Gothenburg

From grand, early 20th-century hotels to boutique lodgings and modern hideaways, Gothenburg does not disappoint when it comes to finding a place to stay. Many of its larger hotels are clustered around Central Station, including the Clarion Hotel Post (Drottningtorget 10). This elegant former post office mixes art deco elegance with contemporary interiors. For something a little cosier, book into the boutique Dorsia Hotel & Restaurant (Trädgårdsgatan 6) in Vallgraven. An assault on the senses, its individually designed rooms are adorned with artworks, brightly coloured furnishings and glitzy bathrooms. For a truly unique experience, opt for the mid-priced Hotel Barken Viking (Lilla Bommens Torg 10), a converted 1907 barque.

A rising capital of Scandinavian fashion, native designers are looking to follow in the footsteps of Nudie Jeans (Vallgatan 15) and Whyred (Södra Larmgatan 13). Modern shops can be found along Avenyn while those into their vintage styles should make for the Haga district. Nordstan (Norra Hamngatan) is Scandinavia’s biggest shopping centre, or for something a little more personal head to Linné for arts and crafts.

Gothenburg is a real haven for lovers of seafood; try Fiskekrogen (Lilla Torget 1) for a trendy meal, or Restaurang Gabriel (Feskekörka) in the fish market for a spot of lunch. For Swedish meatballs or game head to Smaka (Vasaplatsen 3), while excellent value can be found with the lunch menus along Avenyn at places such as Brasserie Lipp (Kungsportsavenyn 8). Hit the cafes of Vallgraven for the traditional Gothenburg combination of fika, coffee with a cinnamon bun, Brogyllen (Västra Hamngatan 2) comes highly recommended.

Gothenburg Horse Show

April

Dating back over 40 years, this is one of the world’s premier equestrian events. Guests can take a look at the exhibitions and receive expert tuition in addition to watching the international competitions in dressage and jumping at the Scandinavium sports arena.

Way Out West

August

Rock, hip hop and electronic music take centre stage over three days at Slottskogen park, with the likes of Blur, Kraftwerk and Tiësto having appeared in the past. The city’s nightclubs play host to sister festival Stay Out West late into the night.

Gothenburg Culture Festival

August

A variety of events are in store over six days through the city’s streets from art exhibitions, opera and poetry, to hip hop shows, street performances and urban dance.

Gothenburg Book Fair

September

The Swedish Exhibition and Congress Centre hosts this four day book fair that is one of Scandinavia’s biggest. Enjoy the stalls, seminars and book signings, and expect Scandinavian works to dominate thanks to a growing prominence over recent years.

Liseberg Christmas Market

November-December

Get into the festive spirit at the Liseberg Amusement Park, where you can peruse the market stalls, have a whirl on the rides, and warm your hands on a cup of mulled wine.