Any trip around Scandinavia should include a stop in Sweden’s second largest city. Not only is it a brilliant place to visit but it’s easily accessible from the likes of Oslo, Stockholm and Copenhagen.

What to do

Gothenburg’s huge science centre, the Universeum, provides is the perfect rainy day venue for both young and old. There are seven floor in this interactive centre which are all separated by their distinct themes such as space and the brain.

Visit before the 15th June for reduced admission: approximately £16 for adults, £13 for students and £12 for children. These tickets are well worth the money as it’s easy to spend several hours exploring everything this vast centre has to offer.

If you are looking for fun and the sun is shining then the Liseberg amusement park with its many gardens might take your fancy. Located right next to the Universeum, it’s centrally located as far as amusement parks go. There is a great selection of rollercoasters on offer and it caters to those looking for a real thrill. Opening this year is Valkyria, Europe’s longest dive coaster that features a drop of nearly 50m. A day’s admission and ride pass doesn’t come cheap at £41 but for anyone into this sort of thing, it’ll be well worth the money.

Gothenburg is a city with plenty of water and kayaking is something that is widely available to try out. Point 65 Kayak Centre is located right on the harbour and offers equipment hire, classes and tours at fair prices. If this sounds a bit too active for you though, perhaps you would rather enjoy a trip to the popular Volvo museum or stroll through the charming botanical gardens (voluntary admission fee £2).

When to visit in Gothenburg

Gothenburg can look beautiful in the winter months when covered in snowfall but frozen waters are of course not idea for anyone looking to take out a kayak. The long days in the Swedish summer offer a lot of appeal and temperatures between June and August tend to very pleasant usually falling between 14 and 22 degrees Celsius.

Where to eat

Gothenburg, much like the rest of Sweden, is not a particularly cheap place to live. Food prices are expensive but for a cheap and tasty bite on the go, visit the Jinx Food Truck down Magasinsgatan. They cook up delicious Asian food with both vegan and meat options available. For something more Swedish, try Gourmetkorv for a filling and succulent Swedish sausage that will be served with bread or potato salad.

For your everyday shopping needs, Lidl will be your best friend in Gothenburg. There are several in the city but the one near Kungsparken is the easiest to reach. Prices here are much cheaper than rival supermarkets and it’s open every day.

Where to stay

You can stay in Gothenburg without breaking the bank but often cheaper accommodation is based 3km or so outside the city centre. If this doesn’t bother you then the Backpakcers Goteborg hostel is one to consider. They offer wonderfully clean rooms with prices starting at just £20 per person per night.

To be more centrally located, the Le Mat B&B is a great option. They offer some of the cheapest double rooms in the city (£50-60 in peak months) and while they are basic, they provide everything you are likely to need.