What to See & Do in Gothenburg
Sights
One of the best ways to see Gothenburg is by trams, which run all over town and slowly enough for you to get a proper look at the attractions. Another alternative is to walk: Gothenburg is a fairly small city. Brunnsparken, in the town centre, is a good place to start from. All trams terminate here, so it is easily accessible, and the main shopping centre is located nearby. There is a lot on offer, both in the city itself and in the surrounding district.
Liseberg – This is Gothenburg’s renowned amusement park, first opened in 1923 and one of the most popular destinations in Sweden. Over two million people visit Liseberg each year to enjoy the park’s rides, which include a Big Dipper.
Gotaplatsen – Gotaplatsen is the cultural centre of Gothenburg, and was the site of the 1923 World Fair. Today Gotaplatsen is home to a number of theatres and art centres. Of particular interest is the Poseidon statue, erected in the square in 1931.
Gothenburg Opera – Built in 1994 the Opera House has two stages where a variety of popular operas and musicals are performed throughout the year.
Gothenburg’s Skyscraper – At 86 metres, Gothenburg’s Skyscraper is the tallest building in the city. At the top, sip a coffee at one of Gothenburg’s finest cafes whilst enjoying spectacular views of the city.
Gothenburg City Museum – Visitors who want to explore Gothenburg’s past should visit the City Museum. Housed in a renovated 18th century building, the museum focuses on Gothenburg’s history, industry and culture. Displays cover the past 9,000 years, and include of course the Vikings.
Harbour – On cool summer evenings, the setting is perfect for a quiet stroll down by the harbour. Here you can see the famous Barken Viking ship.
Skansen Kronan – One of two fortresses built to protect the city; this is now a military museum with breathtaking views of Gothenburg and the nearby harbour.
Museum of Art and Hasselblad Centre - The Museum of Art is Sweden’s second largest museum. It has displays of Scandinavian art, whilst the associated Hasselblad Centre concentrates on photographic works.
Fish Harbour Market – Started in 1874 when the building was nicknamed Fish Church because of its pointed roof. On offer is an exceptional array of seafood, and visitors can take part in a seafood auction or visit one of the nearby seafood restaurants.
Gothenburg Cathedral – One of the area’s most popular destinations, Gothenburg Cathedral was built in 1815, and is a showcase for exquisite neoclassical architecture.
Food, Drink & Entertainment
Gothenburg is a stunningly beautiful city, and the main street, Kungsportavenyn – known simply as Avenyn – is a hive of restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels and shops, and is at the centre of life in the city. Gothenburg is also well known as an event city, hosting major international events and artists, yet despite its sophisticated feel it still manages to maintain a small-town charm.
Accommodation
As in any major city, there is a wide range of accommodation for visitors. However, Kungsportsplatsen, as well as being the liveliest shopping area in Gothenburg, is probably the best bet for finding a place to stay. Its many hotels may sometimes look a bit anonymous from the outside, but they are all good, and the genuine city environment can’t be beaten.
