Gothenburg

Friendly, relaxed Gothenburg may be Sweden's second largest city after the capital, but for many this is by far the better city to visit, or to live in. The neo-classical architecture lining the streets, busy with students and trams, has plenty of charm, but there's also plenty of fresh art and architecture brewing here, in the buzzing hipster cafes or live music venues. The best places to stay in Gothenburg come in all shapes and sizes and to suit all budgets - this is, after all, the home of Scandinavia's largest university, and there's plenty of very affordable fun to be had here.

Gothenburg's waterfront is working, but also historic - this was once Sweden's only western port and the centre of Swedish ship building - so you'll find some ships bringing in the freshest fish, while some bob by the quay as museum pieces.

Behind that you'll find a few scenic,17th Century canals, the dressy Avenyn boulevard with its high end boutiques and graceful buildings, then the creative and fashion districts.

What not to miss

• Gothenburg's highlights include a number of really wonderful museums. The themes range from your standard modern art museum to the 'Universeum' - Sweden's great kid's museum, to the random vintage treasures of the Mölndals Warehouse Museum and the Maritiman, the world's largest floating ship museum.

• You'll also want to visit the 17th Century hilltop fort of Skansen Kronan and the local Haga district, which has pretty 19th Century wooden houses.

• And possibly Liseberg, Scandinavia's largest amusement park.

• Foodies, or those in search of a tasty bargain, won't want to miss the fish market.

Our recommendations for the best places to stay in Gothenburg are nearly all centrally located, so the city's major highlights are easily accessible, whichever you choose.

For a central location

• The luxury Hotel Pigalle in the heart of Göteborg is inspired by the sinful Paris of the early 1900’s. A decadent bar, restaurant with charming terrace and sultry bedrooms - a hotel to fall in love with.

• The Elite Plaza Hotel is a large four-star hotel with a gym, saunas, two restaurants and an English style pub. It's great for comfort, and value, and it's by the river and close to many sights.

For five star luxury

• Add a star and you've got the Avalon Hotel a feng shui wonder just a few blocks away. As well as a sense of calm you'll get a roof terrace, pool, bar, restaurant and free wi-fi.

• The Upper House is a luxury hotel situated at the tiop of Gothia Towers. Penthouse suites have modern interiors, plus there's a glass bottomed swwimming pool, great restaurant and amazing views over the city.

For boutique style

• The vibrant Dorsia Hotel is an exciting gem just minutes form Gothenburg Central Station. Bold guest rooms are opulent in design and come with modern luxuries.

• The Hotel Flora offers guests a trendy lobby, cosy terrace and unique spaces for meetings and showcases. Rooms are full of character and perfect for exploring the eclectic city.

Just off centre

• A ten minute ferry ride from central Gothenburg will bring you to Hotel Villan, a refurbished traditional building with smart modern interiors overlooking the harbour.

For an apartment

• If you've decided that a self catering property would be more suitable for your holiday, then we recommend you visit our online booking partner, booking.com where they have a wide selection for all tastes and budgets.

Travel information

• Fly to the international Göteborg Landvetter Airport located 15 miles from the city centre.

• The Gothenburg Central Station is well connected to many destinations across Sweden.

• The best time to visit is the summer months from June to August with temperatures averaging around 21° Celcius

• If you plan to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

1. Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Gothenburg

2. Expand your search to include all our recommendations in Sweden's other major city (and capital) Stockholm.

3. Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Gothenburg