Gothenburg travel guide

Gem of the Swedish West Coast

Long a runner-up to the larger and more fashionable metropolis of Stockholm, the city of Gothenburg is on the cutting edge of Swedish design, music, and culture. Combining an urban feel with the beauty of its unique coastal trappings, Gothenburg attracts everyone from jet-setters to outdoor enthusiasts. On Kungsportsavenyn (just call it "Avenyn," as the locals do), Gothenburg's popular downtown boulevard, locals and travelers flock to cafés, shops, and museums by day and pursue the hip nightlife by night. In the center of town, streets maintain their historic cobblestone charm, and small alleyways can lead to stores featuring hidden gems from local designers. With its large port, Gothenburg has a distinct marine feel, best discovered by taking a city tour by boat through the many canals. Like the rest of Sweden, Gothenburg has a "green" feel, a product of the efficient public transportation, the pedestrian-friendly streets, and the large Slottskogen Park, full of picnic-perfect fields, beach volleyball courts, and even a small zoo. Getting away from the city is as easy as hopping on a ferry and exploring one of the many islands that make up Gothenburg's archipelago. Families traveling with children will appreciate not only the outdoor opportunities but also Liseberg, Scandinavia's biggest amusement park.