Gothenburg is a charming little city perched on the shores of Sweden’s west coast, directly across from Denmark’s northernmost tip. Only 2 hours from Copenhagen, it’s a scenic ride away on the comfortable SJ train.  It’s small enough to be explored on a brief visit, but Gothenburg offers plenty to see, do, and eat. Here are some fantastic ways to spend your 24 hours in this vibrant Swedish city:

Stroll the Old Town

Old Town

Arriving at the quaint central train station, it takes only moments by foot to reach Gothenburg’s Old Town, which lies within the boundaries of a moat once used to defend the city. Here you’ll find a series of bustling pedestrian streets lined with a range of cafés and bakeries (Gateau does delicious pastries) and eclectic shops, like Grandpa and Artillieriet. Pay a visit to Gothenburg’s impressive cathedral and take a ride on one of the sky blue trams making their way through the city centre; in summer, you can even ride one of the retired classic trams.

The historic tram

Explore the Market Halls

Saluhallen Market Hall

The Old Town is  home to two market halls – great options for a tasty and affordable lunch. Saluhallen is a traditional indoor market, with 40 stalls including shops and ready-to-eat food stands. For a taste of local cuisine, head to Kök & Bar for traditional Swedish meatballs with mashed potatoes and lingonberry compote.

Feskekörka Fish Market

Feskekörka is the city’s fish market, found in a historic building resembling a church. The market offers fresh seafood, restaurants, and a sandwich shop serving up baguettes heaping with shrimp and crayfish, perfect for enjoying at the outside picnic tables by the water.

Seafood lunch

Discover Local Neighbourhoods

Haga

Bordering Gothenburg’s Old Town are two distinct neighbourhoods, perfect for a stroll. Haga is artsy and laid back; its main street, Haga Nygata is a lovely cobbled lane lined with beautiful historic buildings. Many of them are filled with interesting local shops and cozy cafes – Café Kringlan has a fantastic breakfast spread.

Breakfast at Kringlan

Lorensburg is attractive and upscale, its tree-lined avenue Kungsportsavenyen is home to bistros, a theatre, and the Gothenburg Art Museum. Nearby Thai Moon Kitchen serves up tasty Thai food and cocktails in a unique atmosphere with greenery, colourful lights, hidden booths and Tuk Tuk tables.

Thai Moon Kitchen

Enjoy the Green Spaces

Trädgårdsföreningen Botanical Garden

Just over the bridge from the Saluhallen Market is the pastoral Trädgårdsföreningen, Gothenburg’s Botanical Gardens. The gardens run along the waters of the old city moat, and are home to a lovely Palm House and an outstanding and unique kids’ playground. The gardens are connected to Kungsparken, a popular spot for strolls and picnics.

Palm House

Wander the Waterfront

Gothenburg Harbour

Explore Gothenburg’s nautical side with a stroll along the harbourfront promenade, which is also home to the Maritime Museum. The piers are filled with boats, from historic tall ships to modern military vessels. You can hop aboard with your museum ticket, or enjoy them from the shore.

The Maritime Museum

Shop for Local Goodies

Kronhuset (the Crown House)

If you’re looking to take home something local, visit Kronhuset, a series of shops and galleries set in a historic building dating to 1642. Here you’ll find arts, crafts, pottery, and jewellery made by local artisans. Indulge your sweet tooth at the Gothenburg Chocolate and Caramel fabric. Their handmade caramels melt in your mouth!

Gothenburg Chocolate and Caramel Factory

Gothenburg may be a little off the beaten path, but is well worth exploring! Our family loved this small, charming city and are already planning a return visit.