Published 5th Apr. 2025
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Stockholm or Gothenburg, Gothenburg or Stockholm... As Sweden’s stylish capital (and, more importantly, the birthplace of ABBA), the answer to this question appears to be a no-brainer. What could be more iconic than the hometown of the Swedish supergroup? Yet, as trendy and charming as Stockholm is, Gothenburg also has a lot going for it. Built along Dutch-style canals and blessed with leafy boulevards, Sweden’s ‘second city’ has everything you could want from a lively metropolis – without the crowds. So, if we’ve made you re-consider your next Scandi sojourn, read on to decide between Stockholm or Gothenburg…
There’s no denying that Stockholm is a stunner of a city. Built across 14 islands and connected by a whopping 57 bridges, it’s Scandinavia’s answer to Venice. Gamla Stan – the Old Town – is the city’s historic centrepiece, playing host to some of Sweden’s most impressive architecture; the Royal Palace, Nobel Museum, the Opera House and the historic Storkyrkan cathedral, to name a few. The nearby archipelago (with a further 30,000 islands) is also worth exploring during a private sailing tour.
Gothenburg, on the other hand, is akin to a Nordic Amsterdam, complete with canal-lined walkways, quaint cobbled streets, neoclassical architecture and a bustling waterfront, where you’ll find the freshest fish. Gothenburg is also something of an eco-minded expert; it’s one of the greenest cities on the planet, thanks to its robust climate policies, wind-powered hotels and magnificent landscapes. To see the greenery in all its glory, head to Slottssgogen, the largest of the city’s parks, or to the Botanical Garden, which plays host to 16,000 plant species.
The two cities are well-matched when it comes to their natural beauty and notable landmarks, so whether you choose to visit Stockholm or Gothenburg, your camera roll is bound to be filled with scenic snaps. We’re calling this one a draw and awarding a point to each city.
Image by Dagmar SCHWELLE/LAIF-REA.
If, like us, you enjoy immersing yourself in the culinary culture of a new city, then you’ll be eager to hear about what Stockholm and Gothenburg each have to offer. The now cult status of IKEA’s meatballs has no doubt helped put Swedish food on the map, but both cities boast gastronomic delights beyond this well-loved staple.
Stockholm is home to some world-renowned and Michelin-starred restaurants, which lead the way when it comes to authentic Swedish traditions with modern innovations: try Ekstedt for flavourful fare cooked in a wood-fired oven, or Lilla Ego for seasonal Nordic recipes and fine wines. In Gothenburg, head for the mouth-watering market stalls of Stora Saluhallen – the city’s most historic food hall. Sample warm cardamom buns while enjoying a fika break, grab a loaf of fresh sourdough or sit down for a craft beer and some smorgasbord.
Both Stockholm and Gothenburg punch well above their weight when it comes to food and drink. But if we had to choose one foodie scene to frequent, Stockholm might just take the cake (or cinnamon bun), thanks to its Michelin-starred establishments.
Image by Mariya Oliynyk / Unpslash.com.
Stockholm knows what it’s doing when it comes to museums, boasting over 100 spaces showcasing the city’s history, art and culture. If you’re a lover of music (and yes, we mainly mean ABBA), embrace your inner dancing queen at the interactive ABBA Museum. From glam-pop to fine art, the acclaimed Moderna Museet houses Sweden’s largest collection of 20th-century art, while Fotografiska displays an ever-evolving collection of photography. Come evening, Stockholm doesn’t show any sign of slowing down. Head to the Norrmalm and SoFo neighbourhoods, where young professionals go to unwind and dance the night away.
In Gothenburg, science nerds can head to the Universeum while budding pilots beeline for the Aeroseum. The city’s Liseberg Amusement Park is widely renowned as Sweden’s biggest and best theme park, guaranteeing adrenaline-inducing rides and family fun. Gothenburg also possesses a vibrant nightlife scene, and thanks to Stockholm’s capital status, you’re likely to get more bang for your buck. The nightlife here is driven by its large student population, with the tram-rattled Kungsportsavenyen noted as its main hub of cocktail bars and bistros.
While Stockholm may boast the bigger of the attractions, Gothenburg’s understatedly hip atmosphere places it firmly on our radar. The capital’s edgier cousin takes the win on this one.
All in all, we’d argue that it’s not so much Stockholm vs.Gothenburg, but rather which one should you visit first?
Image by Martin Wahlborg / Getty Images.
Written by Luisa Watts | Header image by goncharovaia / Getty Images.
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