Gothenburg, Sweden: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Gothenburg, Sweden? If you're planning to go to Gothenburg, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Gothenburg, Sweden

Based on the climate and weather in Gothenburg, Sweden, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Gothenburg, Sweden

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Gothenburg, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Gothenburg, Sweden by month

January

If you visit Gothenburg during January, you will probably notice that it is frigid. Temperatures tend to hover around the 30s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain or snow/sleet about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gothenburg. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

If you intend to see the stunning Gothenburg Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botaniska Trädgården, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in this region is frigid. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gothenburg. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you intend to see the stunning Gothenburg Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botaniska Trädgården, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in this region is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gothenburg. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you intend to see the stunning Gothenburg Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botaniska Trädgården, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Gothenburg is cold. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) to 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gothenburg. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you intend to see the stunning Gothenburg Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botaniska Trädgården, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

In May, Gothenburg is crisp. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) and sometimes jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Gothenburg, with several of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gothenburg. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the right type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to see the stunning Gothenburg Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botaniska Trädgården, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

Traveling to Gothenburg in June, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gothenburg. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you intend to see the stunning Gothenburg Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botaniska Trädgården, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you go to Gothenburg in July, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gothenburg. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you intend to see the stunning Gothenburg Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botaniska Trädgården, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

In August, Gothenburg is cool. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) and occasionally jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Gothenburg, with several of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gothenburg. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to see the stunning Gothenburg Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botaniska Trädgården, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you visit Gothenburg during September, you are likely to notice that it can be chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gothenburg. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you intend to see the stunning Gothenburg Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botaniska Trädgården, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Gothenburg is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gothenburg. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to see the stunning Gothenburg Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botaniska Trädgården, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Gothenburg is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 80% to 90% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gothenburg. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

If you intend to see the stunning Gothenburg Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botaniska Trädgården, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you visit Gothenburg during December, you might find that it can be extremely cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the 30s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain or snow/sleet about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gothenburg. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you intend to see the stunning Gothenburg Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botaniska Trädgården, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Gothenburg, Sweden

Gothenburg, the second largest city in Sweden, is a charming destination and a popular port city for tourists. It is known for its rich history, bustling harbor, and lively cultural scene. The city offers a variety of attractions for visitors to explore that make it a must-visit destination in Sweden. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Gothenburg.

Universeum

Universeum, located in the heart of the city, is a science center and museum that is perfect for a family day out. The museum offers a range of interactive exhibits and displays, including animal habitats, rainforest, and a giant aquarium. Visitors can explore and learn about different species of animals, marine life, and natural habitats. It is a must-visit for children and adults alike.

Liseberg Amusement Park

Liseberg amusement park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gothenburg. The park offers a range of thrilling rides, including roller coasters, carousels, and water rides. The park also features a variety of food outlets and shops. Liseberg is open year-round, and during the winter months, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets and ice skating.

Maritime Museum and Aquarium

The Maritime Museum and Aquarium is located on the waterfront in Gothenburg's historic shipyard district. The museum showcases the city's maritime history and has a vast collection of ships, boats, and other vessels. The aquarium is home to a variety of marine species, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. The museum organizes various activities, including guided tours and workshops, making it an interactive experience for visitors.

Gotaplatsen Square

Gotaplatsen Square is a cultural hub located at the heart of the city. The square features several historic buildings, including Gothenburg’s City Theatre and Museum of Art. Visitors can enjoy a stroll around the square and explore its gardens and fountains. During the summer months, the square hosts several festivals and events, making it a lively and exciting destination.

Haga District

Haga district is the oldest district in Gothenburg and known for its charming streets lined with traditional Swedish wooden houses. The district is popular for its cafes, boutique shops, and street markets. Visitors can explore the streets and enjoy traditional Swedish fika (coffee and cake) in one of the many cafes.

In conclusion, Gothenburg, Sweden, offers a range of attractions for tourists to enjoy. From museums to amusement parks and traditional neighborhoods, the city has something to offer for every type of traveler. Visiting Gothenburg will undoubtedly make for an unforgettable vacation.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Guarapari, Espírito Santo, Brazil, Viterbo, Italy, Black Forest, Germany, Aragua, Venezuela, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada, United States of America, Medicine Bow, Wyoming, United States of America, Doi Tung, Thailand, Belgrade, Serbia, Sint-Pieters-Leeuw, Belgium, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and Uxmal, Yucat, Mexico.