Goteborg Vastra Gotaland, Sweden Travel Guide
Sweden's major mobile network operators are Telia, Telenor, Tele2, and Tre. Prepaid SIM cards are easily available at convenience stores (Pressbyrån, 7-Eleven) and mobile stores that sell phones. You will need to show your passport for registration. EU citizens use their home mobile plan's calls, texts, and data allowance without extra charges in Sweden.
Internet access in Gothenburg is excellent and widespread. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, public libraries, and often on public transport (trams, buses). Look for networks named "Göteborg WiFi" in public spaces or check with establishments for their network names. PostNord is Sweden's national postal service. Postal services are often integrated into supermarkets or convenience stores (e.g., ICA, Coop, Pressbyrån).
Swedish is the official language. English is very widely spoken, especially by younger generations and in tourist-facing businesses (hotels, restaurants, attractions, shops). Most Swedes are proficient in English, so language barriers are minimal for travelers. Learning a few basic Swedish phrases shows respect and may ease your interactions.
Shops typically operate weekdays from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM, Saturdays 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. Larger malls and some city center shops often open Sundays from 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. Restaurants generally offer lunch FROM 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM and dinner from 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM.
Swedes generally value modesty, directness, and personal space. Avoid boastfulness, public displays of excessive emotion, and cutting in lines. Sweden is a highly progressive and egalitarian society, very welcoming and inclusive for INDIVIDUALS from the lgbtq+ community.
A simple "Hej" (hello) is standard. Handshakes are common for formal introductions.
Generally casual, neat, and practical. Swedes dress for comfort. Respectful attire for churches.
Punctuality for reservations. Tipping is not obligatory. Speak in moderate tones in public spaces.
Generally, no restrictions apply to taking pictures in public spaces. Be mindful of privacy; avoid intrusive photography of individuals, especially children, without their permission. Some museums may prohibit flash photography. Avoid discussing personal finances. Swedes value modesty and directness; avoid boastfulness. Be mindful of personal space. Avoid public displays of excessive emotion. Do not jump queues; Swedes respect orderly lines.
Sweden is a highly progressive and egalitarian society. LGBTQ+ rights are strong, and Gothenburg is a very welcoming and inclusive city. Discrimination based on gender or sexual orientation is illegal and generally not tolerated. You will find an open and accepting environment throughout the city and region.
Contact individual attractions or your accommodation directly beforehand to make sure of their accessibility characteristics for your specific needs.
Your travel choices can have a positive economic impact on Gothenburg's local communities.
Support local craftspeople and businesses that actively work to preserve traditional Swedish culture and heritage. Swedes generally appreciate politeness, punctuality, and respect for personal space. Avoid standing too close to strangers. Avoid overly loud or boisterous behavior in public settings. Observe and respect queues (lines).
If visiting churches or other religious sites, dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered is appreciated, though often not strictly enforced). Speak quietly, remove your hat, and be specifically mindful if a service is ongoing. Do not interrupt worship or private reflection.
Choosing a locally owned cafe in Haga or a boutique in Majorna channels money straight into the hands of residents. Choose local restaurants over international chains. Purchase souvenirs from local artisans or independent shops. Book tours and activities with tour operators from the region who employ local guides and contribute directly to the city's economy.
Look for products with fair trade labels. Sweden has a strong ethical consumer movement, and many shops prioritize ethically sourced goods. Sweden has strict laws against exploitation. Do not engage in any activities that exploit people or animals. Research tours and activities to ensure they adhere to ethical standards.
Gothenburg is a green city. Utilize recycling facilities, avoid littering, and participate in the bottle/can deposit system. Minimize water waste and respect protected areas by staying on marked paths.
Gothenburg is a green city. Consider its environmental initiatives and make choices that contribute positively to the local economy.
Sweden has advanced waste management and recycling systems with a strong emphasis on sorting waste. Separate bins for different materials are common. Gothenburg's tap water is excellent and safe to drink. While Sweden does not face severe water scarcity, conscious use of resources is encouraged.
Gothenburg is surrounded by numerous green spaces and nature reserves, including Slottsskogen, Delsjön, Änggårdsbergen, and sections of the group of islands. These regions are protected to preserve their biodiversity. Consider offsetting the carbon footprint of your flights and other long-distance travel. Many airlines offer carbon offset programs at the time of booking.
When booking accommodation, look for hotels with recognized environmental certifications. These include the Nordic Ecolabel (Svanen), Green , or local Swedish eco-labels. These certifications indicate that the property meets specific environmental standards. Ask tour operators about their sustainability practices.
Choose local restaurants over international chains. Purchase souvenirs from local artisans or independent shops rather than generic tourist traps. Seek out products with fair trade labels. Sweden has a strong ethical consumer movement, and many shops prioritize ethically sourced goods, ensuring producers receive fair compensation.
Choosing independent businesses directly benefits population.
Support organizations protecting rainforests and wildlife.
Visit The Rainforest SiteBook tours and activities with local operators who employ local guides and contribute directly to Gothenburg's economy. Explore various bookable experiences on GetYourGuide.
