Family Adventure in Gothenburg: Exploring Sweden's Coastal Gem

Design and Divinity: A Gothenburg Daydream

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of the modern and the historical, the secular and the spiritual. Gothenburg, you continue to surprise and enchant me! I set out this morning with a sense of anticipation, eager to immerse myself in the city's cultural offerings. Little did I know that I would be captivated by design, moved by history, and charmed by the simple pleasure of sharing a meal with my family.

Our day began, as most days do on this trip, with a hearty breakfast at Scandic Goteborg Central. The convenience of having a substantial meal right in the hotel has been a blessing, especially with Marko's boundless energy levels. Fuelled up, we were ready to tackle the day's itinerary: a visit to the Röhsska museet and Gothenburg Cathedral.


Discover comfort and convenience at Scandic Goteborg Central, a perfect base for exploring Gothenburg's vibrant culture and attractions.

First on the agenda was the Röhsska museet, a design and applied arts museum that I've been particularly keen to explore. As a software engineer working in renewable energy, I have a deep appreciation for innovative and sustainable design. The museum promised a blend of historical and contemporary exhibits, and I was eager to see how Swedish design principles were showcased.


Explore the fascinating world of applied arts and design at Röhsska Museet, Gothenburg's premier museum showcasing creativity through the ages.

The Röhsska museet did not disappoint. From the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in a world of creativity and ingenuity. The exhibitions were thoughtfully curated, showcasing a diverse range of design disciplines, from furniture and textiles to ceramics and fashion. I was particularly impressed by the emphasis on sustainable design practices, a theme that resonated deeply with my own professional interests. Greta, with her keen eye for aesthetics, was equally captivated, pointing out the subtle details and innovative techniques employed by the designers.

Marko, surprisingly, was also engaged. The museum had interactive displays that allowed him to explore the principles of design in a fun and accessible way. He was particularly fascinated by an exhibit on textile design, where he could experiment with different patterns and colors. It was heartwarming to see him engage with art in such a hands-on manner. There was also a temporary exhibition focusing on ocean plastics, showcasing how designers are finding innovative ways to repurpose waste and create beautiful, functional objects. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of sustainability and the role that design can play in addressing environmental challenges. Small-scale craftsmanship is also significantly more sustainable than large-scale industrial production.

Design is not just about making things look pretty; it's about solving problems and improving lives.

Leaving the Röhsska museet, we made our way to Gothenburg Cathedral, a short walk away. The cathedral, also known as Göteborgs domkyrka, stands as a beacon of history and architectural splendor in the heart of Gothenburg. I've always been drawn to historical landmarks, and I was eager to learn more about the cathedral's significance in Gothenburg's past.


Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of Gothenburg Cathedral, a must-visit Protestant church in the heart of Gothenburg, Sweden.

The Gothenburg Cathedral is a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture. Built in the early 19th century, it replaced an earlier cathedral that had been destroyed by fire. As we approached the main portal, I was struck by the grandeur of the four Doric columns that framed the entrance. Inside, the cathedral exuded a sense of peace and tranquility. The interior featured classical and Empire-style elements, with white and gold leaves adorning the pulpit and ionic pilasters lining the walls. Sunlight streamed through the stained-glass windows, casting a warm glow on the altar's 18th-century angelic figures.

We took some time to wander around the cathedral, admiring the intricate details and soaking in the serene atmosphere. Marko, initially restless, was soon captivated by the sheer scale of the building. He whispered questions about the towering ceilings and the ornate decorations, his curiosity piqued by the historical surroundings. Greta and I took turns explaining the significance of the various features, sharing stories about the cathedral's past and its role in the community.

It was interesting to learn that a church has stood on this site since the early 1600s. The initial small rectory was Gothenburg's first church and one of the new city's first buildings. The current Gothenburg is actually the third city founded at the mouth of the Göta River and the second to bear the name Gothenburg. The first permanent church was built in 1633 and named Gustavi kyrka after King Gustav II Adolf. The church was designated as a cathedral in the 1680s.

After our dose of culture, our stomachs started to rumble, and it was time for lunch. We decided to try Pinchos, a tapas restaurant known for its international flavors and playful atmosphere. There are a few Pinchos restaurants in Gothenburg, and we opted for the one on Götabergsgatan. The concept is quite unique: you order your food through an app, and the dishes are served as small plates, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors.


Experience vibrant tapas and a lively atmosphere at Pinchos in Gothenburg - where culinary creativity meets shared enjoyment.

The circus-themed décor and cozy ambiance set a playful tone, making it an ideal spot for a casual outing with family. Marko was particularly thrilled with the mini-burgers and the churros, while Greta and I enjoyed the patatas bravas and the seafood tapas. The ordering process via the app was a novelty for Marko, who gleefully tapped away at the screen, adding dishes to our virtual basket. The staff were friendly and efficient, ensuring that our tapas arrived promptly and that our drinks were always topped up.

As evening approached, we ventured to Olssons Vin, a cozy wine bar that came highly recommended. I was eager to sample some Swedish wines and unwind after a day of sightseeing. Olssons Vin exuded a warm and inviting atmosphere. The décor was rustic and charming, with wooden tables, exposed brick walls, and soft lighting. The wine list was extensive, featuring a wide selection of both local and international wines. I decided to try a glass of Swedish rosé, while Greta opted for a crisp white wine from France. Marko, of course, was treated to a glass of grape juice, which he declared was just as good as wine!


Experience the finest wines and a cozy atmosphere at Olssons Vin, Gothenburg's premier wine bar for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

To accompany our drinks, we ordered a selection of snacks, including olives, cheese, and cured meats. The flavors were simple but delicious, perfectly complementing the wines. The staff were knowledgeable and passionate about wine, offering recommendations and sharing insights about the different varieties. It was a delightful experience, and I felt a sense of contentment as I savored the flavors and enjoyed the company of my family.

For dinner, we had reservations at Project, a Michelin-starred restaurant that promised a refined dining experience. Project aims to offer fine, refined dishes that are not overly sophisticated, in a warm, friendly setting, without fuss. The atmosphere was welcoming and relaxed, a place that instantly makes you feel at home. The food in the tasting menu is well prepared and accessible, the flavors intriguing but also easy to understand. The setting was very convivial, almost more in the style of a bistro or even a wine bar than a Michelin-starred restaurant, with wooden and warm decor.


Experience gourmet dining at Project in Gothenburg - where exquisite flavors meet an extensive wine selection for an unforgettable culinary adventure.

The meal kicked off with a series of well-conceived snacks, starting with an oyster creme with caviar and Thai basil. Next was a small bite of langoustine claw, carrot & truffle. Monkfish shiitake beurre blanc & bergamot was also on the menu.

Before heading back to the hotel, we took a leisurely stroll through the city center, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and the twinkling lights. Gothenburg at night is a magical place, and I felt grateful to be sharing this experience with my loved ones. As we walked, we chatted about our favorite moments of the day, reminiscing about the design exhibits, the cathedral's grandeur, and the flavors of the tapas and wine.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit the Gothenburg Escape Game and the Poseidon statue. We will have lunch at View Skybar & Restaurant and dinner at The Barn. Marko is especially excited about visiting Flying Tiger Copenhagen.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day's adventures, I feel a sense of gratitude and contentment. Gothenburg has exceeded my expectations, offering a perfect blend of culture, history, and culinary delights. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I will cherish the memories of this beautiful day.

The city of Gothenburg has various events happening in April. There is HUMANOGRAPHY: Dansveckan 2025!, STIG gbg x Icebug JÄRV, IFK Göteborg - GAIS, and Second Line Jazzband. There is no dearth of things to do in Gothenburg in April 2025. From adventurous weekend getaways to summer workshops, there are so many events in Gothenburg in April to go to. I'm glad we visited in April!

What a day!