, it is a favorite among both locals and tourists.
3. Rohsska Musset: The Rohsska Museum boasts a large collection of 50,000 objects where the majority of which are European and Swedish objects. With a varied antique of both Roman and Green origin, this museum offers temporary exhibitions from distinctive eras and regions.
4. Museum of World Culture: This museum is a lot more than your standard exhibitions; instead, it hosts seminars, films, workshops, festivals, and a lot more. Entry to the museum is free of cost, and most of the events cost a negligible amount. Known for being one of the best things to see in Gothenburg, the Museum of World Culture is a popular hotspot for all.
What are the best things to do in Gothenburg for free?
1. Monday foam rolling class: You can register yourself to explore the foam rolling class, and the sessions are a relaxing workout, ideal for your legs. The sessions take place at the popular, The Centre of Health and Performance at Skanegatan 14b.
2. Public Sauna: You can book a spa session at the free public sauna at Jubileumsparken. The piece of architecture is primarily created from recycled materials, and you have three distinct options to book, female-only, male-only and mixed. Now relax and unwind a tiring day at the public sauna, offering you a spa session for free!
3. Get free food: One of the best things to do in Gothenburg is to head to Kings Head Pub and enjoy an additional buffet with the purchase of one single drink. Explore a free buffet on a Friday and eat to your heart’s content in Gothenburg.
4. Visit concerts in Gothenburg Opera: Located centrally in the city center, the Opera hosts several classical music shows, theatre, and dances around the world. You get to watch a varied array of performances for free. Do not miss out on attending a free concert at Gothenburg, as it is one of the best activities to do in Gothenburg.
How to reach Gothenburg?
You can reach Gothenburg by air, bus and train. To reach Gothenburg, you can take a flight to the nearest airport at Gothenburg Landvetter Airport. To reach by bus, you can communicate by a few popular bus routes comprising Berlin to Gothenburg, Copenhagen to Gothenburg. Lastly, to reach by train, you can take a Eurostar to Paris, followed by Deutsche Bahn train services to Hamburg and a stopover at the Copenhagen International train station to finally land in Gothenburg.
What is the best time to visit Gothenburg?
The best time to visit Gothenburg is between June to August, as this is when the weather is pleasant. The lowest temperature is recorded in January as 17.6 degrees F, making it difficult for tourists to visit. Hence, if you would like to explore the best of the city, you must visit Gothenburg in summer.
How many days do I need in Gothenburg?
If you would like to visit Gothenburg properly, you must make an itinerary of at least 3-4 days to explore the local things to see in Gothenburg and indulge in the best local activities. While you can take two days to explore the local attractions, one day can be spent for relaxation or local shopping. Thus, a minimum of a 3-day itinerary is suggested for exploring the city in its best glory.
What is special about Gothenburg?
Gothenburg invites a new era of traveling by offering award-winning restaurants, historical monuments, a magnificent coastline, world-class local seafood and much more. The second city of Sweden, Gothenburg, is distinctive in its nature and is completely different from Stockholm.
Is Gothenburg worth visiting?
Yes! Gothenburg is worth visiting with offering a vast array of historical sites, multiple things to see in Gothenburg, exciting attractions which are both exquisite and affordable to explore. Moreover, with it offering so many kinds of local seafood, restaurants, and cafes to discover, Gothenburg has indeed got your holiday plans sorted.
Is Gothenburg cheaper than Stockholm?
Gothenburg is 11% cheaper as compared to Stockholm. You can easily witness this when shopping, dining out, or exploring the city. The daily average expenditure for tourists in Gothenburg is about KR 805 while tourists will have to spend about KR 1433 per day in Stockholm.
Does it snow in Gothenburg?
Gothenburg has mild winters as compared to the northern part of Sweden. However, you cannot deny having snow as it is although unusual, and at times, the city experiences plenty of it.
Can you see the Northern Lights from Gothenburg?
Seeing the Northern Lights from Gothenburg is relatively unheard of. You can see the lights much further south than Jokkmokk.
