When most people think of Sweden, the first place that probably comes to mind is Stockholm. While Stockholm might be the country’s capital (and a must-see city, for that matter), one of the most inspiring and interesting places to visit in Sweden is Gothenburg, the second largest city in the country.
Featured in The Luxury Travel Guide to Gothenburg, Sweden are the best places to stay and play in this beautiful city.
The Luxury Travel Guide to Gothenburg, Sweden
This coastal city not only is home to over 500,000 people, it’s also a growing urban community filled with a mixture of contemporary architecture and traditional structures (dating back hundreds of years), sweeping ocean and river vistas, gourmet eateries and high-end shopping, and expansive blooming gardens that inspire you to roam and explore.
Gothenburg, Sweden has built a reputation as a “clean and green city” that’s friendly and inviting to visitors, and always bustling with exciting cultural events, captivating activities, and thought-provoking destination spots.
Some of the most notable places to visit in Gothenburg are the Universeum Science Discovery Centre, the 19th century district of Haga Nygata, the Gothenburg Botanical Garden, and the Kungsportsavenyn (also referred to as “The Avenue”).
Where To Stay in Gothenburg, Sweden
If you enjoy contemporary architecture, modern amenities, and water views, then the best place to stay in Gothenburg is the Radisson Blu Riverside Hotel. Located adjacent to the business and science center, and within walking distance to the Lindholmspiren ferry, this upscale, harbor-front hotel overlooking the Göta River is an ideal spot for visitors who are traveling to Gothenburg on business or for pleasure.
This hotel features 265 well-appointed rooms and suites with complimentary high-speed, wireless Internet and access to 24-hour room service, the wellness center and the hotel’s gourmet breakfast buffet. The hotel features comfortable accommodations with unique decorations that evoke a scientifically-minded theme, given the hotel’s close proximity to the Lindholmen Science Park (next door).
The popular on-site restaurant, the Cuckoo’s Nest, presents dishes featuring fresh, local ingredients and unique flavorings.
On a sunny day, there’s no better place to catch an unobstructed view of the water than from the rooftop terrace.
Where To Play in Gothenburg, Sweden
When you’re ready to venture out and explore everything that Gothenburg has to offer, your first visit should be to the Universeum Science Discovery Centre. This multi-story building is a great place for families, especially, as it will capture the imagination of your children for hours on end. Combining science, technology, and adventure, the interactive science museum features a number of different exhibits, including aquariums, animated creatures from the ice age, an outer-space exploratory room, hands-on experiments, and a giant rainforest with live animals.
After you’ve spent a couple hours engaging your mind at the Universeum, you’ll probably need an afternoon pick-me-up. Head over to the old historic district called Haga Nygata for a delectable pastry and a cup of coffee, or as the Swedes like to call it – a “fika”.
Boasting cobbled streets and charming old world buildings, this delightful, pedestrian-friendly area has an abundance of cozy coffee shops and interesting stores selling everything from vintage finds to crafts and collectibles.
A trip to Gothenburg would never be complete without a visit to the majestic Gothenburg Botanical Garden. Featuring approximately 16,000 different species of plants and flowers, this incredible destination is one of northern Europe’s largest gardens. From rock gardens to herb gardens, there’s no shortage of breathtaking beauty in this flower-lover’s dream place.
Where To Eat in Gothenburg, Sweden
If you’re a carnivore, then head down to the Kungsportavenyn (which is the main boulevard in Gothenburg). About a block away is a fantastic gastropub called John Scott’s Palace. Not only does this lively eatery boast incredible food (that all meat-lovers will go crazy over), it’s also housed in the former fine arts palace, which is an incredibly grand historic building. Even on weeknights, this popular place is bustling with visitors and locals, making it one of the best places to “see-and-be-seen” in Gothenburg.
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[Disclosure: Complimentary Göteborg Passes provided by Göteborg &Co.; This is not a sponsored post.]