Gothenburg, Sweden’s charming second city, is renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and the friendly, laid-back attitudes of its residents, which has likely contributed to its recently becoming one of Europe’s top weekend break destinations. Rates in overnight stays rose by more than 17% from 2010 to 2014, exceeding four million visitors for the first time. One of the biggest draws for travellers seems to be the city’s appealing ability to retain and harmoniously combine old world enchantment with a cosmopolitan vibe and the innovative culinary, retail and cultural experiences many seek in a luxury vacation.
 
Groundbreaking architecture blends seamlessly with neoclassical façades, cobbled streets and 17th Century canals, and whilst fishing boats are still seen unloading at the quays in the early morning as they have done for centuries, this port has long since evolved from a sleepy seaside town into an influential and progressive modern hub. First built by the Dutch in the 17th Century, Gothenburg’s herring fishing industry, importation through the Swedish East India Company and exportation of raw materials first established the city’s prevailing reputation as being progressive.
 
The exquisite beauty of Gothenburg’s natural spaces and the enchanting, secluded islands of its archipelago are best enjoyed through the spring and summer months, though the climate throughout autumn and winter tends to be milder than that in the North of Sweden. Visitors later in the year can revel in the many delights of the Scandinavian festive period and the peaceful streets that return at the end of peak tourist season. Independent and designer stores, stylish cafés, Michelin starred restaurants and an abundance of sightseeing and cultural activities means there is really nothing this well-kept Swedish secret cannot offer.
 
Exploring the great outdoors & getting your culture fix at Gothenburg’s splendid museums
 
The quaint, charming islands of Gothenburg’s archipelago, just a short ferry ride from the mainland, are some of the most unique and enriching outdoor experiences the city has to offer. Most islands are car-free, and small populations mean peace and space are abundant, allowing discerning guests to walk, bike or swim in near silence. Vinga Island is particularly renowned for its natural beauty, whilst Styrsö offers a livelier taste of island life, with restaurants, cafés, shops and guesthouses. Scuba, fish or kayak in the surrounding sea, rest on sandy beaches, sample fresh seafood and homemade raspberry pie and familiarise yourself with Gothenburg’s heritage by exploring a traditional fishing village.
 
Those who would rather appreciate the great outdoors without straying abroad of the mainland can take a landmark and history boat tour through its 17th century canals, or visit the immaculately manicured lawns and flowerbeds of the Garden Society of Gothenburg.  The Gothenburg Botanical Garden, awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide, is one of Europe’s largest, and boasts a rare species of Easter Island tree extinct in its natural habitat amongst many other horticultural delights, and a walk through the Slottsskogen city park can mean the opportunity to see elk wandering freely and a variety of Nordic animals in the Slottsskogen zoo.
 
Fascinating cultural experiences also abound in Gothenburg’s museums and businesses.  Muse over works by Rembrandt, Larsson and Picasso in the Gothenburg Museum of Art, or explore Sweden’s design history at Röhsska Textile Museum. Shop for international brands in the main shopping street of Avenyn, or stroll the cobbled streets of the old town, Haga, drifting into enticing boutiques and antique stores and sampling locally made marzipan and chocolates. Spend an evening at Gothenburg’s Aftonstjärnan cinema, dating from 1903, or revel in musical entertainment at the modern, architecturally stunning Gothenburg Opera House.
 
Local culinary delicacies & Michelin star experiences
 
Even the most sophisticated palates can be easily satisfied in Gothenburg, which was named the Culinary Capital of Sweden in 2011 and boasts five Michelin star restaurants. Exclusive, local ingredients like guinea fowl, elderflower berries and woodruff  come to life at modern, minimalistic Bhoga, and such unexplored culinary delights as Cold Swedish Crab Lasagne can be enjoyed in a chic, Nordic, private room at Restaurang 28+. Irresistible seafood dishes are prepared by Sweden’s former Chef of the Year, Gustav Trägårdh at Sjömagasinet, and a heavenly cloudberry dessert is just one of many unique gastronomic experiences to be had at SK Mat and Människor. Koka, named Sweden’s best restaurant in 2014, never fails to deliver truly exquisite dishes.
 
In Gothenburg, there are no end of opportunities to sample Swedish specialities that will add an authentic taste to your trip. The signature Swedish pickled herring dish, Inlagd Sill, has historical significance because of the sustenance it offered families throughout harsh Swedish winters, particularly around the archipelago. A town famous for its shellfish, oysters are also among the favourite local dishes in Gothenburg, and can be washed down with champagne in stylish Forssén & Öberg, whilst herring is traditionally accompanied by Snaps, a fruit-flavoured aquavit.
 
Of course, your Gothenburg experience would not be complete if you didn’t partake in Fika, a traditional daily break in which coffee and sweet treats are enjoyed. Fika in Gothenburg is famous for including enormous cinnamon buns, or Hagabullen, the best of which are available from the charming Café Husaren in Haga. Travellers longing for a nightcap in a chic setting can sip refined wine in Björn’s Bar, owned and run by Michelin star chef, Björn Persson, or original cocktails in classic prohibition-era styled bar Hush Hush, luxurious and sleek bars being far from a rarity here. 

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