The best of Gothenburg

If you love history, culture, fresh seafood, and cosy cafes, visit friendly and cosmopolitan Gothenburg either as a superb city break or the beginning of an adventure exploring the archipelago and varied landscapes of west Sweden.

Sparkling clean, vibrant, cosmopolitan and friendly, the beautiful city of Gothenburg is home to just over half a million residents. On a two day visit to the city, I was successful in getting a good feel for the culture and the attractions as well as having time to relax, unlike some city breaks I've experienced! Not only is Gothenburg the gateway to the varied and dramatic landscapes of West Sweden, it also boasts a wonderful city archipelago just a twenty minute tram ride from the city centre. Most attractions within the city are in walking distance, if not, trams are excellent, frequent and cheap. There are many reasons to come and explore the city, and surrounding area, but I've listed a few of my favourites, easily accomplished over a long weekend or to get you started.

It's a short tram ride to the stunning botanical gardens. I arrived mid afternoon right in the middle of autumn. The sun was still fairly high in the sky and reflected the vivid yellows, oranges and reds of the trees, shrubs and foliage. I loved exploring the small pathways that take you up and around perfectly designed gardens. What enchanted me most was that although the gardens were well kept, the plants weren't pruned back and stylised to perfection. Fallen leaves spilled over the footpaths giving a truly rural experience. There is also a fantastic forest walk towards the back of the gardens.

The university district of Haga is buzzing with locals, students and tourists alike. It's a joy to walk along the cobbled streets and view the splendid architecture from the 19th century. Look out for the three-story house construction featuring one storey in stone and two in wood, all in the name of fire prevention. It's all too tempting to treat yourself to something quirky from the cute antique shops. I could also have spent more time exploring the craft shops, and easily have polished off a second coffee and cinnamon bun.
Image: © Anders Ocklind Göteborg & Co

Gothenburg harbour has been visited for centuries and the maritime museum is definitely worth a visit. But it's not just the history that makes the area so compelling. The largest harbour in Scandanavia reminded me of a smaller version of London docklands. New build homes are prevalent as are swanky offices for local enterprises. I'd definitely recommend a boat trip from the main harbour to Klipan. The municipal harbour ferry Älvsnabben zig-zags its way across the river to the last stop which houses a pretty quay, the beautiful Michelin Star restaurant Sjömagasinet and the Röda Sten culture centre with its ongoing contemporary Art Biennial. The façade of the museum is also a free zone for the city's graffiti artists.
Image: © Göran Assner Göteborg & Co

It's great fun to explore this gorgeous museum from the top and work your way down. Artefacts from overseas adorn the top floor of the museum and as you work your way down, design and collectors pieces become more present day, retro, quirky and bizarre. Of course much of it is perfect furniture for the contemporary home. When I think of Swedish design, I can't help but automatically think Ikea, and I can't deny I didn't spot some similar looking furniture in the exhibition. But no surprises there! The building itself is beautiful. Situated centrally and on the main road, it's like walking into centuries old warehouse.
Image: © Kjell Holmner Göteborg & Co

Being female and in my young thirties, it's impossible to be in a city with over 500 shops within five minutes walking distance and Sweden's largest shopping centre without having a good wander round. You'll see many of the shops that you are familiar with at home, plus more... You could spend a good day or more shopping, especially in the quaint boutiques and jewellery shops, so if you're in need of gift ideas, essentials or some Swedish design crockery you'll be easily pleased. Plus, if you get tired, there are plenty of coffee shops where you can buy filling tasty open sandwiches to boost your energy levels.
Image: © Lars Kérla Göteborg & Co

From lobster to cinnamon buns, find out our favourite restaurants and eateries to experience the best taste of Sweden.

• For more information on trips to Sweden visit www.visitsweden.co.uk.
• Double rooms at the Avalon Hotel start from SEK 1290 (approximately £95) per night, including breakfast. For more details or to book visit www.avalonhotel.se or call 0046 31 751 02 00.
• For more information on Gothenburg visit www.goteborg.com.
• SAS (www.flysas.com / 0870 60 727 727) offers flights from London Heathrow to Gothenburg from £108 pp return.
• Ryanair (www.ryanair.com / 08712 460 000) offers flights from London Stansted to Gothenburg, with fares starting from £10 one-way including taxes. Pick up a hire car from the airport and drive north for just over an hour.