Autumn Delight in Gothenburg
Gothenburg, with its Dutch-style canals, leafy boulevards, and charming architecture, is the perfect destination for a city break. While beautiful year-round, autumn adds an extra layer of magic with the changing foliage, crisp air, and a range of unique seasonal activities. With plenty of attractions, vibrant markets, and immersive Halloween events, now is the ideal time to explore the city’s treasures.
Gothenburg is easy to navigate, whether by foot or by hiring a bike, allowing you to experience the city like a local. Whether you’re here for the shopping, dining, or seasonal festivities, there’s no shortage of things to do. Here’s a guide to making the most of your autumn visit:
Enter the Halloween world at Liseberg Amusement Park
Top Things to Do in Gothenburg This Autumn
Liseberg Amusement Park: Halloween Spectacular
Liseberg, Sweden’s biggest tourist attraction, transforms into a Halloween wonderland each autumn with over 25,000 pumpkins setting the spooky scene. This year’s Halloween world is more thrilling than ever, running for 13 days across three weekends. Highlights include “District Z,” an area overtaken by zombies, and four haunted houses: Zombie, Infected – Gasten Ghost Hotel, The House of Dolls, and The Experiment.
For younger visitors, there’s plenty of mischief too—candy hunts, themed rides, a Halloween disco, and the famous Candy Land. With over 30 rides and attractions open, it’s an event that will satisfy thrill-seekers of all ages. Don’t miss out on grabbing your tickets from the Liseberg web shop before they sell out!
When: 21–23 October and 28 October – 6 November
Website: www.liseberg.com
Visit the Haga Farmer’s Market
Autumn Saturdays are well spent at the cozy Haga district, where local farmers gather to sell their fresh produce. From homemade sausages to cheeses, jams, and vegetables, there’s something for every foodie. This historical part of town also offers an abundance of cafes like Café Husaren, known for its giant cinnamon buns, perfect for a coffee break. Stroll through the charming streets and explore boutique shops, or enjoy a vegetarian lunch at En Deli Haga.
When: Every Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM, until 29 October
Website: www.goteborg.com/en/gothenburg-restaurants-autumn/
Precious Pieces Exhibition at the Gothenburg City Museum
Head to the Gothenburg City Museum to discover its newest exhibition, “Precious Pieces,” housed in an atmospheric 18th-century cellar vault. The exhibition displays rare and valuable objects from the museum’s collection, ranging from diamond rings and gold coins to seemingly ordinary items like worn-out shoes. It invites visitors to reflect on the meaning of value and what makes an object “precious.”
When: Open from 17 September 2016, and runs throughout 2017
Website: www.goteborgsstadsmuseum.se/en/exhibitions/precious-pieces
Gothenburg Chocolate, Liquorice, and Delicacy Festival
If you’re a fan of indulgent sweets, you won’t want to miss the 10th anniversary of this beloved festival, which brings together over 100 exhibitors across 3,000 square meters of space. Offering the best chocolates, liquorice, and other delicacies from around the world, the event also features a new section dedicated to baking, desserts, and ice cream.
When: 14 – 16 October
Entry Fee: 160 SEK (includes one free child under 15)
Website: www.chokladkalaset.se/in-english/
Creepy Science at Universeum Science Park
Universeum Science Park brings an eerie twist to its educational exhibits with “Creepy Science.” Running from 27 October to 6 November, this event examines spooky themes across chemistry, physics, biology, and technology. Explore the science behind vampires, mosquitoes, and other blood-sucking creatures, while joining in on terrifying experiments and adventures. It’s perfect for curious minds of all ages!
When: 27 October – 6 November, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Website: www.universeum.se/en/
Göteborg Shopping Days
On the last weekend of September, Gothenburg’s shopping scene comes alive with the latest autumn fashion and essentials for the colder months. Göteborg Shopping Days offers fashion shows, pop-up events, and plenty of deals for visitors. It’s the perfect opportunity to refresh your wardrobe while experiencing the city’s bustling retail scene.
When: 23 – 25 September
Website: www.goteborg.com/en/goteborg-shoppingdays/
Art Scape: Gothenburg’s Street Art Extravaganza
Explore Gothenburg’s creative side with the largest street art project in Scandinavia—Art Scape. Pick up a map from the tourist office or use the online version to discover more than 20 large-scale murals scattered throughout the city. Featuring work from both Swedish and international artists, including Eine, Hueman, and Yash, this project offers a unique perspective on the city’s artistic pulse.
Website: www.artscape.se/
Gothenburg’s Creepy Digital Walk
For those intrigued by the darker side of history, a new app—“Gothenburg Guides”—launches on 7 October. This digital walking tour combines real historical events with spooky folklore, legends, and ghost stories. Available in both English and Swedish, it’s a free and fun way to explore the city while learning about its mysterious past.
App Available: iPhone and Android
Website: www.goteborg.com/en/apps/
Where to Stay in Gothenburg
Gothenburg offers a range of accommodations for every budget and taste. Whether you’re seeking luxury hotels or cozy boutique stays, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs. Some of the top picks include:
Hotel Pigalle: A glamorous boutique hotel inspired by 1920s Paris, offering luxurious rooms and an elegant atmosphere.
Upper House: Located in Gothia Towers, this 5-star hotel boasts spectacular city views, a rooftop spa, and fine dining.
Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel: Perfectly situated near the city center, this hotel offers modern rooms and excellent service.
With its vibrant culture, charming streets, and an array of autumn activities, Gothenburg is the perfect destination for a city break. Whether you’re looking for Halloween thrills, foodie delights, or cultural experiences, the city has something for everyone this season.
Featured image: Copyright: Frida Winter/Göteborg &Co
