City Breaks in Gothenburg

Gothenburg at a glance

Gothenburg, though slightly smaller than Sweden’s capital, is brimming with appeal from its cultural museums, festivals and concert halls to its waterfront aquariums, boutiques and award-winning restaurants. Notoriously friendly and laidback, the city offers a reprieve from the hectic pace of a larger city, while maintaining the atmosphere of a hip, progressively modern university town that hums with activity such as the annual Gothenburg Culture Festival and Summerburst Music Festival, not to mention internationally recognized performances at the acclaimed opera and concert halls.

A number of heritage sites are showcased in this west coast city including the 18^th century Haga district where visitors will find cafes and trendy shops housed in charming wooden houses along cobblestone streets. Just a short distance from the city centre lie the picturesque Gothenburg Archipelago, a collection of more than 20 scenic islands dotting the coastline, each with their own unique sights, nature walks and villages to explore.

Perfect if you’re looking for:

• Art and culture
• Indulgent cuisine
• Beachfront attractions 

Getting around

Västtrafik operates Gothenburg’s tram and bus system. Tickets have to be purchased in advance from  Västtrafik service centres. Some shops in the city centre also sell tickets as well as prepaid cards.

There are a couple of ferry services that provide transportation to the archipelago, most offering routes that run every hour or less.

Bicycles are also a popular way to get around Gothenburg. Automated bike loan systems found throughout the city lend bikes for 30-minute increments at no charge.

Shopping in Gothenburg

International stores blend with Gothenburg’s own fashion designs to offer a dynamic shopping atmosphere, from the trendy Magasinsgatan neighbourhood where you will find top Swedish brands, interior design shops, and popular cafes, to Linné with its independent shops featuring fashion and beauty products as well as a number of chic restaurants to enjoy lunch or dinner.

Dining in Gothenburg

From world class restaurants to traveling food trucks, Gothenburg’s food scene is high standard, rustic meets gourmet, sometimes daring, but always pleasing. Herring, lingonberry sauce, and mash potatoes are classic favourites, but be prepared to surprise your tastebuds at any one of the city’s Michelin star restaurants serving up the latest in culinary delights. 

Must-try local dishes:

• Inkokt lax: poached salmon served cold with mayonnaise or hollandaise sauce.
• Bruna bönor och flask: a classic fried pork and brown bean dish.
• Ostkaka: Swedish cheesecake that is typically served warm with a choice of jam.

Get your tailor-made city break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Gothenburg designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

• All travel and transfers on days of your choice 
• Accommodation from our handpicked range of Gothenburg hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.