Gay guide Gothenburg

Gothenburg (Göteborg) is the second largest city in Sweden, located on the west coast.

Bars & Clubs

Cruising spots

Cruise Bars

Organizations

Restaurants & Cafés

History

Gothenburg was founded in 1621 and is a port city. The port grew the economy especially in 1700 with the booming import by the "Ostindiska kompaniet" bringing goods from the far east. The city is sometimes called little London because of a wave of immigrants from the UK during industrialization. When it comes to the industry it's perhaps most famous for being home to Volvo.

What to see and do

Way out west: A large music festival that's arranged every year.
Liseberg: The biggest amusement park in Sweden with many rides and attractions.
Gothenburg's art museum: Three stars in Michelins Green Guide. Large collections from 1400 until present.
Trädgårdsföreningen: One of the best preserved parks from 1800 in Europe. Here you also find the Botanic garden with over 16.000 types of plants.

Frequently asked questions

How to get to Gothenburg?

From Stockholm or Malmö it's best to take the train. Gothenburg also has an international airport called "Landvetter".

Do they speak English in Gothenburg?

Yes, almost all swedes speak English pretty well. It's been mandatory to learn since 1952.

Is there gay life in Gothenburg?

Yes, there is, but the whole city is very open-minded and gay-friendly, so there are not that many gay restaurants and bars. One exception is Bee which is more straight-friendly.

When is gay pride in Gothenburg?

Gay Pride in Gothenburg, also known as West Pride, usually takes place in early June. 🏳️‍🌈

Are there any other annual or recurring gay events in Gothenburg?

Yes, there are other gay events in Gothenburg such as the Rainbow Film Festival and Club Queer nights. Keep an eye on local LGBTQ+ organizations for more event updates!

Is there a gay sauna in Gothenburg?

Gothenburg does not have a dedicated gay sauna, but you can find mixed saunas in the city. Check out the list of saunas in Gothenburg here: /sweden/gothenburg/saunas.

Where are the gay bars in Gothenburg?

Gay bars in Gothenburg can be found in a few areas of the city. Two popular bars are Gretas and Club Queer. For a complete list of bars and clubs, visit /sweden/gothenburg/bars-and-clubs.

Is there a gay district or area in Gothenburg?

While Gothenburg doesn't have a specific gay district, the LGBTQ+ scene can be found scattered throughout the city. Areas like Haga, Avenyn and Kungshöjd have gay-friendly venues and a welcoming atmosphere.

How do I get to the city from the airport when traveling to Gothenburg?

To reach the city center from Gothenburg Landvetter Airport, you can take the airport shuttle bus called Flygbussarna, which takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a taxi, which usually takes around 25 minutes.

How do I best get around in Gothenburg?

The best way to get around in Gothenburg is through their excellent public transport system, comprising buses, trams, and ferries. There are also bike rentals, taxis, and Uber for additional travel options. Costs vary depending on the mode of transport you choose.

Is there a gay fetish community in Gothenburg?

While Gothenburg may not have a significant gay fetish scene, there are some cruising spots and adult shops like Vuxenkul Backaplan which cater to the LGBTQ+ community.

Is there a gay or gay friendly hotel in Gothenburg?

While there are no exclusively gay hotels in Gothenburg, you won't have trouble finding gay-friendly accommodation in the city. Visit /sweden/gothenburg/hotels for a list of options.

What are the top attractions to see in Gothenburg?

Liseberg Amusement Park: Sweden's largest amusement park with thrilling rides and beautiful gardens.
Gothenburg Archipelago: A group of picturesque islands perfect for a day trip.
Universeum: An exciting science center for interactive and educational fun.
Gothenburg Museum of Art: A renowned art museum with an impressive collection of Nordic paintings and sculptures.

Can you suggest some LGBTQ+-themed landmarks or historical sites to visit in Gothenburg?

West Pride Parade Route: Each year, the West Pride Parade goes through the city center, making it a significant LGBTQ+ landmark.
RFSL Göteborg: This non-profit, LGBTQ+ association works to improve rights and promote a more inclusive society. You can visit their headquarters for information on local events and activities.

What is the best time of year to visit Gothenburg for gay travelers?

The best time to visit Gothenburg for gay travelers is during the Pride season in early June, when the city hosts West Pride. However, summer and early autumn, in general, offer mild weather and a range of activities and events for visitors.

Are there any LGBTQ+ meetups or social groups that we can join during our stay?

Yes, reach out to local LGBTQ+ organizations such as RFSL Göteborg, and HBTQ Student Göteborg for information on events, meetups, and social groups. You can also check social media platforms for updates on LGBTQ+ gatherings.

Are there popular dating apps or websites used more commonly by the LGBTQ+ community in Gothenburg?

Popular dating apps and websites amongst the LGBTQ+ community in Gothenburg include international platforms like Grindr, Tinder, and HER.

Are there any LGBTQ+ friendly language courses or conversation groups in Gothenburg?

There's no specific LGBTQ+ language course in Gothenburg, but many language schools offer friendly and inclusive environments. You can also find LGBTQ+ friendly language exchange groups on platforms like Meetup.com or Facebook.

What are the laws and regulations regarding public displays of affection for LGBTQ+ couples in Gothenburg?

Public displays of affection for LGBTQ+ couples are legal in Sweden, including Gothenburg. The city is known for being LGBTQ+ inclusive; however, like in any other place, it's essential to gauge the situation and ensure you feel comfortable expressing affection.