Gothenburg is Sweden's west coast port city, built where the Göta älv meets the sea, with a compact centre of canals, tram lines and wide avenues. The Dutch-influenced street plan and the old defensive moat still shape how the centre works today, and the city spreads across both banks of the river, with the island of Hisingen to the north.
For a visitor, the useful choice is between the central grid around the station and the main avenue, the leafy districts just south of the centre, and the riverside and port edges. This guide covers which of those areas to base yourself in, what each is like, and how the transport connections affect your stay. It does not recommend individual hotels.
Best areas to stay in Gothenburg
1. The city centre around Drottningtorget and the central station
This is the most practical base for a first visit. The central station, the main tram interchange at Brunnsparken, the Nordstan shopping centre and the canal-side streets are all within a short walk, so you can reach most of the city without planning around connections. Accommodation here ranges from long-established hotels in 19th-century buildings to large modern chain properties.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone arriving or leaving by train, and it is the area to choose if you would rather walk than change trams. Expect some noise around the station and the main squares, particularly in the evening.
2. Linnéstan
The district south of the centre, known for its pubs, restaurants and cafés, is the liveliest part of the city to stay in. It is served by tram stops including Olivedalsgatan, on lines 1, 2, 6 and 13, which puts the centre within a few minutes' ride. The accommodation here leans towards hostels and smaller places rather than large hotels.
It suits budget travellers, students and anyone who wants bars and food within walking distance of their bed. The trade-off is evening noise in the busiest streets.
3. Around Kungsportsavenyn and Vasaplatsen
The avenue known as Avenyn and the streets around Vasaplatsen sit between the centre and Linnéstan. Trams stop a block away at Vasaplatsen, and the avenue itself is a few blocks in the other direction, so this area is well connected while being slightly removed from the station crowds. You find mid-range and larger hotels here, including some on the avenue itself.
It suits visitors who want to be central but on a quieter street, and it works well for a mix of sightseeing and evenings out, since the restaurants and bars of both the avenue and Linnéstan are close.
4. The southern edge near Slottsskogen and Liseberg
Further south, the area around the Slottsskogen park and the Liseberg amusement park is greener and more spread out. There is hostel and cottage-style accommodation here, including places with gardens and family rooms, and camping-style options a short distance from Liseberg. Trams connect this area to the centre.
It suits families and longer stays, and anyone who values outdoor space over being in the middle of things. The trade-off is that you will rely on trams for most trips into the centre.
5. The riverside and port edge
Along the river and at the entrance to the port you find modern hotels with harbour views, some a little outside the centre but reachable by tram or ferry. This area is quieter and more open than the central grid.
It suits visitors who prefer newer buildings and waterfront outlooks, and those who do not mind a short journey to reach the main sights. Check the tram and ferry connections for the specific address before booking, since the riverside stretches over some distance.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: youth hostels, some of which offer their lowest prices to STF or IYHF members, plus private-home B&B services arranged through the tourist bureau just off Avenyn. Dorm beds and simple rooms are the norm, and some hostels also offer cottages or camping.
- Mid-range: established city hotels and modern chain properties, often with breakfast and Wi-Fi included. Sizes and standards vary, and some are attached to shopping centres or sit a little outside the centre with tram or ferry access.
- Splurge: large design-led and historic hotels, some in converted buildings, with restaurants, bars, spas and rooftop pools. Rooms range from standard doubles to suites, and weekend rates can differ from weekday rates.
Best area for a first visit
The city centre around Drottningtorget and the central station is the best base for a first visit. It puts the station, the main tram interchange and the shopping and canal streets within walking distance, so you spend your time on the city rather than on connections. From there you can reach Linnéstan, Avenyn and the southern parks by tram in a few minutes when you want them.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I stay if I want nightlife within walking distance?
Linnéstan, the district south of the centre, has a concentration of pubs, restaurants and cafés, and hostels are located within it. It is served by trams on lines 1, 2, 6 and 13.
Which area is best if I am arriving by train?
The centre around the central station. Several hotels sit within a few hundred metres of Göteborg Centralstation, and the Brunnsparken tram interchange is also close by.
Where do families tend to stay?
The southern edge near Slottsskogen and Liseberg, where accommodation includes cottages, family rooms and places with gardens, and where trams connect to the centre.
Can I stay outside the centre without a car?
Yes. The riverside and port-edge hotels are reachable by tram or ferry, and the area around Liseberg and Slottsskogen is on the tram network. Check the nearest stop for your specific address before booking.
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