2-Day Local's Guide: Gothenburg Nightlife & Outdoor Adventures

Gothenburg, Sweden

2 days

Masthugget church
Oskar Fredrik church dominating the city skyline
Feskekorka fish market
View of the city from a decorated bridge
Gothenburg port

About Gothenburg, Sweden

Discover the charm of Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city, where Scandinavian cool meets friendly town vibes. Known for its Dutch-style canals and leafy boulevards, Gothenburg is a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts and foodies alike. Explore the Universeum Science Centre, the picturesque archipelago, and the historic Haga district. Don't miss the Liseberg amusement park, Scandinavia's largest, for thrilling rides and family fun. Indulge in the city's vibrant food scene, boasting six Michelin-starred restaurants and a bustling fish market, Feskekôrka. Gothenburg's rich music and arts scene, with events like the Gothenburg Film Festival and Way Out West music festival, adds to its allure. Experience the perfect blend of urban excitement and natural tranquility in Gothenburg.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the City and Nightlife

Morning

Start your day with a stroll around the historic Haga district. This charming neighborhood is known for its picturesque wooden houses, cobblestone streets, and cozy cafes. Enjoy a traditional Swedish breakfast at a local café.

Lunch

For lunch, head to one of the many seafood restaurants by the harbor. Gothenburg is known for its fresh seafood, especially its prawns and mussels. Enjoy your meal with a view of the bustling harbor.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Universeum, a science center with a rainforest, aquarium, and a variety of interactive exhibits. It's a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Dinner

Dine at a trendy restaurant in the Avenyn district. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene. Try some modern Swedish cuisine, which often features local and seasonal ingredients.

Evening

After dinner, enjoy the nightlife in Avenyn. There are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from, whether you prefer a quiet pub or a lively dance club. Don't miss the chance to try some local craft beers.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the Gothenburg Botanical Garden. This beautiful garden is one of the largest in Europe and features over 16,000 species of plants.

Lunch

Have lunch at a café in the Linne district. This area is known for its bohemian vibe and its wide range of cafes and restaurants. Try some traditional Swedish dishes like meatballs or herring.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon at the Archipelago of Gothenburg. You can take a ferry to one of the islands and enjoy the beautiful scenery, go for a swim, or take a hike.

Dinner

For dinner, head to a restaurant in the Majorna district. This area is known for its hipster vibe and its innovative food scene. Try some fusion cuisine or a vegan dish.

Evening

End your day with a visit to a jazz club in the Majorna district. Gothenburg has a thriving jazz scene, and there's no better way to experience it than in a cozy club with live music.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

Haga

1
Haga

One of the oldest neighborhoods in Gothenburg, known for its picturesque wooden houses and cozy cafes.

Neighborhoods
Universeum

2
Universeum

A science center with seven floors of hands-on exhibits, a rainforest, aquarium, and more.

Attractions
Museums
Avenyn

3
Avenyn

Gothenburg's main boulevard, known for its shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

Attractions
Entertainment
Food and Drink
Shopping
Gothenburg Botanical Garden

4
Gothenburg Botanical Garden

One of the larger botanical gardens in Europe, with a unique collection of plants and beautiful walking paths.

Parks
Gardens
Linne

5
Linne

A vibrant neighborhood known for its bohemian atmosphere, boutiques, and cafes.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Food and Drink
Archipelago of Gothenburg

6
Archipelago of Gothenburg

A beautiful archipelago that includes several islands, each with its own character and charm.

Attractions
Tours
Beaches
Majorna

7
Majorna

A trendy neighborhood known for its vintage shops, cafes, and music scene.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Harbor Area

8
Harbor Area

A bustling harbor area with a rich history, offering a variety of activities and attractions.

Attractions
Tours
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Räkmacka

Räkmacka

A popular open-faced sandwich in Gothenburg, made with a generous amount of shrimps, mayonnaise, lettuce, and often topped with a boiled egg. It reflects the city's close relationship with the sea.

Köttbullar

Köttbullar

Swedish meatballs, often served with lingonberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and pickled cucumber. It's a classic dish that represents Swedish home cooking.

Kräftor

Crayfish, a delicacy in Gothenburg, usually served in a broth flavored with dill. It's a traditional food often enjoyed during the crayfish season in August.

Strömming

Strömming

Baltic herring, often fried or pickled. It's a common fish in the waters around Gothenburg and a staple in the local cuisine.

Gravad lax

Gravad lax

Salmon cured in salt, sugar, and dill. It's a traditional Swedish dish often served with a sweet mustard sauce, reflecting Gothenburg's love for seafood.

Kanelbulle

Kanelbulle

Swedish cinnamon bun, a sweet pastry that's a staple in Swedish fika (coffee break). It's a symbol of Swedish pastry tradition.

Prinsesstårta

Prinsesstårta

A traditional Swedish layer cake with sponge cake, pastry cream, and a green marzipan coating. It's a popular dessert for special occasions.

Surströmming

Surströmming

Fermented herring, a notorious Swedish delicacy with a strong smell. It's a traditional food that's part of Swedish culinary heritage.

Knäckebröd

Knäckebröd

Crisp bread, a staple in Swedish households. It's a versatile bread that can be topped with anything from cheese to jam.

Västerbottensost

Västerbottensost

A hard cheese from the Västerbotten region. It's a beloved cheese in Sweden and often used in cooking.

Sockerdricka

Sockerdricka

A traditional Swedish soft drink with a sweet, slightly fruity flavor. It's a popular non-alcoholic beverage in Sweden.

Snaps

Snaps

A strong alcoholic beverage often consumed during traditional Swedish celebrations. It's a part of Swedish drinking culture.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Gothenburg, Sweden is during the summer months, from June to August. During this period, the city experiences the warmest weather and longest days, allowing tourists to fully enjoy the outdoor attractions, festivals, and beautiful archipelago. However, if you're interested in a less crowded experience and don't mind cooler weather, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) can also be a great time to visit.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

May 1st

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 19

Sun

Whit Sunday

June 6

Thu

National day

June 22

Sat

Midsummer Day

November 2

Sat

All Saints' Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Boxing Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Gothenburg has an extensive tram network that covers most of the city. It's a convenient and efficient way to get around, with frequent services throughout the day.

Buses complement the tram network and are especially useful for reaching areas of the city not served by trams. The bus network is also extensive and reliable.

Gothenburg is a bike-friendly city with plenty of bike lanes and paths. You can rent a bike from numerous locations around the city.

Many of Gothenburg's attractions are within walking distance of each other, particularly in the city centre. Walking is a pleasant way to explore the city, especially during the warmer months.

Ferries are a fun and scenic way to get around. They connect the city centre with the southern archipelago and are a popular choice for sightseeing trips.

Taxis are readily available throughout the city. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from taxi ranks at transport hubs and major attractions.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Gothenburg. They can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're travelling in a group or have a lot of luggage.

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore outside of the city. However, parking can be expensive and traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.

Gothenburg's central train station connects the city with other parts of Sweden and neighbouring countries. Within the city, commuter trains can be a fast and efficient way to travel, especially during peak hours.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencykr SEK

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Gothenburg, Sweden as a first time visitor

1

Gothenburg is the second-largest city in Sweden, located on the west coast.

2

The official currency is the Swedish Krona (SEK). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

3

The official language is Swedish, but English is widely spoken and understood.

4

Gothenburg has a temperate oceanic climate. Summers are warm with average temperatures around 70°F (21°C) and winters are cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing.

5

Public transportation is excellent, with a network of trams, buses, and ferries. Consider getting a Gothenburg City Card for unlimited travel and other benefits.

6

Tipping is not mandatory in Sweden, but it is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants if you are happy with the service.

7

Gothenburg is a safe city, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

8

Swedes are generally reserved and respect personal space. It's considered polite to stand a bit away from others in queues or on public transport.

9

The city is very pedestrian and bike-friendly. Consider renting a bike to explore the city.

10

Sweden uses the Europlug (Type C & F) socket. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

11

Gothenburg has a rich food culture, with a focus on seafood. Don't miss out on trying local dishes like herring and shrimp.

12

The city has a strong commitment to sustainability. Many restaurants and shops prioritize organic, locally-sourced goods.

13

Alcohol is sold through government-owned stores called Systembolaget. The stores have limited hours and are closed on Sundays.

14

Tap water is safe to drink and is of high quality.

15

Sweden has a Right of Public Access ('Allemansrätten'), which allows you to roam freely in the countryside, as long as you respect nature and property.

16

Gothenburg is in the Central European Time Zone (CET, GMT +1). Daylight Saving Time is observed.

17

Pharmacies ('Apotek') are the only stores that sell non-prescription drugs. They also offer health consultations.

18

Emergency number in Sweden is 112. This number can be dialed for free from any phone.

19

Sweden has a high cost of living. Gothenburg is no exception, so plan your budget accordingly.

20

Swedes value punctuality. It's important to be on time for appointments or reservations.

Basic Swedish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hej

hey

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Hejdå

hey-doh

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

Tack

tack

Expressing gratitude

You're welcome

Varsågod

var-show-good

Responding to thank you

Please

Snälla

snell-ah

Making a request

Excuse me

Ursäkta mig

oor-shake-tah me

Getting attention or apologizing

Yes

Ja

yah

Affirmative response

No

Nej

nay

Negative response

I don't understand

Jag förstår inte

yahg fur-stor in-te

When you don't understand

Do you speak English?

Talar du engelska?

tah-lar doo eng-elska

Asking if someone speaks English

Where is the bathroom?

Var är toaletten?

var air too-a-letten

Asking for the bathroom

I need help

Jag behöver hjälp

yahg beh-uh-ver yelp

When you need assistance

I'm lost

Jag är vilse

yahg air vil-se

When you're lost

How much does it cost?

Hur mycket kostar det?

hoor mye-ket cost-ar det

Asking the price of something

Can I have the menu, please?

Kan jag få menyn, tack?

can yahg foh men-in, tack

Asking for the menu in a restaurant

I would like to order

Jag skulle vilja beställa

yahg skull-uh vil-ya best-ell-ah

Ordering food or drink

Water

Vatten

vat-ten

Asking for water

Beer

Öl

uhl

Ordering a beer

Wine

Vin

veen

Ordering wine

Check, please

Kan jag få notan, tack?

can yahg foh no-tan, tack

Asking for the bill in a restaurant

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Pants/Jeans

  • Sweater or Jacket

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sleepwear

  • Swimwear (if planning to visit the spa or pool)

  • Scarf, gloves and hat (if traveling in winter)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Airline tickets

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Power adapter (if coming from a country with different outlets)

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Water bottle

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Books or magazines for the flight

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

  • Umbrella or raincoat

Weather Conditions

When visiting Gothenburg, Sweden, it's important to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. The city experiences a temperate oceanic climate, which means it can be quite unpredictable. In general, the summer months (June to August) are the warmest and most popular for tourists. During this time, temperatures typically range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). However, it's not uncommon for temperatures to reach up to 25°C (77°F) on particularly sunny days. Despite the warmth, summer can also be quite rainy, so it's advisable to pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket or umbrella. The winter months (December to February) are the coldest, with temperatures often dropping to around -1°C to 1°C (30°F to 34°F). Snowfall is common during this period, so if you're planning a winter visit, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are transitional seasons in Gothenburg. During these periods, temperatures can vary widely, from around 3°C to 15°C (37°F to 59°F) in the spring and 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) in the autumn. These seasons can also be quite wet, so waterproof clothing is recommended. Regardless of when you visit, it's a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities. For instance, on rainy days, you might want to explore Gothenburg's many indoor attractions, such as the Universeum science center or the Gothenburg Museum of Art. Lastly, keep in mind that Gothenburg is located in northern Europe, which means daylight hours can vary significantly throughout the year. In the summer, the city experiences long days with up to 18 hours of daylight, while in the winter, days can be as short as 7 hours. This can affect your sightseeing plans, so plan accordingly.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

4° / -3°

January is the coldest month in Gothenburg, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's also a snowy month, so pack warm clothes and enjoy the winter scenery.

February

4° / -3°

February is still quite cold, with temperatures similar to January. Snow is common, making it a great time for winter sports.

March

7° / -1°

March sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still chilly. The snow starts to melt, and the days get longer.

April

13° / 1°

April is the start of spring in Gothenburg. The weather is milder, and the city starts to bloom with flowers.

May

18° / 6°

May is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city and its parks.

June

22° / 10°

June marks the start of summer. The days are long and warm, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

July

23° / 13°

July is the warmest month in Gothenburg. It's an excellent time to visit the archipelago and enjoy the beaches.

August

23° / 13°

August is still quite warm, with plenty of sunshine. It's a great month for outdoor festivals and events.

September

19° / 9°

September marks the start of autumn. The temperatures start to drop, but it's still comfortable for sightseeing.

October

13° / 5°

October is a cool month with fall foliage in full swing. It's a great time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

November

8° / 2°

November is a chilly month with shorter days. It's a good time to enjoy the city's cafes and restaurants.

December

5° / -1°

December is a festive month with Christmas markets and lights. It's cold and often snowy, so pack warm clothes.

Did you know?

Did you know that Gothenburg, Sweden is the second-largest city in Sweden, after Stockholm?

1 of 10

Places near by Gothenburg, Sweden

Marstrand

Marstrand

A beautiful seaside town known for its sailing events and historic Carlsten Fortress.

1h
44.8 km / 27.8 mi
How to get there
Kungsbacka

Kungsbacka

A charming town with a mix of modern and traditional Swedish architecture.

30m
35 km / 21.7 mi
How to get there
Uddevalla

Uddevalla

A city known for its beautiful archipelago and Bohuslän Museum.

1.3h
85 km / 52.8 mi
How to get there
Vänersborg

Vänersborg

A city located by the southern tip of the lake Vänern, offering beautiful nature and cultural experiences.

1.3h
85.6 km / 53.2 mi
How to get there
Borås

Borås

A city known for its textile and design industry, with attractions like Borås Zoo and Textile Fashion Center.

1.2h
65 km / 40.4 mi
How to get there
Trollhättan

Trollhättan

A city known for its impressive waterfalls, Saab Car Museum and Innovatum Science Center.

1h
75 km / 46.6 mi
How to get there
Varberg

Varberg

A coastal town famous for its fortress, sandy beaches, and cold bath house.

45m
72 km / 44.7 mi
How to get there
Landvetter

Landvetter

Home to Gothenburg's main airport and beautiful nature reserves.

30m
25 km / 15.5 mi
How to get there
Alingsås

Alingsås

Known as 'The Capital of Fika', a city with a rich history and beautiful lakes.

35m
48 km / 29.8 mi
How to get there
Mölndal

Mölndal

A city with a rich industrial heritage, beautiful parks and the Gunnebo House and Gardens.

15m
10 km / 6.2 mi
How to get there

Other Destinations in Sweden