Things to do in Gothenburg
Discover the city’s most exciting cultural hub
This abandoned heating plant was commandeered by street artists and nightcrawlers in the 1980s. Since then Roda Sten (tel: +46 (031) 12 08 16; rodasten.com) has gradually turned into a cultural hub for contemporary art exhibitions, club nights and a restaurant that serves a famous meat-free Sunday brunch.
Get a sweat on in the sauna
Like next door neighbour Finland, Sweden has a strong sauna tradition and Gothenburg has many to try. One of the most spectacular saunas in town is in Frihamen (tel: +46 313 68 42 00; www.goteborg.com/en/the-sauna-in-frihamnen), and it’s more of a post-industrial landmark than a wooden sweatbox. However, it is hot as hell and you'll need to book.
Get out into the archipelago
The city sits on the southern end of the Göteborgs skärgård (Gothenburg archipelago), which means boat tours, sea kayaking and island exploring aren’t far away. Brännö is one of the most popular of the many islets and, unusually, boasts 800 residents. The tourist office (tel: +46 08 508 28 508;www.goteborg.com/en/good-to-know/getting-to-the-archipelago/) will loop you in with the information.
Hit the near slopes
Few cities have ski slopes within striking distance of the centre and Gothenburg’s selection will keep everyone happy. Alebacken (tel: +46 303 74 18 20, www.alebacken.nu) is 20 minutes’ drive away and boasts three slopes, one of which is perfect for beginners. Alternatively try cross-country skiing at OK Landehofs (tel: +46 031 91 73 24; www.oklandehof.se) ski resort near Landvetter airport where - along with patient instructors - you’ll find plenty of trails.
Play some (indoor) volleyball
The Beach Center (tel: +46 031 47 52 82; http://www.goteborg.com/en/beach-center) is home to the world’s largest beach volleyball hall, which contains five white sand beaches, each decorated with palm trees, chirping birds and piped ocean sounds. Beach bums can sink a couple at the bar.
