Sweden’s West Coast: 5-Day Gothenburg Vacation Itinerary

Gothenburg (Göteborg), Sweden, is an under-the-radar vacation destination in Northern Europe that everyone needs to know about.

It’s one of the most sustainable cities in the world, filled with Michelin Guide Restaurants, and has well-connected public transportation (and affordable rates). It is a small metropolis with neighborhoods and districts offering options for boutique shopping and cultural attractions, and the Gothenburg Archipelago is easily accessible for outdoor activities.

Gothenburg is one of the most laid-back cities we’ve ever traveled to. There were never crowds, the streets are clean, the locals are helpful and speak excellent English, and you feel incredibly safe.

We spent five days exploring Gothenburg in the spring (beginning of May). We stayed in three different hotels. The weather was pleasant (average 60°F), but required layering at times. This is especially true if you plan to kayak in the archipelago, as the water remains quite cold this time of year. Cherry blossoms were in full bloom, there was occasional rain, but all in all, we were quite comfortable during out visit.

If you’re considering a vacation in Gothenburg, Sweden, this 5-day itinerary details our entire experience.

We found getting around Gothenburg to be incredibly convenient and impressively sustainable as much of the public transportation runs on renewable energy.

Gothenburg’s extensive network of trams, buses, and ferries makes it easy to explore the small metropolis without relying on a car. We were blown away at how fast and efficient it was to get around, as buses and trams have frequent departures.

For a unique perspective, Gothenburg’s ferries are a must. Operated as part of the public transport system, these boats shuttle passengers across the Göta älv river and out into the southern archipelago.

Gothenburg’s approach to transportation demonstrates how urban mobility can support both accessibility and environmental goals.

Gothenburg is a destination known for its technological and scientific innovation, so the city is a common meeting place for industry conventions. With that said, there are plenty of places for you to stay. We stayed in three different hotels, and here’s what each was like.

The Clarion Hotel Karlatornet is located in the Lindholmen area of the city. There are bus and tram stops within easy walking distance to get you to/from the hotel.

The main part of the hotel is at the base of the Karlatornet residential building. Karlatornet is currently the tallest building in the Nordics. I mention this because you also have the option of staying on its 58th floor, where you’ll have stunning views of the riverfront. That’s where we stayed.

Our room was clean, modern, and cozy. We had all the necessary amenities, including a TV, WiFi, desk, coffee station, and refrigerator. There was no microwave. There was also no balcony. However, the view of the waterfront from our room was amazing day and night.

The Liseberg Grand Curiosa Hotel is such a fun place to stay! Its quirky decor makes you feel like you are stepping straight into a Harry Potter movie! It’s located next to Gothenburg’s famous amusement park and is designed with families in mind.

The hotel has so many playful details, including a lobby slide from the second floor and a carousel (inside). Our room had creative décor, all the typical amenities, and even had a room with bunk beds for kids.

There are several restaurants and bars, including one on the rooftop. The breakfast buffet had tons of great options, including fruit, sausages, potatoes, eggs, and bagels, and the dining area is huge!

The hotel is conveniently located right across the street from the public tram stop (Liseberg Södra), making it easy to come and go. You can also walk to the Museum of World Culture and the World of Volvo without a sweat!

Hjortviken Country Club is situated in the village of Hindås, approximately a 20- to 25-minute drive from Gothenburg. It’s a brand-new spot and a peaceful lakeside retreat, away from the city.

Hjortviken has incredible amenities, including indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna, and a spacious sun deck with a swim-up bar. There are also facilities for padel, shuffleboard, and billiards, as well as opportunities for biking and exploring nearby trails.

There are several restaurants that serve Swedish and international flavors, as well as several bars for relaxing cocktails. We enjoyed oysters, venison meatballs, and an expansive breakfast buffet.

The decor features a mix of modern and retro elements, highlighted by gold accents, velvet seating, and vintage lighting. Needless to say, it was luxurious!

During our visit, we enjoyed a variety of activities, from exploring museums and the archipelago to shopping and experiencing Swedish traditions. This small metropolis offers countless places to wander and plenty of ways to have a great time.

During our visit, we explored many different neighborhoods around Gothenburg. Public transportation makes it incredibly easy to get around and wander. Each neighborhood had its own vibe with plenty to see and do.

In Haga, you’ll wander cobblestone streets lined with wooden shops and cute cafés. Nearby Linné has trendy restaurants, lively bars, and easy access to green spaces. Majorna has a creative, bohemian feel, with vintage shops, local art studios, and relaxed eateries.

Centrum, the city center, is the heart of shopping and culture, while nearby Magasinsgatan has stylish boutiques like Aplace and Grandpa offering Scandinavian fashion and decor. Liseberg is home to Gothenburg’s beloved amusement park, entertaining the whole family with rides, games, and seasonal events.

The Gothenburg Archipelago is easy to reach by taking a tram or bus to Saltholmen, where ferries connect to the islands as part of the city’s public transportation system.

We began our adventure on Donsö, biking along its quiet roads and taking in the views of peaceful harbors, followed by a bit of sea kayaking along the coast. We made Popsicle Café our home base, where two sisters serve homemade pastries, generous small plates, wine, and host music events in a charming outdoor setting.

We also crossed the bridge to Styrsö for a bit of hiking and more cycling, enjoying the granite cliffs and colorful cottages.

These two islands in Gothenburg’s southern archipelago are just a glimpse of the roughly 20 car-free islands waiting to be explored, making it a perfect escape from the city for a day outdoors.

The Museum of World Culture is dedicated to exploring global cultures through thought-provoking exhibitions. During our visit, we explored the “Native American Fashion – From Roots to Runway” exhibit, which focused on both traditional and contemporary designs that highlighted Indigenous creativity and identity.

We took a tour with one of the curators and learned that they traveled to Canada and the Western U.S. to collect items and conduct interviews for the exhibit. While it showcased fashion, the exhibit also told a deeper story about the history and modern life of the community.

World of Volvo is an immersive brand experience center and museum that showcases Volvo’s legacy, innovation, and commitment to sustainability. We enjoyed a guided tour of the expansive space, which included an area dedicated to Volvo’s history, a restaurant, free public meeting rooms, and event spaces.

We loved how they seamlessly turned learning into entertainment, with interactive exhibits, games, and engaging displays that made exploring the brand’s story a fun experience, all reflecting Volvo’s deep roots in Gothenburg and its dedication to making the city a hub for innovation.

The Swedish fika tradition is all about taking a break to enjoy coffee and pastries with friends or colleagues. Our first experience was at da Matteo, a beloved local roaster and coffee shop offering delicious pastries and sandwiches.

The space had plenty of seating inside, but most people chose to sit outside and enjoy the weather, just as we did. We enjoyed coffee, a cardamom bun, and gelato. We loved the coffee so much that we bought a bag of beans to take home!

Gothenburg’s culinary scene is known for its fresh West Coast seafood, innovative Nordic cuisine, and a growing wave of creative restaurants that focus on local ingredients and global influences. During our visit, we enjoyed a variety of meals at the restaurants below. All in all, the food we tried was seasonal, fresh, always beautifully plated, and often served with creative purees.

Bar Bulot is a casual wine bar in Gothenburg’s beloved Stora Saluhallen Market Hall. The menu changes often and includes small plates and seasonal seafood, paired with natural wines. We enjoyed roasted duck and pork belly for lunch, accompanied by a delicious carrot soup. Their other restaurant, Bulot, located nearby, is Michelin-recommended and offers French and globally inspired dishes.

Hjördis is a cozy restaurant that serves elevated Swedish comfort food, featuring dishes such as raggmunk (a traditional Swedish pancake), beef tartare toast, and natural wines. The restaurant is named after the owner’s beloved aunt, a former Olympic diver who was an inspiration to him during his childhood. We tried several dishes, including the shrimp sandwich (a Swedish favorite), which was mouthwatering!

Suber is a Scandinavian–inspired wine bar and restaurant offering curated natural wines and a menu inspired by classic French cuisine. Suber is run by two sisters who spent many years working in some of Gothenburg’s top kitchens. The atmosphere is intimate, and the food was not only enjoyable but beautifully presented. We loved that their grandmother made the bread we tried!

Collage is another French-inspired brasserie, housed in an old cigar factory and wine warehouse, blending Parisian charm with New York energy and a menu of French classics with a twist. The wine selection is extensive, and the restaurant itself is quite spacious, featuring multiple dining areas and bars. I tried the Saucisson en brioche, a savory sausage served in a house‑baked brioche bun with a rich green peppercorn sauce, and it was devine!

Bikt is a cute bistro that focuses on Southern European flavors, offering a seasonal menu that evolves to highlight fresh ingredients and Mediterranean influences. The space is stylish and cozy with outdoor seating options. We stopped here for lunch, and I tried the cod fillet. It was beautifully plated over potatoes and topped with fresh vegetables.

Heaven 23 is located on the 23rd floor of Gothia Towers. The decor is modern, elegant, and stylish, with large windows that offer gorgeous views of Gothenburg. They serve international cuisine with innovative touches, and are known for their “king-sized” shrimp sandwich. We visited for lunch. I tried the cod, and my husband had the glazed pork belly, which he devoured!

The Gamlestaden neighborhood of Gothenburg is a historic industrial district transformed into a lively area where preserved factory buildings house a craft brewery, urban winery, and cocktail bar that we enjoyed during our visit.

Spike Brewery is a creative craft brewery with a lineup of modern, hop-forward beers, ranging from Session IPAs to tart sours. Everything is brewed on-site, and their spacious taproom doubles as an event venue, often hosting DJs. My husband loved the tasting, and we loved the fun beer names, like “Rock to Fakie” and “Fresh Prince.” It’s a great place to hang out and relax.

Wine Mechanics is the first urban winery in the Nordics, founded by former professional footballer turned wine entrepreneur Kenneth Gustafsson. They acquire grapes from top European vineyards and vinify them on-site.

The decor is modern, and there is ample seating both indoors and outdoors. The kitchen is led by Johan Malm, a two-time world oyster-shucking champion whom we had the pleasure of meeting. Their wines have fun names, such as “50 Shades of Riesling” and “Red Headed Mama.”

Ego Distillers is Gothenburg’s first combined distillery and spirit bar, with on-site production of their own spirits and casual dining. The space is modern and stylish, with cozy dining areas throughout, a DJ booth, an upstairs lounge, and views of the distilling tanks. Their “Ego Gin” won best contemporary style gin at the 2025 World Gin Awards. The atmosphere is fun and inviting. We had several small plates before enjoying dinner and had a wonderful time.

Gothenburg, Sweden, truly surprised us with how much it has to offer. It’s a city that feels both casual and unqiue, with plentiful dining, innovative attractions, and easy access to beautiful nature, all without the stress and crowds you might find in other European destinations. All in all, we can’t recommend Gothenburg enough.