Port of Gothenburg

About Gothenburg, Guide and Tourist Attractions
(Gothenburg, Vastra Gotaland, Sweden)

Gothenburg is a fast growing city with nearly a million inhabitants living in the metropolitan area. The city's Baroque 19th century architecture and youthful aura sees it cited as Europe's youngest big city.

Gothenburg is the second-largest city in Sweden and the biggest University City in all of Scandinavia, with over 60,000 students.


The city was founded in 1621 by King Adolf Gustav II to serve as the country's main trading port and managed to flourish in that role for several centuries before recent industrial recessions. Today, Gothenburg has an international reputation for hosting big events like the European Football Championships, but maintains its original modesty in that no buildings are over six storeys tall.

Tourist Attractions

From the wealth of attractions on offer for visitors, Skansen Kronan (Crown Keep), a hilltop fortification from the 17th century, and Gothenburg Cathedral are among the most popular. The Gothenburg Art Museum is housed in a grand structure and is flanked by a theatre and a concert hall. The museum exhibits some of the finest Nordic Art.

For an alternative activity, the Liseberg is the biggest amusement park in Scandinavia and the number one attraction in Sweden, with rides which will appeal to all ages.

Every year in February, the Gothenburg Film Festival sees the city filled with movie buffs, and is now a major festival in Scandinavia. Göteborgskalaset is usually held in August and is a city festival with live musical performances, foreign food stalls and lots of beer.

With a myriad of dining establishments spread throughout the city, Gothenburg has restaurants catering for all tastes and budgets. Bars and clubs are again plentiful, ranging from small cafés to places such as the aptly titled Delirium Café, which houses over 15,000 different beers and whiskies. Both the Avenyn and Linnégatan serve outdoors in summertime.

Getting around Gothenburg can be an interesting activity in itself. The tram system is renowned and covers most of the city, while ferries make regular trips across the River Göta. A decent bus service is also provided, and in summer, walking around the parks can be a pleasant experience.