Summer holiday activities in Gothenburg - things to do all summer long

Looking for things to do in Gothenburg this summer? From museums and family attractions to the archipelago and amusement parks, there's something for every age. When school is out and the calendar is open, there is no shortage of summer holiday activities in Gothenburg to fill the days with, whether you live in the city or come for a day trip.

One of the most obvious stops is World of Volvo. Here you explore a whole world of cars, trucks, design and technology under one roof, in the heart of the event district and a stone's throw from Liseberg. It is interactive, weatherproof and just as enjoyable for curious children as for adults interested in design, technology and innovation. It's a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Gothenburg this summer. Below we have gathered tips for the whole family, sorted by what you are in the mood for.

Indoors, whatever the weather

When the sun beats down or the rain pours, a visit indoors is always a good idea. Gothenburg has experiences that stand up to both.

World of Volvo – interactive exhibitions, iconic Volvo vehicles and hands-on experiences for all ages. Feel the power of the wind tunnel, operate a real electric excavator and explore Volvo's past, present and future. See what awaits in the exhibition.
Universeum – a science centre with a living rainforest, aquariums and space, where children learn by touching and feeling.
Maritiman – a floating museum of ships at the river's edge, where you step aboard and explore life at sea.
The Museum of Natural History – home to the famous whale Malm and collections of animals from around the world.
Paradox Museum – optical illusions and quirky rooms that challenge the senses and make for good holiday photos.

Rides, play and adrenaline

Adrenaline, play and summer spirit are all part of the holidays. Here both big and small come into their own.

Liseberg – the Nordic region's classic amusement park with roller coasters, carousels and a Ferris wheel.
Slottsskogen – a large city park with an animal park and the well-known Plikta playground.
Jubileumsparken – play, bathing and activities by the river during the warm part of the year.
Skatås – an exercise centre with trails, paths and swimming in Delsjön for the active family.

Cool off and swim

With the sea, lakes and outdoor pools all around, a refreshing dip in Gothenburg is never far away.

Delsjön – lake swimming in scenic surroundings, easy to reach from the city.
Askimsbadet – one of the city's large sandy beaches with shallow water, good for children.
Saltholmen and Smithska udden – rocky bathing spots with a real sense of the sea in western Gothenburg.
Jubileumsparken – sea bathing and a pool in the middle of the city during the summer season.

Nature and picnics

Allemansrätten, the Swedish right to roam, makes the whole landscape accessible. Pack the basket and find your own spot in the greenery.

Slottsskogen – sweeping lawns, hills and shade under the trees for the perfect picnic.
The Botanical Garden – one of Europe's larger botanical gardens, with paths to wander and plants to discover.
Änggårdsbergen – a nature reserve next to the Botanical Garden, for longer walks and views.
The Delsjön area – forest, lakes and trails for those who want to go further out without leaving the city.

Out to the archipelago

The Gothenburg archipelago is car-free and just a short boat trip away. A day among the rocks is summer at its very best.

Paddan – a guided boat tour through canals and harbour, a classic way to see the city from the water.
The southern archipelago – take the boat out to islands such as Styrsö, Brännö, Asperö and Vrångö for swimming and walks.
River tours – short trips on the Göta älv that take you past shipyards and harbour life.

Activities for children in Gothenburg for children

The summer holidays are the children's time. These places are made for curious hands and wide eyes.

World of Volvo – interactive stations where children get to try, touch and drive, feel blown away in the wind tunnel and test how alert they are behind the wheel in the driving game.
Universeum – rainforest, animals and experiments that turn learning into play.
The animal park in Slottsskogen – meet the animals and run off some energy at Plikta.
Liseberg – carousels and attractions at the children's own pace.
The Museum of Natural History – say hello to the whale Malm and explore the animal world.

Easy to get around

You do not need to live in central Gothenburg to make a day out of it. Public transport gets you to most places without a car, and saves you hunting for parking.

Tram to World of Volvo – take tram 4 or 12 to the Liseberg Södra or Almedal stop and you are there. You can find directions and travel tips here.
A summer ticket for the whole region – over the summer, Västtrafik's summer ticket covers zones A, B and C, that is the whole of Västra Götaland, on a single ticket, across train, bus, tram and boat.
A day trip from further afield – if you live a little outside the city, in Alingsås or Lerum for example, the whole region is a short journey from the summer's most enjoyable experiences.

Whether you're visiting Gothenburg for a day or spending the whole summer here, World of Volvo is a memorable experience for the whole family. Book your exhibition tickets in advance and check our opening hours before you visit. We look forward to welcoming you this summer.