Finding £26.50 return flights was the main factor of heading to Gothenburg in Sweden, however the city did not disappoint. Being Sweden’s 2nd largest city, there is a lot to offer in terms of things to do and especially the culinary scene. Even though we went in November which is autumn, it was still chilly and we also saw the first snow of the season which was quite magical!

My friend Maddy and I stayed at the Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel which was very well located, close to the main train station as well as the city centre. We based ourselves here for 3 nights and with the Göteborg city card (which actually no longer exists from 1 Jan 2018) which includes free public transport including the ferries, as well as free entry into a number of museums and attractions, it was a great way to explore the city and the nearby archipelagos.

The Liseberg Christmas markets had started the weekend we were there so we got to experience the Christmas atmosphere (with an added touch of snow), check out the many stalls and go ice skating. Definitely recommended if you are here over in November/December time.

Explore the West coast Swedish archipelago

Although the Swedish archipelago is probably best enjoyed in Summer, it was really nice to explore the place in the cold. The ferries come from Saltholmen and you can easily get there by Tram 11 from Gothenburg city centre. From here, we wanted to explore a few of the islands but because of the limited ferries available, we decided to head to Vrångö first. We walked around the tiny island (around 400 people live here) and walked the nature trail which was very nice.

Other islands to visit are Brännö and Styrsö which are also meant to be different but equally beautiful.

Where to eat and drink in Göteborg

There are so many great places to eat in Gothenburg ranging from budget to Michellin star. Places we went to and I recommend are:

• Da Matteo – a must when in Gothenburg! The pastries are amazing (must get the cinnamon scrolls) and we grabbed a pizza to share plus coffee/hot chocolate.
• Koka – this Michellin star restaurant has 3, 5 or 7 course set menus. We went for the 3 star which cost 495 SEK and I can highly recommend it! I had the crab for the starter, the duck for the main and this carrot cake with rhubarb ice cream for dessert.
• Smörgåsbaren – I was really surprised at how good the pork belly bahn mi was! This place was packed and we had to wait for a table so this is a good sign!
• Kafe Magasinet – an all day eating spot but had some great pizzas and prosecco in the evening!
• The Barn – this place has amazing burgers and a cosy atmosphere.

Although Stockholm is renowned to be the cooler, more popular city, Gothenburg definitely a place that is full of good cafes, restaurants and bars and worth the visit!