City break in and around Gothenburg – tips for a week on the west coast

Gothenburg’s natural wonderland

Gothenburg is a city with nature on its doorstep – wherever you are, you’re never far from the sea, a forest or a peaceful park. It’s also the starting point for two scenic long-distance hiking trails: Gotaleden, which stretches to Alingsås and winds past lakes, viewpoints and cosy cafés; and Pilgrimsleden Göta Älv, a peaceful route following the Göta River through historic countryside landscapes.

City parks and green spaces

Gothenburg offers a wealth of lush parks and gardens that are perfect for a relaxing stroll or a day out with the family:

• Jonsered Gardens – A historic 19th-century estate just outside Gothenburg featuring a formal garden, a kitchen garden, an English rose garden, and a show garden. Enjoy organic food at the garden café or visit the nearby Poppels microbrewery.
• The Garden Society of Gothenburg (Trädgårdsföreningen) – A beautifully preserved 19th-century park in the city centre. Don’t miss the striking Palm House filled with tropical plants (closed for renovation until December 2025).
• Slottsskogen – The city's largest and most beloved park, with cafés, playgrounds, azalea-filled hillsides, and a small petting zoo.
• Gunnebo House and Gardens – One of Sweden’s best-preserved 18th-century estates located 15 kilometres from the city. Enjoy formal gardens, an English park and kitchen gardens. Sample produce from the garden at Kaffehus och Krog.
• Gothenburg Botanical Garden – A vast natural garden home to more than 16,000 plant species, sculpture installations and peaceful woodland trails.

Nature reserves

Gothenburg is surrounded by beautiful nature reserves, all easily accessible by public transport. Delsjön Nature Reserve is a local favourite for swimming and kayaking, while Änggårdsbergen Nature Reserve offers rugged trails and connects directly to the botanical garden. For a more remote adventure, Vättlefjäll Nature Reserve’s lakes and forest paths invite you to paddle or hike in peaceful surroundings.

Archipelago escapes

No visit to Gothenburg is complete without a trip to the nearby archipelago – easily reachable by public transport:

• Hönö – A lively island in the northern archipelago, perfect for kayaking, seafood tasting, and island hopping. It’s also home to a stage of the Kuststigen Coastal Path, offering sea views and picturesque fishing villages. At the harbour, enjoy freshly caught fish and seafood at local restaurants and try the locally produced flatbread.
• Donsö – A peaceful, charming island in the southern part of the archipelago, with traditional wooden houses, scenic footpaths, bathing spots, and fresh prawns served at harbourside cafés.
• Vrångö – The southernmost island boasts nature reserves, sandy beaches and unforgettable sunset views. Stay overnight at Kajkanten for a full island experience.

Whether you're in the mood for an urban park, a forest hike or a seaside escape, nature is always close by in Gothenburg. For more inspiration, check out these guides to the best summer bathing spots and kayaking experiences in the city centre.

Cultural spots to explore in Gothenburg and beyond

Gothenburg’s cultural scene is vibrant, creative and easy to access. This compact city is full of exciting attractions, and many of them – like the child-friendly science centre Universeum and the iconic Liseberg amusement park – are clustered in the same area, making it simple to explore more in less time.

Museums in the city

• Gothenburg Museum of Art – One of Northern Europe’s top art museums, featuring works from the 15th century to contemporary art.
• Gothenburg City Museum – Housed in the historic East India Company building, this museum tells the story of Gothenburg and its people.
• Gothenburg Natural History Museum – A classic family favourite featuring a full-size blue whale and exhibitions on Nordic wildlife and global biodiversity.

Day trips for culture buffs

• Alingsås – Just a short train ride from Gothenburg, this charming town is often called the capital of Swedish fika. Stroll through its cobblestone streets and wooden houses, and stop for coffee and cake at one of its many welcoming cafés.
• Nääs Castle – A beautifully preserved 19th-century estate, easily reachable by public transport from Gothenburg and Alingsås. Take a guided tour or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. While you're in the area, don't miss a stop at Nääs Fabriker, a stylish hub of fashion, interior design, and local craftsmanship.
• Marstrand – An island town just an hour from the city. With its impressive Carlsten Fortress, charming harbour and historic wooden buildings, it's the perfect blend of history and coastal flair.

Taste the rich flavours of Gothenburg

Gothenburg’s food scene is shaped by its coastal location and strong commitment to sustainability. From fine dining to casual eats, the city offers flavours rooted in west coast produce, seasonal ingredients and creative thinking.

Restaurants in the city

• Suggan – A popular modern bistro with a sustainability focus and ever-changing seasonal dishes.
• Restaurang Svinn – Run by the Gothenburg City Mission, this unique spot creates delicious meals using rescued food that would otherwise go to waste.
• Bulot – A cosy eatery serving a seasonal tasting menu inspired by the best produce from the west coast, all with a French twist.
• Familjen – This contemporary Swedish brasserie has a warm, neighbourhood feel and is rated a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide.
• Feskekôrka – The newly renovated “Fish Church” is once again open to visitors, offering fresh seafood, local delicacies and a great atmosphere under one iconic roof.
• Cityysteriet – A haven for cheese lovers located in Slakthusområdet. Their factory shop offers house-made cheeses alongside carefully selected varieties from Swedish and Nordic dairies.

Day trips for foodies

• Signum – An elegant Michelin-starred restaurant located just outside the city, in Mölnlycke. Set by a scenic lake, it belongs to the boutique hotel Hällsnäs. Come for the culinary artistry, stay for the peaceful surroundings.
• Gunnebo Kaffehus och Krog – Located in the Gunnebo House and Gardens, this café and restaurant serves organic dishes made with freshly harvested herbs and vegetables from its own gardens.
• Lammet & Bonden – A small farm shop northeast of Gothenburg where you can meet the animals and shop for locally produced meat, vegetables and other goodies. Reachable in under an hour by bus from Polhemsplatsen.

Gothenburg has also earned international recognition for its thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering tastings and taproom experiences. Explore your favourites in this guide to breweries in Gothenburg.

Make the most of your Gothenburg visit

Want more ideas for your Gothenburg itinerary? Check out these guides for even more inspiration:

• Cafés in Gothenburg
• Nightlife in Gothenburg
• Hotels in Gothenburg

Whether you're into food, nature, culture or coastal adventures, Gothenburg is full of experiences worth lingering for. With so much packed into this walkable city and its nearby surroundings, it’s the perfect place to settle in and explore at your own pace.