What to Do in Gothenburg During Gothia Cup

There's more to this city than football! Why not explore a little while you're here?

Gothenburg comes alive during the Gothia Cup. Thousands of football-mad children descend on the city from all four corners of the world, ready to battle it out on the pitch and attempt to make it to the grand finale at Ullevi.

While the event village in Heden is certainly the place to be when it comes to football, it feels a shame that many people travel here from all over the world and never see the city. As a supporter or parent of a child competing in the Gothia Cup, you might ask yourself: "What do I do when the kids are busy?" Or as a group leader or coach, you might be wondering: "How do I keep 20 14-year-olds entertained in the city without going mad?"

Read on for our top tips on how to enjoy a week in Gothenburg during the Gothia Cup festivities.

City Kayaking

Perfect for: Older children and teens (13–18 years) or parents looking for some peace and quiet while the kids are busy

Cost: 300–700 SEK per person

Did you know? When Gothenburg was built in the 17th century, the town was fortified by a moat that is still there today. The canal that winds its way around the centre of the city provides a perfectly protected environment for kayaking in calm water.

After a short paddle down the Göta Älv river, kayakers can paddle past some of Gothenburg's key landmarks and explore a side to the city that many don't see. If you're worried about taking a group of children out on their own, why not book an instructor to guide your group and take the stress out of keeping them entertained?

If you're a parent or travelling supporter, hire a kayak and paddle independently for some much-needed peace and quiet. There's nowhere calmer and less crowded in central Gothenburg than in the canals—perfect during the busy Gothia Cup week.

Ferry Boat Adventure to Styrsö

Perfect for: Families

Cost: 120 SEK per person (or less for child tickets)

During summer, you might notice there seem to be very few Swedish people in Gothenburg. Not only is the city full of international football teams, but Swedes tend to disappear to their summer houses. Between mid-June and August, many families head out to the Archipelago to spend the summer together in often quite simple and charming waterside accommodation.

The great thing? You don't have to be a summer house-owning Swede to get in on the fun!

Simply hop on the number 11 Tram from the centre of town and ride it all the way to the end of the line in Saltholmen, where you can transfer to a ferry boat out to the islands. The whole journey is covered by your Zone A public transport ticket, meaning you can spend the entire day exploring the islands for just 120 SEK.

The islands of the southern archipelago (accessible from Saltholmen) are largely car-free, so be prepared to do some walking. While every island has its own charm, Styrsö is often considered one of the best for a day visit, with a nice mix of nature reserve areas and some cosy cafés and restaurants, such as Tångbaren, located just next to the ferry stop.

On any of the islands, it's always a good idea to follow signs for 'badplats' (swimming places). Taking a dip in the sea is more than just a fun summer activity in Sweden—the daily morning swim is almost a religion for many families during the long hot days of summer, especially out on the islands where there are almost as many swimming spots as there are people.

Slottsskogen

Perfect for: Younger children

Cost: Free!

While there are many amazing attractions for younger kids in Gothenburg, sometimes you can't beat a good play park—and honestly, Slottsskogen might be one of the best you've ever visited. Opened in the 1800s, Slottsskogen has long been an important part of leisure time in the city.

A real highlight in the park is the zoo. There aren't many parks where you can get up close and personal with penguins, seals, or moose—especially for free! If you have younger children, specific times are listed on the Gothenburg.com website where they can get extra up close and personal with the animals under the supervision of zoo keepers.

The play park is a real local favourite with children, and it has to be one of the biggest play parks in Sweden. Recently renovated at the beginning of this year, the park provides a great option to keep youngsters entertained. If you're looking for something to keep a younger sibling entertained and engaged during a week in Gothenburg, Slottsskogen may well become your new favourite spot!

Want some more tips?...

If you're looking for more advice on things to do during your week in Gothenburg, or if you'd like to book a kayaking tour or hire for you or your team during Gothia Cup week, get in touch!

Email us at: Mail@plums.se

What to Do in Gothenburg During Gothia Cup

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