Gothenburg Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Planning & General Tips
1. Q: How many days should I spend in Gothenburg?
A: Most travelers agree that 2-3 full days is the sweet spot to see the main sights without feeling rushed.
2. Q: Is Gothenburg worth visiting over Stockholm?
A: Many say yes! It’s described as more laid-back, walkable, and less touristy. One user summed it up: “Stockholm is for showing off, Gothenburg is for living.”
3. Q: What’s the best time of year to visit?
A: Late spring (May), summer (June-August), and early autumn (September) are highly recommended for the best weather and outdoor activities.
4. Q: Is Gothenburg expensive?
A: Yes, like all of Sweden, it’s pricey. Travelers suggest budgeting for high costs for food, drink, and accommodation.
5. Q: Should I get a Göteborg City Card?
A: It depends. If you plan to visit many museums, use public transport extensively, and do the included boat tours, it can be a great deal. If you prefer just wandering and enjoying cafes, it might not be worth it.
6. Q: Do I need to speak Swedish?
A: No. As one traveler put it, “Virtually everyone under 70 speaks flawless English and is happy to use it.”
7. Q: Is Gothenburg safe?
A: Overwhelmingly, yes. It’s considered a very safe city. Standard city precautions (watch your bag, etc.) are always advised.
8. Q: What’s a neighborhood I should stay in that’s not the absolute center?
A: Majorna is frequently praised for its bohemian vibe, great cafes, and second-hand shops. It’s a short walk or tram ride from the center.
9. Q: Any tips for saving money on food?
A: Look for “dagens lunch” (lunch of the day) at restaurants, which usually includes a main course, salad, bread, drink, and coffee for a very reasonable price (around 100-130 SEK). Also, shop at supermarkets like Willys, Hemköp, or Lidl.
10. Q: What’s the best way to get from Landvetter Airport to the city?
A: The Flygbussarna airport coach is the most popular and efficient way. It takes about 30 minutes and drops you at the central station.
Getting Around
11. Q: Do I need to rent a car?
A: Almost universally, no. The city’s public transport (trams and buses) is excellent, and the city center is very walkable. A car is more of a hassle than a help.
12. Q: How does the public transport system work?
A: It’s run by Västtrafik. You can buy tickets via their app (highly recommended), at stations, or on board (more expensive). Tickets are time-based (90 minutes or 24/72-hour passes).
13. Q: Are the trams easy to use?
A: Yes, they are the backbone of the city. The app makes it simple, and signs are clear. Trams 5, 6, 10, and 11 are key lines through the center.
14. Q: Is Gothenburg bike-friendly?
A: Very! There are great bike lanes and a city bike system (Styr & Ställ) that is cheap and easy to use during the warmer months.
15. Q: What’s the best way to get to the Gothenburg Archipelago?
A: Take a tram to Saltholmen and then hop on a Västtrafik ferry. Your standard public transport ticket covers the ferry ride – a feature travelers love.
16. Q: Can I use credit cards everywhere?
A: Yes, Sweden is largely cashless. Even vendors at small markets prefer card or mobile payments like Swish.
17. Q: Is Uber available?
A: Yes, but taxis are also reliable. Be warned: taxis are expensive. Always ensure they are using a meter or agree on a price first.
Things to See & Do
18. Q: What is the #1 must-do activity?
A: A trip to the Southern Archipelago (especially car-free islands like Styrsö, Donsö, or Vrångö) is consistently the top answer.
19. Q: Is Liseberg worth it for an adult without kids?
A: Absolutely! It’s a classic amusement park with great rides, beautiful gardens, and excellent restaurants and bars. The Halloween and Christmas markets are especially magical.
20. Q: What are the best free things to do in Gothenburg?
A: Walking around Haga district, exploring the Archipelago (ferry cost only), visiting the Botanical Garden (free except for the greenhouses), and hiking through Slottsskogen park.
21. Q: What’s the deal with Feskekôrka?
A: It’s the “Fish Church” – an iconic fish market hall. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth a look for the architecture. You can get a cheap and fresh shrimp sandwich there.
22. Q: Is the Universeum science center good?
A: Yes, especially if you have kids. The rainforest and ocean tank are highlights. Some adults find it a bit pricey for the experience.
23. Q: What’s a good rainy day activity?
A: Universeum, the Gothenburg Museum of Art, or the Röhsska Museum (design and crafts). Or, just cozy up in a “fik” (coffee shop).
24. Q: What’s the best view of the city?
A: The rooftop bar at the Gothia Towers (called Heaven 23) or hiking up to Skansen Kronan for a free, panoramic view.
25. Q: Is the Volvo Museum interesting for non-car people?
A: Probably not. It’s a niche museum that is a pilgrimage for Volvo fans.
26. Q: What can I do at Slottsskogen park?
A: It’s huge! You can see Nordic animals (moose, seals, penguins) at the free zoo, have a picnic, visit the Nature Museum, or just relax.
27. Q: Are the Paddan boat tours worth it?
A: Generally, yes. They give a unique, low-to-the-water perspective of the city’s canals and history. It’s a great orientation activity.
28. Q: What’s a unique local experience?
A: Joining a “kräftskiva” (crayfish party) if you’re visiting in August, or experiencing the “Swedish National Day” celebrations at Slottsskogen on June 6th.
29. Q: Any good flea markets?
A: The one at Järntorget on Sundays is a classic for antiques and curios.
30. Q: Where can I see street art?
A: The neighborhood of Majorna is known for its great street art. Just walk around and explore the side streets.
Food & Drink
31. Q: Where can I get the best cinnamon bun (kanelbulle)?
A: The old town district of Haga is famous for them. Café Husaren serves a famously giant one, but any traditional “bakery” will have excellent ones.
32. Q: What is a “fika” and where should I do it?
A: Fika is a coffee and pastry break, a social institution. Do it anywhere! Travelers favorites include Da Matteo (multiple locations), Bar Centro, and Café Alkemisten.
33. Q: What’s a traditional Gothenburg food I must try?
A: “Göteborgsare” (a specific type of sausage), and of course, seafood—especially mussels and shrimp from the West Coast.
34. Q: Where’s the best place for a seafood feast?
A: Fiskekrogen is a high-end favorite. For something more casual and iconic, get a shrimp sandwich at Feskekôrka or visit Restaurant Gabriel in the Archipelago.
35. Q: I love beer. Is Gothenburg good for it?
A: Yes! It’s a fantastic craft beer city. Travelers recommend: Dugges Pils, Stigbergets, and Beerbliotek breweries and their taprooms.
36. Q: What’s the best food market?
A: Saluhallen Briggen in Majorna is a local favorite with high-quality produce, butchers, and eateries. The larger “Stora Saluhallen” in the center is also great but more touristy.
37. Q: Any good food trucks?
A: The area around Järntorget often has a good selection. The “Strömmingsluckan” truck for fried herring is a classic.
38. Q: Where can I find good vegetarian/vegan food?
A: Very easily. Gothenburg is very veg-friendly. Restaurants like Solrosen, Black Bird, and Andrum are highly rated.
39. Q: What’s the deal with “surströmming”?
A: It’s fermented Baltic herring, known for its powerful smell. It’s a northern Swedish tradition, not a Gothenburg one. Most travelers advise you to steer clear unless you’re feeling very adventurous.
40. Q: Where can I get a good, cheap kebab or pizza?
A: The neighborhood of Kungsladugård is known for some of the best kebab and pizza places in the city, like Pizzeria Köket.
Nightlife & Bars
41. Q: What’s the best area for bars?
A: Andra Långgatan is the undisputed king for a pub crawl. It’s a street packed with small, unpretentious, and often cheaper bars with a great vibe.
42. Q: Any good cocktail bars?
A: Yes! Strömmingsluckan (a tiny, hidden bar), The Abyss, and Steampunk Bar are frequently mentioned.
43. Q: What is the legal drinking age?
A: 18 in bars and restaurants, 20 at Systembolaget (the state-run liquor store).
44. Q: Where can I buy alcohol?
A: For anything stronger than 3.5% beer, you must go to Systembolaget. They have limited hours and are closed on Sundays. Plan ahead!
45. Q: Is there a good club scene?
A: Yes, but it’s not huge. Yaki-Da, Neon, and Trädgår’n are popular clubs. The latter has multiple dance floors and an outdoor area.
46. Q: What’s a good “after-work” (afterjobb) spot?
A: The area around Järntorget and Avenyn is filled with bars popular for after-work drinks.
47. Q: Any unique bar experiences?
A: The Bishops Arms pubs are cozy, British-style pubs, each with a unique feel. Ölhallen 7:an is a classic, old-school “beer hall” with a lot of character.
Day Trips & Archipelago
48. Q: Which archipelago island should I visit?
A: For a car-free, classic archipelago experience: Vrångö (most southern, nature reserve), Styrsö (has a small shop and cafes), or Brännö (known for its summer dances).
49. Q: Can I do a day trip to the Northern Archipelago?
A: Yes, but it’s trickier. It involves buses and different ferries not covered by the city ticket. Hönö and Björkö are popular destinations, known for their lobster and lobster festivals.
50. Q: Is Marstrand worth a visit?
A: Definitely. The imposing Carlstens Fortress and the sailing vibe are highlights. It’s a bit further but makes a great day trip.
51. Q: Can I visit Copenhagen for a day?
A: It’s a long day (3+ hour train each way), but possible if you start early. Most recommend an overnight stay.
52. Q: What about a day trip to other Swedish cities?
A: Kungsbacka is a cute town to the south, and Alingsås (the “fika capital of Sweden”) to the east are easy train rides.
53. Q: Can I swim in the Archipelago?
A: Yes! In the summer, the water is swimmable. There are many rocky cliffs and designated swimming spots. Just be prepared for cold water.
Shopping
54. Q: Where is the main shopping street?
A: Avenyn (Kungsportsavenyen) has high-end brands, while the parallel streets and Nordstan (a large indoor mall) have everything else.
55. Q: Any good second-hand/vintage shops?
A: Gothenburg is great for this. Check out Beyond Retro (large and popular), and the many smaller shops in Haga and Majorna.
56. Q: What are some good Swedish design/clothing stores to look for?
A: Look for Åhléns City (department store), NK (high-end), or dedicated stores for brands like Fjällräven, Acne Studios, Filippa K, and Happy Socks.
Accommodation
57. Q: What’s a good, central hotel?
A: Hotel Pigalle (boutique), Avalon Hotel (design), and Clarion Hotel Post (historic building) are often recommended.
58. Q: Any good hostels?
A: Slottsskogens Hostel is in a great location next to the park. STF Göteborg City Hotel & Hostel is very central.
59. Q: Is Airbnb a good option?
A: Yes, especially in neighborhoods like Majorna, Linnéstaden, and Haga, where you can get a more local feel.
Culture & Etiquette
60. Q: Are Swedes really reserved and hard to talk to?
A: They can be reserved in public, but are generally very friendly. One traveler advised: “Don’t talk to people on the bus, but feel free to talk to them in a bar or at a event.”
61. Q: What’s the tipping culture?
A: Tipping is not expected, but it’s appreciated for excellent service. It’s common to round up the bill or leave 10% at a nice restaurant.
62. Q: Is there a dress code for going out?
A: Generally casual, but Swedes are stylish. “Smart casual” is a safe bet for most bars and restaurants. Some clubs might have a stricter dress code.
63. Q: What’s a common mistake tourists make?
A: Not understanding the Systembolaget hours and being caught without alcohol on a weekend. Also, not trying to fika.
Seasonal Specifics
64. Q: What is Gothenburg like in winter (Dec-Feb)?
A: Cold, dark, and potentially snowy. However, the Christmas markets (especially at Liseberg) are world-class and make it a magical time to visit.
65. Q: Is everything closed in the summer?
A: Not everything, but many locals go on vacation in July, so some smaller, independent shops and cafes might be closed for a few weeks.
66. Q: What’s the best way to experience a Swedish Midsummer near Gothenburg?
A: It’s a family-oriented holiday. Your best bet is to see public celebrations at places like Slottsskogen park, where they often have a maypole and traditional dancing.
67. Q: What should I pack for a summer visit?
A: Layers! The weather can be unpredictable. Pack a t-shirt, a sweater, and a waterproof jacket. Even in summer, it can be chilly, especially in the archipelago.
For Specific Travelers
68. Q: Is Gothenburg good for solo travelers?
A: Yes, it’s very safe and easy to navigate. Hostels are great for meeting people, and bar seating at restaurants is common.
69. Q: Is it a family-friendly city?
A: Extremely. There are parks everywhere, family discounts are common, and attractions like Liseberg and Universeum are perfect for kids.
70. Q: Any tips for travelers with disabilities?
A: Gothenburg is very accessible. Modern trams are low-floor, most public buildings have access, and the city is generally flat.
Deeper Cuts & Niche Interests
71. Q: As a metal fan, are there any good metal bars?
A: The Abyss is a dedicated metal bar with a great selection of beers and music.
72. Q: Where can I play board games?
A: Café Frilagret is a popular spot to play board games while having a fika or a beer.
73. Q: Any good record stores?
A: Skivesset in Majorna and Andra Långgatan Records are local favorites.
74. Q: I’m interested in photography. Where should I go?
A: The Archipelago, Haga (for the old wooden houses), the canals, and the view from Skansen Kronan.
75. Q: Are there any good free walking tours?
A: Yes, there are a few companies that offer “free” tours (you tip at the end). They are a great way to get oriented.
76. Q: Can I visit a Swedish sauna?
A: Yes! Pöl Harbour Bath in the summer has saunas and cold dips. There are also public bathhouses like Avalsbadet.
77. Q: Where can I see live music?
A: Pustervik and Trädgår’n are key venues for a variety of acts. Neon for electronic music.
78. Q: What’s a good spot for a picnic?
A: Slottsskogen park, Änggårdsbergen (a nature reserve), or on any of the archipelago islands.
79. Q: Is there a good view at sunset?
A: The piers at Klippan (near the Älvsborg Fortress) or from one of the islands in the archipelago looking back towards the city.
80. Q: Where can I find the best pizza?
A: The debate is fierce, but Pizzeria Bris and Pizzeria Olivedal often come up in travelers threads.
81. Q: What’s the best “secret” or less touristy spot?
A: Änggårdsbergen, a large nature reserve with great hiking trails, is a local favorite that tourists often miss.
82. Q: Can I visit the Älvsborg Fortress?
A: Yes, you can take a Paddan boat tour there or a regular ferry during the summer months.
83. Q: Where’s the best place to buy Swedish candy?
A: Any supermarket or dedicated “godis” shop. The pick-and-mix sections are a national obsession.
84. Q: What’s a good rainy-day pub?
A: The cozy, dark atmosphere of The Bishops Arms or Ölhallen 7:an is perfect for a rainy day.
85. Q: Is there a good Indian restaurant?
A: Tranquilo and Swaad are often recommended.
86. Q: Where can I find a good burger?
A: 2112 and Barrels are frequently mentioned as top contenders.
87. Q: What’s the best coffee roastery?
A: Da Matteo and Johan & Nyström are local giants known for their high-quality roasts.
88. Q: Can I visit a local brewery?
A: Yes! Many, like Stigbergets and Dugges, have taprooms where you can try their beers on site.
89. Q: What’s a good place for a fancy dinner?
A: Bhoga (2 Michelin stars), SK Mat & Människor, or Restaurant 28+.
90. Q: Where can I find gluten-free options?
A: Sweden is very aware of gluten intolerance. Most restaurants will have clearly marked options, and bakeries like Café Sirius specialize in gluten-free pastries.
91. Q: Is there a good view from a church?
A: Masthuggskyrkan (Masthugget Church) offers a fantastic panoramic view of the city and the river.
92. Q: What’s a good activity for a group of friends?
A: Renting a kayak and paddling through the canals and around the archipelago islands.
93. Q: Where can I play pub quizzes?
A: Many pubs host them, often in English. Check The Bishops Arms or O’Learys for schedules.
94. Q: What’s the best way to find local events?
A: Check the website “Göteborg Daily” or the physical magazine “Nöjesguiden”.
95. Q: Is there a good Thai restaurant?
A: Siam and Yammy Kitchen are popular choices.
96. Q: Where can I get a good breakfast buffet?
A: Many hotels offer them. For a non-hotel option, Café Kronhuset is known for its breakfast.
97. Q: What’s a good spot to read a book?
A: The Stadsbiblioteket (City Library) or a quiet bench in the Botanical Garden.
98. Q: Can I visit the film studios where “A Man Called Ove” was filmed?
A: The studios (Film i Väst) are not generally open for public tours, but you can see many filming locations around the city and in the suburb of Hammarkullen.
99. Q: Where’s the best place to people-watch?
A: Kungsportsplatsen at the bottom of Avenyn, or a cafe in Haga.
100. Q: What’s the one piece of advice you’d give a first-time visitor?
A: “Don’t over-schedule. Get a public transport pass, wander the streets of Haga and Majorna, take the ferry to a random island, and just have a fika. The best of Gothenburg is in its relaxed, everyday vibe.”