In recent years, Gothenburg and the West Coast have become a top spot for foodies. World-class seafood, award-winning restaurants, and a magnificent coastline are drawing international visitors in ever-increasing numbers. Gothenburg, or as it's known in Sweden, Göteborg, is the country's second city, yet very different in character to its faraway big brother, Stockholm. Gothenburg's citizens are extremely proud of their city, and an often-intense rivalry exists between Stockholm, in the north, and its southerly counterpart. 

Liseberg Amusement Park

A Gothenburg institution, the Liseberg Amusement Park is a true family favorite. Thrilling rides and rollercoasters, regular concerts, and a wonderful Christmas market make this a popular attraction with locals and tourists. Around 40 different attractions and rides, such as AtmosFear, the tallest free fall ride in Europe, and the award-winning wooden roller coaster Balder will help you while away the hours. On the Liseberg Wheel, you'll be treated to terrific views over the city, and the Helix roller coaster is another favorite. There's also good food, music, games, and hundreds of thousands of flowers in bloom during the summer months.

Slottsskogen

One of the best free things to do for both locals and tourists in Gothenburg is to stroll around the beautiful 338-acre Slottsskogen, a leafy park and mini-zoo right in the heart of the city. This is a fantastic place to bring the entire family. Elk, seals, penguins, moose, and deer are just some of the species you can see in the zoo, and from April to September, kids can enjoy pony rides and cuddle farmyard animals at the petting zoo. Many people also come here to relax and wander through the peaceful parklands and wild forests of maple, beech, and oak. Roller skating, biking, jogging, and miniature golf are other popular activities. Cafes and well-designed children's playgrounds lie within the park, and concerts and events are also staged here, including the popular Way Out West music festival in the summer.

The Southern Archipelago

You don't have to travel far from the city to find charming villages, stunning scenery, and pristine beaches. Seal safaris, sailing, lobster fishing, sea-angling, and boat excursions are just some of the activities to tempt tourists in the Gothenburg archipelago (Skärgården). Regular ferry links run to most anywhere you'd like to go. The southern islands, reached from Saltholmen ferry port, remain a car-free zone making it a perfect destination for cyclists and hikers. Styrsö Island, with four quaint villages and about 1,400 inhabitants, is a real treat. 

The Gothenburg Museum of Art

The Gothenburg Museum of Art hosts a collection of works that is regarded as one of the finest in Northern Europe. The collection covers artworks from the 15th century to contemporary pieces, with a special emphasis on Nordic art. Artists featured here include Carl Larsson, Edvard Munch, Anders Zorn, Picasso, Chagall, Monet, Rembrandt, and many others. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, as well as family activities, lectures, workshops, guided tours, a shop, and café.

Älvsborg Fortress

Älvsborg, in the harbor inlet, is arguably the best-preserved fortress in Sweden. Famed for holding back the Danes during the 1717-19 war, the fortress was attacked time after time without ever being occupied. Today, it's one of the most popular boat excursions in Gothenburg. The trip includes a dramatized historical guided tour, which as well as being informative is great fun. The boat trip takes approximately 30 minutes one way. On the island is a café, a small handicraft shop, winding paths, and beautiful surroundings. 

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