Family Adventure in Gothenburg: Exploring Sweden's Coastal Gem

First Impressions: Gothenburg's Green Embrace

After a smooth flight from Heidelberg, Greta, Marko, and I finally touched down in Gothenburg, ready to kick off our family adventure in Sweden. As a software engineer passionate about renewable energy, I was particularly excited to see how Gothenburg, a city known for its sustainability initiatives, blends urban life with green spaces. Our first day was dedicated to exploring the city's natural beauty, and it didn't disappoint!

Our day began, as it will for the rest of our trip, with a hearty breakfast at the Scandic Goteborg Central. The hotel is incredibly family-friendly, and Marko was thrilled with the selection of pastries. Fuelled up, we set off to our first destination: the Gothenburg Botanical Garden.


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

Stepping into the Botanical Garden was like entering another world. The sheer variety of plant life was astounding, from meticulously curated flower beds to serene Japanese gardens. Marko was immediately captivated by the vibrant colors and unusual shapes of the flowers. Greta, with her background as a kindergarten teacher, used the opportunity to teach Marko about different plant species and their origins. I was particularly impressed by the garden's commitment to conservation and research, a testament to Gothenburg's dedication to sustainability.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gothenburg Botanical Garden, a serene escape filled with diverse plant species and scenic hiking trails.

We wandered through the Rock Garden, a stunning display of plants from around the world arranged in a rocky landscape, and then found ourselves in the Herb Garden, where the fragrant aromas filled the air. Marko, ever the curious one, insisted on smelling every herb, declaring some to be yummy and others stinky. It was moments like these, seeing the world through his eyes, that made the trip so special.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

After a delightful morning surrounded by flora, our stomachs started to rumble. Luckily, our lunch reservation at Natur was perfectly timed. This restaurant, known for its focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients, was a real treat. Greta and I shared a delicious vegetarian platter, while Marko happily munched on some Swedish meatballs. The meal was not only delicious but also aligned with our family's commitment to sustainable living.


Experience a culinary delight at Natur in Gothenburg – where organic flavors meet natural wines in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

With our bellies full, we made our way to Slottsskogen, a sprawling urban park that felt like a true escape from the city. The park was teeming with life – families picnicking, joggers weaving through the trails, and children laughing as they played in the playgrounds. Marko, of course, made a beeline for the playground, where he spent a good hour swinging, sliding, and making new friends. Greta and I took the opportunity to relax on a nearby bench, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and enjoying the beautiful spring weather. The air was crisp, and the sun peeked through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground.


Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife at Slottsskogen Park, a serene urban retreat in Gothenburg, Sweden.

As we strolled through Slottsskogen, we stumbled upon a small zoo, home to a variety of Nordic animals. Marko was particularly excited to see the moose, a majestic creature that he had only ever seen in books. We also visited the seal enclosure, where we watched the playful seals frolic in the water. It was a wonderful experience, connecting with nature in the heart of the city.

Before heading back to the hotel, we decided to explore Haga, a charming neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets and traditional wooden houses. The area was bustling with activity, as locals and tourists alike browsed the quirky shops and cafes. We couldn't resist stopping at a bakery for a traditional Swedish cinnamon bun, or kanelbulle, as they call it here. Marko devoured his in record time, declaring it the best thing he had ever tasted. I must admit, it was pretty delicious.


Explore the historic charm of Haga in Gothenburg, where cobblestone streets meet vibrant shops and delightful cafes, offering a unique Swedish experience.

For dinner, we had a reservation at Familjen, a restaurant that came highly recommended for its modern take on Swedish cuisine. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the menu featured a range of dishes that showcased the best of local ingredients. I opted for the grilled salmon, while Greta chose the vegetarian risotto. Marko, predictably, went for the Swedish meatballs again. The food was exceptional, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Gothenburg.


Discover the flavors of Sweden at Familjen in Gothenburg – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry in an inviting atmosphere.

As we walked back to the hotel, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore a new city with my family. Gothenburg had already exceeded my expectations, and I was excited to see what adventures tomorrow would bring. We're planning a visit to Universeum and Liseberg, which I'm sure Marko will be thrilled about, followed by a drink at Steampunk Bar. It's a busy schedule, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

Despite having adapted to living in Germany, exploring Gothenburg made me think of my homeland, Croatia. I miss the feeling of being surrounded by a culture I innately understand, but I am happy to be building a new life and new memories with my family here in Europe.

Back at the hotel, Marko was fast asleep, dreaming of moose and cinnamon buns. Greta and I sat on the balcony, sipping tea and reflecting on our day. We both agreed that Gothenburg had made a fantastic first impression. The city's commitment to sustainability, its vibrant culture, and its beautiful green spaces had captured our hearts. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that our family adventure in Gothenburg was off to a perfect start.