How to Spend 3 Days in Gothenburg

Three days in Gothenburg give you plenty of time to tick off the highlights, cruise the coast, and get a taste of Swedish culture. Make the most of limited time by booking tours and tickets in advance, and take advantage of money-saving passes. Here’s how to spend three days in Gothenburg. 

Day 1: Sightseeing in the City

As well as allowing you to create your own itinerary, a hop-on hop-off bus or boat tour is a great way to get your bearings. Disembark to take in views from the fortress of Skansen Kronan; admire landmarks such as the Gustavi Cathedral and Gothenburg Opera House; or stroll along Lilla Bommen harbor. Alternatively, to get a more intimate glimpse into Sweden’s second-largest city, take a walking tour. 

In the afternoon, gain insight into Swedish cuisine and culinary traditions on a food tour that reveals local specialities that you may otherwise miss. Tours typically cover Feskekörka fish market and Saluhallen market hall, both famous for their fresh fish and seafood. Spend the evening in Haga, a neighbourhood famous for its cobbled lanes and traditional architecture. Alternatively, track down some of Gothenburg’s best nightlife in Avenyn and on Park Lane. 

Day 2: Cruise the Coast

Due to a prime location at the mouth of the Göta River and Kattegat Sea, Gothenburg is the main departure point for boat cruises and ferries to the islands off Sweden’s west coast. To see a different side of Sweden, take a day trip to the islands of Tjörn and Orust, where you can experience local life in historic fishing villages, shop for local handicrafts and sample typical Swedish foods, and visit a traditional bee farm.

Alternatively, set sail on an island-hopping cruise of the Southern Archipelago. Home to more than 20 islands, highlights include the island fortress of Nya Älvsborg, the beaches of Styrsö island, and the nature reserve of Vrangö island, a prime spot for hiking and bird-watching. 

Day 3: Parks and Museums

Gothenburg is home to some of Sweden’s most important museums and cultural institutions, so it’s worth setting aside a day to visit as many as possible. For the best value, purchase a Gothenburg Pass, which offers free or discounted admission to many of the city’s museums. 

Highlights include the Gothenburg Museum of Art, the Universeum Science Museum, and the Museum of World Culture, all located within walking distance of one other. After visiting Gothenburg’s Natural History Museum, stroll through Slottsskogen park or the nearby Gothenburg Botanical Garden. Spend your final night at Liseberg, Scandinavia's largest amusement park, where you can ride rollercoasters, enjoy live entertainment, and fill up on classic funfair foods.