The harbour in Gothenburg, West Sweden
Gothenburg in West Sweden
Sunset over Hönö in the Gothenburg archipelago in West Sweden

Gothenburg & the Archipelago

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Wrapped in a charming concoction of coastal calm and sustainable modernity, Gothenburg is the cultural heart of West Sweden. Gateway to an expansive archipelago, sprawling parks and canal pathways are stitched together by a patchwork of tramlines, as nature meets the metropolis. Bars, cafes, and boutiques thrive in an eclectic assortment of Parisian streets, industrial dockside buildings and 17th-century architecture.


Gothenburg & the Archipelago Holiday Ideas

Days unravel at a delightfully gentle pace in Sweden’s second city, where nature is never far away. Get in touch to book your break to Gothenburg and the archipelago today. Below you'll find a selection of holiday ideas for inspiration.

We'll send you a complimentary copy of Bradt's Travel Guide Book to West Sweden when you book your holiday to Gothenburg and the archipelago with us. 


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This vibrant port city is a favourite amongst locals who spend summers on the peaceful surrounding islands, just a thirty-minute tram ride from the bustling centre. It’s not hard to see why so many seek the unique combination of serene coastal living and buzzing city excitement. Life here is about lagom and fika; finding balance and stepping into the present moment.

Gothenburg’s rich history is firmly rooted all over the city. From the 19th century Feskekörka fish market filled with delicious dining spots, to the canal tours showcasing sailing ships and steamers that line the flowing waters.

Seamlessly mixing the past with present innovation, Gothenburg is leading the way in sustainability. E-bikes and scooters are dotted all over the city, the perfect way to navigate across Gothenburg and explore the surrounding Änggårdsbergen nature reserve. Trams and buses run on renewable energy, and a growing number of electric ferries operate around the city's tranquil waters. 95 percent of Gothenburg’s hotels are environmentally certified, some even being powered by their own wind turbine! Out in the archipelago, family-run retreats offer an alternative shore-side escape.

A city that is constantly in motion, yet encourages a sense of stillness and presence is an experience not to be missed.


Highlights of Gothenburg & the Archipelago

Kayaking through Koster, West Sweden

A Paddlers Paradise

From the urban waterways to the quiet lakes just outside of the city and onward to the islands of the archipelago, kayaking, canoeing and paddling are in abundance in and around Gothenburg. Whether you choose to rent a vessel and explore independently or join a guided tour, we can recommend the best routes to take. Less than an hour's drive north of Gothenburg, discover the network of small lakes at Vättlefjäll nature reserve and the array of plants and wildlife that inhabit the region.

The district Haga full of charming little shops in Gothenburg, West Sweden

The Hip & Trendy Haga District

A short stroll from Kungsportsplatsen (Kings Gate) Gothenburg’s founding place, the Haga district, can be found. Built in the 17th century as the city’s first suburb, the area is a whimsical step back in time, where cobbled streets lay the foundation for houses torn down and built back up over centuries. Layers of stone ground floors and wooden top floors now represent a distinct style of the area. Teeming with treasures, find independent shops, cafes and restaurants away from the busyness of modern city living.

Haga is our favourite district to walk around and it has some of the biggest cinnamon buns in Sweden! Find 'Hagabullen' at Café Husaren.

The Stora Saluhallen Market hall, Gothenburg, West Sweden

Stora Saluhallen Market Hall

Established in 1887, this listed building is home to local cheese, chocolate, meats and baked goods aplenty. Having grown in popularity Stora Saluhallen is visited by thousands every year, and the hall now encompasses food from all over the world. Sample gourmet deli delights provided by expert vendors, or indulge in the variety of dining spots found throughout the beautifully adorned hall. The epitome of Gothenburg's buzzing food scene for over one hundred years, a trip to Stora Saluhallen is not to be missed.

A summer evening in Gothenburg's canals, West Sweden

Boats Tours along Gothenburg's Canals

Walking tours are a wonderful way to learn more about this fascinating city, but a peaceful boat journey through Gothenbug's network of canals offers a waterside perspective of the bustling metropolis. Pass through the old moat dating back to the 17th century and enjoy the charming bridges leading to the harbour. Discover a world where traditional shipyards and fishing sites meet maritime museums and busy harbourside bars.

Combining city grit, innovative gastronomy and coastal tranquility, Sweden's second city has been recognised as one of the world's most sustainable destinations for over six years, and its green enterprise is ever-growing.  


Wonderful Places to Stay in Gothenburg & the Archipelago

Gothenburg & the Archipelago In Pictures

Aerial view of Gothenburg city centre, West Sweden
Aerial view of Gothenburg city centre
The island Vinga in the archipelago is well known for its lighthouse in West Sweden
Vinga island in the Gothenburg archipelago
Brännö island in the Gothenburg archipelago, West Sweden
Brännö island in the Gothenburg archipelago
Cinnamon Bun's in Gothenburg, West Sweden
Cinnamon Bun's in Gothenburg
Sunset over the harbour in Gothenburg, West Sweden
Sunset over the harbour in Gothenburg
Retro trams in Gothenburg, West Sweden
Trams in Gothenburg
The park Kungsparken in the city centre of Gothenburg, West Sweden
Kungsparken in the city centre of Gothenburg

We can't wait to help you plan your trip to Gothenburg and the archipelago in West Sweden