In the spring I went to Sweden’s second largest city, Gothenburg. A pretty little city on the west coast of the country, I had no problems finding things to see and do while I was there, as Gothenburg offers a wide variety of attractions and activities. Here’s a look at my weekend in Gothenburg** as seen through Instagram.
One of the “trees” in Landvetter. I’m getting glimpses of Scandinavian design and I haven’t even left the airport.
The landmark Hotel Gothia Towers was my home during my stay in Gothenburg. The hotel is currently the third largest in the Nordic countries and in the process of adding a third tower, which will probably bump it up in the rankings.
The network of canals in Gothenburg gave me a feeling of déjà vu. I soon learned that the city is heavily influenced by the Dutch, who were contracted to construct the city since they had the skills needed to drain and build on Gothenburg’s marshy area which was very similar to the land in Holland.

Feskekôrka
Gothenburg’s famous fish market, was built in 1874, and is known as the “Fish Church” because its gothic-looking architecture resembles that of a church. The market is open Tuesday-Friday from 10:00-18:00 and Saturdays from 10:00-15:00, and unfortunately closed on Sundays (when I went by) and Monday. However, fellow travel blogger and IGer, Heather Crowper recommends trying the oysters at Restaurant Gabriel. If you’re lucky, you can have your oysters personally opend for you by Johan Malm.

Fish isn’t the only food not to miss while in Gothenburg. The bread is to die for. There is a wonderful bread culture in the Nordic countries and this freshly baked bread, served with whipped butter is a delicious example.

Since I ran a half-marathon while in Gothenburg, I used the carbo-loading excuse to indulge every change I got, and there where plenty, since bread is put on the table at every meal.

The beautiful spring weather was the perfect time to hop on a Paddan boat and see the Gothenburg from the water and to get an overview of the city and its history. After the boat tour, I took a walk along Avenyn (the Avenue), the street where everything happens in Gothenburg.

On this street you’ll also find the Gothenburg Museum of Art and the statue of Poseidon*, the city’s famous landmark.

Skansen Kronan was once a fortress, originally built outside the city walls. It is now situated in the center of Gothenburg on a hill overlooking the popular Haga neighborhood,

known for its well-preserved wooden houses*, charming boutiques and cafés.

Liseberg* is an adorable amusement park, circa 1923. Liseberg has 37 rides, including a Ferris wheel and the
world-famous wooden roller coaster, Balder.

Balder was twice voted the Best Wooden Tracked Roller Coaster, and is a must if you like roller coasters, like I do.

 

*Photo not on Instagram
** Thanks to go:teborg for providing me with a Göteborg City Card, which granted me access to many of the activities listed above.