Top 25 Must-See Attractions in Gothenburg, Sweden

Constructed within a single timeframe during the 17th century, Gothenburg was originally intended as a trading post during the height of the Swedish Empire. As Sweden’s largest port, it quickly became a hub for industries like shipbuilding, maintaining a practical working character amidst its evident prosperity.

Owing to its planned layout, Gothenburg features an organized street structure, and three centuries after its inception, a new surge of construction in the 1920s established cultural landmarks such as the Museum of Art. In a maritime city like Gothenburg, one should dedicate ample time to water activities, whether it be island hopping among the archipelagos offshore or cruising along the 17th-century canals.

Now let us explore the premier attractions in Gothenburg:

1. Gothenburg Museum of Art

This renowned museum was inaugurated in 1923, coinciding with Gothenburg’s International Exhibition.

Visitors can admire an extensive range of European artworks spanning from the 1400s to the 21st century.

However, the museum is particularly esteemed for its collection of 19th-century Nordic art, featuring notable artists such as Edvard Munch, Peder Severin Krøyer, Bruno Liljefors, and Anders Zorn.

Additionally, its French collection warrants attention, showcasing works by Gauguin, Picasso, Monet, Chagall, and van Gogh.

For aficionados of the Renaissance and Baroque, there are significant pieces by van Dyck, Rembrandt, Rubens, and Jacob Jordaens.

2. Botanical Garden

The expansive Botanical Garden in Gothenburg spans 175 hectares within the city’s center, also housing a nature reserve and arboretum.

Approximately 4,000 of its plants are housed in greenhouses, ensuring vibrancy no matter the season.

Within the gardens is the largest orchid collection in Sweden, comprising 1,500 varieties.

Also included is the Easter Island tree, sophora toromiro, of which botanists take special interest as it is extinct in its native habitat.

The arboretum displays trees from around the globe, categorized and clearly labeled, while the summer rock garden enchants with its waterfall and over 6,000 plant species.

3. Liseberg

This prominent amusement park originated in 1923 and continues to attract large crowds today.

Liseberg maintains a traditional atmosphere enhanced by lush greenery and woodland, while its high-tech rides continue to innovate.

The steel roller coaster Helix debuted in 2014, and plans are underway for the state-of-the-art Valkyria in 2018. Nevertheless, one must not miss riding the iconic Balder, a wooden coaster consistently ranked among the finest of its kind annually.

The park caters to all age groups, thoughtfully combining thrilling rides with family-friendly attractions like merry-go-rounds, flying elephants, and dragon boats.

Liseberg also hosts major concerts (inclusive with entry) and is notably unique in Sweden for being open during the winter for Halloween and Christmas, featuring a special market.

4. Haga

Unbeknownst to many today, this charming neighborhood situated southwest of the city center once bore a reputation as a slum.

Haga comprises a maze of cobblestone streets bordered by brick warehouses and uniform 19th-century houses with wooden facades.

These picturesque structures were slated for demolition during redevelopment efforts in the 1970s, but the residents of Gothenburg united to preserve their character.

Consequently, Haga has evolved into the city’s trendiest district, offering an abundance of cafes, delicatessens, independent shops, and reasonably priced restaurants.

For an authentic Swedish experience, Haga is an ideal location to partake in fika, the traditional coffee and bun break.

5. Gothenburg Archipelago

Proximity to Gothenburg allows you to embark on a delightful exploration of the small granite islands comprising the Southern and Northern Gothenburg archipelago.

The Southern islands located below the mouth of the Göta älv are designated as car-free.

A ferry departs from Saltholmen, enabling you to traverse from island to island while visiting picturesque fishing villages and historic maritime settlements, as well as enjoying kayak excursions on tranquil waters and hikes within nature reserves.

The Northern Archipelago, being more populated, is accessible via a car ferry from Gothenburg.

On this side, Hönö serves as a hub for fishing and water sports, featuring a fish museum and numerous dining establishments amid its rugged coastal cliffs.

6. Slottsskogen

Located southwest of Haga lies Gothenburg’s principal park, sprawled across 137 hectares of serene greenery.

The eastern section has been cultivated as an English garden, characterized by meandering lawns and pathways encircled by ancient trees.

The remaining area is allowed to flourish naturally, hosting linden, oak, and beech woodlands.

If you seek a morning run, this park is an excellent choice, complemented by adventure playgrounds, an observatory, miniature golf, and various sports facilities.

The free zoo at the park’s center has been open since 1876, exhibiting Nordic fauna such as moose, Gotland ponies, deer, and farm animals like goats, pigs, and sheep.

Additionally, there are aquatic enclosures housing seals and Humboldt penguins.

7. Trädgårdsföreningen

Gothenburg’s most central park is arguably its most picturesque, as the Garden Society of Gothenburg has remained virtually unchanged since the 19th century.

Inaugurated in 1842 by King Carl XIV Johan, the park’s well-preserved condition has earned it protected status in Sweden.

The gardens include historical buildings, such as the delightful coffee house established in 1874. However, the standout feature is the impressive palm house, Palmhuset, constructed in 1878, inspired by London’s Crystal Palace, which houses tropical species.

In June and July, the rose garden boasts 6,000 blooming bushes, creating a spectacular display of color and fragrance that leaves a lasting impression.

8. Universeum

Located near Liseberg, this attraction engages visitors with scientific topics presented in an interactive, child-friendly manner, showcasing a myriad of animal exhibits across seven floors.

The focal point is the Ocean Zone, featuring an immense marine tank populated by sharks and tropical species, along with a touch tank that allows young visitors to feel the backs of rays.

Additionally, there is an indoor tropical rainforest where one can observe colorful birds, sloths, and monkeys amidst the foliage.

In a different context, the “Kalejdo” exhibition allows children to explore criminal science, astronomy, and the workings of lasers, while “Explora” offers a cutting-edge experiment zone.

9. Avenyn

Commencing at Kungsportsbron, the bridge spanning the canal, Gothenburg’s grand avenue stretches diagonally across the city.

Developed in the 1800s, it was designed to connect an affluent neighborhood southeast of the city center with the historic fortified town.

For shopping, nightlife, and dining, Avenyn stands out as the premier destination: by day, browse through chain stores, high-end fashion establishments, and unique boutiques, while after dark, engage in lively nightlife across various eateries and entertainment venues.

Prepare to explore connecting streets such as Södra vägen, which offer additional captivating sights, while the Neoclassical mansions of the elegant Vasa neighborhood rise to the west.

10. Feskekôrka

Situated along the canal in central Gothenburg, this market is renowned for fish and shellfish.

Visitors often mistake the structure for a church due to its design, which was inspired by Norwegian stave churches and medieval Gothic architecture (hence the term “fish church”). Established in 1874, the market was a technical marvel for its time, featuring a roof supported solely by robust beams.

This venue should be your initial stop for fresh seafood, with an abundance of fish and shellfish sourced on the same day.

Additionally, two acclaimed restaurants are located within the market, alongside various takeout options, including a stall where you can have your oysters shucked and paired with wine.

11. Aeroseum

Located within the military section of Gothenburg’s airport, this facility dates back to the Cold War era.

Constructed between 1950 and 1955, the hidden underground hangar was not revealed until the 1990s.

In 2005, it was transformed into an aviation museum, offering a fascinating collection of military aircraft.

This includes helicopters and Swedish fighter jets and bombers, such as the Saab 37 Viggen and the Saab 35 Draken.

Visitors have the opportunity to climb into the cockpits of many aircraft, tour the facility’s control room, and engage with a flight simulator.

12. Maritiman

Docked along the Götas älv in the heart of the city lies a mini-armada of 15 heritage vessels.

This floating museum comprises a variety of craft, immersing visitors in Sweden’s military and civilian maritime history.

The two highlight vessels available for touring are the HSwMS Småland, a Halland-class destroyer launched in 1952, and the HMS Nordkaparen, a submarine in operation from 1962, which was nearly involved in a collision with a Soviet submarine in 1980. Visitors can freely explore both vessels, navigating through narrow passages and climbing ladders to experience living quarters, engine rooms, and torpedo ports.

13. Volvo Museum

Located west of the city center, this museum is dedicated to Sweden’s most beloved automotive brand, which was founded in Gothenburg in 1927. Automotive enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive display of nearly every model the brand has produced, including vintage cars and trucks as well as concept vehicles never intended for retail sale.

Volvo also encompasses more than just cars: there are informative exhibitions detailing the Volvo Ocean Race and innovations developed by Volvo Aero.

14. Paddan Tour

Paddan constitutes flat-hulled, low-profile sightseeing barges that offer tours of Gothenburg’s harbour and canals.

The vessels depart two to three times per hour and operate on a hop-on, hop-off basis, enabling visitors to linger longer at attractions that interest them the most.

In a city deeply rooted in maritime culture, this experience is essential, as it navigates through 17th-century canals, the fishing port, historic shipyards, and waterfront industries while passing under numerous bridges.

Views of the vessels at Maritiman are complemented by glimpses of Gothenburg’s contemporary innovations such as the post-modern Lilla Bommen tower.

Throughout the tour, fascinating details about Gothenburg’s 17th-century construction and historical defense mechanisms will be shared.

15. Götaplatsen

Located at the southern terminus of Avenyn and directly beneath the Gothenburg Museum of Art, Götaplatsen is a prominent square designed for the International Exhibition of 1923. This area is a cultural epicenter, as the art museum is accompanied by the City Library, City Theatre, and the City Concert Hall, home to the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra.

Visitors can capture photographs of the Nordic Classicist architecture and visit the statue of Poseidon, which graces the fountain at the end of Avenyn.

This iconic sculpture was crafted by Carl Millies, one of Sweden’s leading 20th-century sculptors, and features prominently on many postcards.

16. Museum of Gothenburg

The city museum has occupied the former offices of the Swedish East India Company since 1861. The building, dating back to the 1700s, features permanent exhibitions chronicling Gothenburg’s history from its prehistoric roots to the industrial era.

Visitors can engage with the legacy of the Vikings who navigated these waters, and explore the period of the Swedish Empire and the ambitious endeavors that shaped modern Gothenburg in the tumultuous 17th century.

Further insights are provided regarding the industrialization of the 19th century and the transformations experienced by Gothenburg during the early 20th century.

Additionally, temporary exhibitions delve into specific events and themes, including those surrounding the Second World War.

17. Masthugg Church

This church, built in 1914, was designed in a Nordic Romantic style by Sigfrid Ericson, who also conceptualized Gothenburg’s Museum of Art.

With its tower reaching 60 meters high, it presents a captivating sight, and its location atop Masthugg hill beside the Götas älv enhances its prominence as a city landmark.

As a distinctive figure in Gothenburg’s skyline, it serves as a significant symbol of the city.

Visitors are welcome to explore the interior, which accommodates over 1,000 worshippers.

Ericson also crafted the altar tryptych, created by sculptor Ninnan Santesson, and devised designs for the baptismal font, which were finally realized in 1991 with sandstone sourced from the island of Gotland.

18. Skansen Kronan

Perched on a hill within Haga, this structure is part of an extensive artillery fortification system constructed during the 17th century, following centuries of conflict with Denmark.

Despite the turbulent history preceding its construction, this stronghold was never engaged in military action.

The tower remains viewable only from the exterior, as it now hosts events and backgrounds concerts during summer.

Visitors can enjoy ice cream during the summer while contemplating the impressive five-meter-thick walls and inspecting the 23 ports meant for cannons that never served their purpose.

The most rewarding aspect is the vista over Haga and the Götas älv.

19. New Älvsborg Fortress

This fortification was established on an island at the mouth of the Götas älv during the latter half of the 17th century.

It became Gothenburg’s primary maritime defense after its less protected predecessor was dismantled.

Regular boat services operate from Lilla Bommen to this island, inviting exploration of the fortifications, passages, bastions, magazines, and gun placements.

Unlike Skansen Kronan, this fortress saw brief action in 1719 when it came under assault from the Danish and Norwegian fleets.

Historical tours are conducted, featuring actors in period costume who narrate tales from Gothenburg’s tumultuous 17th century at the island’s dock.

20. Natural History Museum

At the northern entrance of Slottsskogen lies Gothenburg’s natural history museum, which dates back to 1833 and has been housed in its current location since 1923. The museum retains a traditional ambiance, featuring numerous taxidermied animals.

Two exhibits stand out due to their size: a blue whale that washed ashore near Gothenburg in 1865, recognized as the only mounted blue whale in the world, and an African elephant weighing six tons and standing six meters tall.

For a more enlightening experience, explore the Space Walk (Rymdpromenaden), a scale model of the solar system displayed in the park to the south, with planets placed several kilometers apart, including Pluto situated far away.

21. Gothenburg Opera House

On the harbor at Lilla Bommen stands Gothenburg’s Post-Modern opera house, a project that took nearly 50 years to complete and finally opened in 1994. The final design has been met with mixed reviews, but its boldness is undeniable.

Beyond its striking, hull-like appearance, the opera house features an ingeniously designed interior that enables productions to be staged at lower costs, along with a record construction time of just a couple of years.

Insights into the airy interiors and behind-the-scenes logistics are available through guided tours.

Alternatively, attend performances throughout the season, including ballet, musicals, and high-caliber opera productions.

22. Guldhedstornet

On a clear summer’s day, adventurers can venture to the highest point in Gothenburg located in the southern suburbs.

This hilltop features a water tower that dates to 1953 and includes a café at its upper level.

Open from 11:00 to 18:00, it stands at 130 meters and provides satisfying panoramic views of Gothenburg, complemented by coffee, pastries, or shrimp sandwiches.

Visitors can easily spot the old and new harbors, some excursions into the archipelago, and the dense forests that envelop the city.

23. Trip to Vinga

While observing the vessels docked in Gothenburg’s harbor, one might feel an urge to explore the open sea, and a trip to the small island of Vinga may be just the remedy.

Vinga lies ten nautical miles west of Gothenburg’s harbor entrance; however, don’t let the distance deter you, as the journey offers considerable rewards.

The M/S Walona provides a comfortable crossing, including onboard café services.

Vinga has been a navigational landmark for centuries, and the current lighthouse dates back to 1890. Notably, the father of legendary Swedish singer Evert Taube served as the lighthouse keeper, and Taube spent his formative years on this island.

Packing a picnic and swimming gear is recommended on warm days for the more adventurous.

24. Delsjön

To reach this pair of lakes (Lilla and Stora Delsjön), travelers can take the tram from the city center to Töpelsgatan and walk a few minutes into a densely wooded area.

Fed by the Götas älv, Delsjön functions as a water reservoir for the city, offering peace, unspoiled nature, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Visitors can choose to walk, jog, or cycle along its shores, immersing themselves in the birch and coniferous forests.

On pleasant days, Stora Delsjön’s expansive beach is particularly popular with families, while bold individuals can leap off rocky outcrops for an invigorating swim.

The area also features a café, a playground for children, and food kiosks, along with picnic and barbecue facilities, perfect for enjoyable summer afternoons.

25. Culinary Experiences

The seafood and fish offerings in Gothenburg are unparalleled, with the city teeming with exceptional dining establishments; however, the lobster and crayfish are particularly remarkable.

During lobster season, from September to April, it is possible to embark on a lobster safari, retrieving pots to catch lobsters in a beautifully rugged setting.

Few experiences can rival this authentic Nordic tradition. Another Swedish custom of a different nature is “fika,” a social coffee break shared with friends or colleagues.

Numerous upscale cafés throughout Gothenburg welcome visitors for fika, with Brogyllen on Västra Hamngatan being particularly famous for its exquisite pastries, especially its cinnamon buns (kanelbullar).