Explore Gothenburg: A Sustainable Gem in Sweden
Gothenburg, with its relaxed vibe, cool neighborhoods, ample restaurants, and easy access to nature, embodies the essence of a perfect European city break destination.
As travel trends increasingly lean towards minimizing the environmental impact and carbon footprint of travel, more individuals are reassessing the effects of their short holidays. Fortunately, a commitment to sustainability permeates this Swedish city, whether you’re bar-hopping or island exploring.
Gothenburg: One of the Most Sustainable Cities in the World
In 2021, Gothenburg was recognized as the most sustainable city stay, with statistics showcasing that 97% of the city’s public transport runs on renewable energy. Moreover, 95% of hotels are eco-certified. The city is in the process of developing the Gothenburg Green City Zone, aiming for a zero-emission transportation system in central areas. In 2020, Gothenburg was named the European Capital of Smart Tourism, alongside Malaga, in acknowledgment of its eco-friendly tourism initiatives.
Both the climate crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic have compelled many of us to rethink travel and its impact on our communities. Gothenburg has already laid a strong foundation for sustainable tourism practices. With robust green credentials, travelers can seamlessly opt for more sustainable experiences while exploring the city.
For instance, public transport is readily available, including connections to Landvetter Airport. Excursions to the stunning archipelago off Gothenburg’s coast are easily accessible by local transport. Furthermore, the city presents myriad greener choices for dining, lodging, and exploration.
Delight in Fresh Coastal Cuisine
With its extensive coastline and proximity to some of Europe’s most breathtaking natural landscapes, it’s no wonder Gothenburg takes its culinary offerings seriously. Many restaurants strive to surpass merely sourcing local ingredients, instead opting to cultivate and harvest their own produce.
At VRÅ, a unique Japanese-Nordic fusion restaurant, chef Sofia B Olsson discovered that an invasive oyster species could be harvested locally, eliminating reliance on imports. A partnership with a second-generation diver not only provided fresh oysters but also sustained a growing demand, creating jobs in the community. The seafood is sourced from nearby waters, while much of the produce comes from a rooftop garden enriched by compost from kitchen waste. The seating even incorporates broken shells from the restaurant’s operation, allowing guests to relish dishes that combine Japanese and Nordic influences.
Another notable establishment is Human, where the restaurant’s ethos emphasizes friendliness towards both the environment and its patrons. Chef Martin Moses deliberately situated the restaurant near the Skansen Kronan fortress to encourage visitors to explore a cozier side of the city, promoting a sense of community. Guests at Human are motivated to know the stories behind the ingredients and fixtures in the restaurant.
Where to Stay in Gothenburg
When it comes to overnight accommodations, Gothenburg boasts an impressive 95% of hotel rooms that are environmentally certified, earning it the title of one of the “greenest hotel cities in the world.” Hotel Eggers, a historic establishment operational since 1868, is powered entirely by its own wind turbine, which also supplies its sister hotels.
Finding eco-certified hotels is straightforward, and visitors should seek out certifications like the Nordic Swan ecolabel or Green Key. Modern hotels like the Scandic Göteborg Central prioritize sustainability as well, featuring a LEED platinum and Nordic Swan eco-labeled building with 451 rooms and a stunning rooftop terrace overlooking the river.
Sustainable Shopping Options
Scandinavia is renowned for its fashion, and a great way to engage in sustainable shopping is by exploring secondhand clothing. Charity shop chains like Stadsmissionen and Myrorna promote participation in a circular economy.
If you prefer supporting local brands, consider Nudie Jeans, which offers a lifetime repair policy for pants. Additionally, Icebug produces running shoes with a focus on reducing environmental impact. The brand became the first “climate positive” outdoor footwear brand in 2019, and they continue to work towards offsetting more than their carbon emissions.
Venturing Beyond the City Center
Although Gothenburg radiates a laid-back atmosphere, numerous attractions nearby provide opportunities for a slower-paced experience. Unique spots accessible via public transportation include the Vättlefjäll nature reserve, which offers stunning natural vistas with minimal effort needed for navigation.
One such destination is Gunnebo house, an 18th-century estate located just a 45-minute bus ride from the city. Visitors can explore the elegant home and its beautiful gardens, along with enjoying organic meals crafted from seasonal produce at the onsite restaurant, Kaffehus och Krog.
Island-Hopping Adventures
Merely a stone’s throw from the coast lies an enchanting archipelago ready for exploration. With picturesque homes dotted across the islands, they can be reached easily via public transport. Travelling on the 11 tram from the Central station brings you to the ferry service at Saltholmen, where tickets are valid for ferries heading to the islands within a short 30-minute journey.
Spending the night on the island of Vrångö, the southernmost island, offers a delightful experience among rocky shores and tranquil beaches. The island is car-free, making it a pleasant area for walking, and lodgings like Kajkaten provide the charm of boathouse-style accommodations, complete with a floating sauna. Guests can savor delectable fresh fish from the local restaurant Fiskeboa Vrångö.
How to Reach Gothenburg
Gothenburg is conveniently connected by train to various cities including Malmö, Helsingborg, and Stockholm. Additionally, Gothenburg is easily reached by rail from neighboring countries like Germany, Denmark, and Norway. For those flying into Landvetter Airport, the Flygbuss, running on HVO renewable diesel, conveniently transports you to the city center in approximately 20 minutes.
Once in the city, visitors can acquire a transit pass allowing unlimited travel on trams, buses, and boats. A 72-hour pass for Gothenburg and surrounding areas costs 230 SEK ($22 USD).
Alex Butler explored Gothenburg at the invitation of Göteborg & Co.
